Turkmenistan Desert Expedition – 5 Days
Overview:
Experience the breathtaking desert scenery, isolated communities, and distinctive landmarks of Turkmenistan by setting off on an exciting 5-day journey across the immense Karakum Desert. Nature lovers and explorers who want to see the untamed splendor of one of the most intriguing deserts in Central Asia and the nomadic culture that has influenced the area for generations will love this trip.
Itinerary Summary
| Day | Location | Highlights |
| 1 | Ashgabat | Arrival, city tour |
| 2 | Darvaza Crater | Overnight camping |
| 3 | Karakum Desert | Camel trekking, desert picnic |
| 4 | Nohur | Village visit and homestay |
| 5 | Ashgabat | Return, departure |
Itinerary
- Arrival: Arrive in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital, famous for its impressive marble buildings and modern architecture. You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Start your journey with a brief city tour. Visit the Neutrality Monument and Independence Monument, key symbols of the nation's identity.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkmen welcome dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes such as plov and shashlik.
- Morning: Begin your adventure by departing Ashgabat and heading toward the Karakum Desert (approximately 5-6 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Upon arrival in the desert, explore the rugged and remote landscape, characterized by vast sand dunes and rugged terrain. Visit the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Gateway to Hell", a fiery natural wonder.
- Evening: Camp under the stars at a desert campsite near the Darvaza Gas Crater. Enjoy a traditional desert meal around a campfire, with the eerie glow of the flames in the background.
- Morning: Rise early to witness a breathtaking desert sunrise. After breakfast, embark on a desert trek to explore the unique features of the Karakum Desert, including sand dunes, ancient caravanserais, and remote nomadic settlements.
- Afternoon: Visit a local nomadic family and experience their traditional way of life. Learn about their culture, desert survival skills, and how they thrive in such an unforgiving environment.
- Evening: Return to the camp for dinner and enjoy a starlit evening in the desert, soaking in the tranquility of this unique landscape.
- Morning: After breakfast, depart the desert and travel to the ancient city of Merv, once a bustling oasis and a key stop along the Silk Road (approximately 4-5 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Explore the Merv archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Gyz Gala, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, and Mausoleum of the Abbasid Caliphate, all remnants of Merv’s significance as an ancient Silk Road city.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkmen dinner at a local restaurant in Merv.
- Morning: After breakfast, depart Merv and travel back to Ashgabat (approximately 5-6 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Upon arrival, relax and enjoy some leisure time in the city, perhaps visiting the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque or the Erwuz History Museum.
- Evening: Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your departure.
Inclusions
- Desert transport and camping gear.
- Local guides and meals.
Exclusions
- International airfare.
- Alcoholic beverages.
