Introduction

This Turkmenistan 4 day tour begins at the Shavat border near Khiva and takes you through the highlights of the country. Experience the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater at sunset with dinner and a yurt overnight before continuing to Ashgabat. Explore the capital’s white marble avenues, lively bazaars, and UNESCO-listed ruins of Nisa, along with museums and monuments that showcase Turkmen culture. With comfortable hotels, guided city tours, and authentic desert experiences, this journey combines history, tradition, and modern Ashgabat life.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – From Uzbekistan to the Heart of the Desert

Your journey begins early in the morning at the border between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Crossing the checkpoint is a small adventure in itself: a change of atmosphere, the neutral zone between the two countries, unhurried procedures, after which you meet your Turkmen guide. From this moment, a new chapter of the trip begins.
Kunya-Urgench
The first stop is the ancient capital of Khorezm, calm and warm, as if hidden away from the bustle of the modern world. You walk among mausoleums and minarets, listening to stories about rulers, merchants, and travelers.
The Turabek Khanum Mausoleum impresses with its dome decorated with unique patterns.
The mausoleums of Sultan Tekesh and Il-Arslan are austere yet majestic.
The Kutlug-Timur Minaret rises dozens of meters into the sky, preserving its grandeur through the centuries.
The Kyrk-Molla Hill holds legends and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Drive through the Karakum Desert
The road is long, smooth, and calm. The landscape gradually changes: from green oases to golden dunes. Vast open spaces, wind, and sun create a complete sense of freedom and the grandeur of the desert.
Darvaza Crater (Gates of Hell) at sunset
Upon arrival at Darvaza, the sun is already beginning to set. The flames inside the crater grow brighter, and the air near the edge feels warm. Standing beside it is mesmerizing; everyone perceives this place in their own way: as a natural mystery, a spectacle, or a symbol of the power of nature.
Yurt camp and dinner by the fire
In the evening, a heartfelt dinner cooked over the fire awaits. The night in yurts under a bright starry sky becomes an experience of its own: silence, the glow of the crater fire nearby, and the feeling that you are far away from the familiar world.
The day ends slowly and gently. The first evening in Turkmenistan leaves a powerful impression and sets the tone for the entire journey.
Distance of the day: 500 km

Day 2 – From Fiery Darvaza to the White Marble of Ashgabat

An early departure from Darvaza, and the road leads to the capital of Turkmenistan — Ashgabat, the city of white marble, shining in the sun. Ashgabat has long earned the title of the world’s most marble city according to the Guinness Book of Records, and the first impressions of its buildings, avenues, and squares are striking.
Russian Bazaar (Ashgabat) The Russian Bazaar is one of the largest and most colorful markets in the capital of Turkmenistan. Local life comes alive here: the stalls are piled high with fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, dried fruits, sweets, and baked goods. You can see a variety of local products, from traditional clothing and carpets to souvenirs and handicrafts.
Old Nisa (UNESCO site) The ancient ruins of the Parthian capital allow you to travel back in time. Walking among the fortress walls and the remains of temples, it is easy to imagine the lives of people from thousands of years ago. Ahal-Teke horse stables Graceful, slender horses with glossy coats are the true pride of Turkmenistan. Watching them is like looking at living history: for centuries these animals have been a symbol of the country.
Neutrality Arch and Independence Park
Modern symbols of the capital: wide avenues, neat fountains, green spaces, and statues create a sense of harmony between modernity and tradition.
In the evening — well-deserved rest at a comfortable hotel, dinner, and the opportunity to admire the night lights of the capital. The day is full, yet smooth: after the impressive Darvaza, it offers a chance to appreciate a different Turkmenistan — modern, bright, and elegant.
Meals: breakfast
Distance of the day: 260 km

Day 3 – Ashgabat – City Experiences – Overnight in Ashgabat

Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. This day is flexible and can be tailored to your interests in Ashgabat. We suggest:
Tolkuchka Bazaar (Altyn Asyr Bazaar): Experience one of Central Asia’s largest and most vibrant open-air markets. Here, you can find everything from traditional Turkmen rugs, textiles, and jewelry to livestock and everyday goods. It’s a fantastic place to absorb the local culture and do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Health Path (Saglyk Yoly): For those interested in a unique experience and a bit of activity, we can visit a section of the famous “Health Path” along the foothills of the Kopet Dag mountains. This concrete pathway offers scenic views and is a testament to the country’s focus on health.
Shopping Malls: Discover modern Ashgabat by visiting one of its prominent shopping malls like Berkarar Shopping and Entertainment Center or Ashgabat Shopping and Entertainment Center. These offer a stark contrast to the traditional bazaars, with international brands, cafes, and entertainment options.
Optional: If time permits and you’re interested, your guide can take you to other specific places of interest you might have in mind within Ashgabat.
Overnight in Ashgabat.

Day 4 – Early Morning Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport

In the very early hours of the morning, your final day in Turkmenistan begins with a comfortable private transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your international departure.
At approximately 01:40 AM on 25 May, you will check out from your hotel and meet your English-speaking guide and driver in the lobby. After assistance with your luggage and final departure arrangements, you will leave the hotel and proceed to the airport in a private vehicle.
At around 02:00 AM, you will arrive at Ashgabat International Airport, giving you sufficient time for check-in and pre-departure formalities for your Emirates flight at 05:15 AM to Dubai / Hong Kong.
Before entering the terminal, there will be time for a warm farewell with your guide, along with a final exchange of contact details if needed. After escort assistance at the airport entrance, your guide and driver will say goodbye, marking the end of your journey in Turkmenistan.
This smooth and carefully arranged transfer ensures a comfortable and stress-free conclusion to your trip.

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 – 2 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

4 Day Turkmenistan Tour from Khiva (Shavat Border) to Darvaza and Ashgabat