An extended 5-day journey from Uzbekistan border to border, exploring Kone Urgench monuments, the Darvaza Gas Crater, Ashgabat's white marble architecture, Nisa fortress, Akhal-Teke horses, and ancient Merv
Plus a booking deposit: $200
5 Days in Turkmenistan: Extended Uzbekistan Border to Border Adventure Day 1: Arrival at Shabat/Khiva Border – Kone Urgench & Darvaza Arrive at the Shabat/Khiva (Uzbekistan) border by car in the morning. Transfer to the magnificent Kone Urgench monuments, with a stop in Dashoguz city for lunch. Explore the UNESCO-listed Kone Urgench archaeological site, home to ancient mosques, mausoleums, and minarets that showcase the region's rich Islamic heritage. In the evening, drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater for dinner and overnight in a traditional yurt under the stars. Day 2: Darvaza to Ashgabat – The White Marble City After breakfast, drive to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital and largest city. In 2013, the Guinness Book of Records named Ashgabat the "White Marble City" for having the world's largest number of structures made from white marble. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before hotel check-in and free time. In the evening, embark on a city tour including the Independence Tower, Arch of Neutrality, the "Alem" Ferris Wheel, panoramic views of "Bagt Koshgi" (Wedding Palace), Independence Monument, and the Artogrul Gazy Mosque. Dinner at a restaurant in Ashgabat and overnight at the hotel. Day 3: Ashgabat to Mary – Ancient Nisa & Cultural Heritage After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Nisa Fortress, the Sanctuary of Parthian Kings. UNESCO declared this fortress a World Heritage Site in 2007. Nisa was one of the first capitals of the Parthians, founded by Arsaces I (reigned 250 BC – 211 BC) and later became the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings. Visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque (spiritual mosque) at Kipchak, enjoy lunch in Ashgabat, and explore the memorial complex and Ashgabat National Museum of History (history & archaeology section). Drive to Mary city for dinner and overnight at the hotel. Day 4: Mary – Akhal-Teke Horses & Ancient Gongurdepe After breakfast, drive to the horse racing hippodrome to see the proud Turkmen national Akhal-Teke horses. 5,000 years ago, Turkmens began breeding Akhal-Teke horses, creating a unique breed in the world that has never been mixed with other breeds. These magnificent horses represent the pinnacle of equine beauty and endurance. After lunch at a restaurant, drive to ancient Gongurdepe city for exploration before returning to Mary city for dinner and overnight at the hotel. Day 5: Mary to Farap/Alat Border – Ancient Merv After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Ancient Merv, an important point on the Great Silk Road and one of Central Asia's major archaeological sites. Merv played a crucial role in Silk Road development for over 2,000 years. Within the 1,200-hectare archaeological park, observe all constituent parts of the "wandering city." Visit the splendid 12th-century mausoleums of Sultan Sanjar and Muhammed ibn-Zeyd, demonstrating exquisite Seljuk period brickwork and architectural décor. Guided tour includes Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Soltan Gala, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Ibn Zeid Mausoleum, and the House where Imam Ryza lived. After dinner, drive to the Farap/Alat (Uzbekistan) border. This extended 5-day tour offers a comprehensive cross-country experience, showcasing Turkmenistan's ancient history, architectural marvels, natural wonders, cultural heritage, and the legendary Akhal-Teke horses from border to border.
