Turkmenistan V - 1
Turkmenistan V - 2
Turkmenistan V - 3
Turkmenistan V - 4
Turkmenistan V - 5
Turkmenistan V - 6
Turkmenistan V - 7
1 / 7

Turkmenistan V

Apr 30th, 2025 May 4th, 2025

5 days · 4 nights

Wander Expeditions

Wander Expeditions

Verified Organization

5+ years group traveling

Turkmenistan, hailed as the weirdest country in the world, is once again welcoming visitors after several years of closed borders. We have the privilege of being among the first to set foot in this fascinating land, and we are eager to explore its capital, Ashgabat, with its lavish buildings of gold and marble, exuberant landmarks, and bizarre monuments. With 80% of the country covered by desert, we look forward to savoring the beauty of its vast and arid landscapes. And, of course, the highlight of our trip is spending a night at the Gates of Hell! Rumors say that Darvaza Crater, the fiery crater of natural gas, may be closed to visitors soon, making this a rare opportunity to witness its blazing spectacle up close. Would we really want to miss such a once-in-a-lifetime experience?

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.

What this expedition offers

Hotels. Last 2 nights: Hotel Yyldyz: Best hotel in Ashgabat (5 stars) with fast unblocked wifi. Shared rooms in 3star & 4star hotels. Camping/Yurts in Darvaza crater.
Transport. Private van, or 4WD and driver.
Domestic Flights. All local transportation is included.
Entrance Fees. All entrance fees to sites on your itinerary.
Permits, Clearances and Visa Approval. We'll apply for your tourist visa so you can pick it up on arrival, as well as all the necessary permits and clearances for your visit.
Meals . All breakfasts are included. Some meals where we don't have any other options will be included for our ease: dinner in Darvaza and Picnic lunch at Yangy Kala Canyon.

Things to know

5.0·113 reviews
U
Ulyana
🇺🇸United States·2 expeditions
·Central America II·18 days ago

Absolutely unforgettable. Traveling through Central America was so much more than a trip. It was an experience built around connection and shared adventure. From volcano hikes to pyramid sunrises, every destination was stunning, but what truly made it special was the group I shared it with. I’ve come home with a head full of memories, several crazy stories, and a few friends for life.

S
Sokratis "Lefkosia"
🇨🇾Cyprus·4 expeditions
·Ghana, Togo & Benin IV·18 days ago

The best introduction to this part of the world. West Africa is sometimes called "Africa for beginners". I can see it. Mostly laid back, beautiful coast, incredible sightseeing and smiley locals. Add in the mix the Vodun culture, the colourful dances and thrilling rituals and you have an adventure to remember. Benin has quickly rose to being one of my favourite countries and the expedition family some of my favourite people.

N
Nichelle "San Pedro Sula"
🇺🇸United States·4 expeditions
·Libya I·19 days ago

History, history, history! Wow, is all I can say. Libya's recent history has created an isolation from tourism, and made this a relatively untouched Mediterranean gem. The Roman and Phoenician ruins are just mind-blowing. The trip out to the Algerian-Libyan border of The Sahara Desert is long, but well worth it to see Ghadames. Definitely say, "Yes"!

N
Nichelle "San Pedro Sula"
🇺🇸United States·4 expeditions
·Pamir Highway·19 days ago

What a hilarious group of explorers who made the long drives fun! The guys were great dancers,too, when faced with rejection by the local females at the bar/dance hall, they had no problem dancing with themselves! Music, song and "car dancing" kept the mood going the whole time. Views were outstanding in The Pamir region.

N
Nichelle "San Pedro Sula"
🇺🇸United States·4 expeditions
·Afghanistan X·19 days ago

I really cherish the people I met on my 1st "YES", I said to Afghanistan. It was a small group of very empathetic and adventurous people. We were all nervous at first, until we settled into the pace of our Expedition led by Elena. The people, the lead, the guide and drivers, and the shop keepers were so welcoming and professional. Kindest and most generous people I've met in recent years. I highly recommend everyone visit Afghanistan.

A
Alexander "Canggu"
🇦🇺Australia·3 expeditions
·Patagonia·19 days ago

Such a beautiful place with very beautiful people. Patagonia is a very unique and must see place. The crew is what makes it happen.

Wander Expeditions
Verified

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.