Introduction
This 3 day itinerary is perfect for travelers who arrive and depart from Ashgabat and want to see Turkmenistan’s main highlights in a short time. Originally designed for a guest visiting the country on an official trip with an LOI (Letter of Invitation), this route is now open to everyone who wishes to explore Turkmenistan comfortably, starting and ending in the capital. You will visit Ashgabat’s top attractions its white marble monuments, local bazaars, and horse farms before heading into the desert to see the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the “Gates of Hell.” The journey also includes a visit to Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic Silk Road cities. One night will be spent under the stars near the crater, and another in a cozy 3* hotel in Ashgabat near the Wedding Palace. This route offers a perfect mix of city comfort and desert adventure ideal for both solo travelers and families who want to experience the best of Turkmenistan in just three unforgettable days.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Ashgabat City Tour → Darvaza Gas Crater (Overnight in Desert Camp)
- Our professional English speaking guide will meet you in the morning at your hotel in Ashgabat.
- After introductions, you will begin your journey with Darvaza Tour Company, exploring the main landmarks of the marble capital before heading into the desert.
- Morning Ashgabat City Tour
- Old Nisa Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) the first capital of the Parthian Empire.
- Akhal-Teke Horse Farm meet and photograph the legendary golden horses of Turkmenistan.
- Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque in Gypjak the largest mosque in Central Asia, known for its magnificent marble dome.
- National Museum of Turkmenistan explore artifacts from Nisa and ancient Merv for a deep insight into Turkmen history and culture.
- Afternoon Local Bazaar & Drive to Darvaza
- Before leaving the city, visit the Russian Bazaar, the most popular local market for souvenirs, traditional dresses, and Turkmen chocolate.
- Lunch at a national restaurant (try Turkmen plov or ichlekli meat pie).
- Around 14:00, depart north toward the Darvaza Gas Crater across the Karakum Desert (approx. 4 hours).
- Enjoy the drive with music, desert scenery, and stories from your guide.
- Arrive around sunset to witness the spectacular flaming crater the “Gates of Hell.”
- Dinner with freshly grilled kebabs will be served at the camp.
- Spend the evening relaxing by the fire and enjoying the unique desert atmosphere.
- Overnight in a traditional yurt camp near the crater.
Day 2: Darvaza Sunrise → Ancient Merv → Return to Ashgabat
- Wake up early for the unforgettable sunrise over the gas crater.
- After breakfast, drive east toward Merv, one of the oldest Silk Road cities (approx. 3 hours).
- Sightseeing in Ancient Merv:
- Kyz Kala impressive mud-brick fortress.
- Gyaur Kala and Erk Kala ancient walled cities.
- Yekedeshik Caves (optional).
- Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum Merv’s most famous monument with a turquoise dome.
- Your guide will share stories about Merv’s role in Silk Road history.
- Lunchbox or picnic will be provided on the way.
- Evening return to Ashgabat (approx. 4 hours).
- Check in at Bagt Köşgi Hotel (3*) near the Wedding Palace.
- Overnight in Ashgabat.
Day 3: Ashgabat Highlights & Departure
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- If your flight is in the evening, continue with an additional Ashgabat city tour, covering places not yet visited:
- Magtymguly Monument
- Independence Park & Monument
- Monument of Neutrality
- Carpet Museum home to world-record Turkmen carpets
- Lunch at a local restaurant, then free time for shopping or personal sightseeing before transfer to Ashgabat International Airport.
Price Includes:
- – Invitation letter support and Foreigner registration in Turkmenistan.
- – Accommodation. Standart rooms.
- – Ashgabat City tour
- – Transport and guide.
- – Meals at Darvaza and yurt night stay at Darvaza.
- – All breakfasts
- – All the expenses of the driver/guide, including gasoline, meals and accommodation, transfer to the point of meeting at border, and separating with the guest at the border.
- – All taxes
- – The tour starts at the Turkmenistan border and ends at the Turkmenistan border.
- – You will see everything that is possible to see within that time. The tour can be changed on the go as possible.
Not included:
- – Visa and other fees at the border. (Usually costs not more than $110, per person)
- – Meals ($3-8/ 1meal/ 1person)
- – Entrance fees to Museums and others as per the tour. roughly not more 10$ per day if any.
- – Tips. Tips are welcomed
Accommodation
Ashgabat – 1 nights
Standart: Bagt Kosgi / Mizan / Sport / Ashgabat
Comfort: Archabil / Yyldyz / Oguzkent
Darvaza – 1 nights
Standart: Shared yurts / individual accommodation in yurts or tents available upon request