AyDor Travel
Panoramic vista of white-marble Ashgabat during the grand tour of Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan

Echoes of the Silk Road

Best Seller
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Format
Classic tour
Route
Ashgabat — Mary — Ancient Merv — Ashgabat — Kow-Ata — Nohur — Yangykala Canyon — Darvaza — Ashgabat
Activity level
Moderate

A grand eight-day expedition weaving together the historical, cultural, and natural jewels of Turkmenistan. Your journey begins amidst the white-marble splendor of Ashgabat and the ancient Parthian legacy of Nisa, followed by an encounter with the noble Akhal-Teke horses and the archaeological wonders of Merv. The itinerary unfolds to reveal the kaleidoscopic vistas of Yangykala canyon, the subterranean waters of Kow-Ata, the soul-stirring mountain traditions of Nohur, and the mesmerizing Darvaza gas crater in the heart of the Karakum desert. Starting and ending in Ashgabat, this tour offers seamless luxury and convenience for international travelers.

Trip Highlights

  • Parthian Fortress of Nisa
  • The Grand Mosque of Gypjak
  • Celestial Akhal-Teke Horses
  • Antique Merv
  • Underground Thermal Lake Kow-Ata
  • Mountain Village of Nohur
  • Darvaza Fiery Crater
  • Yangykala Canyon

Day-by-Day Itinerary

What's Included

  • Letter of Invitation (LOI) and visa support
  • Professional guide for the entire duration of the route
  • Domestic flights Ashgabat–Mary, Turkmenbashi–Ashgabat
  • Accommodation as per the program
  • Meals per program (hotel breakfasts; lunches/dinners as specified by day)
  • Entrance fees for all sites

Not Included

  • Visa fee; $70-80 (varies depending on citizenship)
  • PCR test; $31 (upon arrival)
  • Lunches and dinners not specified in the program
  • Personal expenses

Accommodation

3★–5★ hotels in Ashgabat and Mary, a traditional guesthouse in Nokhur, and a yurt camp at Darvaza.

Transport

Air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle throughout the journey. Domestic flights are included.

Good to Know

Best Season: April–May, September–November

This circular route begins and concludes in Ashgabat. The program is perfectly suited for FIT travelers and small groups, and can be elegantly tailored to your personal preferences.