5-Day Turkmenistan Tour: Darvaza, Merv & Gonur Depe

Five Days to Redefine Your Orient!

Discover the hidden treasures of Turkmenistan on one breathtaking tour! Prepare for contrasts that will leave you speechless: from the roaring flames of the ‘Gates of Hell’ in the heart of the midnight Karakum to the silent majesty of UNESCO World Heritage monuments.

Wander the streets of the world’s most ancient metropolises, unravel the mysteries of the Margush civilisation at Gonur-Depe, and find the perfect angle beneath the intricate brick arches of Dayakhatun.

With maximum immersion, the finest photo locations, and seamless comfort throughout—this is not just a tour; it is the birth of your own personal legend!

Tour Programme

Day 1:

The White-Marble Fairytale of Ashgabat

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at the airport and an immediate immersion into the atmosphere of Ashgabat—a record-breaking city shimmering in dazzling white marble. Following a brief rest, we embark on an introductory tour to witness grand monuments and golden domes glowing in the evening light. Ashgabat is the perfect overture to the wonders that lie ahead. Overnight in the capital.

Day 2:

Into the Abyss: The ‘Gates of Hell’

Spend your morning at your own pace: perhaps a leisurely stroll through the oriental bazaars or a walk amongst the city’s futuristic parks. At noon, we leave civilisation behind and venture deep into the Karakum Desert. En route, we discover nature’s curiosities—the turquoise Water crater and the mysterious Mud crater. The day reaches its crescendo at the Darvaza Gas Crater. Watch as the desert darkness surrenders to the roaring flames of the ‘Gates of Hell’, and spend an unforgettable night at our campsite beneath a canopy of a billion stars.

Day 3:

The Golden Age of Khorezm and Northern Hospitality

After witnessing the sunrise over the crater, we travel to the majestic Kunya-Urgench (UNESCO)—a sacred site where medieval architectural masterpieces still stand in silent grandeur. From there, we head to Dashoguz to experience local life at the vibrant Gurbansoltan bazaar and enjoy the cool mists of the city’s fountains. The day concludes with an evening flight over the desert sands back to Ashgabat.

Day 4:

Ancient Caravanserais and the Banks of the Amu Darya

A short morning flight brings us to Turkmenabat, the gateway to the legendary Dayakhatun. Amongst the intricate brickwork of this ancient caravanserai, the shadows of the Great Silk Road come to life. You will behold the mighty Amu Darya River and explore the ruins of the Amul Fortress, which guarded merchant caravans for centuries. In the evening, to the rhythmic chime of the train, we journey towards Mary, continuing our odyssey to the east.

Day 5:

Lost Cities and the Grandeur of Merv

The final day is a true triumph of history. We embark on an expedition to Gonur-Depe—the capital of legendary Margiana, where Bronze Age temples and palaces rise from the sands of the Murghab Delta. Following lunch, the magnificent Ancient Merv (UNESCO) awaits—once known as the ‘Mother of the World’. After touching the walls of these vast citadels, we return to Ashgabat for your transfer to the International Airport, concluding a journey that will stay with you forever.