Ancient Silk Road Adventure – 7 Days
Overview:
Step back in time and experience Turkmenistan’s rich history along the legendary Silk Road. This 7-day adventure takes you through ancient cities, vast deserts, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, uncovering the architectural and cultural wonders that once shaped Central Asia. From ancient ruins to bustling bazaars, this journey offers an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s past.
Itinerary Summary
| Day | Location | Highlights |
| 1 | Ashgabat | Arrival, city tour |
| 2 | Merv | UNESCO ancient ruins |
| 3 | Mary | Local bazaar, museum visit |
| 4 | Kunya-Urgench | Historical site exploration |
| 5 | Darvaza Crater | Overnight camping at the crater |
| 6 | Nisa | Explore ancient Parthian fortresses |
| 7 | Ashgabat | Return, farewell dinner |
Itinerary
- Arrival: Arrive in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, known for its striking white marble architecture. You'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Start your exploration with a visit to the Neutrality Monument and Independence Monument, iconic symbols of Turkmenistan's modern identity.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkmen dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes like plov and shashlik.
- Morning: Depart for Merv, one of the most important cities along the ancient Silk Road (approximately 5-6 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Explore the ancient ruins of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Gyz Gala, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, and the Mausoleum of the Abbasid Caliphate, all testaments to Merv's grandeur as a thriving Silk Road city.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant in Merv, savoring regional specialties.
- Morning: Drive to Mary, a city near the ancient Merv oasis (approximately 1 hour by road). Visit the Mary Museum, where you can view artifacts from the ancient city of Merv.
- Afternoon: Explore the Ancient Merv site, including the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar and the remnants of ancient fortifications.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant in Mary, offering traditional Turkmen cuisine.
- Morning: Continue your journey to Dashoguz (approximately 4-5 hours by road), a city near the historical ruins of Kunya-Urgench, another Silk Road gem.
- Afternoon: Visit the Kunya-Urgench archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes ancient mausoleums, minarets, and mosques, such as the Turabek Khanym Mausoleum and the Kutlug Timur Minaret.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant in Dashoguz, featuring traditional dishes such as manti and shurpa (soup).
- Morning: Travel to Darvaza, known for the famous "Gateway to Hell" — a natural gas field that has been burning for decades (approximately 4-5 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Visit the Darvaza Gas Crater, a spectacular sight as the flames rise from the ground, creating an eerie and unforgettable experience.
- Evening: Camp near the gas crater and enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, experiencing the unique atmosphere created by the burning crater.
- Morning: Return to Ashgabat (approximately 4-5 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque and the Erwuz History Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the history of the region and the Silk Road.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a high-end restaurant, with live music and traditional performances.
- Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your departure.
- End of Tour: Depart Turkmenistan with unforgettable memories of your journey along the ancient Silk Road.
Inclusions
- Accommodation (4-star hotels and camping gear).
- Domestic flights.
- Private transport and English-speaking guide.
- Entrance fees to all sites.
Exclusions
- International flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses and tips.
