Introducing Turkmenistan

Day 1 : Ashgabat

Arrive at the airport and meet your guide to visit Neutrality Square and the National Museum before enjoying views of the city at sunset.

Day 2 : Ashgabat > Köneürgench > Dashoguz

Fly to the northern city of Dashoguz and drive to Köneürgench (Old Urgench), a current World Heritage Site and former capital of the Khorezmshah Empire. Explore the 15th century mausoleum of Turabeg Khanum, the minaret of Kutlug Temur and the mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh. Transfer back to Dashoguz in the evening.

Day 3 : Dashoguz > Darvaza

Drive deep into the Karakum Desert with a chance to visit Izmukshir en route, an ancient ruin of Abulkasim az-Zamakhshari. Drive off road to the flaming crater of Darvaza and try nomadic food in front of a campfire before bedding down for the night in a tent.

Day 4 : Darvaza > Ashgabat

Head back to Ashgabat, travelling via volcanic craters bubbling with hot water and natural gas. The afternoon is at leisure.

Ashgabat is known for its white marble buildings and grandiose national monuments. To the northwest, the sprawling Ruhy Mosque has a vast gilt dome and intricate architecture. The central Artogrul Gazi Mosque is modeled on famous Istanbul’s Blue Mosque.

Day 5 : Ashgabat > Mary > Ashgabat

Fly and drive to the ancient region of Mary, travelling via Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the fascinating archaeological ruins of this stronghold on the Silk Road, including forts, mausoleums and village remains. Return to Ashgabat for overnight.

Day 6 : Ashgabat

Visit Tolkuchka Market and Geok Depe mosque, then see Akhal-Teke horses at a farm on the outskirts of the city. In the afternoon, visit the underground cave of Kov-Ata for a swim in the hot water before stopping at Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque, the largest mosque complex in Turkmenistan.

Day 7 : Ashgabat

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight where arrangements end.