3 Days Turkmenistan Tour with Border Transfer

As you touchdown at Ashgabat International Airport, the adventure begins. After a seamless transfer in a comfortable vehicle, you'll check into the 4-star Sport Hotel.Settle into your cozy room, unwind from the journey, and take a moment to soak in the anticipation of the days ahead.

Kick - start your day at the Nissa Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. This ancient stronghold, dating back to around 250-211 BC when Arsaces I founded it, was reputedly the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings.Next, make your way to the Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque in Kipchak. Standing tall as the largest mosque in Central Asia, its grandeur is simply breathtaking. The mosque's towering minarets and intricate domes are a testament to the country's rich Islamic heritage. Step inside, and you'll be enveloped in a sense of peace and tranquility.In the afternoon, delve deeper into Ashgabat's allure. Known as the "white marbled city" since 2013, it's a sight to behold. Marvel at the Presidential Palace, a symbol of power and elegance, and the opulent Ruhyyet Palace and Wedding Palace. The modern "Yildyz" Hotel adds a contemporary touch to the cityscape.

Don't miss the Ferris Wheel, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the Constitution Monument, Arch of Neutrality, and Monument and park of Independence to understand Turkmenistan's political and cultural identity. The Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, along with the city's sports and housing facilities, and the Earthquake and WWII victims' monuments, tell stories of the city's resilience and the sacrifices of its people. This day in Ashgabat is a perfect introduction to the country's multifaceted heritage.

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we're off to a very special place - a local Horse Stable. Here, you'll get up close and personal with the Akhalteke horses, which are not just ordinary horses but a national treasure of Turkmenistan. Bred for an astonishing 5000 years, their lineage has remained pure, never mixed with other breeds. These horses are truly a sight to behold. Emperors like Alexander the Great and Darius I were captivated by their beauty and grace and desired to own them. Standing beside these magnificent creatures, you can feel their power and elegance. And there's an interesting local superstition-it's believed that if a sick person touches an Akhalteke horse, they'll recover soon. So, it's not just a visual treat but also a chance to be part of a local legend.

As the afternoon rolls in, we'll embark on an exciting journey to the Darvaza burning Gas Crater, which is often referred to as the "Door to Hell". The drive takes about 4 hours, but the scenery along the way is simply breathtaking. We'll be traversing through the vast and arid Karakum desert. The desert landscape is constantly changing, with its golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see, and the occasional rock formations adding a touch of drama.When we finally reach the Darvaza Gas Crater, you'll be in awe. For over 50 years, this crater has been ablaze, burning bright in the middle of the desert. It's a natural phenomenon that's both mesmerizing and a bit eerie. The intense heat from the fire, the orange-red glow against the desert backdrop, and the sound of the burning gas create an otherworldly atmosphere. But that's not all - there are also water and mud craters in the area. Each crater has its own unique features, and exploring them is like stepping into a different world.

As the sun sets, the real magic happens. We'll set up camp for the night, either in a traditional Turkmen national yurt or a private tent. The warmth of the yurt and the soft glow of the gas crater in the distance create a cozy and romantic ambiance. And what's a desert night without a barbecue? We'll enjoy a delicious dinner under the star-filled sky, with the flickering flames of the gas crater as our backdrop. It's a night that you'll remember forever, filled with good food, great company, and the beauty of the desert. This day is a perfect example of how Turkmenistan offers experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind, making it a destination that stands out from the rest.

We start our day with a picnic-style breakfast, setting the tone for an exciting day ahead. As the sun rises over the desert, we'll make our way to Kunya Urgench. This ancient city is a living museum, filled with historical gems that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Once in Kunya Urgench, prepare to be amazed by its architectural wonders. We'll visit the Portal of Caravansaray, which was once a bustling hub for travelers and merchants along the Silk Road. Imagining the caravans that passed through here centuries ago, filled with goods from far-flung places, is like stepping into a scene from a historical novel.The Mamun Minaret stands tall, a testament to the city's rich Islamic heritage. Its intricate brickwork and elegant design are truly remarkable. Nearby, the II Arslan Mausoleum and Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum are solemn and beautiful, offering a peaceful place to reflect on the lives of the people who once ruled this region.The Academy of Horezm was a center of learning in its prime, and exploring its remains gives us an insight into the intellectual and cultural achievements of the past. The Kutlug Timur Minaret and Turabek Hanum Mausoleum are also must-sees, each with its own unique story to tell.After soaking up the history of Kunya Urgench, we'll begin the drive to the Turkmen-Uzbek border at "Shavat". The 6-hour journey offers a chance to enjoy the changing landscapes of Turkmenistan. As we approach the border, the excitement builds. Crossing the border is an experience in itself, a moment where two different cultures and countries meet.

Once we've successfully crossed the border, we'll continue our journey to Khiva City. Checking into our hotel here marks the end of a day filled with adventure and discovery. Khiva, with its own rich history and unique charm, awaits our exploration in the days to come. This day has been a perfect blend of historical exploration and border - crossing adventure, making it an unforgettable part of our Turkmenistan tour.