Turkmenistan Cultural and Natural Tour
6 DAYS IN TURKMENISTAN TOUR
Tour Details
-
Period
April - October -
Tour length and Participants
5 days, 2 - 10 participants -
Price from
$ / person (for a group of 10)
Turkmenistan Tour Highlights
Start on a captivating journey through Turkmenistan, where stunning contrasts of nature and culture await. Explore the dazzling white marble architecture of Ashgabat, with iconic landmarks like the Arch of Neutrality and the Wedding Palace.
Witness the dramatic beauty of Yangykala Canyons, also known as the “Fire Fortress,” where vibrant, colorful rock formations paint the landscape. Venture into the lunar-like terrain of Moon Mountain in the Syunt-Khasardag Nature Reserve, offering otherworldly vistas. Experience the remote village of Nokhur, steeped in rich traditions, home to a sacred wish tree and a unique cemetery. Delve into the country’s heritage by discovering the intricate art of Turkmen carpet weaving, a craft that has been passed down for generations.
Tour Itinerary
Arrival in Ashgabat International Airport. You will be met by our representatives and transferred to the hotel (early check-in). Free time.Afternoon you will have an Ashgabat city tour.
You will see the Wedding Palace, modern “Yildyz” Hotel, Ferries Wheel, Constitution Monument, Arch of Neutrality, Monument and Park of Independence, Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, Ashgabat Olympic Stadium and Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex. Overnight in Ashgabat.
Morning transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for a flight to Turkmenbashi at 06:20. Upon arrival at Turkmenbashi Airport, meet your driver for the quick city tour in Turkmenbashi and drive to Yangykala Canyons (180km, 3h), one of the scenic natural objects of Turkmenistan.
The word expression “Yangy kala” translates from Turkmen as “fire fortress”. Indeed, the sheer cliffs of white, yellow, ocher, purple and red colours, fancily carved by winds and rains, are very similar to the stone castles from a fantasy. Explore the Canyons. After exploration of the canyon, drive to Balkanabat (185km, 3h). Overnight at the hotel.
In the morning drive to Karakala (278km, 4h) via the Syunt-Khasardag nature reserve to see Moon Mountain. You will experience the Moon’s surface on Earth with outstanding landscapes.
Lunch on-site. Then, drive to Nokhur mountain village (129km, 2h). The village itself fills a small depression valley in the mountains of the Kopet Dag Range, apart from the main street through the middle of the town, the streets are so narrow that they only just fit a car between the high stone retaining walls on each side.
The Nohkuri people who populate this remote mountain village are quite different to other Turkmen tribes. According to legends, this was the place where Noah’s Ark was moored and all animals were let out and various seeds were planted.
Indeed, the nature of Nokhur differs from the surrounding places. Visit the great tree and one of the unique cemeteries, which is isolated. Nearly every grave is marked by a wooden post decorated with the horns of a mountain goat. Make your sacred wishes by visiting a wish tree named after Kyz Bibi. After sightseeing, drive to Ashgabat (157km, 2h). Overnight at the hotel.
BF at Hotel. Drive to visit the Carpet Museum, one of the best in Central Asia featuring designs from the Tekke, Yamud, Sarik and Chodor tribes. The Turkmen Carpet Museum is one of the cultural centres of Turkmenistan, where about 2000 carpet exhibits, including rare ones, are exhibited. For example, the museum has the smallest carpet to wear keys, as well as the world’s largest hand carpet with a total area of 301 m², which was woven in 2001, and in 2003 it was added to the Guinness Book of Records.
In the afternoon, you will drive to the Darvaza burning Gas Crater, which is a top international tourist destination. The area is rich in natural gas and the crater has been burning for over 50 years, making it shine like a pearl in the middle of the Karakum desert. You will also see water and mud craters. The trip provides an opportunity to experience the fresh air of the desert and the nomadic life. You will camp in the Turkmen national yurt or private tents and barbecue for dinner while enjoying the light of the Gas Crater in the night sky. This unique landscape will fascinate you and make you want to come back again.
Picnic-style breakfast in Darvaza. Drive to Ashgabat (5h).
Afternoon, drive to visit Nissa fortress – the Sanctuary of Parthian Kings. UNESCO declared the fortress a World Heritage Site in 2007. Nissa is described as one of the first capitals of the Parthians. It was founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211BC), and is reputedly the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings, although it has either been established that the fortress at Nissa was a royal residence or a mausoleum. The ruins of the ancient settlement Nissa are located 18 km from Ashgabat at Bagyr village.
Later drive to visit Horse Stable to see a national pride of the Turkmen people – Akhalteke horses, the nicest horses in the world. 5000 years ago, Turkmens began to breed Akhalteke horses. The World’s unique breed was never mixed with other breeds. Such illustrious Emperors like Alexander the Great, and Darius I desired to own Ahalteke horses. There are over 35 beautiful horses on the farm. Per superstition, every sick person who touches an Ahalteke horse will get well soon. Overnight in Ashgabat.
Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport. Departure.
Tour information
Included
- Letter of Invitation (State Registration, Travel Pass)
- Accommodation in DBL/Twin room:
– Sport 4* BB Hotel – 4 nights
– Nebitchi Hotel – 1 night
– Yurt Camp – 1 night (incl sleeping mats, sleeping bags, pillows, light)
– Yurt Camp – 1 night (incl sleeping mats, sleeping bags, pillows, light) - Escort English speaking guide service
- Transportation as per program per AC regular road vehicles and 4×4 where terrain requires
- Flight ticket: Mary – Ashgabat
- Entrance fee: per program
- Meals: BF at hotel, BBQ dinner at Darvaza
- 1.5 L water per person per day
- Travel tax
Not included
- International flights
- Cost of Turkmen visa w/border fees (70 – 100 USD)
- PCR test
- Payment for photo and video
- Meals: L & D
- Tips for guide and driver
- Medical insurance
- Services not shown in the program
Price for 2025
| Pax | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Pax | $2067 |
| 2 Pax | $1294 |
| 4 Pax | $1182 |
| 6 Pax | $1087 |
| 8 Pax | $1059 |
| 10 Pax | $1053 |
| S/S | $185 |
Notes:
- Due to the changing conditions of some roads & traffic, it might take slightly more or less time to drive than the mentioned driving time in the program
- Flight times are subject to change by Turkmenistan Airlines, the handbag is 5kg, and the baggage is 20kg per person, if the baggage is overweight you pay between 2-3$ per kg).
- If the traveler stays more than 3 working days in Turkmenistan, the travel agency will register and stamp your passport on a local Tourist Board.
- An express PCR test for Covid-19 will be taken upon arrival. It costs between 33-37 USD.
- Breakfast box in case of very early morning departures.
- Make sure you have a spare charge with you to facilitate and expedite visa and other procedures at the airport.
Book your tour here
If you would like to customize your tour please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are happy to organize a custom tour or to provide a modified itinerary based on one of the tours provided by the tour operators.
Turkmenistan travel information
Money & costs
Safety
Entry & exit
Best time to go
Health
Money & costs
Money & costs
The official currency in Turkmenistan is known as the manat. You can utilize a Visa card for transactions or cash withdrawals in some hotels and banks across the country; however, most ATMs exclusively accept local Turkmen cards. Notably, the majority of shops and restaurants operate on a cash-only basis. It is advisable to carry your funds in cash, preferably in new US dollars as Euro bills are not widely accepted.
While US dollars can be easily exchanged throughout Turkmenistan, euros are readily exchanged only in Ashgabat. Money exchange services are legally available at banks. Exercise caution and exchange only what you anticipate using, as converting manat back to dollars is not possible. The fixed exchange rate is 3.50 Manat for 1 dollar (2024). There is no fixed rate for Euros. Having a reserve of cash during Central Asia excursions is prudent for unexpected situations but especially in Turkmenistan.
Safety
Safety
Turkmenistan is considered a secure country as long as you adhere to the law. Crossing any boundaries could result in unpleasant consequences. It is advisable to wear a money belt, be vigilant about your belongings, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and refrain from using unofficial taxis when traveling alone. Additional recommendations include:
- During your travels throughout the country, it is essential to have identification with you at all times.
- Exercise caution when taking photographs, as capturing specific subjects like military zones, transportation hubs, and government buildings is prohibited by law. Turkmen individuals may also be sensitive about being photographed without their consent.
- Several social media applications and websites are restricted within the country and you can’t use them there (at least not without a VPN service).
- Steer clear of any public displays of affection, and bear in mind that homosexuality is illegal. It’s best to avoid forming relationships with Turkmen women, as it may lead to fines and deportation.
- Topics such as politics, human rights, religion, or criticism of the president, the country, or its people should be avoided in conversation.
- During Ramadan, a sacred month for Muslims lasting 30 days in April-March, there are specific restrictions. Consuming food, drinks, smoking, or chewing gum in public is forbidden during daylight hours. Additionally, playing loud music, dancing, wearing revealing clothing, and engaging in public swearing are forbidden.
- Smoking is prohibited in all public areas, but there are assigned areas for smokers. Engaging in the possession or use of illegal drugs may result in a considerable prison sentence.
- Turkmenistan is susceptible to earthquakes, mainly tremors, but occasionally stronger earthquakes occur.
- Drones are in practice banned in Turkmenistan.
Entry & exit
Entry & exit
A visa is essential for all international visitors planning to travel to Turkmenistan. To obtain a tourist visa, you will need an invitation letter (LOI) approved by the Migration Service of Turkmenistan, which must be submitted by a licensed tour operator in the country. Further details can be found here. If you are booking a tour through Central Asia Guide, we will always organize the necessary invitation letters and visa can be obtained at arrival to Turkmenistan through the land borders or Ashgabat airport.
Best time to go
Best time to go
Turkmenistan is characterized by a dry continental climate, making it one of the hottest regions in Central Asia. The months of July and August witness scorching temperatures in the capital, Ashgabat, reaching up to 50°C, making it the least favorable time for a visit. While most of Turkmenistan’s significant attractions lie in the treeless desert, areas surrounding the Caspian Sea generally offer milder temperatures compared to the inland regions, making them suitable for summer exploration.
December signals the arrival of cold weather, with temperatures dipping below 0°C and occasional frost even up to –20°C, along with snowfall in various parts of the country. The optimal periods for visiting Turkmenistan are from March to June, when sunshine prevails and temperatures are pleasant, and from September to November. Spring, especially, charms with a brief burst of delicate flowers and green landscapes.
Health
Health
To prevent traveler’s diarrhea, refrain from consuming non-bottled, unfiltered, or non boiled water. Avoid using tap water for oral hygiene or ice-making. Steer clear of ice cream. Choose thoroughly cooked and hot-served meat and fish. Boil vegetables and peel fruits before consumption. It is advisable to receive vaccinations against diphtheria, hepatitis A, and tetanus. Ensure comprehensive coverage for unforeseen medical scenarios, including repatriation. Medical services in Turkmenistan are rudimentary at best. In the event of urgent medical needs, promptly contact your travel insurance provider. Check for any restrictions associated with traveling with medications.
Other tours to Turkmenistan
Tour updated 14.3.2025