Tashkent to Ashgabat

Intrepid Travel · 11 days

4.5

7 Reviews

View Map

Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Travel into desert landscapes heavy with mystery on this 11-day journey through Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

Highlights

Explore the UNESCO-protected town of Khiva – steeped in Silk Road history and immortalised in many great tales, this town is as photogenic as it is legendary.
Witness the eternal flames of the Darvaza Crater, aka the 'Gates to Hell' as you camp nearby – one of the strangest, most mesmerising geological oddities on earth.
Stay at a local guesthouse in a rural village in Turkmenistan – a rare opportunity to get up close to local people’s life – and visit a local horse breeder who preserves the precious breed that is the national treasure of Turkmenistan – Akhal-Teke horses.
See the sprawling ruins of Mary, Merv and other ancient kingdoms and contemplate the remnants of empires that once ruled these vast lands.
Learn how Ashgabat rose from the devastation of an earthquake in 1948 and has enjoyed a surreal and futuristic makeover since. Witness its often bizarre, but certainly memorable architecture on a city tour with a local leader who has all the insights.

Trip Details

Duration

11 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,4x4 vehicle,Metro,Taxi,Overnight Train

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tashkent, Turkmenistan

Finishes

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Tashkent

Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to the largest city in Central Asia. Tashkent blends Russian and Uzbek style, with extravagant mosques that sit alongside modern highways and Soviet monuments. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you arrive in Tashkent with time to spare, maybe take a walk to see some of the contemporary architecture that sets this city apart from other Silk Road destinations.

Optional Activities:

Tashkent - State Museum of History of Uzbekistan (50000 UZS)
Tashkent - Art Gallery of Uzbekistan (50000 UZS)
Tashkent - Museum of Applied Arts (60000 UZS)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Tashkent / Overnight Train

This morning, embark on a city tour to explore Tashkent. Visit the Amir Timur Square in the city’s centre and wander the bustling Chorsu Bazaar. An impressive dome tops the main building here and the market sells everything you could imagine. Explore the decorated metro stations, which were only allowed to be photographed from 2018, and the Khast Imom Complex, which houses one of the oldest copies of Qur'an. Have some free time in the afternoon and maybe stock some snacks for your overnight train tonight.

Included Activities:

Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
Tashkent - City tour
Tashkent - Metro tour

Accommodation:

Overnight Train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Khiva

Arrive in Khiva mid-morning – many global powers have laid claim to this city over the centuries, from Khans to Silk Road traders and the Soviet Union. Get acquainted with Khiva on a city tour with your leader. See the incredible blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret and the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassa. Explore the Kuhna Ark – the 'citadel within a citadel' that once housed the Khan and his family in the 17th century – then, get a view from above from the Ak-sheikh Baba Observatory. Visit the towering Islom Hoja Minaret – the tallest building in Khiva – and explore the Juma Mosque. Wander through the elaborately decorated courtyards connected by labyrinthian corridors at the Tosh-Hovli Palace and find a good spot to watch the sunset over this ancient city.

Included Activities:

Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
Khiva - Juma Mosque
Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum
Khiva - Kuhna Ark

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Khiva

After breakfast today, you’ll have a free day to explore Khiva at your own pace. Home to more than 60 cultural sites, medieval mosques and opulent palaces, there is plenty to see and do in this fascinatingly ancient city. Maybe head to one of the many museums, check out the souvenir shops or wander around one of the craft studios. If you’re not sure where to go and what to see, just ask your leader for tips!

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Border crossing / Darvaza

A long travel day today. This morning, say goodbye to Uzbekistan and cross the border into Turkmenistan. After border formalities, you’ll meet your new leader and head on to Dashoguz. When you arrive, visit a local bazaar and stretch your legs. Then, switch into 4WDs and drive on to Derweze – this village in the middle of the Karakum Desert is famous for ‘The Gates of Hell’ – this gas crater is an astounding 70-m-wide, 30-m-deep pit permanently aflame and formally known as the Darvaza Crater. Soviet oil prospectors started drilling in 1971 expecting to find oil, and the ground collapsed. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting it to last a few weeks. As you’ll see today, they were wrong, and the crater has been burning ever since. When you arrive, take a walk around the crater and learn about the flora and fauna of the desert. Watch the sunset over the flames from your nearby yurt camp and enjoy a picnic dinner

Included Activities:

Darvaza - "Door to Hell" Crater

Accommodation:

Yurt Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Ashgabat / Nohur

Drive to Nohur Village via Ashgabat today, through the desert and into the Kopet Dag Mountains that separate Turkmenistan from Iran. On the way, you’ll stop to stretch your legs and take photos with visits to a mud crater, a water crater and the Yerbent Nomad Village. When you arrive in Ashgabat, stop for lunch and change to minibuses for the dusty winding roads to Nohur Village. When you arrive at your guesthouse in the afternoon, you’ll watch how the locals weave Keteni – a homespun silk fabric. Maybe take a walk to see the distinctive local graves, marked by the horns of mountain goats, and then along the shepherd’s trails that pass by waterfalls and swimming holes. Tonight, you’ll have a traditional dinner home-cooked by your hosts.

Included Activities:

Yerbent - Village visit

Accommodation:

Guest House (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Ashgabat

Enjoy a traditional breakfast in the guesthouse this morning, then head out to learn more about the village lifestyle of local Turkmen tribes. You’ll meet with the residents here who are a part of the Nohur ethnic group, who consider themselves to be descendants of Alexander the Great. Wander around the tribes’ cemetery, overgrown and equipped with the mountain goat horns, and learn about the peoples’ customs, traditions and spirituality. After, visit Gyz Bibi Cave – a place of local pilgrimage. See an 800-year-old Cynar tree – more than 800 years old tree, then say goodbye to the village and head on to Ashgabat. Along the way, you’ll visit a local horse breeder’s farm for a cooking demonstration of Baursaki. Watch the process of frying the dough in oil, then maybe try it out for yourself! Watch how their bread is cooked in a tandoor (a mud oven), then sit down with your host to enjoy some of the treats as you learn about his family and his passion for Akhal-Teke horses – this breed of horse is specific to the region and have a reputation for their speed, endurance, intelligence and distinctive metallic sheen. Later, continue to Ashgabat, where you’ll spend the night.

Included Activities:

Nohur - Village walking tour
Geokdepe - Horse breeder visit with bread & snack cooking demostration

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Ashgabat

Take a full day to wrap your head around this desert city on an immersive guided tour. First, visit the ancient settlement of Nisa, built in the 3rd century BC. See the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, built to honour those killed in the Battle of Geok Tepe in 1881, in World War II and in the 1948 earthquake. Then, head out of town to the ruins of Anau. The crumbling remains of the 15th century medieval mosque still attracts the devout, who come to pray and make offerings. Wander the Russian Bazaar to see locals doing their daily shopping and maybe taste some samosas, doner-kebabs and sweet melon! See the local Turkmen’s handmade souvenirs and maybe choose something special to bring home. This afternoon, take in the four-pointed martinets of the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. You’ll then have some free time to relax and recharge before an evening visit to the monuments of Archabil Street, including the Neutrality Arch.

Included Activities:

Ashgabat - Anau ruins
Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch
Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
Ashgabat - City tour
Ashgabat - Nisa ruins
Ashgabat - Russian Bazaar

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Merv / Mary

Rise and shine for the drive to Mary (pronounced ‘Mah-rih’) – the somewhat ostentatious displays of wealth in this city can be traced to the long-running gas and cotton industries. When you arrive, settle into your hotel, then head out to wander through the lively bazaar with your leader. Take drive out to Merv, also known as Margiana or Margush, and enjoy some time exploring Turkmenistan's most recognised site. This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site is home to numerous walled structures from various periods spread across a 1200-hectare area. See impressive columns smoothed by wind and time at the Greater Kizkala and walk hills that were once the fortress walls of Erk Kala. While not the most impressive visually, Gyaur Kala dates to 400 BC and has a fascinating history. Spend some time exploring these relics of grand empires, then return to Mary for some free time. Maybe visit the Mary Regional Museum. Housed in a palace of white marble, the museum features archaeological displays and exhibitions on traditional Turkmen life and culture.

Included Activities:

Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum
Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala
Merv - Big & Small Kizkala

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Ashgabat

This morning after breakfast, head out to see the local Orthodox Church and take some more time wandering around Mary’s city center, before returning to Ashgabat – the City of White Marble. Arrive late afternoon and head out again as the sun goes down to walk along the promenade with your group. Maybe find somewhere for dinner and celebrate your final night on this incredible adventure.

Included Activities:

Mary - City tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Ashgabat

With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end today after breakfast. If you need help with organising a transfer to the airport, just speak to your leader.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $4,395

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 11 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Travel into desert landscapes heavy with mystery on this 11-day journey through Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Apr 2026

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Robert

Traveled, October 2023

10/18/2023

Just came back from Turkmenistan, and it was a big adventure. It’s a country like no other. Can only recommend. Ali our leader was awesome!!

4.5

Laarni

Traveled, September 2023

02/18/2024

This was an amazing trip. I was slightly nervous as a solo female traveler but the region was totally safe. Our guides were great and knowledgeable. The places were beautiful. Shukhrat was a great guide. Turkmenistan was a wild card but turned out to be so memorable thanks to our wonderful local guide, Kerwen and team. Helpful Note: bring loads of USD as ATMs were hard to access in Turkmenistan. Also, expect long road trips so come prepared :)

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now