Turkmenistan IV
Tuesday 15 Apr 2025 – Friday 18 Apr 2025
4 days · 3 nights
Wander Expeditions
5+ years group traveling
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Mary & Merv
- The expedition starts after our arrival flight in Ashgabat and we'll drive to Mary. Here, history comes alive amidst ancient ruins and storied sites as we explore its historical treasures, culminating in an unforgettable visit to the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Overnight: Mary
Day 2: Old Nisa & Darwaza Gas Crater
- We will fly (or drive) back to Ashgabat and from there visit the Nisa archaeological site, which was the third capital of the Parthians. We will explore the Old Nisa Fortress and continue to the Turkmenbashy Mosque. In the afternoon, we will switch to 4WD vehicles and depart for the Karakum Desert, where we will explore the Central Karakum sands and stop for photos. We will then arrive at the ancient Unguz line of the desert and visit the old gas craters. Afterward, we will enter the sands of the desert, follow the tracks, and arrive at the Fiery Gas Crater, where we will see the gas crater at sunset and nighttime. We will camp in the area and have a picnic dinner.
- Overnight: Camp/Yurts at Darwaza Gas Crater
Day 3: Return to Ashgabat
- We will return to Ashgabat and, in the afternoon, start our visit to this unique marble city. We will visit the Wedding Palace for amazing sunset views of the city.
- Overnight: Yyldyz Hotel, Ashgabat
Day 4: City Tour in Ashgabat
- After breakfast, we will explore the unique charm of Ashgabat by visiting its main landmarks, including the Ruhnama Monument, the Constitution Monument, the Neutrality Monument, and the Alem Center, which features the largest indoor Ferris wheel offering stunning panoramic views of the city. This will allow us to fully experience the city's distinctive character and attractions.
- Overnight: Yyldyz Hotel, Ashgabat
Day 5: Fly Out
- We end the expedition and fly out very early in the morning on flights to Istanbul or Dubai. And you can combine this Expedition with our STANS Expedition too,
What this expedition offers
Things to know
Our selection process
Takes only 10 minutes and it helps us create the best travel family!
The best way to see not only the Mt Hagen festival but also the highlights of the PNG highlands. Safe, exciting, and lots of fun.
A spiritual and cultural-focussed expedition, not the typical style of other Wander trips, but I absolutely loved it. Bhutan is beautiful and this expedition was the best way to see it, the tricky visa and tour guide requirements were all handled and the itinerary gave the very best of the country in a few days. Northern India was equally serene and even as someone who hates hiking, having a great group to champion you along the way made it fun.
The best overland adventure you could ever ask for. Two weeks, 22 people, 6 cars, endless laughs. Sure, the days are long, and you definitely need to bring snacks, but it’s so much fun and the best way to see the parts of Africa that most people don’t go to! And it has everything - beach, nature, pool days, local communities, cities and middle-of-nowhere adventures. I’d even go as far as to say I’d do it again….. never say never!
My trip to Libya with you Wander Expeditions was unreal! Everything was super well organized, the group vibe was like family, and the guide kept things fun with stories and games along the way. Libya itself blew me away amazing people, amazing places, and good energy everywhere we went.
A pure pleasure celebrating with Alvaro and the gang - vibes unbeatable & can’t wait for the next reunion!
Wander Expeditions
Details
Experience unforgettable group trips with Wander Expeditions! Discover unique destinations while forming lasting connections. Our curated travel families ensure a fun, flexible, and fearless adventure for all.
To help protect your payment, always communicate and make payments through our official channels.