Introduction
This 4 day Turkmenistan tour is designed for travelers who value comfort, culture, and a relaxed experience without overnight stays in yurts or long drives through the desert. All three nights are spent at the Bagt Kosgi Hotel in Ashgabat, offering clean rooms and reliable service. The journey begins with a warm welcome at Ashgabat International Airport, then continues to the highlights of Turkmenistan: the marble-white capital Ashgabat, the National Museum, the Carpet Museum, the elegant Akhal-Teke horses, and the dramatic Yangykala Canyon. You’ll enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars at the Darvaza Gas Crater, visit the ancient Silk Road city of Kunya-Urgench (UNESCO), and travel comfortably through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. This 4 day Turkmenistan tour perfectly blends nature, history, and hospitality an ideal short trip through the heart of Turkmenistan.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Ashgabat City Tour
- 10:50 AM – Arrival in Ashgabat
- Meet and greet at the airport by our friendly Darvaza Tour guide.
- Transfer and check-in at Bagt Kosgi Hotel.
- 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Full-Day Ashgabat City Tour
- In the afternoon, embark on a comprehensive exploration of Ashgabat – a truly unique city recognized by the Guinness Book of Records for having the world’s highest concentration of white marble buildings.
- Highlights of the day include:
- National Museum of Turkmenistan: Discover the rich history and culture of the Turkmen people, from ancient civilizations like Merv and Kunya Urgench to modern-day Turkmenistan.
- Turkmen Carpet Museum: Marvel at the craftsmanship and artistry of handwoven Turkmen carpets – a symbol of national pride.
- Monuments Tour: Visit iconic landmarks such as the Arch of Neutrality, the Monument of Independence, and the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque.
- Nisa (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Explore the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire, one of Turkmenistan’s most important archaeological treasures.
- Akhal-Teke Horse Stables: Meet the legendary golden horses of Turkmenistan, famed for their elegance and endurance.
- Ashgabat Olympic City: See the ultra-modern sports complex built for the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games.
- Dinner at a traditional Turkmen restaurant, tasting authentic local dishes.
- Overnight at Bagt Kosgi Hotel, Ashgabat.
Day 2: Turkmenbashy & Yangykala Canyon
- Morning flight to Turkmenbashy (06:20 AM).
- Short city tour upon arrival – explore the Caspian seaside city of Turkmenbashy.
- Drive to the majestic Yangykala Canyon – one of Turkmenistan’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
- The canyon’s multi-colored cliffs, carved by time and wind, offer unforgettable panoramic views – a true paradise for photographers.
- Evening flight back to Ashgabat (20:30 PM flight).
- Overnight at Bagt Kosgi Hotel, Ashgabat.
Day 3: Darvaza Gas Crater Adventure
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
- This day is flexible and can be tailored to your interests. We suggest exploring the following:
- Tolkuchka (Altyn Asyr) Bazaar: Experience one of Central Asia’s largest markets. Browse traditional carpets, jewelry, spices, and handmade crafts.
- Health Path (Saglyk Yoly): Enjoy a scenic walk along the foothills of the Kopet Dag mountains on the famous concrete “Health Path.”
- Shopping Malls: Visit Berkarar or Ashgabat Shopping and Entertainment Center for a modern contrast to the traditional bazaar.
- In the afternoon, begin your journey into the Karakum Desert (approx. 4 hours) toward the legendary Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the “Door to Hell.”
- En Route Stops:
- Visit Yerbent Nomadic Village – a glimpse into desert life.
- Explore the water and mud craters – natural wonders scattered across the desert.
- Evening Experience:
- BBQ dinner under the stars by the flaming crater.
- One-hour camel ride organized by Darvaza Tour – a caravan-style experience in the desert.
- After dinner, drive back to Ashgabat.
- Overnight at Bagt Kosgi Hotel, Ashgabat
Day 4: Kunya Urgench & Border Transfer
- Morning flight to Dashoguz: T5-105 at 09:50 AM.
- Drive to Kunya Urgench (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – explore one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in Central Asia.
- Main Sites:
- Kutlug-Timur Minaret (60 meters high)
- Turabek-Khanum Mausoleum
- Il-Arslan Mausoleum
- After lunch, drive to the Shavat / Khojayli Border (arrival around 16:00).
- End of the tour.
Accommodation
Comfort: Archabil / Yyldyz / Oguzkent
Ashgabat – 3 nights
Standart: Bagt Kosgi / Mizan / Sport / Ashgabat
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