5-day tour of Turkmenistan: Darvaza, Yanykgala and Caspian coast

$1,100.00

An Expedition Through the Elements and the Ages

Prepare yourself for a journey that promises to be a definitive milestone in your life. In just five days, you will achieve the extraordinary: retracing the footsteps of the great ancient caravans, unravelling the mysteries of lost civilisations in Ancient Merv, and peer into the very ‘heart of the earth’ at the blazing Darvaza Crater.

Surreal landscapes await you at Yangykala, where the towering cliffs are painted in the ethereal hues of the sunset, followed by the healing silence of the Kow-Ata subterranean lake. Feel the fresh breath of the Caspian Sea and inhale the air of pure freedom amidst the vast, golden sands of the Karakum Desert.

We have orchestrated this route like a symphony of experiences, culminating at dawn by the Farap border, leaving you with the enchanting lingering essence of an Eastern tale.

This is not merely a tour — it is your personal return to the origins of wonder and the discovery of an entire world.

Tour Programme
Day 1: Shavat → Dashoguz → Darvaza
From Oriental Bazaars to the ‘Gates of Hell’

  • The Journey Begins: A warm welcome at the ‘Shavat’ border crossing at 10:00 to kick off your adventure.

  • Dashoguz Flavours: Enjoy a traditional lunch and local shopping—the perfect time to pick up Eastern sweets and fresh fruits for the road.

  • Karakum Odyssey: A scenic drive through the legendary desert (approx. 300 km) with cosy stops at roadside teahouses to experience the nomadic lifestyle.

  • The Magic of Darvaza: An evening at the flaming crater. Watch the sunset fade as the roaring flames create an alien landscape—perfect for an unforgettable photo session.

  • Night Under the Stars: Drift off to sleep in an authentic yurt camp in the very heart of the desert.

Day 2: Darvaza → Ashgabat
Desert Dawn and White-Marble Ashgabat

  • Morning Serenity: Witness the sunrise over the crater followed by a rustic breakfast in the fresh desert air.

  • Natural Contrasts: En route to the capital, we shall stop at the ‘Water’ and ‘Mud’ craters—fascinating natural anomalies of the Karakum desert.

  • The Brilliance of the Capital: Arrive in Ashgabat, the world-record-holding city of white marble. A sightseeing tour will reveal its grand avenues, lush parks, and golden monuments.

  • Rest: Overnight stay at a comfortable premium hotel in Ashgabat.

Day 3: Ashgabat → Kow-Ata → Yangykala → Turkmenbashi
Underground Secrets and the ‘Fiery Fortresses’ of Yangykala

  • Subterranean Realm: An early departure for the Kov-Ata thermal lake. Experience the magic of swimming in warm, healing waters deep inside a natural cave.

  • Martian Landscapes: Head to the Yangykala Canyons, one of Turkmenistan’s most spectacular sights, where the cliffs shift colours from soft pink to vibrant orange.

  • Sunset on the Plateau: Experience the ‘Golden Hour’ overlooking the vast canyons—the crowning moment of the day.

  • By the Sea: Descend to the shores of the Caspian Sea in Turkmenbashi. Enjoy an evening stroll along the embankment followed by a well-deserved rest.

Day 4: Turkmenbashi → Nokhur → Arkadag (Merkaw Hotel)
Highland Traditions and the Smart City of the Future

  • Maritime Morning: A relaxing stroll through the Avaza resort zone and breakfast with a sea view.

  • The Secrets of Nokhur: Journey to the high-mountain village of Nokhur, where ancient traditions are preserved in their original form amongst rugged mountain landscapes.

  • City of the Future: Travel to Arkadag, Turkmenistan’s first ‘Smart City’. Check into the modern Hotel Merkaw and enjoy an evening walk through its pristine, peaceful streets.

Day 5: Arkadag → Merv → Farap border
The Legacy of Merv and Final Farewell at the Border

  • Through the Centuries: An early departure towards Mary to visit the legendary Ancient Merv. Touch the ruins of the Seljuk capital and explore UNESCO World Heritage architectural masterpieces.

  • The Grand Finale: Transfer to the Farap border crossing. Our guide will assist you with all border formalities (arriving at approx. 19:00).

  • Farewell: End of the tour, leaving you with a lifetime of memories of the history and vibrant colours of Turkmenistan.

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