7-day tour of Turkmenistan: Koytendag, Dinoplato, Darvaza and Ashgabat

“Nature & Heritage” Tour: From Darvaza’s Flames to the Koytendag Mountains

Route: Shavat — Darvaza — Ashgabat — Kerki — Koytendag — Turkmenabat — Dayahatun — Farap

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Discover the hidden soul of Turkmenistan on an expansive expedition across the country. This journey seamlessly blends the mysticism of the Karakum Desert, the futuristic elegance of the capital, and the prehistoric wonders of the eastern mountains.

Tour Programme

Day 1: Shavat Border — Dashoguz — Darvaza

Meeting at the Shavat border crossing at 10:00. Following a short drive to Dashoguz for lunch and a visit to the vibrant local market to stock up on supplies, we venture deep into the Central Karakum Desert (~300 km). By sunset, you will arrive at the Darvaza Gas Crater (“The Gates of Hell”). Witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the fiery abyss at night, enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner, and spend the night in an authentic yurt or tented camp.

Day 2: Darvaza — Ashgabat

After breakfast and a dawn photoshoot by the crater, we journey towards the capital. En route, we stop to witness the unique Water and Mud Craters. Upon arrival in Ashgabat, enjoy a bespoke city tour tailored to your interests, where ancient history meets striking modern architecture. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 3: Ashgabat (Full Day)

A full day dedicated to the white-marble capital. Your guide will curate an itinerary to maximize your time, from exploring iconic monuments to delving into the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. The pace and choice of landmarks are entirely flexible to your preferences. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 4: Ashgabat — Kerki — Koytendag

A morning flight to the town of Kerki (10:00). After lunch, transfer towards the village of Koyten (~185 km). Along the way, we stop at the Gaynar-Baba sulfur spring for relaxation and photography. Arrival and check-in at a mountain guest house or base in the Koytendag range.

Day 5: Koytendag: Nature and Sacred Sites

A day of exploration in the mountains. You will visit the world-renowned Dinosaur Plateau (Hojapil), home to over 300 fossilised footprints of prehistoric giants. The programme includes a walk through the narrow Umbar-Dere canyon to a waterfall and a visit to the sacred Kyrk-Gyz cave. An outdoor picnic lunch and a traditional local “goat massage” experience are also included. Overnight in Koytendag.

Day 6: Koytendag — Kerki — Turkmenabat

Visit cultural heritage sites: the unique Astana-Baba complex (11th–12th centuries), the Seljuk-era Alamberdar mausoleum, and the Idris-Baba madrasah, where the poet Magtymguly once studied. Transfer to Turkmenabat. After exploring the ancient Amul fortress on the city’s outskirts, enjoy a night tour of the illuminated centre of Turkmenistan’s second-largest city. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 7: Turkmenabat — Dayahatun — Farap Border

An early departure for the 11th-century architectural masterpiece — the Dayahatun caravanserai. After exploring the Seljuk ruins, we return to Turkmenabat, passing through local villages and cotton fields. The journey concludes with a visit to the Lebap Regional Museum and a photo stop by the mighty Amu Darya river. Transfer to the Farap border with assistance through exit formalities.

There are currently no scheduled dates available for this tour. Please contact us to arrange a private, customized journey