Minaret of Time

Discover the cultural north of Turkmenistan, from Ashgabat’s architectural landmarks and Ahal-Teke horse farms to the blazing Darvaza crater and the ancient capital of Koneurgench, a UNESCO site shaped by empires, scholars and the Mongol conquest.

Itinerary

Day 1 Ashgabat: Marble Landmarks and Turkmen Horses

Arrive in Ashgabat and meet your guide. Begin exploring the city’s iconic monuments, including eh Monument of Neutrality and the National Museum of Turkmenistan. Continue to the Carpet Museum, home to the exquisite hand-woven masterpieces, including one of the largest handmade carpets in the world. In the afternoon, visit an Ahal-Teke horse farm, where you can learn about the legendary breed and enjoy an optional riding experience. Overnight in Ashgabat.

Day 2 Into the Karakum: Darvaza Crater

Start the day with a visit to the legendary Gulistan Bazaar efore heading into the vast Karakum Desert. Stop in Yerbent village to glimpse nomadic traditions. By sunset, arrive at the spectacular Darvaza Gas Crater, the fiery “Door to Hell’, illuminating the desert night. Overnight in a traditional yurt camp.

Day 3 Darvaza to Koneurgench (Dashoguz)

Travel north to Koneurgench, once a flourishing capital of the Khorezm Empire and a center of Islamic Scholarship Explore monument such as the Kutlug-Timur Minaret and the Turabek-Khanym Mausoleum. Learn how the city was devastated by the Mongol invasion in the 13^th century, leaving a powerful ruins that still bear witness to its former greatness. Overnight in Dashoguz.

Day 4: Dashoguz to Ashgabat International airport

Transfer to Dashoguz Airport for your domestic flight to Ashgabat, followed by your onward international departure. End of services.

Included services:

Letter of invitation
Accommodation (hotel and overnight at nomadic yurt camping)
Breakfast included
English speaking local guide (other languages available upon request)
Incidental travel insurance
Transport
24/7 customer support before and during your trip for a stress - free journey

Excluded services:

Turkmenistan visa on arrival at the airport/border checkpoint
Immigration tax at the airport/border checkpoint
COVID-19 testing at the airport/border checkpoint
International flights to and from Turkmenistan

Image source: LCC Aviara Tours
Image source: LCC Aviara Tours
Image source: LCC Aviara Tours
Image source: LCC Aviara Tours
Image source: LCC Aviara Tours