Discover the Wonders of Turkmenistan- A 11 DAY Adventure
Start:
Ashgabat
- 10 Oct 2026
End:
Ashgabat
- 20 Oct 2026
Type tour:
11 Days 10 Nights
Payments:
By request
Group:
4
About tour
Embark on an unforgettable 11-days, 10-nights journey through the heart of Turkmenistan, a land of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and modern marvels. From the white-marble city of Ashgabat to the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater, from the mystical mountains of Nokhur to the majestic canyons of Yangykala, this tour takes you through the country’s most iconic and hidden gems.
Itinerary
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Arrival to Ashgabat international airport at 23:30. Tour guide will meet you and transfer to the hotel.Upon arrival check in and overnight at the hotel.OVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFASTWe will begin our tour in Ashgabat. Ashgabat is a relatively young city in 25.05.2013 city was included Gunnies Book of records as a white marbled city on the world.09:00 – Ashgabat sightseeing:Altyn Asyr Bazaar, also known as the Tolkuchka Bazaar, is the largest and most vibrant market in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Situated on the outskirts of the city, the bazaar has become a hub for commerce and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Turkmen life.The Altyn Asyr Bazaar traces its roots back to the Soviet era when Tolkuchka (meaning “pushy” in Russian) was a small market where people gathered to trade goods. Over time, the market expanded in size and importance, and in 2011, a new, modernized version of the bazaar was opened under the name “Altyn Asyr.” The new structure replaced the old market, covering an area of more than 150 hectares, making it one of the largest outdoor markets in Central Asia.Independence Park if you once find yourself in Ashgabat, the city of love, white marble and thousands of fountains, you must visit the main park in the Turkmen capital - National Independence Park. This Park is one of the city’s attractions, embodying the spirit of modern Turkmenistan.Arch of Neutrality used to stand on the main square of the country, but in 2011, was moved to Ashgabat’s outskirts. Still worth a visit, this multi-level structure is crowned by a sculpture of the former Turkmenistan´s President, Saparmurat Niyazov. Previously, the sculpture used to rotate after the sun, making a daily full turnover.Ertugrul Gazi Mosque is one of the most beautiful Muslim mosques of Turkmenistan. Like any other buildings, erected in Ashgabat during the period of independence, the mosque strikes with its size and rich decoration.The mosque was erected in the heart of Ashgabat, in Azadi street in the 90-s of the XX century. That is why this building is also called the Azadi Mosque.The State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan is the first and largest one of the 26 museums established following the independence of Turkmenistan. The official opening took place on 12 November 1998. It is located on Archabil Avenue in the picturesque Kopet Dagh foothills. Opposite the museum there is the main flag of Turkmenistan attached to one of the highest flagpole in the world.The Hotel “Bagt Koshgi” that from Turkmen language means “The temple of Happiness” is a part of a Wedding Palace with the same name located in 5 km from the centre of Ashgabat. This unique building of an unusual shape was opened in 2011 and besides the hotel includes six luxurious halls for marriage registrations, seven banquet halls, numerous shops and other different facilities necessary for wedding arrangement such as beauty salons, wedding dress boutiques, photo booths, and many others. “Bagt Koshgi “complex is an 11- storey building consisting of solid foundation on which a cube with octagonal sides stands, and this unusual figure can hold inside a huge ball with a diameter of 32 meters.The Ferris Wheel in Ashgabat, known as the Giant Wheel, is an iconic landmark that complements the city’s modern skyline. From a height of about 40 metres, it offers a stunning panoramic view of Ashgabat and the surrounding landscape. Located in the heart of the city centre, the Ferris wheel is part of the large ‘Independence Park’, which features beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains and various recreational facilities. The giant wheel is particularly enchanting at night when it is lit up with multi-coloured lights, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It is an ideal place for families, couples and anyone who wants to admire the breathtaking views of Ashgabat, especially at sunset. This attraction symbolizes the rapid development of Turkmenistan‘s capital city and its desire for modernity, and provides a fun and enjoyable experience for all ages.The Constitution Monument, in Ashgabat, stands as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. Unveiled in 2011, the monument celebrates the significance of the Constitution of Turkmenistan, which was adopted in 1992.Design and Features of the monument features a grand architectural design, characterized by its towering structure that represents the ideals of freedom and governance. The central element of the monument is a large, open book symbolizing the Constitution itself, with the text inscribed on its pages. Surrounding the monument are beautifully landscaped gardens, enhancing the monument’s prominence and serving as a peaceful gathering place for citizens and visitors.OVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFAST08:00 – you will start tour:Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex: greatness of memory. Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex located on a hill towering over the city, the Memorial Complex covers an area of 650 000 metres2. It includes the monument dedicated to World War II, the monuments to the heroes of World War II and the Battle of Gokdepe, and to the victims of the 1948 Ashgabat earthquake.After lunch at 14:00 drive to Darvaza- Gas Crater, which is a huge flaming crater, located 270 km (4-5 h) to the north of Ashgabat.En route visiting one of the village Erbent to observe the rural life of Turkmen people. Continue with moving to the Water, Clay and Gas Crater.In the evening enjoy the spectacular and fascinating view of the gas crater.Barbeque style dinnerOVERNIGHT IN TENT OR YURT WITH SLEEPING BAGS
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BREAKFAST BBQ08:00 – Drive to Kunya Urgench historical site (300 km, 7-8 h)Kunya-Urgench (Keneurgench) is an ancient city, the first mention of which dates back to the III-I centuries BC. It is found even in the Avesta, the main book of the Zoroastrians. There the city is called Urva (Urga). Caravans of the Great Silk Road passed through here, and the Chinese called the city Yue-gan, although it was located on the territory of the state of Khorezm. In the VIII century, the Arabs conquered the city and renamed it Gurganj. At the same time, the Khorezm ruler settled in Gurganj, declaring the city his residence. At various times, Gurganj was conquered by the Mamunids, Anushteginids and even Genghis Khan himself. The latter conquered Gurganj in 1221, severely destroying the city. In the XIV century, the city became subordinate to the Uzbek Khan - Sultan of the Golden Horde. Then, according to the merchant- traveler Ibn Batuta, Gurganj became the largest of the Turkic cities. All the attractions of Kunya Urgench are located in the Old Town and are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Once the caravans of the Great Silk Road passed here. Today, several buildings of the XI-XVI centuries have been preserved in the city.Mausoleum of Turabek-Khanym: There is also a mausoleum of the XIV century, where the daughter of Uzbek Khan - Tyurabek-khanym is buried. The mausoleum is interesting with a dome mosaic panel depicting flowers and stars. It is believed that this ornament has no analogues.Kutlug Timur Minaret:The Kutlug-Timur minaret, erected in the XIV century, is considered the tallest in Central Asia. Its length is 60-62 meters (the figures vary slightly depending on the sources). Once the majestic minaret was part of a mosque that was destroyed.Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh:Near the minaret of Kutlug-Timur there is the mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh - one of a few survived monuments of pre-Mongol Kunya-Urgench. The people call it Sherepbaba and Gyok-Gumbez. Together with the mausoleum of Il'-Arslan they constitute the necropolis of one of the ruling Khoresm clans.Mausoleum of Il-Arslan:This unique architectural construction also called the mausoleum of Fakhreddin Razi has survived by a miracle. It had been constructed before the Mongol invasion to Kunya-Urgench. The form of the mausoleum is distinguished by precision and simplicity of composition: a cube with a 12-side drum prism on it and external dome in the form of 12 - side tabernacle.The Mausoleum of Il-Arslan was manually decorated with a relief carved terracotta expressed in an intricate ornament: vegetative and geometrical patterns. While decorating, a special medieval technique was applied. Raw bricks lying on the ground were covered with clay which was used for creating the most complicated relief ornament. Then the entire composition was cut in seams between the bricks and fired to be further assembled on facade.Minaret of Mamun: During excavation works of a hill in Kunya-Urgench near the mausoleum of Il'-Arslan the remains of the minaret which had fallen only about a hundred years ago were found. In 1900 the local residents found a foundation lead slab with a text saying that the minaret had been constructed in 1011 by the order of Mamun shakh.Kyrk Molla The sacred hill Kyrk Molla, “40 mullahs” in Turkic, is found in Kunya Urgench. It is located to the north-east from the city, near the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum. The hill area is about 3 ha and its maximum height is12.5m. This place is the ancient center of Gurganj (an old name of Kunya- Urgench). The excavations there revealed a vallum of the ancient period and an altar. In the Middle Ages on the site of the hill there was the famous Mamun Library.The Mausoleum of Nadzhimetdin Kubra is the founder of the dervish order "Kubraviya" in Islam, a Sufi sheikh - the main monument in the memorial complex "360". This place is considered holy. Pilgrims from all world pay visits there. According to the legend, Horesmshakh Mohammed II executed of one of the best Kubra's pupils after by a false denunciation. The holy man got angry and damned Khoresm. The damnation soon come true - the mighty state fell under aggressive Mongol invasion. Kubra himself and his 360 pupils fought side by side to protect their city. This battle was the last heroic deed of Nadzhimetdin for the glory Islam: a Mongolian warrior beheaded the holy man. The cemetery in Kunya Urgench, where today the Mausoleum of Nadzhimetdin Kubra and the mausoleums of Sultan Ali and Piryarvali stand, was built on the site of the battle. Right beside them is the grave of young Dzhamildzhan, Nadzhimetdin Kubra 's favorite pupil.After excursion drive to Dashoguz city (110 km, 1.5 h) Arrival in Dashoguz and check-in hotelOVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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EARLY MORNING BREAKFASTTransfer to Dashoguz airport07:50 – Flight to Ashgabat08:40 – Arrival in AshgabatThen drive to West part of Balkan Region. On the way visits:Underground lake Kov-Ata, located 107 km from Ashgabat.The Turkmen name Kov-Ata means Father of Caves. At first glance, this underground space looks like a magnificent auditorium: the total length of the cave is 230 m, the height reaches 20 m, and the width in some places reaches 57 m.The bottom of the cave is covered with lumps of dissolved limestone (stalagmites), and the warm, gushing water is clear and emerald in color. The water has a constant temperature of 33-37°C. (You should take a swim in the lake).Nohur (also known as Nokhur or Nokur) is a remote and picturesque village located in the Kopet Dag Mountains of southern Turkmenistan, near the border with Iran. Known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural traditions, Nohur offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely untouched by modernity.The village is nestled in a deep valley surrounded by rugged mountains, providing breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and terraced landscapes. Traditional stone houses with flat roofs and wooden beams characterize the architecture of Nohur, blending harmoniously into the surrounding environment. Narrow streets wind through the village, giving it a timeless and serene atmosphere.After excursion drive to Serdar (formerly name Gyzylarbat). Arrival and check-in hotelOVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFAST08:00- drive to the Moon Mountains of Karakala (Lunar and Martian landscapes).The Lunar Mountains in Turkmenistan are one of the country’s most unique and striking natural features. Located in the Karakum Desert, these mountains are named for their otherworldly, moon-like appearance, with jagged rock formations, vast salt flats, and stark, barren landscapes. They stand in contrast to the surrounding desert, creating a surreal and almost alien terrain that has captivated explorers and researchers alike. The mountains are relatively small but have an extraordinary and unique landscape. The area is characterized by dramatic rock formations, salt flats, and barren hills that give it its moon-like appearance.Yangiqala Canyons via Balkan Mountains - Impressive white, green and red limestone formations rise up from the desert sands. These cliffs are the remains of massive coastline and seabed of the pre-historical Parathetys Sea. This surreal landscape is impressive at any time of day, but sunset and sunrise offer particularly spectacular views. The area is reachable only by 4-wheel drive, passing through the Balkan Mountains and a vast highland area where camels, sheep and horse’s graze.You can watch the sunset, this time Yangykala Kanyon is very beautiful.Barbeque style dinnerOVERNIGHT AT TENT
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BREAKFAST09:00 – drive to Turkmenbashy city. On the way visits:Gozli Ata Mausoleum (67km, 2hrs). Gozli Ata (“All-Seeing Father”) was a well-respected 14th century Sufi saint who was killed during a Mongol invasion. His grave, along with the adjacent grave of his wife, is considered one of the holiest sites in Turkmenistan today.Arrive at Kemal Ata. Nearby, you will explore a valley with huge round boulders, also known as the "Valley of Balls". A walking trip to the "Mushroom Rocks" is worthwhile. Kemal-Ata Canyon, in the middle of the desert, from nowhere, a source appeared and cut a small canyon in the rocks. The most interesting thing is the unusual stone formations, reminiscent of dinosaur eggs or embryonic eggs from the cult movie "Alien". There are a lot of them, and many of them are half-walled up in the walls of the canyon.In the afternoon arrival in Turkmenbashy city and check-in hotel. Rest timeTurkmenbashi (formerly called Krasnovodsk), 654 km from the capital of Turkmenistan. It is situated on the Caspian Sea and has some magnificent sandy beaches. In recent times, it has become a major transport center, with developed oil refining and construction industries. Turkmenbashi serves as the starting point for many excursions into the surrounding mountains and coastal resort towns. Here, on the shores of the Caspian Sea, the sun shines warmly throughout the year, with golden sands gently crunching underfoot and the waves of the warm sea lapping at the beach.You will be walking Caspian Sea shoreOVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFASTFree day at Caspian Sea.Visit a bazaar where you can buy fresh, dried, or smoked seafood, such as sturgeon, caviar, sprats, or other fish from the Caspian Sea region.OVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFASTTransfer to Turkmenbashy Airport08:30 – Flight to Ashgabat09:30–Arrival in AshgabatWe will visits:The Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque eleven kilometers to the west of Ashgabat there stands one of the largest mosques in Central Asia and main mosque of Turkmenistan – The Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque. Like all other buildings of the period of independence it differs with its immensity and grandiosity.Old and New Nisa 18 km from the city of Ashgabat in the outskirts of Bagir village there is a unique ancient monument, the ruins of ancient settlement Nisa. It used to be the capital of Parthia which had existed from the third century B.C. to the third century A.D. The Historical complex includes two archeologic monuments - Old and New Nisa.Akhal - Teke Horse Farm to see a national proud of Turkmen people - Akhalteke horses, the nicest horses in the world. 5000 years ago, Turkmens begin breed Akhalteke horses. The World’s unique breed was never mixed with other breeds. Such illustrious Emperors like Alexander the Great, Darius I desired to own Ahalteke horses. There are over 35 beautiful horses in the farm. Learn about the breeding traditions and history of Akhal-Teke horses. Here, experts will tell you about Akhal-Teke horses. Next to the farm, you can take a horseback ride through the gardens.Note: We will have dinner at the Akhal-Teke Horse farm. Enjoy traditional Turkmen dishes.Return to Ashgabat.OVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFASTToday after breakfast drive to Mary Region (350 km, 3-4 h). On the way visits:Seyitjemaleddin Mosque located in the city of Anau, 12 km east of Ashgabat along the Ashgabat-Mary highway. The Seyit-Jemallidin Mosque is a complex structure that once included a mosque, madrasah and the mausoleum of Sheikh Jemal ad-Din.On the Turkmen land the famous Seyit-Jemallidin mosque, widely known as “Seyit-Jemal ad-Din”, a well-known monument that preserves the unique architectural traditions and artistic styles of the Iron Age. The monument was built in the 15th century during the reign of Abul Qasim Babur, a Timurid descendant in Khorasan. This mosque amazed many Muslim architects of the East with its external beauty and architectural features.Abiverd one of the most important cities of Northern Khorasan is a medieval settlement Abiverd. Hafiz-i-Abru said that Abiverd settlement consisted of dozens of villages and several cities. The city wall is a rectangular area of 42 hectares.There also were found ancient coins, ceramics products of IX-XII centuries, as well as a lot of metal handicrafts: various women’s jewelries, buckles. According by them, we can say that there were shops of jewelers and tinkers. During the excavation’s archeologists found huge wells and reservoirs, indicating a highly-developed irrigation of Abiverd. The first investigation was taking place in 1928 under the lidership A.A. Semenov, who first made a plan of the city, citadel and remains of the city wall. In addition to Semenov’s scientific works, there are also archeological materials collected by the members of the expedition from different parts of Abiverd.Upon arrival Mary city, then drive to ancient Merv historical site. Located from Mary city approx. 30 km.Ancient Merv was the most important Silk Road hub in the region, and particularly thriving as regional capital under Seljuk governor Sanjar. Merw is the collective name of five urban centers that existed under various different names in different periods from the VI c BC up to the XVIII c AD.Today, Merv occupies a territory of more than 1200 ha and forms the biggest archeological site in Central Asia. The importance of the site was recognized in 1999 by UNESCO, which awarded Merv World Heritage status.Soltan Sanjar Mausoleum most majestic architectural monument of Merv is Sultan Sanjar mausoleum called “Dar-al-Akhir” (“Otherworld”). His whole appearance it represents the highest achievements and flourishing Seljuk power. Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum is located in the center of the settlement Sultan Kala. Nearby are large monumental buildings – the palaces of Seljuk rulers and a mosque.Great and Less Kiz fortress small fortresses with corrugated, if folded in the crease, napodobye accordion, walls. They put on the earthen ramps with mild slope. Small windows are hidden in the folds of the walls. At the top of the wall terminate toothed battlements, which are almost did not survive.Mausoleums of ashkhabs. Original set of graves from the time of the Arab invasioninto Central Asia in the early years after the death of Mohamed. The graves of two askhabs(companions/campaigners of the Prophet) are of Al KhakamGifari (died in 670) and Bureyda Al Aslami (died in 681).Gyaur Kala fortress In Turkic languages, “Gyaur” means “infidel”, referring to those who do not 8ractice Islam. The name of the fortress in ancient Merv, Gyaur- Kala – “Fortress of the Infidels” – was given by the Arabs who conquered it in the early 8th century. However, the fortress itself dates back much earlier, to the 4th-3rd centuries BC.Erk-Kala fortress was the center of ancient Merv. The fortifications of Erk-Kala have sagged under earth drifts but nevertheless, have preserved their height and power. This distinguishes Erk-Kala from other fortresses. Now the height of the fortifications with steep slopes and precisely cut out towers reaches 25 – 29 m.The mausoleum-complex of Hodja Yusuf Hamadani (Hamdani) includes a modern mosque and minaret, the grave and mausoleum of Hodja Yusuf Hamadani (died in 1140), a Timuridiwan(portal) and a prayer hall. It is located not far from the Seljuk citadel. This complex has been largely reconstructed and turned into an important pilgrimage site. Hodja Yusuf Hamadani was a famous Sufi scholar of the 12th century, and the first of a group of Central Asian Sufi teachers who founded the Naqshbandi order. He was born in 1048-49 in a small settlement called Bezendjird, close to the famous Iranian city of Hamadan, when Merw was under Seljuk rule.Mohamed ibn Zaid, dated by inscription to 1112-13. It is located outside the medieval Seljuk citadel. It is unclear as to whom the mausoleum is actually devoted to. The local legend speaks about Mohamed Said ibnZeidibn Ali ZeinalAbedonibn al- Huseinibn Ali-Talib, who was a prominent Shia teacher and direct descendant of the Prophet Ali in fifth generation.Return to Mary city and check-in hotelOVERNIGHT AT HOTEL
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BREAKFASTTransfer to Mary airport08:10 - Flight to Ashgabat08:50 -Arrival in AshgabatCarpet Museum was established in 1993 to preserve and develop the traditions of Turkmen carpet weaving. More than two thousand carpets made by hand are awaiting to amaze their visitors. Both ancient and modern carpets are on display here, including one of 301 square meters that entered the Guinness Book of Records as the largest of the world.Russian Bazaar; Location and area:Another bazaar you can find in the capital of Turkmenistan is the Russian Bazaar.It is located at 72 Azadi Street in Ashgabat, köçesi Turkmenistan.The russian bazaar is the largest and oldest covered market in Turkmenistan.Gulustan bazaar commodities are rich and diverse, covering food, daily necessities, clothing, crafts and other categories.The “Berkarar” shopping and entertainment center was opened on December 26, 2014. Today it is the largest shopping complex in Ashgabat, which consists of a 4-story shopping and entertainment center. The Shopping and Entertainment Center features more than 350 brand stores, including. The complex includes the services of a large chain local supermarket, 22 restaurants and fast-food outlets (European and Oriental cuisine), a restaurant for special events for 1000 people, gaming attractions, cinemas, sports activitiesFarewell dinnerTransfer to the Ashgabat International Airport for flight to next destination.We hope you enjoyed our service and hope you'll come back again.
Included
- Accommodation in mentioned hotels on DBL/TWIN sharing
- Breakfasts at the hotels
- Services of A/C comfortable transport with professional driver as per the program
- English,Spanish,Italian,German,French,Russian and Chinese speaking guides
- Domestic air tickets: Dashoguz-Ashgabat, Turkmenbashy-Ashgabat, Mary-Ashgabat
- Daily 5 bottles of 0.5l water per person
- BBQ style dinner and breakfast at Darvaza crater
- BBQ style dinner and breakfast at Yangykala Canyon
- Farewell dinner
- Entrance fees to mentioned sights per program (excluding photo and video charges at sights)
- Visa support to Turkmenistan, registration and travel pass
- Travel tax
- Handmade souvenir per person
Excluded
- Visa consular fees and processing expenses 80-100 USD per person, when obtained at land border (subject to change, nationality dependent)
- Turkmenistan migration tax 14 USD per person
- PCR nose test 33 USD (subject to change)
- Photo and video charges at sights
- An early check-in hotel
- Lunches and dinners
- Beverages
- International air tickets to / out of Ashgabat
- Travel Insurance
- Extras, not indicated in inclusions
Additional info
NOTE:
Check-in after 14:00, check-out before 12:00
Set menu includes salad, soup, main course, bread, tea, coffee & water
We offer at Darvaza Gas Crater BBQ style menu
Dinner is a highlight of the camping experience and is typically a hot, freshly prepared meal
Barbecue (BBQ) or Shashlik: This is the most common and traditional offering. Our guide and driver will prepare "nomad-style kebabs" or grilled skewers (shashlik) over an open fire. Meats are usually lamb or chicken.
Meals are universally accompanied by fresh bread, salads, and sometimes roasted vegetables like potatoes or eggplant.
Dessert in the Desert: Turkmen Melons and watermelons: If traveling during the harvest season (late summer/early autumn), the famous, incredibly sweet Turkmen melon and watermelon is the country's most beloved natural dessert and is often served.
We also offer our customers our national Turkmen drinks: green tea, kefir/ayran, and fermented Camel Milk (Chal)
For breakfast, we offer boiled eggs, yogurt, fruits, jam, bread, tea, and coffee.
Vegetarian/Dietary Needs: Because meals are prepared in advance, you must inform our tour operator well ahead of time of any dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergies). They can usually accommodate with things like simple vegetable plov or grilled vegetables (tomatoes, eggplant, sweet pepper).
If the traveler stays more than 3 working days in Turkmenistan, the travel agency will register and stamp your passport on a local Tourist Board
An express PCR test for Covid-19 will be taken upon arrival. It costs 33 USD (subject to change)
Breakfast box in case of very early morning departures
Customer Support
We have a professional customer support team and always accompany you on every trip.