5 Days in Turkmenistan from Ashgabat to Bukhara
Darvaza · Ashgabat · Mary · Turkmenabat · Bukhara
Resumo da viagem
Embark on a captivating 5-day journey through Turkmenistan, a land of ancient empires, fiery deserts, and dazzling white-marble cities. This immersive tour takes you from the modern capital of Ashgabat to the burning Darvaza Gas Crater, the legendary Silk Road city of Merv, and finally to the Uzbek border at Farap — a perfect route for travelers exploring Central Asia.
Your adventure begins with arrival in Ashgabat, where you’ll be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. After a short rest, head out to explore the UNESCO-listed Nissa Fortress, one of the earliest centers of the Parthian Empire. Learn about ancient dynasties, archaeological discoveries, and the city once believed to be a royal necropolis. Continue to the grand Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque in Kipchak — the largest mosque in Central Asia — before enjoying a panoramic city tour of Ashgabat. Marvel at the glittering Presidential Palace, Wedding Palace, Arch of Neutrality, Independence Park, and other futuristic monuments that define this extraordinary capital.
On the next day, visit the National Museum before venturing deep into the Karakum Desert toward the world-famous Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell.” Watch as flames illuminate the desert night while enjoying a traditional BBQ dinner beside the crater. Spend the night in tents under a star-filled sky — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Return to Ashgabat the following morning and visit a traditional horse farm to meet the legendary Ahalteke horses, a 5000-year-old purebred considered a national treasure. Admire their beauty and learn why these horses were prized by ancient rulers, including Alexander the Great. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before resting at your hotel.
The journey continues east toward Mary, passing through historical sites such as the Seyitjemalletdin Mosque in Anau and the ancient trading town of Abiward. From Mary, explore the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Merv, once one of the greatest cities of the Islamic world. Walk through monumental ruins, including the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Kyz Kala fortresses, Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala, and holy mausoleum complexes — each revealing centuries of Silk Road history.
Your tour concludes with a scenic drive to Turkmenabad, continuing onward to the Farap/Alat border crossing into Uzbekistan, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Turkmenistan’s history, landscapes, and culture.
Itinerário dia a dia
Arrival in Ashgabat International airport. You will be met by our representatives and transfer to hotel. Morning drive to visit Nissa fortress -the Sanctuary of Parthian Kings. UNESCO declared fortress a World Heritage Site in 2007. Nissa described as one of the first capitals of the Parthians. It was founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211BC), and reputedly the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings, although it has neither been established that the fortress at Nissa was a royal residence or a mausoleum. The ruins of ancient settlement Nissa are located 18 km from Ashgabat at Bagyr village. Drive to visit Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque in Kipchak (the largest mosque in Central Asia). Then you will have Ashgabat city tour. You will see 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.
Overnight Ashgabat: Sport Hotel
