Capital Lights & Desert Nights
Experience the contrasts of Turkmenistan on this three-day journey, combining the striking white-marble architecture of Ashgabat with the natural spectacle of the Darvaza Gas Crater. Explore the landmarks of the capital, discover the famous Akhal-Teke horses, and spend an unforgettable night in the Karakum Desert beneath the stars.
Tour Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport – Ashgabat
Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport on an early-morning flight. Begin your journey in Ashgabat, the capital and largest city of Turkmenistan, renowned for its impressive white-marble architecture. After breakfast at a local café, drive to Ancient Nisa, the Sanctuary of the Parthian Kings. Continue to Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque, also known as the Spiritual Mosque, in Kipchak. Then visit an Akhal-Teke horse farm to see Turkmenistan's celebrated national horse breed, admired for its elegance, speed, and distinctive appearance. Return to Ashgabat for lunch before beginning a city tour. Discover the capital's monumental architecture and modern landmarks. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before checking in at your hotel. Overnight at the hotel in Ashgabat.
Ashgabat – Darvaza
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum, where you can discover the country's rich carpet-making traditions. Continue to a local shopping center and bazaar, where you can purchase souvenirs and personal items. Pick up provisions for dinner and breakfast at the desert camp before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Then travel north through the Karakum Desert toward Darvaza. Along the way, visit Yerbent, a desert settlement that offers a glimpse into life in this remote landscape. You may also stop at the nearby Water Crater. In the evening, arrive at the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, where flames illuminate the desert after dark. Enjoy dinner at the camp and experience the unique atmosphere of the Karakum Desert under the night sky. Overnight in a yurt house at Darvaza.
Darvaza – Ashgabat – Departure from Ashgabat International Airport
After breakfast at the desert camp, drive back to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Memorial Complex, dedicated to important events and figures in Turkmenistan's history. Continue with a final city tour, offering more opportunities to discover Ashgabat's impressive architecture and landmarks. Enjoy dinner before a late transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your departure flight.
What's Included
- Turkmenistan visa
- Accommodations
- All in-country transportation (cars, train tickets, plane tickets)
- Local guide for the full duration of the program
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the program
- Bottled drinking water, 1.5 L per person per day
Not Included
- Turkmenistan migration tax
- Photo / video fees
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Souvenirs and other personal items
- All other charges and services not mentioned under "Included"
Earliest start is 21 days from today, to allow time for bookings and visa processing.
Visa prepayment: 200 to 250 USD per person, paid online before the trip. Everything else is paid on arrival.
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