Turkmenistan New Year Tour: A Journey into the Heart of Central Asia

Tour Highlights

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the spectacular Darwaza Gas Crater, surrounded by the vast Karakum Desert.

Discover Ashgabat's architectural wonders, including the dazzling Neutrality Arch, the majestic Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, and the grand Halk Hakydasy Complex. Marvel at the city’s blend of traditional Turkmen design and futuristic style, earning it the title of the “White City.”

Immerse yourself in history and culture at Independence Park and the Russian Bazaar, while uncovering the stories behind Ashgabat's mesmerising marble-clad buildings.

Explore breathtaking landscapes, from the lush countryside near Nohur to the surreal thermal Kowata Underground Lake.

This New Year, experience the grandeur of Ashgabat’s architecture and the unique charm of Turkmenistan’s natural and cultural treasures!

Day 1: Departure to Ashgabat

Start your adventure with an evening flight to Ashgabat, the glittering capital of Turkmenistan. Depart on either FZ 731 (ETD 23:55, ETA 03:25+1) or TK 322 (ETD 20:10, ETA 01:55+1).

Day 2: Welcome to Ashgabat

Early Morning: Touch down in Ashgabat in the early hours. After completing entry formalities, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for early check-in and a short rest.

Morning: Ease into the day with a relaxed morning at leisure.

Afternoon: After lunch at a local restaurant, embark on an introductory city tour. Highlights include:

- The Neutrality Arch, a symbol of Turkmenistan’s independence.

- Halk Hakydasy Museum and Monument, honouring the nation's history.

- The serene Independence Park.

- The magnificent Ertogrul Gazi Mosque.

- A vibrant visit to the Russian Bazaar for a glimpse of local life.

Evening: Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: From Ashgabat to the Fiery Darwaza Crater

Morning: Begin the day with a visit to a private Akhal-Teke horse farm near Anau, renowned for Turkmenistan's iconic horses. Continue to the Sheikh Jemaladdin Mosque and Anau Fortress for an insightful excursion.

Afternoon: Return to Ashgabat for lunch at the Berkarar Shopping Centre.

Evening: Journey into the Karakum Desert to visit the Darwaza Gas Crater, a natural wonder known as the "Door to Hell." On the way, stop by two smaller craters—one filled with bubbling mud, the other with serene water. Arrive at Darwaza at sunset, just in time to witness the transition from dusk to darkness at this extraordinary site. Celebrate the New Year with a party under the stars by the fiery crater.

Overnight: Stay in traditional yurts near Darwaza.

Day 4: Return to Ashgabat

Morning: Enjoy a late breakfast at the camp before driving back to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel.

Afternoon: Relax with free time to unwind at the hotel.

Evening: Overnight in Ashgabat.

Day 5: Exploring Ashgabat’s Surroundings

Morning: Set off on a day trip to discover the countryside around Ashgabat. Highlights include:

- The striking Geok Depe Memorial Mosque.

- A refreshing swim in the Kowata Underground Lake, a natural thermal wonder.

- The Nohur Mountain Village, known for its tribal cemetery, silk-weaving traditions, and spiritual pilgrimage sites.

Evening: Return to Ashgabat for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Departure from Ashgabat

Bid farewell to Turkmenistan with an early morning flight. Depart on either TK 323 (ETD 03:20) or FZ 732 (ETD 04:55).

End of your Turkmenistan New Year's Tour

Rates

Rates are based per person, on the total number of travellers in your group and on the hotel you will stay at in Ashgabat.

Our Turkmenistan 6 Day Tour rates include:

• Visa support (Letter of Invitation, State Registration, Travel Pass)
• Road transport in private air-conditioned vehicles, regular or SUV/4WD
• Accommodation based on shared hotel twin room and shared yurts, including breakfast
• BBQ dinner in Darwaza
• English-speaking guide-interpreter services
• Entrance fees to sites mentioned in the program
• Drinking bottled water 1.5 pppd

The following items are not included:

• Turkmenistan tourist visa from 85+4 USD per person, when obtained at Ashgabat airport (subject to change; nationality dependent)
• Turkmenistan migration tax 10+4 USD per person, to be paid at Ashgabat airport (subject to change)
• COVID-19 PCR tests by arrival 33 USD per person per test
• Photo/video fees at historical sites and museums
• Tips for local guide(s) and/or driver(s)
• Souvenirs and other personal items
• All other charges and services not mentioned under “Included”