Begin your adventure in Turkmenistan’s capital, Ashgabat. Arrive after midnight and transfer to your hotel, where you can rest and prepare for the days ahead. Ashgabat, with its gleaming white marble buildings and golden domes, offers a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition.

Lunch: at local restaurant
Dinner: at local restaurant
Accommodation: Hotel Divan ****

Start your journey with a visit to Geok Depe, a site of historical significance where the Turkmen made a last stand against Tsarist Russian forces. Here, visit the impressive Saparmurat Hajji Mosque, distinguished by its sky-blue domes. While in Geokdepe we will also visit the famous “Arkadash” stud-farm where we can ride the purebred Akhal Teke horses. Proceed to the underground lake of Kowata, where you can swim in naturally heated waters at a constant 36°C. Drive up to the Kopet Dag Mountains, bordering Iran, to reach Nokhur. This mountain village is steeped in history and legend, with locals claiming descent from Alexander the Great’s soldiers. Enjoy a traditional lunch in a local home and explore unique cultural sites, including a cemetery adorned with mountain goat horns and the Qyz Bibi sanctuary. Overnight in a guesthouse, where accommodations reflect the village’s rustic charm.

• Lunch: at local restaurant in Nokhur
• Dinner: at the guesthouse
• Accommodation: guesthouse, basic facilities

Travel westward from Nokhur along the arid Kopet Dag range to the village of Karakala, surrounded by a stark, lunar-like landscape. Navigate through military checkpoints that highlight the region’s strategic importance and pass through the lush Sumbar Valley, a green oasis amidst arid mountains. Continue into the surreal Moon Mountains, characterized by their eerie, otherworldly rock formations. As you proceed, enter a semi-arid region populated by friendly shepherds and their Alabay dogs, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst this rugged scenery. Arrive at Dehistan, an ancient Silk Road caravan town abandoned in the 15th century, and explore its haunting ruins, including two imposing minarets and the portal of an ancient mosque. Set up camp nearby and dine under the stars, experiencing the serene beauty of the desert night.

• Lunch: at local restaurant
• Dinner: at the camp
• Accommodation: mobile camp (basic facilities but reasonable)

After breakfast, visit the Mashat cemetery, known for its ancient mausoleums, including the Shir-Kabir, the oldest in Turkmenistan. Journey to Turkmenbashi, a port city on the Caspian Sea. Once known as Krasnovodsk, this city boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a mix of Russian, Turkmen, and Azeri cultures. Explore the Moorish-style railway station and the vibrant central market, where you might find the famed Caspian caviar. Overnight in a comfortable hotel with a view to Caspian Sea.

• Lunch: picnic lunch
• Dinner: at local restaurant in Turkmenbashi
• Accommodation: Hotel Charlak ***

Breakfast at the hotel. Start your journey from Turkmenbashi and head east into the scenic Balkan Mountains, where you might spot herds of dromedaries. Descend into a vast natural depression, once part of the ancient Caspian Sea, to visit the remote Gozli Ata mausoleum. This important Sufi pilgrimage site is located in a serene rocky desert. The nearby cemetery has unique tombstones that collect rainwater, believed to symbolically quench the souls of the deceased.

Enjoy a picnic lunch before ascending to the plateau and exploring Yangysuw Canyon. Here, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful sandstone formations in shades of white, yellow, and red. As evening approaches, continue to Yangykala Canyon, known for its breathtaking rock formations often called the “Flaming Fortress.” Set up camp amidst these stunning cliffs and enjoy the peacefulness of this unique landscape.

• Lunch: picnic lunch
• Dinner: at the camp
• Accommodation: mobile camp (basic facilities but reasonable)

Begin the day with breakfast at the camp in the stunning Yangykala Canyon, known for its vibrant rock formations and dramatic landscapes. After exploring the canyon’s breathtaking scenery, travel to the Kemal Ata mausoleum, a sacred site isolated in the steppe. Here, you’ll observe unique spherical rock formations in a nearby riverbed, a fascinating geological feature of the area.

From Kemal Ata, journey onward to Gokdere Village, where you’ll encounter semi-nomadic shepherds and their camel herds, experiencing the traditional pastoral lifestyle of the region. Finally, reach the picturesque village of Koymat, situated beneath a striking milk-white cliff. Set up camp for the night and engage with the local community, enjoying their warm hospitality and traditional lifestyle.

• Lunch: picnic lunch
• Dinner: at the camp
• Accommodation: mobile camp (basic facilities but reasonable)

Continue your journey east to Melegoch, a village known for camel breeding and the practice of falconry. Interact with locals who belong to one of Turkmenistan’s proudest tribes. Traverse the dry bed of the Uzboy River to Ygdykala, a Parthian fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Explore the ruins and set up camp near this ancient site, enjoying another night under the vast desert sky.

• Lunch: picnic lunch
• Dinner: at the camp
• Accommodation: mobile camp (basic facilities but reasonable)

Travel through a landscape of small sand dunes and visit the village of Balishem. Continue towards the infamous Darvaza gas crater, a fiery spectacle known as the “Door to Hell.” This massive burning crater, the result of a Soviet-era drilling accident, offers a mesmerizing and unforgettable sight, especially at night. Camp nearby and witness the surreal glow of the flames under the night sky.

• Lunch: picnic lunch
• Dinner: at the camp
• Accommodation: Yurts (basic facilities but reasonable)

After breakfast at the camp in Darvaza, we bid farewell to the flaming crater and head south towards Ashgabat. On the way we will make a stop in the village of Yerbent and two smaller craters one filled with bubbling water and another with mud. We reach Ashgabat right about at lunch time. Hotel check-in and rest.
Late afternoon city tour. Drive through modern Ashgabat, famed for its white marble buildings. Explore the Park of Independence, the Monument of the Gigantic Book “Ruhnama,” the Monument of Constitution, and the Alem Cultural and Entertainment Center. End at the 60-meter high Magtymguly Monument and the iconic Monument of Neutrality topped with a golden statue of the first president.

• Lunch: at local restaurant
• Dinner: at local restaurant
• Accommodation: Hotel Divan 5*****

We start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Visit the State Museum of History and Ethnography to see ancient artifacts and treasures from Turkmenistan’s rich history. Then drive to Bagir village to explore the ruins of the UNESCO-listed Old Nisa Fortress, the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire. Wander through its atmospheric ruins, set against the picturesque Kopet-Dag Mountains.

After lunch we will visit to Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, dedicated to Turkmenistan’s heroes and victims of WWII, the Geokdepe Battle, and the 1948 earthquake. Explore its three captivating halls with dramatic dioramas and poignant exhibits. And we end the tour with a walking tour in Ashgabat’s historic district at Ashgabat Park on Magtymguly Avenue. Learn about the city’s history as we stroll to Magtymguly Square, Lenin Square, and the lively “Russian Bazaar” (Gulistan).

• Lunch: at local restaurant
• Dinner: at local restaurant
• Accommodation: Hotel Divan 5*****

After a memorable journey, transfer to Ashgabat International Airport or Gaudan/Bajgiran border for your departure. This epic expedition across Turkmenistan leaves you with a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm-hearted people.

This comprehensive itinerary offers a rare and immersive exploration of Turkmenistan, from its stunning natural wonders and ancient historical sites to the vibrant culture of its people. Whether you’re fascinated by archaeology, enjoy unique cultural experiences, or seek adventure in remote landscapes, this journey promises an unforgettable adventure.

1. Visa Support Letter: Our team will assist you in obtaining LOI (Letter of Invitation) which is required for the visa stamp on arrival to the land borders or the airport in Turkmenistan.
2. Transportation and drivers: A minibus or minivan will be provided for transfers and city tours (depending on the group size) and 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers or Mitsubishi Pajero for the rest of the journey, 3 passengers per 1 vehicle. Our professional drivers, experts in navigating mountain and desert routes, will lead the group. With over 25 years of experience, they have contributed significantly to mapping off-road tours, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
   Leading vehicle: For overlanders traveling on their own vehicles, a leading vehicle with a driver will guide the route and transport all necessary supplies for camp nights, including groceries and gear. This ensures a smooth and well-supported off-road 4×4 adventure.
3. Accommodation: 5**** hotel in Ashgabat, 3*** hotels in Turkmenbashi, a guesthouse in Nokhur and the rest of the nights in a mobile camp. Tables and chairs will be provided while camping. While the itinerary includes diverse accommodation options, from hotels in cities to camping in the desert, it’s good to carry a sleeping bag liner for comfort. Headlamps and insect repellent are useful when camping.
   Tents: MIN Mimir Outdoor, X-ART1501 (210x180x60 size)
4. Meals: While in the cities meals will be provided in local restaurants. During the off-road journey and camp overnights, our staff/drivers will prepare breakfasts, picnic lunches, and dinners, offering a variety of different meals.
5. Season and climate: Turkmenistan’s best travel times are April-May and September-October, with moderate temperatures. The Kopetdag Mountains see daytime highs of 15° to 25°C and cooler nights, perfect for hiking amid spring blooms and autumn colors. In the Karakum Desert, daytime temperatures range from 20° to 30°C, cooling to 10° to 15°C at night. These conditions are ideal for exploring the desert’s landscapes, with occasional spring blooms and strong winds. These seasons offer the best weather for enjoying Turkmenistan’s natural and cultural sites.
6. Tour Guide Accompany: We provide skilled and qualified tour guides throughout the itinerary who can provide deeper insights into the history and culture, especially at historical sites like Nisa, Dehistan, Gonur Depe and Merv.
7. Cultural Respect: Turkmenistan has a rich cultural heritage and traditional values. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Always ask permission before photographing people.
8. Travel Essentials: Given the remote nature of many locations, bring essentials like a good camera, a power bank, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A first aid kit and any necessary medications (bringing prescriptions is recommended) are also advisable, as medical facilities can be limited in rural areas.
9. Respect for Traditions: Turkmenistan is known for its unique customs and traditions. Respect local practices, especially in smaller villages and when participating in local ceremonies or visiting religious sites.

This trip offers a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most isolated and culturally rich destinations. By being prepared and respectful, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure.