Highlights of Turkmenistan

Duration

8 days

On specific dates

on Saturday

Guaranteed

with 2 travellers

Max group size

16 travellers

From AUD $2,507

WHAT TO EXPECT

Discover the enigmatic heart of Central Asia on this immersive eight day expedition through Turkmenistan. You will marvel at the gleaming white marble architecture of Ashgabat before stepping back in time at the ancient Parthian fortress of Old Nisa. Beyond the iconic highlights, your journey ventures into the Kopet Dag mountains to the traditional village of Nohur and the warm mineral waters of Kow Ata underground lake. From the fiery glow of the Darvaza gas crater to the ruins of Merv, this tour offers a rare glimpse into a truly mysterious land.

Highlights of Turkmenistan

  • Day 1: Ashgabat Arrival

    Upon your arrival at the International Airport, you will meet your guide and driver for a transfer to your hotel. Take this time to check in and relax after your journey as you prepare for the adventure ahead.

    Overnight in Ashgabat (or similar)

  • Day 2: Ancient Fortress and Royal Horses (B/ L/ D)

    Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a capital of the Parthian Empire. Explore the remains of royal buildings and fortifications that showcase this ancient civilization. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit a horse farm in Gokdepe to see the elegant Akhal Teke horses, a prestigious breed known for its metallic sheen and cultural importance. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel for the night.

    Overnight in Ashgabat (or similar)

  • Day 3: Underground Lakes and Mountain Traditions (B)

    Enjoy breakfast at the hotel then depart for the Kow Ata Underground Lake, a natural cave lake famous for its warm, mineral rich waters. Continue your journey to the mountain village of Nohur in the Kopet Dag range, where you can observe traditional lifestyles and unique customs amidst picturesque landscapes. After your visit, transfer back to Ashgabat to check in at your hotel and rest.

    Overnight in Ashgabat (or similar)

  • Day 4: Ashgabat to Karakum Desert (B/ D)

    Following breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time before departing for the Darvaza Gas Crater in the Karakum Desert. Experience the dramatic sight of the crater, which has been burning continuously since 1971. In the evening, you will have dinner under the open desert sky near the flaming crater. You will spend the night in a specially arranged campsite near the Gates of Hell.

    Overnight in Karakum Desert - Camp site (or similar

  • Day 5: Karakum Desert to Ashgabat (B/ L)

    Have breakfast near the crater before transferring to Kunya Urgench, a major historical hub of the Silk Road. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the UNESCO listed monuments, including ancient mausoleums and minarets that reflect the city's past glory. Later, transfer to the railway station for a night train journey back to Ashgabat.

    Overnight in Ashgabat (or similar

  • Day 6: Ashgabat to Mary (B/ L/ D)

    Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant then transfer to Mary, located near the ancient oasis of Merv. After lunch, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Merv, once one of the largest cities in the world and a capital for several powerful empires. Explore the ancient fortresses and city walls that highlight its multicultural history. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant.

    Overnight in Mary (or similar)

  • Day 7: Mary to Ashgabat (B/ D)

    After breakfast at the hotel, transfer back to Ashgabat. Spend the afternoon visiting National Independence Park to see its monuments and fountains, followed by the Arch of Neutrality, an iconic landmark symbolizing the nation's political status. Enjoy a final dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for your last night.

    Overnight in Ashgabat (or similar)

  • Day 8: Ashgabat Departure (B)

    Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Ashgabat International Airport. Your guide will provide assistance with departure formalities to conclude your Turkmenistan Highlights tour. The program remains flexible to accommodate your specific flight timing.

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    - Descend into the limestone cavern of Kow Ata to swim in a naturally heated underground lake known for its therapeutic mineral properties.
    - Experience the rare metallic sheen of the Akhal Teke horses at a private farm in Gokdepe while learning about their status as a national symbol.
    - Walk through the remote mountain village of Nohur to observe the unique customs and traditional lifestyles preserved in the Kopet Dag range.
    - Dine under the desert stars at a private campsite while watching the flames of the Darvaza gas crater illuminate the Karakum sands.
    - Wander through the UNESCO ruins of Kunya Urgench to see the architectural remains of the powerful Khorezm Empire.

  • Accommodation

    7 nights in 4 star hotels

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    3 local lunches
    4 local dinners

  • Transport

    Arrival and Departure Transfers
    Transport in Air-conditioned Vehicles

  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    Entrance fees for locations specified
    Visa support (LOI) Letter of Invitation

Departure Dates

START DAYEND DAYPRICE TWIN ROOMPRICE SINGLE ROOM
Saturday, 06 June 2026Saturday, 13 June 202625072507
Saturday, 20 June 2026Saturday, 27 June 202625072507
Saturday, 12 September 2026Saturday, 19 September 202625072507
Saturday, 26 September 2026Saturday, 03 October 202625072507
Saturday, 10 October 2026Saturday, 17 October 202625072507
Saturday, 24 October 2026Saturday, 31 October 202625072507
Tuesday, 03 November 2026Tuesday, 10 November 202625072507

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