8-day tour "Main attractions of Turkmenistan": Yangi-Kala Canyon, Merv and Darvaza Crater | TmTourism - TmTourism
8-day tour "Main attractions of Turkmenistan": Yangi-Kala Canyon, Merv and Darvaza Crater

8-day tour "Main attractions of Turkmenistan": Yangi-Kala Canyon, Merv and Darvaza Crater

8
days
1
groups
4
options

A Great Adventure in Turkmenistan: From the White Marble Capital to the Shining Darvaza Crater

Itinerary:

  • Ashgabat
  • Turkmenbashi
  • Yangi-Kala Canyon
  • Balkanabat
  • Nohur
  • Kov-Ata
  • Ashgabat
  • Ancient Merv
  • Darvaza Gas Crater
  • Ashgabat

About the trip:

An unforgettable 8-day trip showcasing the best of Turkmenistan! Start in the white marble capital of Ashgabat, take an overnight train to the Caspian Sea coast, and marvel at the fiery landscapes of the Yangi-Kala Canyon. Get to know the mountain culture of Nohur, swim in the warm thermal waters of the underground lake Kov-Ata, and explore the ancient ruins of Merv, included in the UNESCO list. End your grand adventure with an unforgettable night in a traditional yurt at the impressive burning Darvaza gas crater in the heart of the Karakum Desert.

Available Departure Dates
1 open groups
13.09.2026 18:30
3 free
1 booked 3 free
1 person: $1416 4 people: $1094
Secure payment via Stripe — Visa, Mastercard, Amex. Processed by TMTOURISM LLC (Wyoming, USA).
Choose a convenient date and book your spot in the group

What is included/not included

What is included
  • Letter of Invitation (LoI) for Turkmenistan visa and assistance with mandatory registration of foreign visitors.
  • Accommodation in standard hotel rooms: twin rooms shared by same-gender guests; double rooms for couples; single rooms arranged when needed (other room categories on request).
  • Private transport, domestic flights, and train tickets (as specified in your itinerary), along with a professional English-speaking guide for all designated routes.
  • All expenses of your driver and guide, including fuel, meals, accommodation, meeting you at the border and seeing you off at the border.
  • Daily breakfasts during the tour.
  • Dinner and overnight in a yurt at the Darvaza gas crater and at Gozli Ata (if included in your itinerary).
  • Entrance fees and photography permits for museums and attractions visited with your guide.
  • Travel insurance.
  • All local taxes and mandatory service charges for services included in the tour.
  • The tour usually starts and ends at the Turkmenistan side of the border (other pick-up or drop-off points can be arranged on request).
What is not included
  • Visa and other border fees are not included. The visa can be obtained either at the embassy or at the border.
  • International flights and any transport to/from Turkmenistan at the start and end of the tour.
  • Meals are not included in the program (approximately 5–10 USD per meal per person, depending on the location and restaurant).
  • Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, laundry, minibar) and tips for guides/drivers (optional but appreciated).
  • Drones (not allowed in Turkmenistan).
  • Entrance, photo fees, and activities at Turkmen Ojagy (if included in your itinerary; lunch, folklore, dress-up, & masterclasses require min. 4 people).

Tour program

Day 1 Arrival in Ashgabat

Welcome to Ashgabat: Arrival instructions and first day in the capital

The beginning of your journey through mysterious and majestic Turkmenistan should be as comfortable as possible. To make you feel confident from the first minutes of your stay in this ancient land, we have prepared a detailed plan for your arrival and accommodation.

First day program and logistics

  • Arrival and Pick-up: Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport (ASB), go through customs and immigration formalities.
  • Airport Transfer: Meet our team at the exit of the arrivals area (our guide/driver will recognize you from the photo). Comfortable private transfer directly to your hotel.
  • Check-in at the hotel: Arrival at the hotel and check-in for an overnight rest. Note: Standard check-in times apply, however, early check-in or late check-in will be coordinated according to your flight schedule.
  • Overnight: Accommodation in a cozy hotel in Ashgabat, where you can gain strength before starting an exciting excursion program.
Day 2 Ashgabat → Turkmenbashi (night train)

From White Marble to the Caspian Sea: A Journey from Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi

An amazing day full of contrasts awaits you: from the grandeur of Ashgabat's modern architecture to the romance of an evening train journey through desert landscapes to the Caspian coast.

Ashgabat City Tour

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Ashgabat. Explore the city's famous white-marble architecture, historical monuments, and cultural attractions at your own pace.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant during the tour. This is a wonderful opportunity to sample authentic Turkmen cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Evening and Boarding the Train

In the afternoon — transfer to Ashgabat railway station for boarding the night train to the coastal city of Turkmenbashi.

Dinner

Note: As the train departs early in the evening, there is no time for a full dinner at a restaurant before boarding. Your guide will take you to a local market or cafe in advance to help you purchase a good quality packed dinner, fresh fruits, and snacks, which you can comfortably enjoy in your compartment.

Overnight Stay

A night awaits you to the soothing rhythm of the wheels.

  • Accommodation en route: Night on the train (comfortable 4-berth compartments).
  • Atmosphere: Enjoy tea, evening conversations, and the anticipation of meeting the sea.
Day 3 Turkmenbashi → Yangykala Canyon → Balkan Region

Journey to Yangykala Canyon: From Port Turkmenbashi to Martian Landscapes

Arrival and Introduction to Turkmenbashi

  • 08:05 — Arrival in Turkmenbashi: The start of our eventful day. Arrival by overnight train and a warm welcome with a private driver directly at the station.
  • Attractions of Turkmenbashi and Awaza: A brief introductory tour of this historic port city. We will explore unique pre-revolutionary architecture made of Caspian limestone, stop by the beautiful 1895 railway station building in exquisite Moorish style, and enjoy picturesque views of the endless Caspian Sea coast.
Optional: upon your request, an excursion to the nearby modern seaside resort of Awaza can be arranged. The possibility of the trip fully depends on whether the area is open and accessible to visitors at the specific time of your visit.

Road to the «Fiery Rocks»

  • Lunch: Time to refuel before the journey. You will enjoy the freshest seafood or a traditional hearty lunch at a colorful local restaurant.
  • Transfer to Yangykala Canyon: Departure from Turkmenbashi and an exciting journey eastward, towards a natural wonder (~160 km, approximately 3 hours drive).
Please note: the final sections of the road to the canyon run along uneven dirt desert roads, so we will experience a bit of real off-road driving.

Sunset Magic in Yangykala

  • Sunset in Yangykala: Arrival at the magnificent canyon plateau. You will explore vast fiery-colored limestone formations and witness an incredible, dramatic sunset that paints the already vibrant landscapes in cosmic hues.
  • Dinner: Depending on the season and weather whims, you will either enjoy a truly romantic picnic right amidst the unearthly landscapes of the canyon, or a hot dinner upon arrival at your final destination.

End of Day and Rest

  • Transfer to hotel: Journey south from the canyon plateau to your hotel in the Balkan Region (the drive will take approximately 2–2.5 hours to the nearest transport hub).
  • Overnight stay: Comfortable accommodation in a hotel in the Balkan Region (in Balkanabat or nearby transit hubs, depending on availability).
Day 4 Balkan Region → Nohur → Kow-Ata → Ashgabat

Journey to Turkmenistan's Lost World: Nohur Mountain Village and Kow-Ata Underground Lake

Beginning of the Journey

Our adventure begins early in the morning. We leave the bustling capital and set off to encounter Turkmenistan's astonishing natural contrasts and ancient culture.

  • 08:30 — Departure from the hotel: A comfortable transfer east along a modern highway that runs parallel to the majestic Kopetdag mountain range. Fascinating views of the rugged mountain peaks open up from the windows.

Nohur Mountain Village

Nohur — is not just a point on the map, but a unique ethnographic reserve hidden deep in the mountains. Here, at an altitude of over 1000 meters, its own measured and secluded life flows.

  • Road to the Clouds: A picturesque and exciting journey along mountain serpentine roads awaits us to the isolated tribal village of Nohur.
  • Unique Cemetery: Visit to the famous local memorial, where each tombstone is topped with massive horns of mountain goats — an ancient totem protecting the peace of the departed.
  • Cultural Immersion: Interaction with the hospitable local residents (Nohurli), who have preserved a unique dialect, authentic traditions, and the secrets of hand weaving.
  • Traditional Lunch: A genuine village lunch as guests of a local family or in a picturesque local restaurant serving dishes made from the freshest mountain produce.
Note: Access to the mountain village is directly dependent on weather and road conditions. In the event of winter snowfall or heavy torrential rain in the mountains, for your safety, the program will be adjusted, and we will arrange a comfortable alternative lunch.

Kow-Ata Underground Lake

After a hearty lunch, we will head to one of the region's most mysterious natural monuments — the Bakharden Cave, which hides a thermal wonder.

  • Descent into the Cave: A walk along mountain trails to the famous Kow-Ata underground lake (takes about 1 hour). We will descend into a deep, legendary limestone cave.
  • Healing Swim: An opportunity to swim in naturally warm, mineral-rich thermal hydrogen sulfide waters. The water temperature here remains at 35°C year-round, offering incredible relaxation after a busy day.

Return and Evening Program

Filled with emotions and refreshed by the warm waters of Kow-Ata, we make our way back to the capital.

  • Return to Ashgabat: Transfer on the final leg of the route back to the city (~100 km drive, approximately 1.5 hours).
  • Dinner: A cozy evening and dinner at one of Ashgabat's best local restaurants, where you can share impressions of the day.
  • Overnight Stay: Rest and accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 5 Ashgabat → Ancient Merv → Ashgabat

One-Day Expedition to Ancient Merv: A Journey Through Centuries

Morning Departure

  • 07:30 — Morning Departure from Ashgabat: Travel east on the high-speed highway (autobahn) Ashgabat — Mary. Enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey through changing landscapes (~360 km, approximately 3.5–4 hours).

Lunch in Mary Region

  • Traditional Lunch: Arrival in the Mary Region and a traditional lunch at a local restaurant in Mary or Bayramaly, where you can sample national Turkmen cuisine.

Ancient Merv Excursion

Visit the impressive archaeological park of Ancient Merv, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore key historical attractions along an optimized route:

  • Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum: a 12th-century Seljuk architectural masterpiece, famous for its legendary double-dome construction.
  • Big and Small Kyz-Kala: The famous 'corrugated' mud-brick fortresses (7th–12th centuries), striking with the monumentality of their walls.
  • Askhab Mausoleums and the Ancient Sardoba: Visit the sacred burial sites of Prophet Muhammad's companions, along with adjacent medieval public baths and the complex desert water storage system (Sardoba).
  • Erk-Kala and Gyaur-Kala: Ascend the massive ancient citadels, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the vast archaeological park.
Note: Ancient Merv is home to many other hidden ruins; additional minor historical attractions within the archaeological park can be explored upon request, depending on your time and interests.

Return

  • Return by Highway: Return to the capital via the high-speed autobahn, admiring the sunset over the desert horizon during a peaceful journey.
  • Overnight: Accommodation at a hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 6 Ashgabat → Darvaza Gas Crater

Journey from Ashgabat to the fiery heart of the Karakum Desert

An expedition through Turkmenistan is a route of contrasts, where ultra-modern marble architecture gives way to the pristine emptiness of one of the world's greatest deserts. We have prepared a detailed guide for you to the most captivating segment of this journey.

Ashgabat City Tour

After breakfast, enjoy a morning stroll through Ashgabat's modern monuments, parks, and cultural attractions, tailored to your preferences. The white-marble capital will impress you with its scale, futuristic design, and impeccable order on its streets.

Lunch

Before the long journey, a hearty traditional lunch awaits you at a colorful local restaurant, where you can try famous Turkmen manti or juicy shashlik.

Transfer to the Karakum Desert

In the afternoon, depart from Ashgabat northward into the vast Karakum Desert (~270 km, approximately 3.5 hours). Please note that some sections of the road are uneven, so the ride will be bumpy — get ready, as this is a real off-road adventure in powerful SUVs!

Stops at Desert Craters

En route to our main destination, we will make brief stops at the unique Water and Mud craters. These are rare and highly photogenic geological phenomena, showcasing the hidden and sometimes unexpected life of the harsh desert.

Darvaza Gas Crater ("Shining of the Karakums")

Arrival at the legendary burning gas crater, known worldwide as the "Gates of Hell". We will arrive just in time to witness the sunset in the desert — at this moment, the fiery glow of the giant sinkhole begins to intensify dramatically against the darkening sky.

Evening and Dinner

Enjoy a traditional outdoor barbecue dinner, prepared by our team right at the camp. A night in the heart of the desert offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, away from city lights, and stunning night photography of the crater.

Overnight Stay

The true highlight of the day is an overnight stay in a traditional Turkmen yurt or a comfortable tented camp right next to the humming crater under the boundless dome of the starry sky.

What to bring for this trip:

  • Warm clothing: Desert temperatures can drop sharply at night.
  • Closed, comfortable shoes: For safe walks on the sand around the crater.
  • Camera and tripod: To capture the best night shots of Darvaza.
  • Sun protection: Sunglasses and cream will be useful during the first half of the journey.

Learn about other tours to Darvaza →

Day 7 Darvaza Gas Crater → Ashgabat

Desert Magic: Sunrise at Darvaza Crater and Return to Ashgabat

Expedition Program

  • Sunrise: Optional — pre-dawn visit to the edge of the crater to enjoy the surreal morning light and capture the last reflections of the flame before the sun rises over the desert.
  • Breakfast and Departure: Enjoy a fresh camp breakfast, pack your belongings, and begin the return journey through the Karakum Desert to the capital (~270 km, approximately 3.5 hours).
  • Lunch: Lunch upon arrival in Ashgabat.
  • Ashgabat Tour: Spend the afternoon exploring the remaining sights, museums, or colorful local bazaars of Ashgabat that you haven't yet visited — this is the ideal time to buy souvenirs.
  • Overnight: Accommodation at a hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 8 Ashgabat → Ashgabat Airport

Journey Home: Concluding Our Eastern Adventure

Our incredible journey through mysterious and hospitable Turkmenistan has reached its final chapter. We've seen the futuristic avenues of the capital, gazed into the burning heart of the desert, and touched the ancient secrets of the Silk Road. It's time to return home, carrying with us a wealth of vivid memories and hundreds of unique photos.

Final Day Program

  • Airport Transfer: Depending on your flight schedule — breakfast at the hotel and individual transfer to Ashgabat International Airport (ASB) for your departure. End of tour.

«Every journey changes us. But the East leaves a special, warm aftertaste in the soul that will continue to warm us long after the plane's wheels touch down on the home runway.»

Useful Information Before Departure

Please check all your documents (passport, airline tickets, insurance) before leaving the hotel. We remind you that check-in for international flights at Ashgabat Airport begins 3 hours before departure. If you need assistance with luggage or have questions about your transfer, your personal guide is always available.

Accommodations

Ashgabat
4 nights
Standard: Hotel "Mizan", Bagt Koshgi Hotel
Comfort: Hotel "Oguzkent", Hotel "Archabil"
Balkanabat
1 nights
Standard: Nebitchi Hotel
Gyzylarbat
1 nights
Standard: Hotel "Chynar"
Darvaza
1 nights
Standard: Yurt Camp

FAQ

What are the key attractions and experiences included in this 8-day Turkmenistan tour?
This 8-day tour is a grand adventure across Turkmenistan, covering its best sites. You will start your journey in the white-marble capital Ashgabat, take an overnight train ride to the Caspian Sea coast, where the fiery landscapes of Yangykala Canyon await you. The tour also includes an introduction to the mountain culture of Nohur, swimming in the warm thermal waters of the underground Kov-Ata lake, exploring the ancient ruins of Merv (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and culminates in an unforgettable night camping in a traditional yurt by the breathtaking burning Darvaza gas crater deep in the Karakum Desert.
What are the accommodation and transportation arrangements between locations during the tour?
The tour includes various types of transportation and accommodation. The program features an overnight train journey to the Caspian coast. The highlight of the adventure will be an overnight stay in a traditional yurt during camping at the Darvaza gas crater. In other locations, such as Ashgabat, comfortable hotels will likely be provided. Transportation between various attractions, including canyons and the desert, will be carried out using appropriate vehicles capable of handling such routes.
Is special physical preparation required to participate in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as exploring ancient ruins, walks through canyons, and swimming in the underground Kov-Ata lake. Additionally, an overnight camping stay in a yurt is planned. While the tour does not require extreme physical preparation, a moderate level of physical activity and readiness for long transfers, walking excursions, and an overnight stay in field conditions (in a yurt) will be beneficial. Participants should be prepared for active exploration and changing conditions.

Tags

From Ashgabat
Category: Yangykala & Caspian Ancient Merv Ashgabat City & Around Darvaza Gas Crater Classic Turkmenistan (5–10 days)
1 month ago

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Categories
Yangykala & Caspian 10 Kunya-Urgench (Dashoguz) 18 Ancient Merv 32 Ashgabat City & Around 40 Darvaza Gas Crater 37 Classic Turkmenistan (5–10 days) 12 Short Breaks (1–3 days) 23 All Tours 47 Tour Groups
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From Shavat / Khiva 17 From Farap / Bukhara 13 From Ashgabat 16
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