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Turkmenistan

Group Size

Private

6 days from £3,170

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Private Tour

Explore Turkmenistan’s Heritage, Culture & Historic Cities

Best of Turkmenistan Discovery Tour

Ashgabat to Ashgabat – 6 Days

Expedition Overview

Discover the wonders of Turkmenistan on a journey that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The Best of Turkmenistan Discovery Tour takes you from the striking white marble capital of Ashgabat to the ancient Silk Road cities that once connected East and West. Explore UNESCO-listed Old Nisa and Merv, marvel at medieval architecture in Kunya-Urgench, and uncover centuries-old traditions still alive in remote villages. Along the way, visit fascinating museums, bustling markets, and natural wonders like the warm underground waters of Kov-Ata cave.

This immersive tour offers more than just sightseeing. You’ll meet local communities, witness the grace of the famed Akhal-Tekke horses, and taste authentic Turkmen delicacies. Every day reveals a new layer of the country’s heritage, from grand fortresses to delicate handwoven carpets. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll gain unique insights into Turkmenistan’s rich past and vibrant present, making this an unforgettable cultural adventure.


Highlights

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN TURKMENISTAN: Visit iconic sites including Old Nisa, Merv, and Kunya-Urgench, each offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Silk Road history. Wander among ancient fortresses, mausoleums, and archaeological remains that reveal Turkmenistan’s role as a crossroads of civilisations. These remarkable landmarks are essential stops for culture and history lovers.

ASHGABATS LANDMARKS AND MUSEUMS: Explore the capital’s dazzling white marble architecture, the Park of Independence monument, and vibrant city streets. Delve deeper into Turkmen culture at the National Museum of History, the Earthquake Museum, and the Carpet Museum, showcasing centuries of artistry and heritage that remain an important part of national identity today.

ENCOUNTER THE AKHAL-TEKKE HORSES: Travel to Geok-Depe to see the elegant Akhal-Tekke horses, prized for their speed, beauty, and endurance. Learn about their importance in Turkmen history and culture, and witness these pure-blood horses up close at a specialist farm in the heart of Turkmenistan’s horse-breeding region.

AUTHENTIC TURKMEN VILLAGE LIFE: Experience the warmth of Turkmen hospitality in Bokurdak village. Join locals in traditional bread-making, watch skilled embroidery, and sample camel milk and homemade pastries. This hands-on visit offers a rare opportunity to connect with everyday life, far from the city, and understand Turkmenistan’s rural traditions and community spirit.

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DAY 1

Ashgabat

Arrive early in Ashgabat, where your guide greets you and takes you to your hotel. Spend the day exploring the capital’s famous landmarks, starting with the impressive white marble monument in the Park of Independence, often compared to the Eiffel Tower. Visit the Earthquake Museum to learn about the city’s rebuilding and the Carpet Museum to admire the fine craftsmanship of Turkmen rugs. Enjoy a leisurely pace, taking in the city’s wide boulevards, modern architecture, and cultural charm. Return to your hotel in the evening for a relaxing rest after an informative introduction to Turkmenistan’s fascinating capital city.

DAY 2

Ashgabat

Start the day with a visit to Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Parthian Empire. Spread over 14 hectares, the fortress reveals the splendour and power of this ancient civilisation. Wander among the ruins, imagining life in a bustling city over 2,000 years ago. Continue to the National Museum of History and Ethnography, where artefacts, traditional costumes, and archaeological finds tell Turkmenistan’s rich story. The exhibits provide a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural roots. In the evening, return to your hotel in Ashgabat to relax and prepare for another day of discovery.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Ashgabat

DAY 3

Ashgabat

Leave the city for Geok-Depe, home of the famous Akhal-Tekke horses, renowned for their beauty and strength. Visit a local stud farm to see these rare pure-blood horses up close and learn about their importance in Turkmen culture. On the way, pass historic sites such as a former Tekke fortress. Continue to Kov-Ata cave, where warm underground waters invite you for a swim in a unique natural setting. The combination of history, tradition, and nature makes for a memorable day. Return to Ashgabat in the evening for a well-earned rest at your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 4

Mary & Merv

Fly from Ashgabat to Mary and travel to the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a key Silk Road centre, Merv was one of the largest cities in the world. Explore its vast 1,200-hectare site, filled with fort ruins, old city walls, and centuries-old mausoleums. Learn about the city’s rise and fall while walking among its atmospheric remains. Later, visit the Mary History Museum, where archaeological finds trace the area’s history back to the third millennium BC. End the day with a transfer to a comfortable three-star hotel in Mary for an overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Mary & Merv

DAY 5

Ashgabat

After breakfast, take an early flight back to Ashgabat, then journey through the Karakum Desert to the village of Bokurdak. Experience authentic Turkmen life by meeting locals in their homes. Watch women create beautiful embroidery, help with traditional bread baking, and taste local treats like camel milk and ishlekli pastries. Enjoy warm hospitality as you learn about customs passed down for generations. This is a chance to see everyday life beyond the cities. In the evening, return to Ashgabat for your final night in Turkmenistan, reflecting on the diverse experiences of your journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 6

Ashgabat - Departure

Travel to Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Khorezmshah Empire. Explore its medieval monuments, including mausoleums, fortress remains, and ancient mosques. Your guide will share stories of this once-prosperous city and its role in Central Asian history. After exploring, transfer to the Kunya-Urgench/Khojaeli border to continue your journey into your next destination.

Meals Included: Breakfast


The story

Inspired by Turkmenistan's enigmatic allure, this tour was crafted to unveil the nation's captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant modernity. 

The driving force behind designing this expedition was the desire to explore Turkmenistan's underappreciated cultural heritage, from the majestic ruins of Merv to the bustling streets of Ashgabat and the traditional village life in Bokurdak. 

By combining visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites with immersive experiences in local customs and traditions, this journey aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Turkmenistan's unique identity. 

Perfect for those drawn to uncovering hidden gems, the expedition appeals to enthusiasts of history, culture, and natural beauty alike.


What To Expect

Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.

TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.

Dates & Prices

Date
Adults from
Ticket Status

Date

1 Jun - 01 Jun, 2025 Reserve online

Prices From

£3,170 per Adult
Reserve online

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in British pounds (GBP) and are subject to change. Please refer to the terms and conditions of this trip for further details.

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Tour Style

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Price For Person

From £6,430

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