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Turkmenistan is a mysterious country with a long history. This intriguing nation, located in Central Asia, draws tourists with its distinctive fusion of culture, breathtaking scenery, and alluring traditions. Turkmenistan provides a treasure trove of delights just waiting to be discovered, from the glittering grandeur of the Karakum Desert to the historic cities along the Silk Road.
Travelers looking for a hassle-free, immersive experience are urged to join a guided, multi-day tour of Turkmenistan. While individual travel is available, a guided trip offers a truly unmatched chance to delve into the nation’s undiscovered treasures and navigate its complex but unique way of life.
Access to local expertise is among the most persuasive justifications for choosing a guided trip. Knowledgeable tour guides may enrich your visit with important information that brings each place to life while providing essential insights into Turkmenistan’s history, culture, and traditions. They can also aid in bridging the language gap, making it simpler to communicate with locals and learn more about their way of life.
Turkmenistan is a place where the old and the new coexist harmoniously, and a well-planned tour makes sure that you may do both. A tour enables you to travel the country’s varied landscapes and eras without the hassle of planning, allowing you to discover the timeless ruins of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take in the futuristic grandeur of Ashgabat’s distinctive architecture.
In summary, Turkmenistan is a fascinating country with many historical, cultural, and natural attractions to offer. Insights, safety, and access to hidden jewels are all provided by guided tours, making for a seamless and rewarding experience that may not be available with personal travel.
As a result, taking a guided tour in Turkmenistan promises to be an extraordinary excursion into the heart of Central Asia’s undiscovered treasure, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or a culture lover. Without further adieu, here is a look at the top six best tours in Turkmenistan.
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Tailor-Made 10 Days Turkmenistan Adventure, Daily Departure & Private Guide
Agate Travel
With this Tailor-Made Turkmenistan Adventure, set out on an incredible 10-day journey through Turkmenistan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural legacy. This VIP trip provides daily departures and the comfort of a private guide, assuring a unique and personalized experience.
Learn about the unique traditions of the nomadic tribes, see the mysterious remnants of old cities like Merv, and be in awe of the Darvaza Gas Crater’s unearthly splendor. Each day offers the possibility of a memorable experience with Turkmenistan’s undiscovered wonders, from the crowded markets of Ashgabat to the lonely splendor of the Karakum Desert. So with all that in mind, here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour.
Day One: Arrival in Turkmenistan.
Day Two: You may enjoy the time on your own in the morning. In the afternoon, we will drive to Darvaza via the vast Karakum Desert and visit several settlements along the way. On arrival, visit the Darvaza gas crater,
Day Three: Today, we will drive westwards to the ancient Uzboy River at Balishem. In the afternoon, we will head for the Parthian fortress of Gydykla. In the evening, enjoy dinner by camp and stay overnight.
Day Four: After breakfast, we will set off for Kemal Ata to see volcanic rock formations. Midway upon the journey, we will have a picnic near Qayamat settlement.
Day Five: After you finish breakfast, it is time to leave for Yangykala viewpoint to explore the white, red and green limestone landforms, as well as the towering mountains. After a relaxing picnic in the canyon around noon, we will drive to Gozli Ata.
Day Six: In the morning, we will set out for Turkmenbashi. Our tour guide will show you around the town center. Then, you will be led to the hotel and rest.
Day Seven: Today, we will head for two scenic spots by car, Misrian Salt Plains and Dehistan Silk Road Town.
Day Eight: Today, we will drive to Nohur mountain village. Once we reach Nohur mountain village, we will watch the local people’s tribal cemetery, pay a visit to their pilgrim site, and learn about their silk weaving traditions. When all these activities are done, we will set up camps in the mountain and have dinner.
Day Nine: We will drive back to Ashgabat today and drop by to visit the mysterious underground lake Kow Ata midway. Once we arrive in Ashgabat and check in at the hotel, you may plan the rest of the day by yourself.
Day Ten: Departure Day.
This tailor-made expedition will take you on a captivating journey through Central Asia’s heart, unveiling Turkmenistan’s hidden treasures. From the ancient ruins along the Silk Road to the stunning landscapes of the Karakum Desert, every moment will be a thrilling discovery.
As you depart, carry the spirit of this unique adventure with you, igniting a lasting appreciation for Turkmenistan’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Highlights of Turkmenistan
Stantrips
With Stantrips’ “Highlights of Turkmenistan” tour, set out on an enthralling journey across the country’s cultural wonders and undiscovered gems. This expertly planned trip offers a life-changing 10-day excursion highlighting the best of this mysterious Central Asian country.
Each day reveals a different aspect of Turkmenistan’s rich history and culture, from the magnificent grandeur of Ashgabat with its majestic monuments and golden domes to the ancient Silk Road settlements of Merv and Nisa.
Travelers will explore Turkmen traditions while guided by knowledgeable tour guides, taking in the natural splendor of Yangykala Canyon and the Karakum Desert. Come along on a journey of exploration and awe as you explore this lesser-known Silk Road treasure. Here is your full day-to-day.
Day One: Spend the morning on your own. Then After lunch, enjoy a half-day tour of Ashgabat, including a visit to: the Park and Monument of Independence, the National Museum of History and Ethnography, the Arch of Neutrality, and a 75 m-high monument with a revolving golden statue of the first President Turkmenbashy.
Day Two: After breakfast, drive to Nokhur Mountain Village by 4WD car. En route, stop to visit the “Kow-ata” underground lake. Then you will take a short sightseeing of Nokhur village and visit the “Gyz Bibi” Pilgrimage site.
Day Three: Morning drive to Yangikala, where impressive limestone formations rise up from the desert sands with views of the Karabogaz Gulf in the distance. On route to Yangikala, stop in Balkanabat to have lunch and visit the local bazaar to stock up on food & drinks for dinner. Continue to the canyon of Yangikala.
Day Four: Enjoy a morning drive to Turkmenbashy. Then take a short sightseeing in Avaza with its nice beaches, which will be turned soon into a free economic touristic zone with decades of luxurious hotels, resorts and health clubs.
Day Five: Transfer to the airport and flight to Dashoguz. Arrival & check-in at Dashoguz Hotel. Short sightseeing in Dashoguz city.
Day Six: In the morning, drive to Koneurgench. Enjoy some sightseeing of the old city: Portal of Caravansaray, Il Arslan Mausoleum, Mausoleum of Khorezm shahSultan Tekesh, Academy of Horezm, Mausoleum of TurabekHanum, Minaret of KutlugTimur and more. After sightseeing in KoneUrgench, drive to Darvaza. Arrive at Darvaza and explore the flaming Gas Crater at sunset.
Day Seven: Drive to Ashgabat. En route, explore the gas craters, first full of water and second the sulfur. Make the next stopover to visit Yerbent Nomadic village, where you can enjoy seeing the local life in the desert.
Day Eight: Drive to Mary. Visit on the route: Anau pilgrimage place. Lunch at Hanhovuz chayhana to taste silver or grass carp fish. Arrive in Mary & check in Margush hotel. Visit the Museum of History and Ethnography of the Khorassan region in Turkmenistan. Drive to Merv historical site.
Day Nine: Transfer by 4WD to visit Margush Country. After sightseeing of Margush, drive to Turkmenabat.
Day Ten: Early morning drive to Koyten village to explore the Koytendag Nature Reserve, which offers dinosaur footprints, a vast network of caves and Turkmenistan’s highest peak. Then we will stop to visit “Astana-Baba” Mausoleum in Atamyrat. Crossing Amudarya River.Arrival in Koyten.
Day Eleven: Morning drive by 4WD along the Koytendag mountain gorge. Explore “Forty Girl`s Gorge”, “Plateau of Dinosaurs”. Lunch outdoors.Visit of Umbar-Dere Waterfall.
Day Twelve: Departure Day.
The allure of this mysterious country will linger in your heart as the curtain closes on your incredible vacation with Stantrips through the Highlights of Turkmenistan. This journey will shed light on the nation’s rich history and natural attractions, from the imposing ruins of ancient cities to the ethereal splendor of the Karakum Desert.
Turkmenistan’s rich tapestry of culture and traditions will always pique your curiosity and inspire awe for this less-traveled-to jewel of Central Asia. Overall, this tour is one of the best in Turkmenistan.
Darvaza Gas Crater (aka Door to Hell)
Stantrips
Join Stantrips on an epic journey to see the Darvaza Gas Crater, commonly known as the “Door to Hell,” one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. The Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan gives an extraordinary opportunity to experience intensely beautiful scenery. Travelers and scientists alike have been enthralled by the burning crater’s fascinating display, which has been ablaze continuously since its unintentional creation in 1971.
Explore the geology and history underlying this phenomenon with the assistance of experts while camping beneath the starry desert sky and taking in the famed location’s surreal splendor. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the Door to Hell’s seductive appeal. Here is your brief but exciting itinerary for this tour.
Day One: Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport. You will be met by our representatives and transferred to the hotel. Morning drive to visit Nissa fortress -the Sanctuary of Parthian Kings. Drive to visit Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque in Kipchak. Then visit the National Museum of History & Ethnography. Later you will drive to visit the Horse Hippodrome to see the national pride of the Turkmen people.
Day Two: Afternoon drive to Darvaza burning Gas Crater. En route, we will cross the Karakum desert, and we will make a stop in the small desert village of Erbent. In the evening, watch the spectacular and fascinating view of the gas crater. BBQ
Day Three: Picnic-style breakfast. Morning drive to Kunya Urgench. Sightseeing tour in Kunya Urgench: visit Portal of Caravansary, Mamun Minaret, II Arslan Mausoleum, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, Academy of Horezm, Kutlug Timur Minaret, Turabek Hanum Mausoleum. After sightseeing, transfer to the Turkmen/Uzbek border “Shavat”. The tour ends here.
The amazement and awe sparked by this natural wonder remain in the minds of passengers as the trek to the Darvaza Gas Crater, colloquially known as the “Door to Hell,” finishes up within three days. It is such an amazing experience for all travelers.
This tour with Stantrips, which will be skilfully led, will be an outstanding opportunity to see the crater in Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert and its flaming splendor. Overall, this tour calls adventurers and daredevils from around the world and is one of the best in Turkmenistan.
Best of Turkmenistan
Kalpak Travel
Explore the “Best of Turkmenistan” on a memorable tour with Kalpak Tours. This expertly planned tour is a 9-day immersive adventure that reveals the various cultural and historical treasures of this mysterious Central Asian gem.
Each day promises a fascinating tour of Turkmenistan’s past and present, from the brilliant capital city of Ashgabat with its lavish architecture to the ancient ruins of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Knowledgeable guides will lead travelers as they explore the warm hospitality of local people and the gorgeous scenery of the Karakum Desert. Here is your full itinerary for this tour.
Day One: Arrival in Ashgabat. You may also enjoy a City tour.
Day Two: In the early morning, take a flight to Mary. On arrival, drive to Gonur Tepe/Margush. Later drive back to Mary.
Day Three: After breakfast, we head 25 km east of Mary, towards Bayram-Ali. We will also visit the VI-IX cc. AD forts of Big and Little Kyz-Kalas. In the afternoon we will visit the local history museum and do some sightseeing in Mary. In the evening, we will take a return flight to Ashgabat.
Day Four: Check out from the hotel after breakfast. We will visit a mosque from the 15th century this morning. For lunch, we will drive to a local private stud farm nearby to see the famous Turkmen Akal Teke horses. In the afternoon, we drive north to the burning gas crater in Darvaza. On the way, we also visit the desert village of Erbent and two other craters, both of which gush from the underground with natural gas.
Day Five: After breakfast, we will drive back to Ashgabat, where we will arrive in time for lunch. Free time for the rest of the day.
Day Six: In the morning, at 08:30 am, take a flight to Turkmenbashi. On arrival, a brief tour of Turkmenbashi, visiting the local market, city center, and some other sights. In the afternoon, drive to the stunning Yangykala Canyon, known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Central Asia’ and a remarkably beautiful place with pink, white, and yellow sandstone formations, stunning vistas, and the fascinating ‘crocodile’s mouth’ rock formation. En route, visit the Gozli Ata shrine.
Day Seven: Today, we will explore the canyon landscape a little more and drive down to Yangi-Suu. Then drive back to Turkmenbashi. There we check in at a beautiful hotel and relax on the beach in the afternoon, including a short excursion in Awaza. Optionally, it is also possible to take a boat trip.
Day Eight: This morning, we flew from Turkmenbashi back to Ashgabat. Check-in at the hotel and free time in Ashgabat in the afternoon. Farewell dinner in the evening.
Day Nine: Departure Day.
The allure of this extraordinary voyage stays in the hearts of travelers. The tour itself will offer a varied tapestry of experiences, from the architectural grandeur of Ashgabat to the historical wonders of Merv and the beautiful vistas of the Karakum Desert.
Travelers will explore Turkmenistan’s history and cultural treasures under the guidance of experts while establishing relationships with friendly local populations. Participants bid Turkmenistan farewell, taking with them the essence of its mesmerizing beauty and enduring charm, as well as fond recollections and a fresh appreciation for this less-traveled location.
Tashkent to Ashgabat
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel invites you to set off on a historic tour from Tashkent to Ashgabat. This 10-day journey takes you through the heart of Central Asia, along the historic Silk Road, and reveals the hidden treasures of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
Discover the thriving marketplaces and stunning architecture of Tashkent and Samarkand, get lost in Khiva’s fascinating past, and take in the spectacular scenery of the Karakum Desert. This cultural voyage, conducted by professional guides, promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, revealing the best of Central Asia’s beauty and tradition. With all that in mind, here is a full look at your itinerary for this tour.
Day One: Arrive in Tashkent.
Day Two: Take a morning flight to Urgench and transfer to colorful Khiva. You will also explore the Kuhna Ark and, finally, the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum.
Day Three: Later, your leader will guide you through some of the city’s other impressive monuments and buildings. Visit the towering Islom Hoja Minaret, the tallest building in Khiva. Explore Juma Mosque and more monuments within the city. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax.
Day Four: Say goodbye to Uzbekistan and cross the border into Turkmenistan at Khojeli. From the border, make a 1.5-hour drive to the World Heritage-listed Konye-Urgench. Continue your journey with a 4-hour drive by 4WD to Darvaza Crater.
Day Five: Hit the sand again in the 4WD, making the 4-hour drive to Ashgabat with a stop along the way at the tiny settlement of Yerbent. Once in Ashgabat, you have the rest of the day to spend on your own.
Day Six: Take a full day to wrap your head around this desert city on an immersive guided tour, taking in the four pointed minarets atop the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the extravagant Independence Monument. Then travel outside of the city to the Turkmenbashi Ruhi Mosque, the mausoleum of former Turkmen leader Saparmurat Niyazov, before heading further out of town to the ruins of Anau.
Day Seven: Rise and shine for the 5-hour drive to Mary. The city’s somewhat ostentatious displays of wealth can be traced to the long-running gas and cotton industries. Stop en route for lunch and to roam through the ruins of Abiverd. Arrive in Mary in the afternoon and settle into your hotel.
Day Eight: Take a 40-minute drive to Merv, also known as Margiana or Margush, and enjoy some time exploring Turkmenistan’s most recognized site. Then return to Mary for a free afternoon.
Day Nine: Enjoy a free afternoon to spend in Ashgabat.
Day Ten: Departure Day.
The unforgettable 10-day voyage from Tashkent to Ashgabat with Intrepid Travel will truly change your perspective on a lot of things. One of them is Central Asia. Each day will provide fresh delights and interesting experiences, from the ancient Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan to the strange landscapes of Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert.
The tour guides’ professional direction will make it possible to explore the area’s cultural and historical gems seamlessly and engagingly. Overall, this is one of the best tours of Turkmenistan or perhaps one of the best tours within Central Asia.
Explore Turkmenistan
Stantrips
Travel to Turkmenistan on an unforgettable adventure with Stantrips. This fascinating four-day journey takes you deep into this mysterious Central Asian nation’s rich history, colorful culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Each day brings discoveries of Turkmenistan’s hidden gems, from the sumptuous grandeur of Ashgabat to the antiquated remains of Merv and Kunya-Urgench.
Experience the distinctive customs of the Karakalpak people while admiring the bizarre beauty of the Darvaza Gas Crater. This unique tour, led by experts, offers an amazing experience while presenting the core of this less-traveled jewel. Now let’s look at what your day-to-day would look like on this tour.
Day One: Arrive in Turkmenistan. You will be picked up, and then you will have the chance to drive to visit the Nissa fortress. Then you will have an Ashgabat city tour. You will see the Presidential Palace, Ruhyyet Palace, Wedding Palace, modern “Yildyz” Hotel, Ferries Wheel, Constitution Monument, Arch of Neutrality, Monument and Park of Independence, Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, Ashgabat 2017 Sports and Housing facilities.
Day Two: Morning transfer to Ashgabat to catch a domestic flight to Mary. Arrive in Mary. Drive to Merv to explore ancient Merv. After sightseeing, transfer to Mary Airport for your flight to Ashgabat. Arrival in Ashgabat.
Day Three: Enjoy some free time in the morning. Then enjoy an afternoon drive to Darwaza burning Gas Crater. You will also stop at the Karakum desert and a small desert village called Erbent. In the evening, watch the spectacular and fascinating view of the gas crater.
Day Four: Departure Day.
This voyage will reveal Turkmenistan’s rich cultural legacy and history, from the sumptuous grandeur of Ashgabat to the ancient wonders of Merv and Kunya-Urgench. A special aspect of the event will be the interactions with the friendly Karakalpak locals and the eerie beauty of the Darvaza Gas Crater.
Adventurers bid Turkmenistan goodbye, taking with them the spirit of exploration and discovery that sums up the essence of this remarkable journey and tour. Overall, this tour is on the shorter side, but rest assured, it is one of the best tours of Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan beckons intrepid travelers to explore its hidden gems with its ancient Silk Road history, breathtaking landscapes, and distinctive cultural heritage. While traveling independently is possible, going on a tour offers several benefits that make the experience much more pleasurable.
Organized trips to Turkmenistan offer the expertise of seasoned tour leaders who are deeply knowledgeable about the region’s history, culture, and traditions.
They manage the difficulties of acquiring permits and visas, ensuring passengers have a simple and hassle-free trip. The itineraries are carefully chosen to incorporate both the must-see attractions and the hidden jewels, providing a thorough and educational tour.
Conclusion
In a place with diverse cultural norms, safety is crucial. Travelers can feel safe and at ease on organized tours, allowing them to concentrate on taking in the sights of their area. These excursions also encourage deeper cultural exchanges by facilitating interactions with local communities and providing insights into Turkmen people’s daily lives and customs.
Overall, a guided trip is the greatest way to experience Turkmenistan’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and gracious people. An expertly organized and led tour to Turkmenistan promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey that combines cultural exploration, natural splendor, and uncommon encounters.
If none of these tours work for you in Turkmenistan, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.
Take a look at all the group tours in Turkmenistan now, which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.
