Turkmenistan 4 Days 3 Nights Tour: Dashoguz Border–Ashgabat

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 your journey 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 near the crater.

If you wish, you can wake up early to see the crater once more at sunrise. After breakfast at the crater camp, you will begin the return journey 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 have lunch and some time to rest at your hotel. In the afternoon, you will begin a sightseeing tour of the capital. You will visit Independence Park, home to the Independence Monument and statues of national heroes. You will also see the Arch of Neutrality, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. 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, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at your hotel in Ashgabat.

After breakfast, you will begin a full day of exploring the area around Ashgabat. Your first visit is the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque in Gypjak, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. With its golden dome and four minarets, the mosque is an impressive example of modern Islamic architecture.

Next, you will visit the ancient fortress of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the first capitals of the Parthian Empire. You will walk among the ruins of palaces and temples and learn about the history of this ancient empire. In the afternoon, you will visit the Akhal-Teke Horse Farm, home to the famous golden horses of Turkmenistan. You will learn about the history of the breed and its importance in Turkmen culture. Finally, you will visit the Kow-Ata underground lake, located inside a large cave. You can swim in the warm, mineral-rich water, which is a relaxing way to end the day. In the evening, you will return to Ashgabat for a farewell dinner. Overnight at your hotel.

Today your journey through Turkmenistan comes to an end. After breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time depending on your flight schedule. You may wish to buy some last-minute souvenirs 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 international 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. You have also visited the ancient fortress of Nisa and swum in the underground lake of Kow-Ata. We hope you have enjoyed your time in Turkmenistan. Thank you for travelling with us, and we hope to see you again soon.