Turkmenistan is more than just the Darvaza Gas Crater and Ashgabat. This epic 10-day group trip takes you deep into the heart of Central Asia — from ancient cities like Merv to the fiery Gates of Hell. Discover a land of desert landscapes, white marble palaces, rich Silk Road history, and warm local hospitality that few travelers have experienced.
Trip Highlights
Ancient Merv: The Forgotten Jewel of the Silk Road
Once a thriving metropolis at the heart of the ancient world, Merv was a key stop on the Silk Road and one of Islam's great historic capitals — now a hauntingly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkmenistan.
Darvaza: The Gates of Hell
A fiery natural gas crater in the heart of Turkmenistan’s desert, burning continuously for decades, attracting adventurers and scientists alike.
Russian Bazaar – A Local Market Gem in Ashgabat
One of the oldest and liveliest markets in Turkmenistan, offering a colorful mix of fresh produce, local delicacies, souvenirs, and authentic cultural experiences
Ashgabat – The White Marble City of Turkmenistan
Recognized by the Guinness World Records, Ashgabat is renowned for its stunning architecture clad in white marble, symbolizing the country’s modern identity and ambition.
What's included
- Accommodation in private rooms
- All food and drinks
- All transportation
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- An amazing English-speaking local guide
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
Not included:
- Return flight to London Gatwick
- Return flight to Ashgabat
- $100 cash fee to enter the country
Daily Itinerary
Excursion route: Farap-Mary-Ashgabat-Darvaza-Ashgabat
Days: 5 | Nights: 4
Day 1: Farap – Turkmenabat – Mary
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Turkmenistan border Alat/Farap. Upon arrival to the border point go through custom
procedures stop for a lunch in Turkmenabad. Continue drive to Mary province about 4
hrs. (270km), Hotel accommodation upon arrival. Dinner. Rest.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Mary - Ashgabat
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Breakfast at the hotel. Today we will visit Ancient Merv. Merv was located at the
road crossing of the Great Silk Road and quickly became one of the largest and
biggest cities of the ancient world and was one of the most important capitals of
Islam along with Baghdad, Cairo and Damascus. Guided tour: Gyz Gala, Erk Gala,
Soltan Gala, Soltan Sanjar Mausoleum, IbnZeid Mausoleum. After historical
sightseeing visit one of a kind Tourist Base in Turkmenistan - “Ancient Turkmen
Hearth”. Here you can immerse yourself in Turkmen culture, feed the famous
Akhal-Teke horses and ride a camel. Try Turkmen dishes in a traditional yurt. Drive
to Ashgabat (4-4.5 hrs). Upon arrival hotel accommodation. Rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Ashgabat – Darvaza gas crater
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07:30-08:30 - Breakfast ate the hotel.
09:00-11:30 - Visit to the Gulistan Bazaar, known as “Russian bazaar”, one of the
country’s largest and oldest covered markets. Shopping there offers a wide range of
products for shopping. Additionally, one can purchase various souvenirs reflecting
the local culture and traditions.
12:30–13:30 – Lunch break.
Begin our 280km journey to the Darvaza (Gates of Hell) on the way stopping at two
lesser-known craters. One full of mud, one full of water, and both formed the same
way as the Gates of Hell.
Driving the last few kilometers off-road through the desert, we’ll arrive at the
fiery crater just before sunset, and in time to experience dusk turn to dark at this
breathtaking site. The area is rich in natural gas. Burning for more than 50 years.
BBQ Dinner and overnight camping in yurts near the crater.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Darvaza gas crater – Ashgabat
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Breakfast at the hotel. This day we will have an Ashgabat city tour. In 2013 the
Guinness Book of Records named Ashgabat white marble city. City sightseeing: Arch of
Neutrality, The Independence Monument, which is built in the shape of traditional
Turkmen house - “gyshy” (diameter 60 m, height of the towering91 m. concrete tower
topped with a golden spire and a crescent, which are one of the symbols of
Turkmenistan), a series of arches in the center, there are sculptures of famous
Turkmen historical figures. Before sleep we’ll have a night tour of Ashgabat where
the white buildings light up by bright colour in the night times. Ashgabat is a
truly spectacular place after dark. Drop by the Monument of Constitution standing
185 metres tall it is the second tallest structure in the nation.
Head to the Alem Centre to ride the Wheel of Enlightenment – the largest indoor
Ferris Wheel in the world.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Ashgabat
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Breakfast at hotel and tour concludes. Airport transfers can be arranged according
to your flight departure times.
**We will accompany you to the airport according to your flight schedule. We hope that our 5-day tour
of Turkmenistan will leave you with pleasant memories.
Thank you for choosing us!**
Where you'll be staying
Meet your guide
May Guardiana
May will undoubtedly bring the energy and smiles to your Philippines trip. She's an awesome mum, freediver, Muay Thai boxer and tour guide with over 10 years of experience. There's no escaping a bit of Filipino karaoke when this woman's around!
Wild women moment
8-course farm-to-table feast
Tucked away in the hills of Bohol, we'll indulge in an exquisite 8-course farm-to-table feast in a space where nourishment meets innovation. At the heart of it all is Maggie, the visionary owner who brings kitchen magic to life through her elevated, innovative dishes. Her passion lies in healing the gut through food, proving that every bite can be both delicious and deeply nourishing.
What travelers are saying
Exploring Turkmenistan with our group was an unforgettable journey. From the surreal landscapes of the Karakum Desert to ancient cities like Merv, everything was eye-opening. And the food — fresh, hearty, and made with so much love by local families — made us feel truly welcomed.
Amina
Turkey – 29
If you're unsure about joining a group trip with strangers, I totally get it. But trust me — do it. Our guide in Turkmenistan created such a warm, inclusive space. We shared laughs over desert sunsets, stayed up late stargazing by the Darvaza crater, and left with genuine friendships.
David
UK – 33
This trip wasn’t just about the sights — although those were stunning. It was about connecting with people, both in our group and in the communities we visited. Staying in yurts and learning from locals about Turkmen traditions gave the whole journey a deeply personal meaning.
Lien
Belgium – 25
Frequently asked questions
What airport do I need to fly in and out of?
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The trip starts and ends in Cebu City, home to Mactan-Cebu
International Airport. Need a hand with your flights? We’re
experts at finding cheap flight deals!
Do I need a visa?
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Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Please check with
your local embassy or consulate.
What meals are included?
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All breakfasts, selected lunches, and dinners are included. Refer
to the itinerary for specific meal plans.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
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Yes, we can cater to most dietary needs. Please let us know in
advance.
Will I be picked up from the airport?
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Yes, airport pickup is included for all guests arriving on the
start date.
What’s not included?
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International flights, personal expenses, and optional activities
are not included.
Is there a payment plan?
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Yes, we offer flexible payment plans. Contact our team to set one
up.
