4-day tour: Shavat – Darvaza – Ashgabat – Merv – Farap
$1,200.00
Turkmenistan in 4 Days: The Grand Cross-Country Route from Shavat to Farap
Ready for the ultimate journey across the nation? This intensive 4-day tour is expertly designed for travellers who wish to experience it all, journeying from the northern border to the east. Begin your adventure with the mystical glow of the Darvaza Crater, immerse yourself in the futuristic luxury of white-marble Ashgabat, and touch the roots of civilisation in Ancient Merv—a UNESCO jewel. Enjoy seamless logistics through Mary and Turkmenabat, witnessing a breathtaking shift in landscapes—from the vast sands of the Karakum to modern urban marvels.
Tour Programme
Day 1: Shavat → Dashoguz → Darvaza
Into the Desert Heart to the ‘Gates of Hell’
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The Expedition Begins: Meet at the Shavat border at 10:00. Start in Dashoguz with a traditional lunch and local shopping to prepare for the desert crossing.
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Karakum Odyssey: A 300 km drive into the legendary desert with stops at authentic teahouses to experience the local lifestyle.
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Nature’s Fire Show: Spend the evening and night at the Darvaza Crater. Witness the sunset merging with the roaring flames—a sight that stays with you forever.
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Overnight: In a cosy yurt camp under a vast canopy of stars.
Day 2: Darvaza → Ashgabat
Desert Dawn and White-Marble Ashgabat
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Morning Magic: Catch the sunrise over the crater followed by a rustic alfresco breakfast.
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Desert Anomalies: En route to the capital, stop at the ‘Water’ and ‘Mud’ craters—hidden gems of the Karakum Desert.
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Ashgabat Brilliance: Arrive in the world’s most white-marble city. Enjoy a tour of grand monuments, futuristic parks, and golden domes.
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Rest: Overnight at a premium hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 3: Ashgabat → Merv → Mary
Journey to the Roots of Civilisation
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Along the Silk Road: An early departure from the capital towards the ancient Mary oasis.
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Grandeur of Ancient Merv: Explore the UNESCO ruins of what was once the largest metropolis of the Middle Ages. Touch the history of the Silk Road through its ancient fortresses.
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Evening in Mary: A city stroll and a farewell dinner in a pleasant local atmosphere.
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Overnight: In a hotel in Mary.
Day 4: Mary → Turkmenabat → Farap
Legends of the Amu Darya and Farap Finale
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Riverbanks of History: Travel to Turkmenabat, a city situated on the banks of the mighty Amu Darya River.
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Secrets of Amul: Visit the ruins of the medieval Amul Fortress, a vital hub on the ancient trade routes.
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The Conclusion: A short city tour followed by a transfer to the Farap border. Our guide will assist you with all departure formalities by 19:00.
Available Departure Dates:
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February 19, 2026 — 10:00 AM
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Status: 2/4 spots available
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1 person: $1,329
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2 persons: $716 (per person)
