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Luxury & Small Group Tours to Mary & Merv, Turkmenistan

Mary and Merv, located in southeastern Turkmenistan, are regions rich in history and culture. Mary, the modern city, is known for its significant role in the cotton industry and as a gateway to ancient Merv. The historical city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was one of the great cities of the Islamic world and a major stop on the Silk Road. Its ruins, including the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar and the Great Kyz Kala, offer a window into its past as a cultural and religious centre. Together, Mary and Merv represent the fascinating blend of Turkmenistan’s ancient history and modern development.

EXPERIENCES

A range of thrilling experiences handpicked by our experts. Don’t see one that’s just right for you? No problem. Our local insiders will create precisely what you want.

Ancient Merv


Often referred to as the "Queen of the World" in ancient times, Merv was a major oasis city on the Silk Road. Today, its ruins tell tales of conquests, faiths, and empires. Stroll through the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, and imagine the once-magnificent palaces and bustling bazaars. Every brick and path here echo stories of its illustrious past, making it an archaeological paradise.

Mary’s Regional Museum


House in a strikingly modern building, the Mary Museum offers a fascinating blend of history and culture. Its vast collection spans artifacts from Ancient Merv, ethnographic exhibits, and showcases the evolution of the region. Here, history enthusiasts can get a comprehensive understanding of the region's timeline, from ancient civilizations to contemporary Turkmenistan.

Gyz Gala


Translating to "Maiden's Castle", Gyz Gala is one of Merv's most iconic structures. This 8th-century fortress with its distinct architecture – featuring corrugated walls and semi-circular towers – stands as a testament to the region's unique architectural evolution. As you walk its corridors, it's easy to be transported back to the times when it might have served as a refuge or a royal abode.

The Twin Fortresses


Wander through the Abdullah Khan Kala and Bairam Ali Khan Kala Fortresses. These fortresses are incredible remnants of the 15th and 16th centuries, representing the Timurid era's architectural prowess. The formidable walls, towers, and remains of mosques within provide a deep insight into the strategic and spiritual importance of these fortifications. Their majestic ruins set against the vast desert landscape create an evocative and picturesque setting.

Mary’s Bustling Bazaar


Experience the heartbeat of modern-day Mary at its vibrant bazaar. A cacophony of sights, sounds, and aromas, the market offers everything from fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies to handwoven textiles and traditional jewellery. Engage with local artisans, savour authentic Turkmen cuisine, and immerse yourself in the daily life of the people of Mary.

Ertugrul Gazi Mosque


Modelled after Istanbul's iconic Blue Mosque, the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque in Mary is a stunning piece of architecture. With its soaring minarets and grand domes, it dominates the city's skyline. Step inside to witness its ornate interiors and experience a sense of tranquillity. The mosque stands as a symbol of faith and the deep cultural ties between Turkmenistan and Turkey.

Central Asia Explorer Tour: Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan
CENTRAL ASIA EXPLORER TOUR: UZBEKISTAN & TURKMENISTAN

Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £6,430

Grand Tour of Central Asia: From Steppes to Cities
GRAND TOUR OF CENTRAL ASIA: FROM STEPPES TO CITIES

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.

Interest

Heritage, History & Archaeology

Destination

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

20 days

Price For Person

From £17,870

Turkmenistan's Cultural Tapestry: A Journey Through Time
TURKMENISTAN'S CULTURAL TAPESTRY: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

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.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

6 days

Price For Person

From £3,170

Turkmenistan's Desert Wonders: An Epic Journey
TURKMENISTAN'S DESERT WONDERS: AN EPIC JOURNEY

Embark on a nine-day exploration of Turkmenistan's wonders, from the historical depth of Kunya-Urgench and the fiery spectacle of the Darvaza Gas Crater to the modern marvels of Ashgabat and the ancient grandeur of Merv.

Interest

Heritage, Off Grid, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

9 days

Price For Person

From £3,090

Turkmenistan's Silk Road Spectacle: Ancient Empires to Modern Marvels
TURKMENISTAN'S SILK ROAD SPECTACLE: ANCIENT EMPIRES TO MODERN MARVELS

Embark on a captivating nine-day journey through Turkmenistan, exploring ancient ruins, desert wonders, and the marble splendour of Ashgabat. Experience cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural phenomena in this unforgettable adventure.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

8 days

Price For Person

From £3,250

Turkmenistan's Timeless Treasures: From Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi
TURKMENISTAN'S TIMELESS TREASURES: FROM ASHGABAT TO TURKMENBASHI

Embark on an eight-day odyssey through Turkmenistan, from Ashgabat's modern marvels to the time-honoured ruins of Merv and Nisa, culminating in the serene coastal vistas and vibrant bazaars of Turkmenbashi along the Caspian Sea.

Interest

Art & Architecture, Off Grid, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

8 days

Price For Person

From £3,650

Central Asia Explorer Tour: Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan
CENTRAL ASIA EXPLORER TOUR: UZBEKISTAN & TURKMENISTAN

Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £6,430

Grand Tour of Central Asia: From Steppes to Cities
GRAND TOUR OF CENTRAL ASIA: FROM STEPPES TO CITIES

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.

Interest

Heritage, History & Archaeology

Destination

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

20 days

Price For Person

From £17,870

Central Asia Explorer Tour: Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan
CENTRAL ASIA EXPLORER TOUR: UZBEKISTAN & TURKMENISTAN

Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £6,430

Grand Tour of Central Asia: From Steppes to Cities
GRAND TOUR OF CENTRAL ASIA: FROM STEPPES TO CITIES

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.

Interest

Heritage, History & Archaeology

Destination

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

20 days

Price For Person

From £17,870

Turkmenistan's Cultural Tapestry: A Journey Through Time
TURKMENISTAN'S CULTURAL TAPESTRY: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

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.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

6 days

Price For Person

From £3,170

Turkmenistan's Desert Wonders: An Epic Journey
TURKMENISTAN'S DESERT WONDERS: AN EPIC JOURNEY

Embark on a nine-day exploration of Turkmenistan's wonders, from the historical depth of Kunya-Urgench and the fiery spectacle of the Darvaza Gas Crater to the modern marvels of Ashgabat and the ancient grandeur of Merv.

Interest

Heritage, Off Grid, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

9 days

Price For Person

From £3,090

Turkmenistan's Silk Road Spectacle: Ancient Empires to Modern Marvels
TURKMENISTAN'S SILK ROAD SPECTACLE: ANCIENT EMPIRES TO MODERN MARVELS

Embark on a captivating nine-day journey through Turkmenistan, exploring ancient ruins, desert wonders, and the marble splendour of Ashgabat. Experience cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural phenomena in this unforgettable adventure.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

8 days

Price For Person

From £3,250

Turkmenistan's Timeless Treasures: From Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi
TURKMENISTAN'S TIMELESS TREASURES: FROM ASHGABAT TO TURKMENBASHI

Embark on an eight-day odyssey through Turkmenistan, from Ashgabat's modern marvels to the time-honoured ruins of Merv and Nisa, culminating in the serene coastal vistas and vibrant bazaars of Turkmenbashi along the Caspian Sea.

Interest

Art & Architecture, Off Grid, History & Archaeology

Destination

Turkmenistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

8 days

Price For Person

From £3,650

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What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said us recently.

what other says

A COUPLE FROM BIRMINGHAM

"Every aspect of the trip, from guides to accommodation and the well-planned itinerary ... was seamlessly orchestrated. We will always recommend Asian Geographical Expeditions for anyone looking to explore Central Asia in unparalleled depth and comfort."

Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
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