Tour Programme
Day 1: Shavat → Dashoguz → Darvaza
From Oriental Bazaars to the ‘Gates of Hell’
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The Journey Begins: A warm welcome at the ‘Shavat’ border crossing at 10:00 to kick off your adventure.
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Dashoguz Flavours: Enjoy a traditional lunch and local shopping—the perfect time to pick up Eastern sweets and fresh fruits for the road.
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Karakum Odyssey: A scenic drive through the legendary desert (approx. 300 km) with cosy stops at roadside teahouses to experience the nomadic lifestyle.
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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.
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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
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Morning Serenity: Witness the sunrise over the crater followed by a rustic breakfast in the fresh desert air.
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Natural Contrasts: En route to the capital, we shall stop at the ‘Water’ and ‘Mud’ craters—fascinating natural anomalies of the Karakum desert.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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Sunset on the Plateau: Experience the ‘Golden Hour’ overlooking the vast canyons—the crowning moment of the day.
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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
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Maritime Morning: A relaxing stroll through the Avaza resort zone and breakfast with a sea view.
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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.
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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
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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.
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The Grand Finale: Transfer to the Farap border crossing. Our guide will assist you with all border formalities (arriving at approx. 19:00).
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Farewell: End of the tour, leaving you with a lifetime of memories of the history and vibrant colours of Turkmenistan.
