Silk Road Treasures of Turkmenistan: Dashoguz to Farap Border

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 begin a drive south through the Karakum Desert.

Along the way, you will make several stops to observe the flora and fauna of the desert. Your guide will tell you about the plants that grow in the desert, such as saxaul and sand acacia, and how they have adapted to the harsh environment. You may also see desert animals such as lizards, desert tortoises, gerbils and birds of prey. 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 have time to walk around the crater and watch the sunset over the desert. As darkness falls, the flames become even more dramatic. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the yurt camp. Overnight in a yurt near the crater.

If you wish, you can wake up early to see the crater once more at sunrise. After breakfast at the camp, you will visit two smaller craters near Darvaza. The first is filled with bubbling mud, and the second contains turquoise water, creating an unusual contrast with the sandy landscape.

You will then continue south through the desert to Ashgabat. On arrival, you will begin a sightseeing tour of the capital. You will visit Independence Park, home to the Independence Monument and statues of national heroes. Next, you will see the Arch of Neutrality, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. You will also visit the Constitution Monument, one of the tallest buildings in Ashgabat. Your guide will tell you about the history of the city and the meaning of its many monuments. In the evening, you will check into your hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight in Ashgabat.

After breakfast, you will continue your sightseeing tour of Ashgabat. Your first visit is the Russian Bazaar, one of the oldest and most popular markets in the city. Here you can buy fresh fruit, spices, dried fruits, nuts and local sweets, as well as souvenirs to take home.

Next, you will visit some of the city's historic mosques, including the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, inspired by Ottoman architecture. You may also visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque in Gypjak, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Your guide will tell you about the history of these mosques and the role of Islam in Turkmen culture. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for a domestic flight to Mary. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you will enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. This is a wonderful opportunity to share memories of your journey with your guide. Overnight in Mary.

After breakfast, you will drive to Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest cities of the Silk Road. You will visit the ancient fortresses of Erk Kala and Gyaur Kala, which date back to the 6th century BC. Next, you will see the magnificent Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, a masterpiece of 12th-century Seljuk architecture.

You will also visit the Kyz Kala mansions, with their distinctive ribbed walls, and the remains of other fortresses. Your guide will tell you about the history of Merv and its role as a centre of trade, science and culture. You will also learn about the destruction of the city by the Mongols in the 13th century. After the visits, you will drive east across the Karakum Desert to Turkmenabat and the Farap border crossing. The journey takes several hours, with stops along the way. On arrival at the border, your guide will assist you with the departure formalities. We hope you have enjoyed your journey through the Silk Road treasures of Turkmenistan. Thank you for travelling with us.