Private Travel
Turkmenistan
Private
Private Tour
Kunya-Urgench to Ashgabat – 8 Days
Join us on a 8-day journey that follows the highlights of history and the natural wonders of Turkmenistan, from the mystical Door to Hell in the Karakum Desert to the marble splendour of Ashgabat. This Silk Road tour is part of a broader journey through the five stans of Central Asia, allowing travellers to visit multiple countries on a single trip. We start at the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan border, then head to the ancient city of Kunya-Urgench, a remnant of the medieval Khorezmshah Empire, and into the heart of the Turkmenistan desert to see the amazing Darvaza Gas Crater. Along the way we visit the remote village of Damla where traditional Turkmen life thrives in the sand.
In our small group, we then fly to Mary, the gateway to the ancient city of Merv, a major Silk Road hub, and then back to Ashgabat, where modernity and heritage blend seamlessly. We visit the archaeological site of Gonur Depe, shop at the lively Tolkuchka Market, and experience the healing waters of Kov-Ata, and end our tour that captures the essence of Turkmenistan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Turkmenistan is a land of ancient civilizations and a crossroads of cultures, with its position along the Silk Road shaping its unique identity. The course of the tour includes visits to natural wonders like the Caspian Sea, mud volcanoes, and even sites with dinosaur footprints.
SILK ROAD CITIES & CARAVAN ROUTES: This Silk Road tour traces the footsteps of ancient camel caravans, exploring timeless cities like Kunya-Urgench, Merv, and Ashgabat. These Silk Road cities once linked civilisations from East to West, their markets and monuments bearing witness to historic caravan routes that once echoed with trade, culture, and the footsteps of travellers.
DARVAZA GAS CRATER & DESERT CAMPING: Venture into the Karakum Desert to witness the blazing Darvaza gas crater, famously known as the Door to Hell. Camp under desert stars in one of Turkmenistan’s most dramatic landscapes, a surreal natural wonder that captivates photographers, adventurers, and those tracing the fiery edges of Central Asia’s Silk Road history.
MERV, GONUR DEPE & ANCIENT EMPIRES: Discover the lost civilisations of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan through ancient World Heritage Sites like Merv and Gonur Depe. These cities, once threatened by Genghis Khan, played central roles in Silk Road trade. Archaeological treasures reveal stories of early urban planning, faith, and power across this once-mighty desert empire.
ASHGABAT, OLD NISA & TURKMEN HERITAGE: Explore the contrasts of modern Ashgabat and ancient Old Nisa, the former Parthian capital. Marvel at white-marble cityscapes, grand mosques, and Soviet-era relics. This final chapter of your Turkmenistan Silk Road tour weaves together dynastic glory and present-day ambition in a region where history and identity remain powerfully intertwined.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
This 8-day Turkmenistan Silk Road tour explores ancient cities, desert wonders, and cultural heritage. Visit UNESCO sites like Kunya-Urgench and Merv, camp by the Darvaza gas crater, experience village life in Damla, and discover Ashgabat’s marble splendour—an unforgettable journey through the heart of Central Asia’s Silk Road history and landscapes.
Start your 8-day journey in Turkmenistan in the border town of Shavat where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travellers. Turkmenistan is located in Central Asia and shares borders with neighbouring countries such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Iran, making it a crossroads of diverse cultures and histories. To the south, Turkmenistan borders Afghanistan and Iran, while the east and west of the country each offer distinct landscapes and unique cultural influences. Russian acts as a common language for inter-ethnic communication in the cities and among travelers. A short drive brings you to Dashoguz, a city that thrives in an oasis in the north thanks to modern irrigation. Check into your hotel in Dashoguz and rest and prepare for the adventure ahead, get ready to discover the many wonders of this off the beaten path country.
Head to the ancient city of Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the heart of the Khorezmshah Empire. Here, you'll get a bit of history about the site, learning how its mausoleums and monuments are remnants of a bygone era. This part of the trip is often a highlight of many Turkmenistan trips, drawing travellers from around the world to experience its unique heritage. Then cross the Karakum Desert, with the flaming craters and caves en route, and camp under the stars close to the amazing Door to Hell.
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Leave early for Damla, an isolated village in the Karakum Desert. The journey is a spectacle in itself, passing the remnants of the ancient Tethys sea and the dunes. In Damla experience village life firsthand, stay in a homestay and get a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Turkmenistan’s desert dwellers. Guests are typically offered local drink options such as tea, which is a staple in Turkmen hospitality, and sometimes homemade beverages depending on the season.
After breakfast, depart Damla and travel across the desert landscapes to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s extraordinary capital. Along the way, stop in Yerbent, a desert village where traditional Turkmen life still thrives alongside occasional signs of modernity. On arrival in Ashgabat, check into your comfortable hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You might take a stroll through the wide boulevards or admire the gleaming marble architecture that has earned Ashgabat a place in the Guinness World Records. This evening offers a gentle introduction to the capital before deeper exploration begins over the coming days.
Fly from Ashgabat to Mary and journey to the ancient city of Merv, one of the most important Silk Road centres and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Roam through centuries of civilisation in this vast archaeological park, where empires once rose and fell. Continue to Gonur Depe, the heart of the Margiana Bronze Age civilisation, where temples, homes, and early urban planning remain visible in the desert sands. This historical day gives fascinating insight into Turkmenistan’s central role in early trade and empire. Return to Mary and relax at your hotel after a deeply enriching cultural exploration.
Begin your morning with a visit to Mary’s local history museum, which showcases archaeological finds from nearby sites, providing further context to the previous day’s discoveries. Later, fly back to Ashgabat for a blend of cultural immersion and natural wonders. Explore Tolkuchka Bazaar, a lively market rich in colours and local crafts. Visit Geok Depe Mosque, a site of spiritual importance, before continuing to the Kov-Ata underground lake—an intriguing natural thermal spring hidden in a limestone cave. Return to Ashgabat in the evening, with time to relax and reflect on the diverse beauty of Turkmenistan.
Explore the Parthian Empire with a visit to Old Nisa, set against the Kopet-Dag Mountains. Then go to Kipchak to see Turkmenistan's biggest mosque and the first President's mausoleum. Your last day in Ashgabat includes visits to significant monuments and parks to get a full picture of the country's heritage and achievements. Spend your last evening reflecting on the journey.
Have a relaxing breakfast at your hotel and check out. Reflect on the amazing moments and new friends made over the past 8 days as you are transferred to Ashgabat's international airport. Depart Turkmenistan with a full heart and ready for your next adventure, with stories of a country rich in history, culture and nature.
This Turkmenistan Silk Road tour was inspired by the enduring legacy of ancient caravan routes that once linked the great Silk Road cities of Central Asia. From camel caravans to UNESCO-listed sites like Kunya-Urgench and Merv, the region offered a powerful connection to the cultures and empires that shaped the historical trade network.
Equally inspiring are Turkmenistan’s natural wonders. The flaming Darvaza gas crater, or Door to Hell, and the desert village of Damla reflect the raw beauty and traditional life of the Karakum Desert. These experiences reveal a side of the Silk Road tour that is both immersive and off the beaten path.
To complete the journey, we included the modern capital Ashgabat, the ancient ruins of Old Nisa, and sites tied to Genghis Khan. Together, they highlight the contrast between past and present, creating a meaningful route through the heart of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
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.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
Experience a 17-day journey through Central Asia's Silk Road. Travel with expert guides from Bishkek to Ashgabat, exploring Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Discover ancient cities, natural wonders, and cultural treasures in a small-group adventure. Book now for an unforgettable experience!
Hiking/Trekking, History & Archaeology
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17 days
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
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Discover the heart of Central Asia on a 17-day journey spanning Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Explore majestic landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Silk Road cities with expert guidance, creating a rich cultural and historical experience across five remarkable nations. This tour operates with minimum 6 persons.
People & Culture, Off Grid, AONB
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Uncover Turkmenistan’s cultural treasures on this 8-day heritage tour. From Ashgabat’s grand monuments to ancient Merv, Bronze Age Gonur Depe, and coastal Turkmenbashi, experience a fascinating blend of history, landscapes, and tradition, guided by Asian Geographical’s expert local team.
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Discover Turkmenistan's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes on a 6-day tour, from the modern marvels of Ashgabat to the ancient ruins of Merv and the traditional life in Bokurdak.
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Turkmenistan's Desert Wonders is a 9-day adventure through ancient cities, vast deserts, and modern marvels. Discover UNESCO sites, the flaming Gates of Hell, and remote desert villages. From archaeological ruins to white-marble Ashgabat, this tour reveals the rich history, culture, and surreal beauty of Turkmenistan with expert guidance throughout.
Heritage, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Experience a 17-day journey through Central Asia's Silk Road. Travel with expert guides from Bishkek to Ashgabat, exploring Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Discover ancient cities, natural wonders, and cultural treasures in a small-group adventure. Book now for an unforgettable experience!
Hiking/Trekking, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on a 17-day journey spanning Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Explore majestic landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Silk Road cities with expert guidance, creating a rich cultural and historical experience across five remarkable nations. This tour operates with minimum 6 persons.
People & Culture, Off Grid, AONB
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
Explore Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a cultural journey through Silk Road cities, ancient ruins, and desert wonders. From Tashkent to Samarkand, Khiva to Merv, experience rich history, traditional crafts, and dramatic landscapes on a multi-centre tour designed for curious travellers seeking depth, beauty, and discovery.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
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Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Explore Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a cultural journey through Silk Road cities, ancient ruins, and desert wonders. From Tashkent to Samarkand, Khiva to Merv, experience rich history, traditional crafts, and dramatic landscapes on a multi-centre tour designed for curious travellers seeking depth, beauty, and discovery.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
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Uncover Turkmenistan’s cultural treasures on this 8-day heritage tour. From Ashgabat’s grand monuments to ancient Merv, Bronze Age Gonur Depe, and coastal Turkmenbashi, experience a fascinating blend of history, landscapes, and tradition, guided by Asian Geographical’s expert local team.
Art & Architecture, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Discover Turkmenistan's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes on a 6-day tour, from the modern marvels of Ashgabat to the ancient ruins of Merv and the traditional life in Bokurdak.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Turkmenistan's Desert Wonders is a 9-day adventure through ancient cities, vast deserts, and modern marvels. Discover UNESCO sites, the flaming Gates of Hell, and remote desert villages. From archaeological ruins to white-marble Ashgabat, this tour reveals the rich history, culture, and surreal beauty of Turkmenistan with expert guidance throughout.
Heritage, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Experience a 17-day journey through Central Asia's Silk Road. Travel with expert guides from Bishkek to Ashgabat, exploring Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Discover ancient cities, natural wonders, and cultural treasures in a small-group adventure. Book now for an unforgettable experience!
Hiking/Trekking, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
Discover the heart of Central Asia on a 17-day journey spanning Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Explore majestic landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Silk Road cities with expert guidance, creating a rich cultural and historical experience across five remarkable nations. This tour operates with minimum 6 persons.
People & Culture, Off Grid, AONB
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
