Turkmenistan Highlights: Ashgabat, Nisa, Merv & Darvaza
About tour
Discover the extraordinary contrasts of Turkmenistan on a six-day journey through the country's white-marble capital, ancient Silk Road cities, underground wonders and the vast Karakum Desert. From the monumental avenues of Ashgabat and the UNESCO-listed Parthian Fortresses of Nisa to the ancient ruins of Merv, the warm underground waters of Kow Ata and the spectacular flames of the Darvaza Gas Crater, this itinerary brings together Turkmenistan's most fascinating cultural and natural highlights.
Itinerary
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Arrival in Ashgabat | City Tour | Evening at Leisure
Welcome to Ashgabat, the spectacular capital of Turkmenistan, famous for its grand avenues, monumental architecture, fountains and gleaming white-marble buildings.
Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, begin your introduction to the city with a panoramic sightseeing tour. Visit some of Ashgabat's most impressive landmarks, including Independence Square, the Neutrality Monument, grand government buildings, monumental parks and wide boulevards.
Ashgabat offers a striking combination of modern monumental architecture and the deep historical traditions of Turkmenistan.
In the evening, enjoy free time to relax at the hotel or take an evening drive through the illuminated capital.
Overnight: Ashgabat
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Ashgabat – Old Nisa – Ashgabat
After breakfast, travel to Old Nisa, one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkmenistan.
The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. UNESCO describes Nisa as the capital of the Parthian Empire, which flourished from approximately the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. The archaeological remains reveal the interaction of Central Asian, Hellenistic and Roman cultural traditions.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Explore the ancient fortress complex, including its monumental earthen walls and archaeological remains, while learning about the powerful Parthian civilization that once rivalled Rome.
Return to Ashgabat for lunch.
In the afternoon, continue the city sightseeing tour. Depending on local access and opening schedules, visits may include the National Museum of Turkmenistan, Independence Park, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and other important landmarks of the capital.
The National Museum provides an excellent introduction to Turkmenistan's archaeology and history, including discoveries from Nisa and Ancient Merv.
Enjoy dinner and a second night in the elegant capital.
Overnight: Ashgabat
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Ashgabat – Kow Ata – Karakum Desert – Darvaza
After breakfast, leave Ashgabat and travel towards the Kopet Dag foothills and Kow Ata, also known as the “Father of Caves.”
Descend into the spectacular limestone cave by a long staircase to discover the warm underground lake hidden deep beneath the mountains. The lake lies approximately 60 metres below the cave entrance, and official Turkmen sources describe its water temperature as remaining around 33–38°C throughout the year.
Take time to experience this unusual natural environment and, subject to local conditions, enjoy a swim in the warm mineral-rich waters.
After the visit, continue northwards into the vast Karakum Desert.
The landscape gradually changes from mountain foothills to endless desert horizons, giving you a chance to experience one of Central Asia's most dramatic environments.
Continue towards Darvaza, stopping along the way for photographs and a traditional desert lunch or picnic, depending on arrangements.
In the late afternoon, arrive at the Darvaza area and settle into your desert camp.
As darkness falls, walk to the spectacular Darvaza Gas Crater, popularly known as the “Door to Hell.” The crater is one of Turkmenistan's most famous natural attractions and is located in the Karakum Desert.
Watch the flames illuminate the desert after sunset — one of the most unforgettable experiences of your journey.
Enjoy dinner around the campfire beneath the desert sky.
Overnight: Desert camp / yurt near Darvaza
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Wake up to the peaceful desert landscape and enjoy breakfast at camp.
After breakfast, depart Darvaza and travel eastwards across the Karakum Desert towards Ashgabat.
Lunch at the traditional restaurant. After lunch drive to Mary.
Upon arrival in the Mary region, begin exploring the legendary Ancient Merv, one of the greatest archaeological landscapes of Central Asia.
Ancient Merv is a UNESCO World Heritage property and one of the oldest and best-preserved oasis cities along the Silk Roads. The site preserves a sequence of cities developed over thousands of years.
Visit the major archaeological areas, including:
Erk Kala — the oldest of the principal fortified urban centres, with its impressive surviving defensive walls.
Gyaur Kala — the extensive ancient city containing remains of religious and civic structures.
Sultan Kala — the medieval city associated with the Seljuk period.
Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar — one of the finest surviving monuments of the Seljuk era.
Mausoleum of Muhammad ibn Zayd — an important medieval Islamic monument.
Greater and Lesser Kiz Kala — distinctive fortified structures associated with the Merv oasis.
UNESCO specifically identifies Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala and Sultan Kala as part of the historic urban centre of Ancient Merv and highlights the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar and the Mausoleum of Muhammad ibn Zayd among the site's important monuments.
After the archaeological tour, continue to your hotel in Mary.
Overnight: Mary
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Mary – Ashgabat
After breakfast, Mary State History and Country Learning Museum
This modern, white-marble regional museum provides essential context before visiting the nearby archaeological ruins.
Displays thousands of artifacts uncovered at ancient Merv and Gonur Depe, including Bronze Age pottery, coins, weapons, and intricate jewelry.
Features dedicated ethnographic halls highlighting traditional Turkmen carpets, embroidery, and national attire.
Gives a comprehensive overview of the Murgab River oasis culture through the centuries.
After lunch, begin the journey back to Ashgabat.
Arrive in the capital in the evening and check into your hotel.
The evening is free for relaxation, shopping or an optional panoramic drive through illuminated Ashgabat.
Overnight: Ashgabat
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Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your onward flight.
End of the Journey
Highlights of the Journey:
Discover Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's spectacular white-marble capital.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Parthian Fortresses of Nisa, capital of the ancient Parthian Empire.
Experience the warm underground lake of Kow Ata inside a dramatic cave.
Cross the legendary Karakum Desert.
Watch the flames of the Darvaza Gas Crater after sunset.
Explore Ancient Merv, one of the great Silk Road cities and a UNESCO World Heritage property.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Walk among the ancient walls of Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala and Sultan Kala.
Admire the magnificent Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar.
Visit the Mausoleum of Muhammad ibn Zayd and Yusuf Hamadani.
Discover Turkmenistan's combination of ancient civilizations, Islamic architecture, desert landscapes and modern monumental design.
Included
- Assistance with the Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation (LOI), arranged by our company.
- Accommodation in selected 4 star hotel, based on double/twin sharing.
- 1 night desert camp/yurt accommodation near Darvaza, according to the final itinerary and availability.
- Daily breakfast at the hotels.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transportation during the tour.
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure in Ashgabat.
- English-speaking local guide throughout the tour.
- Professional driver throughout the journey.
- Excursions and sightseeing as described in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to the Parthian Fortresses of Nisa
- Entrance fees to the Ancient Merv archaeological site and the monuments included in the program.
- Visit to Kow Ata underground lake.
- Visit to the Darvaza Gas Crater.
- Desert transportation and local arrangements for the Darvaza excursion.
- Bottled drinking water during long-distance excursions.
- Travel tax
- Handmade souvenir per person
Excluded
- Price Excludes
- The following services and expenses are not included in the tour price unless specifically stated in your quotation:
- International flights to and from Turkmenistan.
- Turkmenistan visa fee
- Consular and visa processing charges.
- Border, migration, registration or other government charges not specifically included in the quotation.
- Travel insurance and medical insurance.
- PCR nose test 33 USD
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar and room service.
- Alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included with meals.
- Meals and drinks not mentioned under “Price Includes.”
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff and local service providers.
- Photography/video fees where charged separately by museums or monuments.
- Additional hotel nights before or after the tour.
- Early check-in or late check-out.
- Any other service not specifically listed under “Price Includes.”
Additional info
This itinerary is designed as a private or small-group cultural and adventure journey.
Why Travel With Us?
This six-day journey is designed for travelers who want to experience the essential Turkmenistan in a carefully balanced itinerary — combining UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient Silk Road history, modern Ashgabat, traditional markets, spectacular desert scenery and unforgettable natural wonders.
From the marble avenues of Ashgabat to the ancient walls of Merv and the flames of Darvaza, discover a Turkmenistan experience.
Accommodation
During the tour, you will stay in comfortable local hotels and a desert camp.
Ashgabat: Sport hotel 4* - 3 nights
Mary: Mary hotel 4* - 1 nights
Darvaza: Traditional desert camp - 1 night
Accommodation can be adjusted according to availability, budget and traveler preferences.
Transportation
Travel comfortably in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver.
The route includes both paved roads and desert roads, particularly on the journey to Darvaza. The exact vehicle type may depend on group size and road conditions.
Desert Conditions
Temperatures in the Karakum Desert can vary significantly between day and night. Comfortable clothing, sun protection, sturdy footwear and sufficient drinking water are recommended (drinking water our company provide)
Kow-Ata Cave
The visit involves walking and descending into a cave environment. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Photography
Photography rules can vary at certain government buildings, military facilities and other sensitive locations. Always follow your guide's instructions.
Best Time to Visit Turkmenistan
The most comfortable periods for this tour are generally spring and autumn, when temperatures are more suitable for sightseeing and desert excursions.
Summer can be extremely hot, particularly in the Karakum Desert, while winter can bring colder conditions.
Join us for an extraordinary 6-day journey through Turkmenistan!
Ready to Explore Turkmenistan?
Contact us today to check availability, receive a quotation and start planning your journey.
Contact us: akyoltravel55@gmail.com / akyoltravelvisa@gmail.com
Turkmenistan Visa Procedure
Visa & Letter of Invitation (LOI)
Travelers visiting Turkmenistan generally require a visa, and tourist visas are issued on the basis of a Letter of Invitation (LOI) approved by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan.
For tourists, the Letter of Invitation is normally arranged through a licensed/registered Turkmenistan travel agency. Our team can assist you with the invitation process and provide guidance throughout your visa application.
The visa may be obtained from a Turkmenistan embassy or consulate abroad. In certain circumstances, travelers with an approved invitation may also be able to obtain the visa upon arrival at an international airport or designated border crossing. (Shavat/Dashoguz, Alat/Farap)
How the Visa Process Works
Step 1 – Book Your Tour
Confirm your Turkmenistan tour with us and provide the personal information required for the visa invitation.
Step 2 – Submit Documents for the LOI
We collect the required documents and submit the invitation application through the appropriate Turkmenistan travel/immigration procedure.
Step 3 – State Migration Service Approval
The Letter of Invitation is processed and approved by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan.
The processing period maximum 10 Days. Applicants should allow sufficient time before their planned departure.
Step 4 – Receive Your Invitation
Once approved, the invitation information or certified Letter of Invitation is provided for the visa application.
Step 5 – Apply for Your Visa
After receiving the LOI, submit the required documents to the appropriate Embassy or Consulate of Turkmenistan.
Step 6 – Travel to Turkmenistan
Once your visa has been issued, you are ready to travel to Turkmenistan and begin your tour.
Documents Required for the Letter of Invitation
To prepare your Letter of Invitation, we normally require the following documents from each traveler:
Completed visa/LOI application form
High-quality color scan of your passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of arrival
Passport containing sufficient blank pages for visa processing
Recent passport-size color photograph (white background)
Planned arrival and departure dates
Planned entry and exit points
Full name exactly as shown in the passport
Date and place of birth
Nationality
Current residential address
Contact telephone number
Email address
Occupation/employer information, where required
Final education level or degree, university/institute/school name
Major
Marital status: Married, Single or widow
Spouse full name, date of birth (date/month/year)
Children, if yes: full name , date of birth (date/month/year)
Details of the proposed tour and accommodation, where required
Customer Support
We have a professional customer support team and always accompany you on every trip.