DAY 1: FARAP — ANCIENT MERV — MARY

Upon arrival at the Farap Border between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, you will complete immigration formalities and meet your English-speaking guide and driver. Begin your journey into the heart of Turkmenistan with a scenic drive toward Ancient Merv, one of the most celebrated archaeological sites of Central Asia. Light refreshments will be provided en route. Upon reaching Old Merv, immerse yourself in the local culture with a vibrant traditional Turkmen show showcasing age-old customs and dances. Enjoy a delicious lunch in an authentic Turkmen yurt, followed by hands-on master classes in traditional tamdyr bread-making. Experience cultural immersion as you ride the legendary Akhal-Teke horses — Interact with the loyal Turkmen Alabai dogs and witness Turkmen rituals passed down through generations. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Merv, exploring the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar — The last great sultan of the Seljuk Empire — And the surrounding palace ruins that echo the region’s architectural magnificence. On the return drive to Mary, stop to visit a historic church en route. The evening concludes with dinner in Mary and check-in at a comfortable 4-star hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 2: MARY — BOKURDAK — DARVAZA (GAS CRATER ADVENTURE)

Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel, then head out along the Awtobanh highway towards Ashgabat. Stop at Bokurdak Village for a memorable Turkmen lunch featuring Tamdyrlyama — A whole young lamb cooked slowly in a traditional clay oven. After lunch, continue deep into the Garagum Desert toward the legendary Darvaza Gas Crater — the spectacular “Door to Hell” — A burning natural gas field that has become one of Turkmenistan’s most iconic sights. On the way, pause for a cultural stop at a local desert village to visit a traditional Turkmen yurt. As evening falls, enjoy a barbecue dinner beside the flaming crater, surrounded by the stark beauty of the desert under a sky full of stars. Spend the night in a traditional yurt camp, with sleeping bags or tents available on request. Each yurt accommodates up to five guests for a cozy and unforgettable desert stay.

DAY 3: DARVAZA — ASHGABAT (CITY TOUR AND HORSE FARM VISIT)

Wake up to the serenity of the desert and enjoy breakfast at Darvaza. Depart for Ashgabat, with a brief stop at the Mud and Water Craters for a photo opportunity. Upon arrival in the capital, begin your cultural discovery with visits to the National Museum and Gokdepe Mosque. Then proceed to the Turkmen Horse Farm, home of the world-renowned Akhal-Teke horses — An ancient and noble breed admired by kings and conquerors such as Alexander the Great and Darius I. These “Golden Horses” are known for their endurance — Elegance and spiritual significance. Weather permitting, the itinerary may be adjusted slightly. Afterward, check into your 4-star hotel in Ashgabat to rest and refresh. Enjoy a flavorful lunch at a local café. In the evening, embark on a panoramic city tour to discover the majestic white-marble capital — Visiting its scenic parks — Grand monuments and the Monument of Magtymguly Fragi. Explore the modern business district before heading to dinner and returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 4: DEPARTURE VIA BAJGIRAN (IRAN BORDER)

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time to explore Ashgabat’s Russian Bazaar, where you can shop for local souvenirs — Handmade crafts and traditional Turkmen jewelry. Following a light lunch, check out from your hotel and begin the journey to the Bajgiran border checkpoint, accompanied by your guide. Cross into Iran and continue your onward travels.

Thank you for traveling with us! Namaste — Until we meet again!