7D Highlights of Turkmenistan

Price from $4077 per person on Twin sharing basis

Ashgabat – Mary – Darwaza – Ashgabat

This journey through Turkmenistan brings together the country’s surreal modern capital, ancient Silk Road heritage, and one of the world’s most otherworldly natural wonders. Begin in Ashgabat, a city of grand white-marble boulevards, gold-domed monuments, and futuristic architecture set against the Kopet Dag Mountains. Continue east to Mary, gateway to the ancient city of Merv, once one of the world’s great oasis metropolises on the Silk Road. Walk among centuries-old fortifications, mausoleums, and caravanserai ruins that whisper stories of empires long faded.

From here, head north across the stark Karakum Desert to Darwaza, where the “Door to Hell” burns day and night—an immense natural gas crater that has been alight for decades. Spend the evening under a star-filled desert sky, watching the crater glow like a fiery mirage in the vast emptiness. Return to Ashgabat for time to explore its markets, museums, and dramatic city landmarks—a journey blending ancient history, desert adventure, and the surreal contrasts that define Turkmenistan.

Itinerary

Day 1

Ashgabat – Nisa – Gypchak – Ashgabat (B)+

Arrive at Ashgabat Airport and transfer to the hotel. Begin an Ashgabat city tour, visiting the main attractions of the capital, including parks, monuments, the impressive TurkmenbashiRuhy Mosque, and other iconic buildings. Explore Old Nisa, the sanctuary of the Parthian kings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Gypjak Mosque and the mausoleum of the late President of Turkmenistan.

Day 2

Ashgabat – Mary (B)

Visit the State Museum of Turkmenistan, later you can also see dinosaur footprints, an 820-kg meteorite that fell in Kunya-Urgench in 1998, and much more. Afterwards, drive to Mary City, stopping on the way at Annau to explore the ruins of the 15th-century Seyit Jamal-ad-Din Mosque.

Day 3

Mary – Merv – Ashgabat (B)

Visit the glorious Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the splendid mausoleums of Sultan Sanjar and Muhammed ibn Zeyd, You will also visit the Merv Museum, featuring an extensive ethnography section with a large collection of Turkmen jewelry, carpets, stuffed animals, and a fully decorated traditional interior yurt and pottery from the time of the Mongol occupation Drive to Ashgabat city.

Day 4

Ashgabat – Darwaza (B/D)

Drive through the Karakum Desert to Darvaza. On the way, visit a small nomadic village and immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle of the Turkmen people. At Darvaza, observe the fantastic view of the crater both by daylight and at night. Feel the heat and listen to the wind and the sounds created by this giant fiery crater.

Day 5

Darwaza – Kone Urgench – Dashoguz – Ashgabat (B)

Drive to the northern province of Turkmenistan and explore the architectural monuments of Old Urgench. Visit the Mausoleum of Najm al-Din al-Kubra, Tyurabek Khanum, Il-Arslan, and Tekesh Ibn Hadzhibey. Enjoy a city tour of Dashoguz before transferring to the airport for a domestic flight to Ashgabat.

Day 6

Ashgabat (B)

The tour begins with a visit to the Tolkuchka Bazaar, one of Turkmenistan’s most famous markets. Then, drive to a horse farm to explore the pride of the Turkmen people – the Akhal-Teke horses. Enjoy a traditional tea party and a short Akhal-Teke horse show. Return to Ashgabat for an evening city tour to admire the illuminated monuments of the city.

Day 7

Ashgabat (B)

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing using air-conditioned private car, local English speaking guides, entrance fees at monuments.

Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2026. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information