Tour Overview
Our 4-day Turkmenistan night train tour from Khiva combines spectacular desert landscapes, cultural discoveries and an authentic railway experience.
Begin your adventure at the Shavat border and travel through Dashoguz into the Karakum Desert, where you will spend an unforgettable night beside the famous Darvaza Gas Crater. Continue south to explore the remarkable Water and Mud craters before discovering Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's extraordinary white-marble capital. Enjoy two days of sightseeing in Ashgabat, exploring its impressive monuments, modern architecture and local traditions. On the third evening, board a comfortable overnight sleeper train to Dashoguz.
Complete your journey with a guided visit to Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its medieval minarets and mausoleums, before returning toward Uzbekistan.
Organized by Darvaza Tour, this private four-day itinerary offers a distinctive combination of desert camping, city sightseeing, overnight rail travel and ancient Silk Road heritage.
4-Day Tour Itinerary
Day 1 — Shavat Border → Dashoguz → Darvaza Gas Crater
Morning — Arrival at the Shavat Border
Your four-day Turkmenistan adventure begins at the Shavat border crossing, conveniently accessible from Khiva in neighboring Uzbekistan.
The planned meeting time is approximately 10:00 AM, depending on border formalities and your arrival arrangements.
After completing the required immigration and passport procedures, meet your Darvaza Tour guide on the Turkmenistan side of the checkpoint. Your guide will welcome you, introduce the day's itinerary and accompany you to your private vehicle.
Transfer to Dashoguz
Continue to Dashoguz, the principal city of northern Turkmenistan and an important regional centre close to the Uzbekistan border.
Your first stop offers an opportunity to experience everyday life in this part of the country before heading into the remote Karakum Desert.
Traditional Lunch in Dashoguz
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional Turkmen and regional dishes.
Your guide will provide a short introduction to local cuisine, customs and the landscapes you will encounter throughout the journey.
Local Bazaar and Desert Preparations
Depending on the available time, visit a local bazaar in Dashoguz to discover the atmosphere of a traditional Turkmen market.
Explore stalls selling fresh produce, regional products and everyday goods. This is also a convenient opportunity to purchase bottled drinks, fruit or personal snacks for the desert journey.
Afternoon — Journey through the Karakum Desert
Depart Dashoguz and travel south toward Darvaza Gas Crater, approximately 300 km away.
The drive generally takes around 4–5 hours, although travel times can vary according to the condition of the desert roads and the number of stops.
As you leave the urban surroundings behind, experience the wide-open scenery of the Karakum Desert, one of Central Asia's defining landscapes.
The route passes through remote desert terrain with occasional settlements and stretches of open wilderness.
Some sections of the road are uneven or unpaved, so the journey may feel bumpy. Your experienced driver will adjust the driving speed according to the conditions.
Arrival at Darvaza Gas Crater
Approach the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, internationally known as the "Door to Hell."
This extraordinary natural-industrial landmark has become one of Turkmenistan's most recognizable attractions.
Upon arrival, your guide will introduce the history of the crater and explain how this unusual burning landscape became internationally famous.
Sunset at the Crater
Enjoy time to admire the crater and photograph its distinctive appearance as daylight gradually fades.
The contrast between the surrounding desert and the illuminated crater creates a memorable atmosphere, particularly during twilight.
Your guide will identify suitable viewing areas and explain the necessary safety precautions.
Evening — Traditional Desert BBQ Dinner
Continue to the nearby camp, where the Darvaza Tour team will prepare a freshly cooked outdoor dinner.
Enjoy traditional barbecue and local dishes in the peaceful surroundings of the Karakum Desert.
After dinner, take the opportunity to observe the crater after dark, when its fiery glow becomes especially striking against the night sky.
Overnight — Darvaza Yurt Camp
Spend your first night in a traditional Turkmen yurt at a desert campsite near the gas crater.
Rest in the quiet desert atmosphere and prepare for the following day's journey to Ashgabat.
Day 2 — Darvaza → Water & Mud Craters → Ashgabat
Early Morning — Sunrise at Darvaza
For travelers who enjoy photography, an optional early-morning visit to the Darvaza Gas Crater provides another opportunity to experience this extraordinary location.
Watch the first light of day spread across the desert landscape and capture photographs of the crater from designated viewing areas.
This activity is optional and depends on your preferred wake-up time and local conditions.
Breakfast at the Desert Camp
Return to the campsite for a freshly prepared breakfast.
After breakfast, gather your belongings and prepare to continue the journey south toward Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.
Drive through the Karakum Desert
Leave Darvaza and follow the desert road toward Ashgabat, approximately 270 km away.
The transfer generally takes around 3.5–4.5 hours or longer, depending on road conditions and sightseeing stops.
Travel across open desert plains and observe the changing landscape as the route approaches the capital.
Your guide will share information about the Karakum Desert, its environment and the communities living in this vast region.
Water Crater — A Desert Curiosity
During the journey, stop to observe the Water Crater, one of the unusual geological and industrial features found in this part of the Karakum Desert.
The site offers an interesting contrast with the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater and provides an additional opportunity for photographs.
Mud Crater — Another Unusual Landscape
Continue to the nearby Mud Crater, where the distinctive terrain illustrates another side of the desert's unusual crater formations.
Your guide will provide an explanation of the site while you enjoy a short viewing and photography stop.
Visits to both smaller craters are subject to safe access and prevailing road conditions.
Arrival in Ashgabat and Lunch
Continue south and arrive in Ashgabat.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take a short break after the journey across the desert.
Afternoon — Introduction to the White Marble City
Begin exploring Ashgabat, famous for its broad boulevards, impressive white-marble architecture and modern national monuments.
Unlike the remote scenery of Darvaza, the capital offers a striking combination of monumental architecture, landscaped parks and urban cultural attractions.
Your private guide will organize the sightseeing programme according to your available time and personal interests.
Possible highlights include:
Independence Monument: Discover a prominent symbol of modern Turkmenistan surrounded by formal gardens and ceremonial architecture.
Neutrality Monument: Learn about Turkmenistan's policy of permanent neutrality and admire one of the capital's best-known landmarks.
Ertogrul Gazi Mosque: View an elegant mosque known for its Ottoman-inspired architectural style.
Central Ashgabat: Enjoy a panoramic drive along major avenues and through selected districts displaying the city's distinctive architecture.
The order and selection of visits can be adapted according to access conditions and the time available.
Evening — Dinner in Ashgabat
After sightseeing, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Your guide can recommend traditional Turkmen dishes or arrange a restaurant according to your preferences.
Overnight — Ashgabat Hotel
Transfer to your hotel for check-in and a comfortable overnight stay.
Relax and prepare for a full day of exploring the capital before your overnight train journey north.
Day 3 — Full-Day Ashgabat City Tour → Overnight Train to Dashoguz
Morning — Breakfast and Hotel Check-out
Start the day with breakfast at your hotel in Ashgabat.
After breakfast, check out and meet your local guide for a full-day exploration of the capital.
Your luggage will be managed according to the confirmed sightseeing and railway transfer arrangements.
Discover Ashgabat's Architectural Highlights
Today provides an excellent opportunity to explore the attractions that could not be covered during the previous afternoon.
Ashgabat is known for its unusual urban landscape, where monumental buildings, ceremonial squares and white-marble facades create a distinctive architectural identity.
Your private sightseeing programme can be designed around history, modern architecture, traditional culture or a combination of these interests.
National Monuments and Government Districts
Explore selected areas of Ashgabat where grand national monuments and striking contemporary buildings reflect the country's modern identity.
Your guide will explain the significance of the landmarks and the development of the capital.
Cultural Attractions and Museums
Depending on opening hours and your interests, the programme may include selected museums or cultural institutions.
Possible choices include the National Museum of Turkmenistan, where visitors can learn about the country's archaeological discoveries, history and cultural traditions, or the Turkmen Carpet Museum, which presents the country's celebrated carpet-weaving heritage.
Specific museum visits will be confirmed according to the available time and itinerary arrangements.
Traditional Lunch in Ashgabat
Pause for lunch at a local restaurant.
Enjoy regional cuisine and take time to relax before continuing the afternoon programme.
Afternoon — Markets and Local Experiences
Continue discovering the capital through a combination of cultural sightseeing, traditional shopping areas and additional architectural attractions.
Depending on market schedules and your preferences, your guide may arrange a visit to a local bazaar where you can observe everyday commerce and browse traditional products.
This is also an opportunity to purchase souvenirs, textiles or gifts before leaving the capital.
Additional Sightseeing and Photography
Spend the remainder of the afternoon visiting selected landmarks and taking photographs of the city's modern architectural landscape.
Your guide will adjust the sightseeing route to ensure a comfortable pace and sufficient time for the evening railway departure.
Evening — Dinner before the Train
Before leaving Ashgabat, enjoy an early dinner at a local restaurant.
Alternatively, your guide can help arrange takeaway food and snacks for your overnight railway journey.
The dinner arrangements can be adapted according to your preferences and the confirmed train schedule.
Transfer to Ashgabat Railway Station
After completing the sightseeing programme, transfer to Ashgabat Railway Station.
Your guide will assist you with the necessary boarding arrangements and help you locate your assigned carriage and compartment.
20:30 — Overnight Sleeper Train to Dashoguz
Board the overnight train from Ashgabat to Dashoguz, scheduled to depart at approximately 20:30.
Travel north across Turkmenistan by rail, experiencing a traditional form of long-distance travel used throughout the country.
The journey is planned in a comfortable four-berth sleeper compartment.
Where available and confirmed in advance, Darvaza Tour can arrange an entire compartment for your booking to provide additional privacy.
The compartment includes sleeping berths and basic facilities suitable for an overnight railway journey.
Overnight — Ashgabat to Dashoguz Sleeper Train
Spend the night aboard the train as it travels across Turkmenistan toward Dashoguz.
The scheduled arrival is approximately 08:45 the following morning, subject to railway operations and timetable changes.
Day 4 — Dashoguz → Kunya-Urgench → Uzbekistan Border
08:45 — Arrival at Dashoguz Railway Station
Arrive in Dashoguz after your overnight sleeper train journey from Ashgabat.
Meet your local driver and guide at the railway station, where your private vehicle will be ready for the final day of your Turkmenistan adventure.
Depending on your preferences and available time, enjoy refreshments or breakfast before beginning the historical excursion.
Morning — Transfer to Kunya-Urgench
Depart Dashoguz and travel toward Kunya-Urgench, approximately 100 km away.
The drive generally takes around 1.5–2 hours, depending on road conditions.
Kunya-Urgench was an important urban centre of medieval Khorezm and served as a major destination along the historic Silk Road.
Today, its outstanding architectural monuments form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guided Exploration of Kunya-Urgench
Upon arrival, begin a guided visit to the principal monuments of the Kunya-Urgench historical and archaeological area.
Your guide will introduce the site's importance during the Khorezmshah period and explain the architecture, history and cultural significance of its surviving monuments.
Kutlug-Timur Minaret
Visit the magnificent Kutlug-Timur Minaret, one of the most impressive surviving medieval structures in Central Asia.
Rising high above the surrounding archaeological landscape, the minaret is celebrated for its remarkable brick construction and historical importance.
Admire the exterior of this extraordinary monument and learn about the architectural achievements of medieval Khorezm.
Turabek-Khanum Mausoleum
Continue to the beautiful Turabek-Khanum Mausoleum, renowned for its exceptional decorative architecture and intricate geometric mosaics.
The mausoleum's distinctive dome and elaborate interior design reflect the remarkable artistic traditions associated with the region.
Your guide will explain the architectural features and the historical traditions connected with the monument.
Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh
Discover the historic Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh, an important surviving monument associated with the Khorezmshah dynasty.
Observe its distinctive brick architecture and striking roof structure while learning about the political history of medieval Khorezm.
Mausoleum of Il-Arslan
Visit the Mausoleum of Il-Arslan, another outstanding example of medieval funerary architecture.
The building is especially notable for its compact proportions and distinctive conical roof.
Together with the surrounding monuments, it illustrates the richness of the region's architectural heritage.
Ancient Caravanserai Gate
Explore the remains of a historic caravanserai entrance, recalling Kunya-Urgench's former importance as a trading centre.
Learn how merchants and travelers crossed this region while transporting goods between Central Asian cities and more distant markets.
Traditional Lunch in Kunya-Urgench
Following the historical sightseeing programme, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Sample traditional regional dishes and take a short break before continuing toward the Uzbekistan border.
Afternoon — Transfer to the Selected Border Crossing
After lunch, proceed to the border crossing arranged for your onward journey.
Two possible routes may be discussed according to your next destination in Uzbekistan and the border access permitted at the time of travel.
Option A — Shavat Border / Khiva
Travel south via Dashoguz toward the Shavat border crossing.
The transfer is approximately 130 km and generally takes around two hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
This option is recommended for guests continuing their journey toward Khiva or Urgench.
Option B — Hojaili Border / Nukus
For guests planning to continue toward Nukus or other destinations in Karakalpakstan, an exit via the Kunya-Urgench–Hojaili checkpoint may be considered.
This option is subject to confirmation that the checkpoint is authorized and operating for the traveler's intended exit on the selected date.
If this crossing cannot be used, Darvaza Tour will discuss an alternative exit arrangement before the programme is confirmed.
Border Procedures and Farewell
Upon arrival at the confirmed border checkpoint, your Darvaza Tour team will assist with the Turkmenistan departure procedures within the applicable border regulations.
After completing the necessary passport and customs formalities, cross into Uzbekistan and continue your onward journey.
End of Tour Services
Your four-day Turkmenistan adventure concludes after an unforgettable combination of desert camping, the architectural wonders of Ashgabat, an overnight train journey and the historic monuments of Kunya-Urgench.
4-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.
- Darvaza accommodation: one night in a traditional yurt near the Darvaza Gas Crater, including dinner, breakfast, bed linen and access to shower facilities.
- Hotel accommodation: one night at the 4-star Ak Altyn Hotel in Ashgabat with breakfast, based on twin-room sharing according to guests’ gender unless another room arrangement is agreed.
- Overnight train: sleeper-train ticket from Ashgabat to Dashoguz in a 4-berth compartment.
- 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, sightseeing and railway station transfers, and the final transfer to the Shavat or Khojeyli border.
- Meals: dinner and breakfast at the Darvaza yurt camp, plus hotel breakfast in Ashgabat.
- Guiding: a licensed English-speaking guide throughout the programme.
- Sightseeing: a full-day private city tour of Ashgabat, plus guided visits and entrance fees for sites included in the agreed programme, including the Water and Mud Craters and Kunya-Urgench.
- 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, train schedules, road conditions, local access 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.
Price doesn't include:
- e-Visa fee: paid by the traveller; the amount depends on nationality and processing time. We prepare and submit your application after the tour is confirmed.
- Border fees on arrival: about US$49 per person (migration registration and medical check), paid in cash at the border.
- Meals: lunches, dinners in Ashgabat, food on the train and any meals not listed under Price includes. Allow about USD 3–8 per person per meal; actual restaurant prices vary.
- Personal expenses: souvenirs, snacks, alcohol, laundry, minibar and other personal purchases.
- Tips: for guides and drivers; optional and appreciated.
Accommodation
Overnight Train — 1 night
Ashgabat → Dashoguz Sleeper Train
Travel overnight from Ashgabat to Dashoguz in a comfortable 4-berth sleeper compartment.
Even for solo travellers or couples, Darvaza Tour will arrange a full 4-berth compartment for your booking whenever available, giving you more privacy and space during the journey.
The compartment is equipped for overnight travel and includes clean bedding, pillows and sleeping berths, allowing you to rest comfortably during the night.
The exact train and departure time will be reconfirmed before travel according to the 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.
Ashgabat — 1 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.
