Dashoguz to Ashgabat Discovery Tour

Your journey through Turkmenistan begins at the Dashoguz border crossing with Uzbekistan. After completing border formalities, you will be met by your guide and driver. You will then drive to Kunya Urgench, the ancient capital of Khorezm and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will visit the Gutlug Timur Minaret, the Mausoleum of Turabek Khanum and the Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh. Your guide will tell you about the history of these monuments and the destruction of the city by the Mongols in the 13th century. After the visit, you will begin a journey of about 300 kilometres south through the Karakum Desert. The road crosses a vast landscape of sand dunes and desert shrubs, with stops along the way for photographs. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at the Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the "Gates of Hell". This huge burning crater has been on fire since the 1970s and is one of the most unusual sights in the world. You will watch the sunset and see the flames become more dramatic as darkness falls. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the camp. Overnight in a yurt near the crater.

If you wish, you can wake up early for a final view of the crater at sunrise. After breakfast at the camp, you will begin a journey of about 270 kilometres south to Ashgabat. The drive through the Karakum Desert takes around four hours, with stops for photographs along the way.

On arrival in Ashgabat, you will begin a sightseeing tour of the capital. You will visit Independence Park, the Arch of Neutrality and other architectural landmarks that make Ashgabat one of the most unusual cities in the world. You will also visit one of the city's museums, where you can learn about the history and culture of Turkmenistan. Your guide will tell you about the history of the city and the meaning of its many monuments. You will see white marble buildings, golden domes and fountains along the city's broad avenues. In the evening, you will check into your hotel and enjoy dinner. This is a good opportunity to relax after the desert adventure. Overnight at your hotel in Ashgabat.

Today your Dashoguz to Ashgabat Discovery Tour comes to an end. After breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time depending on your flight schedule. You may wish to visit a souvenir shop or take a final walk through the city.

Please check out of your room by the agreed time. Your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and transfer you to Ashgabat International Airport. Our team will assist you with your luggage and check-in for your onward flight. If you have bought carpets or handicrafts, please keep your receipts and certificates ready for customs. During this tour, you have explored the ancient city of Kunya Urgench, seen the burning crater of Darvaza and discovered the white marble capital. We hope you have enjoyed your time in Turkmenistan. Thank you for travelling with us. We wish you a safe flight and hope to see you again soon.