Embark on an 8-day, 7-night journey through the heart of Central Asia, beginning in Ashgabat with its timeless architectural beauty and vibrant culture, and continuing through historic marvels like Nissa, Kunya Urgench, Merv, and Gonurdepe, before embracing the serenity of the Caspian Sea and the dramatic Yangikala Canyons—an immersive experience rich in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and comfort, guided by experts and enhanced by thoughtful amenities.
Upon arriving at Ashgabat International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your dedicated tour guide, who will accompany you to your hotel for a smooth check-in. Enjoy a restful overnight stay in the heart of Ashgabat, ready to begin your journey through Turkmenistan.
Start your day with a big breakfast at your hotel. Then, you’ll drive to the amazing NissaHistorical Park, which sits high up on a hill at the bottom of the Kopetdag Mountains. This was a really important place for the early Parthian Empire back in the 3rd century BC, and its old ruins show a lot about Turkmenistan’s history. Next, you’ll go to Kipchak to see the grand Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque and Mausoleum. It’s a special place where beautiful buildings meet deep spiritual meaning. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the famous Akhalteke horse stable. Here, you can see the legendary Turkmen horses, which are symbols of national pride. You’ll get to admire these graceful and strong horses in their natural setting at private farms, watching them from a respectable distance. At the end of the day, you’ll head back to Ashgabat for the night.
After breakfast, you’ll head to the airport for your morning flight to Dashoguz (flight schedule subject to change). Once you land, get ready for an exciting trip to Kunya Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was a key Silk Road city and the capital of the Khorezm Empire in the 12th century; there, you’ll explore amazing old buildings like mausoleums, fortified walls, Central Asia’s tallest minaret, and the Kyrk Molla pilgrimage mound, all showing the city’s rich history of spirituality and learning, celebrated by greats like Biruni and Avicenna, before flying back to Ashgabat in the evening (flight schedule subject to change) and smoothly transferring to your hotel for the night.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to the airport for your morning flight to Mary (flight schedule subject to change). Head out on an excursion to the historical site of Gonurdepe, located 90 km away. Archaeological excavations since 1971 have revealed its significance as a potential fifth center of ancient civilization—alongside Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China.
Continue with a visit to Ancient Merv, once a major crossroads on the Great Silk Road. This vast city became famous in ancient times for its size and importance. It was known as one of the major centers of Islamic culture and power—just like Baghdad, Cairo, and Damascus.Enjoy a guided tour of its remarkable landmarks, including Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Soltan Gala, the Mausoleum of Soltan Sanjar, and the Mausoleum of Ibn Zeid. After the tour, return to Mary for an overnight stay.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Mary Airport for your flight to Ashgabat (flight schedule subject to change). Upon arrival, embark on a city tour of the capital, beginning with a visit to the Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, a striking tribute to Ertogrul, father of Osman I—the founder of the Ottoman Empire. Continue to Independence Park—a beautiful place filled with large monuments and gardens that show the pride and hopes of modern Turkmenistan. Then go up the Arch of Neutrality, a special landmark where you can enjoy wide views of the city from high above. Conclude the day with a visit to the National Museum of History, opened in 1998, which features nine exhibition halls showcasing Turkmenistan’s rich archaeological heritage, including artifacts uncovered from ancient sites across the country.
Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Ashgabat Airport for your flight to Turkmenbashy (flight schedule subject to change). Upon arrival, enjoy a smooth transfer and check-in at your hotel. Spend your time relaxing by the peaceful Caspian Sea or walking around nearby areas as you wish. Overnight stay in Turkmenbashy.
After breakfast, drive back to Ashgabat. Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport to take an international flight. *End of the tour*
