Tour Overview
The 14-day Turkmenistan tour from Khiva offers an extraordinary journey across one of Central Asia's most fascinating destinations, finishing in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. This grand overland adventure brings together ancient Silk Road cities, spectacular desert landscapes, remote mountains and authentic Turkmen traditions.
Begin your expedition at UNESCO-listed Kunya-Urgench before experiencing an unforgettable night beside the Darvaza Gas Crater. Discover the white-marble capital of Ashgabat, the colourful cliffs of Yangykala Canyon, the forgotten ruins of Ancient Dehistan and the traditional mountain village of Nokhur. Continue east to explore Ancient Merv and the Bronze Age archaeological site of Gonur Depe. Venture into the Koytendag Mountains to discover prehistoric dinosaur footprints, remarkable caves and dramatic gorges. Your journey concludes with historic caravanserais, medieval monuments and the cultural heritage of the Amu Darya region. With professional local guides, private transportation and carefully planned accommodation, this 14-day grand tour reveals the remarkable diversity of Turkmenistan.
14-Day Tour Itinerary
Day 1 — Shavat Border → Kunya-Urgench (UNESCO) → Dashoguz
10:00 AM — Arrival at the Shavat Border
Your grand 14-day journey begins at the Shavat border crossing, conveniently located for travellers arriving from Khiva, Uzbekistan.
After completing the required immigration and passport procedures, meet your professional Darvaza Tour guide at the designated meeting area on the Turkmenistan side.
Your guide will welcome you and introduce the remarkable destinations awaiting you during the next two weeks.
Drive to Kunya-Urgench
Travel approximately 100 kilometres through northern Turkmenistan toward Kunya-Urgench, once an important capital of the historic Khorezm region.
The drive generally takes around 1.5–2 hours.
Lunch in Kunya-Urgench
Enjoy a traditional Turkmen lunch at a local restaurant before beginning your historical exploration.
Kunya-Urgench — UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discover the medieval architectural treasures of Kunya-Urgench, an exceptional archaeological destination preserving the legacy of one of Central Asia's great historical cities.
Your guided programme features:
Kutlug-Timur Minaret: Admire the magnificent medieval minaret, rising approximately 60 metres above the surrounding archaeological landscape.
Turabek-Khanum Mausoleum: Explore a remarkable example of medieval Islamic architecture, celebrated for its intricate geometric patterns and extraordinary interior dome decoration.
Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum: Discover the impressive brick mausoleum with its distinctive conical roof.
Il-Arslan Mausoleum: Visit another important architectural monument associated with the medieval Khorezmshah period.
Ancient Caravanserai Gate: Observe the surviving gateway that recalls the city's historic role in trade and travel.
Return to Dashoguz
Following the archaeological excursion, drive back to Dashoguz.
Depending on the available time, enjoy a brief orientation through the city before dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel in Dashoguz.
Day 2 — Dashoguz → Izmukshir Fortress → Darvaza Gas Crater
08:00 AM — Breakfast & Departure
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before beginning the journey into the Karakum Desert.
Explore Bai Bazaar
Visit a lively local market in Dashoguz, where residents shop for fresh produce, household essentials and regional products.
This is an excellent opportunity to experience everyday life and purchase snacks for the upcoming desert journey.
Izmukshir Fortress
Travel approximately 25 kilometres outside Dashoguz to discover the historic ruins of Izmukshir.
Explore the surviving earthen fortifications and learn about the settlement's connection with the renowned medieval scholar Al-Zamakhshari.
The impressive remains offer an introduction to the architectural heritage of northern Turkmenistan.
Lunch En Route
Enjoy lunch at a local teahouse or suitable restaurant before continuing deeper into the desert.
Adventure Across the Karakum Desert
Begin the approximately 300-kilometre drive south toward Darvaza.
The journey normally requires around 4–5 hours, depending on road conditions.
Pass through expansive desert landscapes, remote settlements and open plains. Some sections of the route are uneven and unpaved.
Discover Darvaza Gas Crater
Arrive at the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, internationally recognised as the "Door to Hell."
Enjoy time at designated viewpoints and admire the extraordinary appearance of this unusual landmark.
As evening approaches, photograph the surrounding desert during the changing sunset light. The intensity and visibility of the crater's flames may vary.
Traditional BBQ Dinner
Settle into the desert campsite and enjoy an outdoor barbecue prepared by your local team.
Experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Karakum Desert under the night sky.
Overnight: Traditional Turkmen yurt near Darvaza Gas Crater.
Day 3 — Darvaza Gas Crater → Water & Mud Craters → Ashgabat
Optional Sunrise at Darvaza
Early risers can enjoy a final visit to a designated viewing area before sunrise, when the surrounding desert takes on soft morning colours.
Breakfast at the Desert Camp
Return to the campsite for breakfast and prepare for the journey south.
Drive to Ashgabat
Travel approximately 270 kilometres toward the capital, a journey of around 3.5–4.5 hours depending on road conditions.
Water Crater & Mud Crater
Stop at two unusual geological attractions along the route.
Discover the Water Crater, an unexpected sight in the dry desert, followed by the distinctive Mud Crater.
Both locations provide interesting opportunities for photography.
Lunch in Ashgabat
Upon arrival in the capital, enjoy lunch and refreshments at a local restaurant.
Introduction to the White Marble City
Spend the afternoon discovering Ashgabat's extraordinary modern architecture.
Explore grand boulevards, landscaped squares, monumental buildings and selected cultural attractions with your professional guide.
The programme will be adapted to your arrival time and personal interests.
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 4 — Ashgabat City Tour → Overnight Sleeper Train to Turkmenbashi
Breakfast & Hotel Check-out
Enjoy breakfast before meeting your guide for another exciting day in the capital.
Ashgabat Architectural & Cultural Discovery
Continue exploring the remarkable landmarks of the "White Marble City."
Depending on opening hours, available time and your interests, sightseeing may include:
Independence Monument: One of the capital's most recognisable national landmarks.
Neutrality Monument: An important symbol of Turkmenistan's international status of permanent neutrality.
Ertogrul Gazi Mosque: An impressive mosque influenced by Ottoman architectural traditions.
National Museum of History: Discover historical collections and archaeological objects reflecting Turkmenistan's ancient civilizations.
Local Bazaars: Experience traditional shopping culture and browse souvenirs, textiles and regional products.
Lunch in Ashgabat
Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant during the sightseeing programme.
Evening Railway Journey Preparation
In the late afternoon, transfer toward Ashgabat Railway Station.
As the train normally departs in the early evening, your guide will help arrange takeaway dinner, fruit, drinks and snacks to enjoy on board.
Overnight Train to Turkmenbashi
Board your sleeper train heading west toward the Caspian coast.
Travel in a four-berth compartment equipped with sleeping berths and bedding.
A full compartment for your booking may be arranged when availability permits.
The final departure time and carriage allocation will be confirmed according to the official railway timetable.
Overnight: Sleeper train from Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi.
Day 5 — Turkmenbashi → Caspian Coast → Yangykala Canyon → Balkan Region
Morning Arrival in Turkmenbashi
Arrive at Turkmenbashi Railway Station, with the proposed arrival time around 08:05, subject to timetable confirmation.
Meet your private driver and prepare for a spectacular day in western Turkmenistan.
Discover Turkmenbashi & the Caspian Sea
Enjoy a short orientation tour of this important port city.
Admire historical limestone buildings, the distinctive nineteenth-century railway station and scenic views of the Caspian coastline.
An optional visit to the Awaza seaside resort area may be arranged if the zone is accessible and the schedule allows.
Lunch on the Caspian Coast
Enjoy a fresh meal at a local restaurant, with an opportunity to sample regional fish dishes or traditional Turkmen cuisine.
Journey to Yangykala Canyon
Depart Turkmenbashi and drive approximately 160 kilometres into the desert plateau.
The journey generally takes around three hours, with some uneven and unpaved road sections.
Explore Yangykala Canyon
Discover one of Turkmenistan's most breathtaking landscapes.
The enormous canyon cliffs reveal extraordinary layers of red, pink, orange, cream and white limestone, shaped by geological processes over millions of years.
Walk to suitable panoramic viewpoints and enjoy memorable opportunities for landscape photography.
Your guide will explain the area's geological history and its connection with ancient marine environments.
Yangykala Sunset Experience
When weather and road conditions permit, enjoy the dramatic evening colours across the canyon plateau.
Dinner & Transfer to Hotel
Depending on the schedule, enjoy a packed picnic meal in the canyon area or a warm dinner near your overnight destination.
Continue to Balkanabat or another suitable accommodation hub in the Balkan Region.
Overnight: Hotel in the Balkan Region.
Day 6 — Balkan Region → Ancient Dehistan → Gyzylarbat
Breakfast & Desert Expedition
After breakfast, begin an adventurous journey toward Ancient Dehistan, one of western Turkmenistan's most fascinating and remote archaeological destinations.
Travel to Ancient Dehistan
Drive south through the open desert plains toward the historical ruins of Dehistan, also known as Mashat-Misrian.
The proposed journey covers approximately 180 kilometres and may require around 3.5 hours or longer depending on the condition of remote desert tracks.
Explore the Forgotten City of Dehistan
Discover the atmospheric remains of a once-important medieval trading settlement.
Walk among ancient brick structures, monumental minarets and the remains of religious and commercial buildings.
The isolated setting allows visitors to appreciate the scale of this former Silk Road centre and the remarkable history of settlements that once flourished in the desert.
Mashat Necropolis & Shir-Kabir Mosque
Continue to the historical Mashat necropolis, situated near the Dehistan ruins.
Explore the surviving religious architecture, including the historic Shir-Kabir Mosque, celebrated for its early Islamic architectural heritage.
Learn about the site's continuing importance in local traditions.
Picnic Lunch in the Desert
Enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch in a suitable location near the archaeological complex.
Drive to Gyzylarbat
Following the historical exploration, continue toward Gyzylarbat through the western Turkmenistan landscape.
Travel times depend on the selected route and the condition of regional roads.
Evening Arrival & Dinner
Check into your hotel and enjoy dinner after a memorable expedition.
Overnight: Hotel in Gyzylarbat.
Day 7 — Gyzylarbat → Moon Mountains → Nokhur → Kow Ata → Ashgabat
Breakfast & Morning Departure
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and begin the journey east toward the Kopetdag mountain region.
Moon Mountains Photo Stop
Visit the unusual clay formations commonly known as the Moon Mountains.
Admire the softly shaped hills and multicoloured geological layers that create a landscape reminiscent of another planet.
Stop at selected viewpoints for photography before continuing toward Nokhur.
Nokhur Mountain Village
Follow a winding mountain road toward Nokhur, a traditional settlement known for its distinctive customs and beautiful surroundings.
Explore village life with your guide and learn about the heritage preserved by local residents.
Kyz Bibi Pilgrimage Site: Visit this locally important sacred place, subject to access and customary restrictions.
Traditional Nokhur Cemetery: Discover the unusual grave decorations featuring mountain goat horns and learn about their significance in local traditions.
Regional Crafts: Where available, observe examples of traditional textile work and learn about local craftsmanship.
Traditional Mountain Lunch
Enjoy a home-style lunch at a local family home or suitable restaurant.
Mountain access depends on weather and road conditions.
Kow Ata Underground Lake
Continue toward Kow Ata, a fascinating natural underground lake inside a limestone cave.
Descend the steps into the cave to discover its naturally warm mineral-rich water, generally around 35°C.
If permitted and conditions are suitable, enjoy an optional swim in the lake.
Return to Ashgabat
Continue the journey to Turkmenistan's capital, approximately 100 kilometres away.
Evening Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and relax after an exciting day exploring the mountains.
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 8 — Ashgabat → Ancient Merv (UNESCO) → Mary
08:00 AM — Departure from Ashgabat
After breakfast, leave the capital and travel east along the modern Ashgabat–Mary motorway.
The drive covers approximately 360 kilometres and generally requires around four hours under suitable conditions.
Lunch in the Mary Region
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant in Mary or Bayramaly.
Ancient Merv — UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore one of Central Asia's most remarkable archaeological destinations.
Once a major centre of commerce, culture and scholarship along the Great Silk Road, Ancient Merv preserves the remains of several historical settlements spanning different periods.
Your guided programme includes:
Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar: Admire the monumental twelfth-century mausoleum, an outstanding example of Seljuk architecture.
Greater & Lesser Kyz Kala: Discover two impressive mud-brick structures, instantly recognisable by their distinctive corrugated walls.
Askhabs Mausoleums: Visit a historic religious complex traditionally associated with companions of the Prophet Muhammad.
Ancient Sardoba & Hammam: Explore remnants of medieval water-storage facilities and bathing structures.
Erk Kala & Gyaur Kala: Discover the extensive earthen fortifications of ancient settlements and enjoy views across the archaeological landscape.
Additional historical sites may be included when time and access allow.
Return to Mary
After completing the archaeological exploration, return to Mary.
Dinner in Mary
Enjoy dinner at a regional restaurant before checking into your hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Mary.
Day 9 — Mary Cultural Discovery → Turkmen Ojagy Ethnographic Experience
Breakfast at the Hotel
Begin the morning with breakfast before exploring the cultural heritage and distinctive traditions of the Mary Region.
Today offers a more relaxed pace following several days of extensive travel and archaeological sightseeing.
Mary Regional History & Archaeology Museum
Visit the regional museum, subject to opening hours, to discover an extensive collection of historical and archaeological objects.
Learn about the civilizations that developed around the Merv oasis and the remarkable Bronze Age heritage of ancient Margiana.
The exhibits provide valuable context for the following day's expedition to Gonur Depe.
Pokrovskaya Orthodox Church
Visit the historic red-brick Orthodox church, an interesting reminder of the city's architectural development during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Mary City Orientation
Explore selected central landmarks, landscaped public spaces and the city's distinctive architectural character.
Depending on the schedule, stop at a local market to observe everyday life and traditional regional products.
Lunch at Turkmen Ojagy
Continue to the Turkmen Ojagy ethnographic complex for an immersive introduction to Turkmen cultural traditions.
Enjoy a traditional meal in a welcoming setting.
Alabay Dogs & Bactrian Camels
Meet Turkmen Alabay dogs, an important symbol of the country's cultural heritage.
Take photographs with Bactrian camels when the animals are present and animal-handling arrangements permit.
Traditional Turkmen Clothing
Try on selected examples of national dress, including traditional telpek hats and decorative garments.
Enjoy a memorable photo session in a traditional yurt or ethnographic setting.
Tamdyr Bread-Baking Experience
Discover the traditional method of preparing Turkmen çörek, a delicious round flatbread baked in a clay oven.
Participate in a bread-making demonstration and learn about the importance of bread in Turkmen family traditions.
Cultural Activities & Relaxation
Depending on the confirmed arrangements, enjoy additional presentations of local customs, handicrafts or traditional hospitality.
This dedicated cultural day allows sufficient time to experience local traditions without rushing directly toward the next long-distance destination.
Evening Dinner in Mary
Return to Mary for dinner and relax before the following day's Bronze Age archaeological expedition and overnight train journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Mary.
Day 10 — Mary → Gonur Depe (Ancient Margush) → Overnight Train to Kerki
Breakfast & Early Departure
After breakfast, prepare for an expedition into the Karakum Desert to explore the archaeological remains of the Bronze Age Margiana civilization.
Journey to Gonur Depe
Depart Mary toward Gonur Depe, a remote archaeological settlement associated with the ancient Margiana civilization.
The route includes off-road desert sections, and travel time depends on conditions and the selected access route.
Discover the Bronze Age Kingdom of Margiana
Explore the extraordinary remains of Gonur Depe, one of the principal archaeological centres of ancient Margiana.
Dating to the Bronze Age, the settlement reveals the remarkable sophistication of communities that flourished in Central Asia thousands of years ago.
Your guided exploration may include:
Royal and Residential Structures: Discover excavated building foundations and architectural remains that reveal the organisation of this ancient settlement.
Ceremonial Areas: Examine archaeological features interpreted as spaces connected with ritual and community life.
Ancient Burial Sites: Learn about archaeological discoveries that have helped researchers understand Bronze Age traditions and beliefs.
Early Urban Development: Discover how irrigation, agriculture and regional trade supported the growth of ancient settlements.
Lunch & Return Journey
Enjoy a packed lunch or stop at a suitable restaurant after returning toward the Mary region.
Afternoon in Mary
Depending on the timing, enjoy a short additional orientation through Mary or relax before your railway journey.
Dinner Before Departure
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Your guide will also help you prepare drinking water and snacks for the night train.
Overnight Train to Kerki
Transfer to Mary Railway Station and board the planned sleeper train toward Kerki.
Departure times and train services are subject to confirmation from the official railway timetable.
Travel in a four-berth sleeper compartment with bedding.
Overnight: Sleeper train toward Kerki.
Day 11 — Kerki → Gaynar Baba Spring → Koytendag Mountains
Morning Arrival in Kerki
Arrive at Kerki Railway Station and meet your private driver.
Enjoy breakfast at a local café before continuing toward the remarkable Koytendag Mountains.
Scenic Drive to Koytendag
Travel approximately 185 kilometres through eastern Turkmenistan.
The landscape gradually changes from broad plains to rugged foothills and dramatic mountain formations.
Gaynar Baba Natural Spring
Stop at Gaynar Baba, a locally significant natural spring associated with the traditions of the Koytendag region.
Observe the spring and learn about its cultural importance from your guide.
Local residents associate the site with traditional beliefs about the properties of its water.
Arrival in Koyten Village
Continue to Koyten, a mountain settlement surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.
Check into your local guesthouse or tourist base.
Afternoon Relaxation
Spend the afternoon enjoying the tranquil mountain environment.
Depending on the available time, explore the nearby village, meet local residents or take photographs of the surrounding scenery.
Traditional Home-Cooked Dinner
Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner at your guesthouse and experience the warm hospitality of rural Turkmenistan.
Overnight: Guesthouse or tourist base in Koytendag.
Day 12 — Koytendag Mountains: Dinosaur Plateau, Umbar Dere & Kyrk Gyz Cave
Breakfast in the Mountains
Begin the day with breakfast before setting out on a full-day expedition through the spectacular landscapes of Koytendag.
Dinosaur Plateau — Hojapil
Travel into the mountains to visit the famous Dinosaur Plateau.
This extraordinary limestone surface preserves numerous fossilized dinosaur footprints from the Jurassic period.
Explore accessible viewing areas and learn about the prehistoric animals that once moved across this ancient landscape.
The site is one of Turkmenistan's most remarkable geological attractions.
Umbar Dere Gorge & Waterfall
Continue toward Umbar Dere, a picturesque mountain gorge known for its dramatic rock formations.
Enjoy a scenic walk through the accessible sections of the gorge.
If seasonal conditions permit, visit the waterfall and admire the surrounding mountain scenery.
Picnic Lunch in Nature
Enjoy a picnic lunch in a suitable scenic location surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains.
Pälwan Daş — Hero's Stone
Visit Pälwan Daş, a large stone associated with traditional stories of strength, courage and local heroes.
Learn about the regional legends connected with this landmark.
Kyrk Gyz Cave — The Forty Girls
Continue to one of the region's most distinctive cultural and spiritual sites.
Kyrk Gyz Cave is associated with a local legend about forty girls and is known for colourful strips of fabric tied by visitors as expressions of hopes and wishes.
Explore the accessible cave area while your guide explains the traditional stories connected with the location.
Return to Koyten
After a rewarding day in the mountains, return to your guesthouse.
Dinner & Relaxation
Enjoy another home-cooked dinner and spend the evening relaxing.
Overnight: Guesthouse or tourist base in Koytendag.
Mountain visits depend on weather, trail accessibility and participants' physical comfort. Your guide may adjust the order of attractions when necessary.
Day 13 — Koytendag → Kerki Historical Monuments → Turkmenabat
Breakfast & Departure
Enjoy breakfast at your guesthouse and prepare to leave the Koytendag Mountains.
Travel west toward Kerki, passing through changing landscapes and traditional settlements.
Explore the Historical Heritage of Kerki
Discover important medieval monuments and pilgrimage sites associated with the religious and architectural history of the Lebap Region.
Astana Baba Mausoleum Complex
Visit the atmospheric Astana Baba complex, recognised for its interconnected domed structures and historic religious importance.
Explore the architecture and learn about the traditions associated with this pilgrimage destination.
Alamberdar Mausoleum
Discover an impressive example of medieval brick architecture.
Admire its monumental proportions and decorative brickwork, reflecting the artistic achievements of the region's medieval builders.
Idris Baba Historical Site
Visit the historical and religious site associated with Idris Baba, learning about its place in local cultural traditions.
The exact programme and accessibility of individual monuments will be confirmed according to local conditions.
Lunch in Kerki
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant before beginning the next stage of your overland journey.
Transfer to Turkmenabat
Continue by private vehicle toward Turkmenabat, approximately 230 kilometres from Kerki.
Pass through the eastern plains of Turkmenistan and observe agricultural settlements along the route.
Arrival in Turkmenabat
Reach Turkmenabat, the principal city of the Lebap Region and an important historical crossroads near the Amu Darya River.
Hotel Check-in
Check into the Ýüpek Ýoly (Silk Way Hotel), a modern hotel in Turkmenabat, subject to confirmed availability.
Dinner & Evening Leisure
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
If time allows, take a short evening orientation drive through the city.
Overnight: Ýüpek Ýoly (Silk Way Hotel), Turkmenabat — 4-star accommodation.
Day 14 — Turkmenabat → Dayahatun Caravanserai → Amul Fortress → Farap Border / Bukhara
07:00 AM — Early Morning Departure
Begin the final day of your Turkmenistan grand adventure with an early departure toward Dayahatun Caravanserai.
Travel north through the Amu Darya region, approximately 170 kilometres from Turkmenabat.
Allow around 3.5 hours each way, depending on road conditions.
The final sections of the route pass along uneven desert tracks.
Breakfast En Route
Stop for breakfast at a suitable location before continuing toward the historical site.
Explore Dayahatun Caravanserai
Discover one of Turkmenistan's remarkable surviving monuments of medieval Silk Road architecture.
Dayahatun Caravanserai is associated with the Seljuk period and reflects the importance of commercial routes linking Central Asian settlements.
Walk through the surviving architectural remains and admire the elegant decorative brickwork.
Your guide will explain how caravanserais provided rest, shelter and practical facilities for merchants and travellers crossing the region.
The remote setting creates a particularly atmospheric final historical experience.
Return Journey to Turkmenabat
After the guided visit, return south toward Turkmenabat through rural settlements and agricultural landscapes.
Late Lunch in Turkmenabat
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and relax after the desert expedition.
Lebap Regional History Museum
If time and opening hours permit, visit the regional museum to discover archaeological objects and ethnographic exhibits reflecting the history of eastern Turkmenistan.
Ancient Amul Fortress
Explore the surviving earthen remains of Amul, a historic settlement connected with trade routes across the Amu Darya region.
Learn about the strategic importance of this location in Central Asian history.
Amu Darya River Photo Stop
Continue toward the Uzbekistan border, stopping at a suitable viewpoint for photographs of the Amu Darya River.
This remarkable waterway has played an important role in the history and development of Central Asia.
Transfer to Farap Border
Travel approximately 40 kilometres toward the Farap border crossing.
Your guide and local team will assist with the Turkmenistan-side departure procedures according to official immigration and customs regulations.
After completing the crossing into Uzbekistan, continue your onward journey toward Bukhara.
End of Tour Services — Thank you for exploring Turkmenistan with Darvaza Tour!
14-Day Tour Price
Price per person based on the total number of travelers in the group.
1 Traveler
US$ 1,154
per person
2 Travelers
US$ 1,154
per person
3 Travelers
US$ 1,154
per person
4 Travelers
US$ 1,154
per person
Groups of more than 4 travelers are also welcome. The larger the group, the lower the price per person may become.
Price includes:
- Visa support and registration: assistance with the e-visa application and foreigner registration in Turkmenistan.
- E-visa fee: the electronic visa fee is included in the tour price.
- Hotel accommodation: one night in a comfortable 4-star hotel in Ashgabat with breakfast, based on twin-room sharing according to guests’ gender unless another room arrangement is agreed.
- Darvaza accommodation: one night in a traditional yurt near the Darvaza Gas Crater, including dinner, breakfast, bed linen and access to shower facilities.
- Ground transport: comfortable air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers throughout the land itinerary.
- Transfers: pick-up on the Turkmenistan side of the Shavat border, intercity road transfers, sightseeing transfers and the confirmed final transfer to Haudan border or Ashgabat International Airport.
- Meals: breakfasts, plus dinner and breakfast at the Darvaza yurt camp.
- Guiding: a licensed English-speaking guide throughout the programme.
- Sightseeing: guided city tours and entrance fees for museums and sites included in the agreed programme.
- Medical insurance: coverage up to USD 64,000 per guest, subject to the policy terms.
- Driver and guide costs: fuel, meals, accommodation and other route-related expenses for the driver and guide.
- Taxes and organisation: applicable taxes, road fees and organisational costs for the included services.
- Flexible programme: the order and timing of visits may be adjusted according to border processing, road conditions, local access, flight timing and the time available.
- Mobile internet: access to the guide’s portable Wi-Fi router where mobile network coverage is available, supporting up to 10 connected devices at a time.
- Happ VPN: the guide will provide an access key after arrival in Turkmenistan.
Price doesn't include:
- Meals not expressly listed as included. Allow approximately USD 3–8 per person per meal as an indicative budget; actual restaurant prices vary.
- Personal expenses, including souvenirs, snacks, alcohol, laundry, minibar purchases, additional hotel services and other personal purchases.
- Tips for guides and drivers, which are optional and appreciated.
- Onward transport and services after crossing into Iran, unless separately agreed.
- International flights departing from Ashgabat, unless specifically stated in the quotation.
Accommodation
Turkmenabat — 1 Night
Ýüpek Ýoly Hotel 4★
Accommodation in Turkmenabat is arranged at Ýüpek Ýoly Hotel (Silk Way Hotel), a modern four-star property located in the city centre. The hotel offers comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms and a convenient location for travellers exploring the Lebap region.
We have selected this hotel for its modern facilities, comfortable accommodation and convenient access to Turkmenabat's main attractions.
Guests will spend one night here before departing early the following morning for the Dayahatyn Caravanserai excursion. Breakfast is included, with an early breakfast box available if required by the departure schedule. Twin, double or single rooms can be arranged according to the confirmed booking.
Koytendag — Mountain Guesthouse (2 Nights)
Koytendag Mountains — Traditional Mountain Guesthouse
Experience authentic local hospitality during a two-night stay at a traditional guesthouse in the scenic Koytendag Mountains.
Situated in the Koyten area, the accommodation offers a peaceful mountain atmosphere and a convenient base for exploring Dinosaur Plateau, Umbar Dere Gorge and Kyrk Gyz Cave.
Guests will enjoy simple, welcoming accommodation with sleeping arrangements organised according to their booking requirements.
Traditional home-cooked meals prepared by local hosts offer an opportunity to discover the flavours and hospitality of rural Turkmenistan.
The guesthouse provides an authentic mountain experience, with the exact property and room facilities confirmed before travel.
Mary → Kerki Overnight Sleeper Train (1 Night)
Mary → Kerki Overnight Sleeper Train
Travel overnight from Mary toward Kerki in a traditional Turkmen railway sleeper compartment, allowing you to rest during the journey across eastern Turkmenistan.
Accommodation is planned in a comfortable 4-berth sleeper compartment. For solo travellers or couples, Darvaza Tour will aim to reserve a full compartment for your booking whenever ticket availability permits, offering additional privacy and personal space.
The compartment is equipped with sleeping berths and bedding, providing a practical overnight travel experience.
Your guide will assist with boarding arrangements and help you prepare any necessary snacks or drinking water before departure.
The exact train departure time, route, arrival time and carriage allocation will be reconfirmed according to the official railway timetable and ticket availability.
Balkan Region — Hotel Accommodation (1 Night)
Balkan Region — Hotel Accommodation
After discovering the spectacular landscapes of Yangykala Canyon, enjoy an overnight stay at a selected hotel in the Balkan Region.
Accommodation will be arranged in a suitable local hotel along the onward route, providing a convenient place to relax after a full day of desert exploration.
Rooms will be arranged according to your booking requirements, with the exact hotel confirmed before departure.
Overnight: Selected hotel in the Balkan Region.
Overnight Train — 1 night
Ashgabat → Turkmenbashi Sleeper Train
Travel overnight from Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi, a coastal city on the Caspian Sea, in a comfortable 4-berth sleeper compartment.
Even for solo travellers or couples, Darvaza Tour will arrange a full 4-berth compartment exclusively for your booking whenever availability allows, providing additional privacy, comfort and personal space throughout the journey.
The sleeper compartment is designed for overnight travel and includes comfortable sleeping berths, clean bedding and pillows, allowing you to relax and enjoy a restful night while travelling across the landscapes of western Turkmenistan.
The overnight train offers a practical and authentic way to experience Turkmenistan's railway system while travelling from the capital to the Caspian coast.
The exact train departure and arrival times, compartment arrangements and carriage allocation will be reconfirmed before travel according to the official railway schedule and ticket availability.
Darvaza — 1 night
Traditional Turkmen Yurt Camp
One night near the Darvaza Gas Crater. The stay includes bedding, dinner, breakfast and access to camp washing/shower facilities. Accommodation in the desert is simpler than a city hotel and is designed as part of the Karakum experience.
Dashoguz — 1 Night
Dashoguz Hotel
Your first overnight stay is arranged at Dashoguz Hotel, an established hotel in the city of Dashoguz, northern Turkmenistan.
The property provides a convenient base for travellers exploring the historical monuments of Kunya-Urgench, the Izmukshir area and the cultural attractions of Dashoguz.
Dashoguz Hotel offers comfortable guest accommodation and breakfast, allowing you to relax after a full day of sightseeing before continuing your journey into the Karakum Desert.
Twin or double-room arrangements can be organised according to the confirmed booking.
Ashgabat — 2 night
Ak Altyn Hotel 4*
Accommodation in Ashgabat is planned at Ak Altyn Hotel, a centrally located hotel with convenient access to the main sightseeing areas, restaurants and major city attractions.
The hotel is officially classified as a 4-star property, although it is an older-established hotel with a more traditional interior style compared with newer luxury hotels in Ashgabat. We use Ak Altyn because of its practical location, reliable service and easy access to the main places included in the city sightseeing programme.
Breakfast is included. Twin, double or single room arrangements can be provided according to the confirmed booking.
Gyzylarbat — Chinar Hotel (1 Night)
Chinar Hotel — Gyzylarbat (Serdar)
Enjoy an overnight stay at Chinar Hotel, a practical local accommodation option in Gyzylarbat, also known as Serdar, in western Turkmenistan.
The hotel provides a convenient place to rest after exploring the remote archaeological ruins of Ancient Dehistan and travelling across the landscapes of the Balkan Region.
Guests will stay in arranged rooms with essential facilities for a comfortable overnight break before continuing the journey toward the Moon Mountains, Nokhur village and Ashgabat.
Room arrangements and facilities will be confirmed according to availability at the time of booking.
