Journey Through Turkmenistan’s Historic Cities & Desert Landscapes

Ashgabat

Arrive in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, where you are met and transferred to your luxury hotel. Start to explore with visits to the Independence Monument and Neutrality Square, two iconic landmarks that represent the country’s pride and politics. Then visit the Carpet Museum where you will see centuries of craftsmanship. This is the best place to understand Turkmen heritage through its most famous art form. Throughout your journey you will be accompanied by Asian Geographical’s local expert guide who will give you historical insights and cultural context. In the evening, relax, settle into your hotel and get ready for tomorrow.

Mary & Merv

After breakfast visit Old Nisa, the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire, situated against the scenic Kopet-Dag Mountains. This UNESCO site will give you a glimpse into the power, art and architecture of a bygone civilisation. On the way back to Ashgabat stop at Kipchak village to see Turkmenistan’s biggest mosque and the mausoleum of the first President, combining religious devotion and national history. Later fly to Mary and check into your hotel. This city will be your base for the next few days and will be your gateway to the region’s Silk Road treasures and archaeological wonders that span thousands of years.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Mary & Merv

Mary & Merv

After breakfast in Mary you'll visStart your day with a visit to the ancient city of Merv, once a major Silk Road hub and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the vast historical park where centuries of history are layered in fortresses, mausoleums and ancient city walls. Your guide will tell you stories of Merv’s golden age and its importance in connecting cultures. In the afternoon visit the Mary History Museum where you will see artefacts dating back to 3000 BC. These rare finds – from pottery to ancient manuscripts – will give you an insight into Turkmenistan’s heritage. Return to your hotel and relax, reflecting on today’s historical journey.it the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major Silk Road hub. Here in the 1200 hectare historical park you'll walk through millennia of history and see the layers of civilization that shaped the region. The day's adventure is complemented by a visit to the local history museum in Mary, with its treasure trove of archaeological finds dating back to 3000 BC.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Mary & Merv

Today you will visit Gonur Depe, the ancient capital of the Margiana civilisation, a Bronze Age culture that flourished in Turkmenistan’s desert. The drive will take you through changing landscapes of countryside and arid plains. Once at the site you will see the remains of palaces, temples and fortifications that will give you an insight into a civilisation older than the Silk Road. Your guide will help you piece together the history of this once thriving city. Return to Mary in the afternoon and have free time to relax or take a stroll. This is a good evening to try local cuisine and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dashoguz

Fly north to Dashoguz and visit Kunya-Urgench, once the capital of the Khorezmshah Empire and a major centre of Islamic culture. This UNESCO site is home to impressive mausoleums, minarets and mosque ruins that have survived invasions and time. Walk among these monuments and see the grandeur of medieval Central Asia. Your guide will tell you the history of the site from its rise as a cultural hub to its decline. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with its vibrant past. Return to Dashoguz for the evening and overnight before your journey continues to Turkmenistan’s Caspian Sea coastline.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Turkmenbashi

Fly to Turkmenbashi, a coastal city on the Caspian Sea. Upon arrival check into your 4-star hotel and have time to relax or explore the waterfront. Turkmenbashi offers a unique mix of sea views, port activity and relaxed promenades. You might take a walk along the seafront or try fresh seafood at a local restaurant. The city’s mild coastal climate is a change from the desert interiors. This is a day to unwind, prepare for tomorrow’s excursions and enjoy the slower pace of life by the Caspian shore. Overnight in Turkmenbashi.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Turkmenbashi

Ashgabat

Spend your last full day in Turkmenbashi and the Avaza resort area. Take a scenic boat trip along the canal and see modern resorts and waterfront developments. Visit the local bazaar where you will find fresh produce, spices and handmade goods. Stop at the Russian Orthodox Church, a reminder of the region’s cultural diversity. At the Local Lore Museum you will learn more about Turkmenbashi’s history and its connection to the sea. In the evening take a short flight back to Ashgabat for your last night and reflect on your journey through Turkmenistan’s history, landscapes and cultures.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ashgabat - Departure

After breakfast check out and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Depart with memories of Turkmenistan’s ancient cities, desert landscapes and warm hospitality.

Meals Included: Breakfast