Ashgabat
CapitalWhite-marble boulevards, the National Museum and the Altyn Asyr bazaar.
Turkmenistan
Desert, Silk Road cities and a capital built of white marble. This is our home, and we love showing it.
Places worth the trip
Distances are long. Most routes combine Ashgabat, the desert and one or two ancient cities.
Darvaza gas crater
Karakum desert, 260 km northA crater that has burned since the 1970s. Best seen at night from a yurt camp.
Ancient Merv
Near Mary, UNESCOFive walled cities side by side, once a capital of the Seljuks.
Kunya-Urgench
North, UNESCOThe old capital of Khorezm and the tallest minaret in Central Asia.
Nisa
18 km from Ashgabat, UNESCOMud-brick fortress of the Parthian kings at the foot of the Kopetdag.
Yangykala canyon
West, near the CaspianStriped red and white cliffs over a dry seabed. Best at sunrise.
Kow Ata lake
100 km west of AshgabatWarm sulphur lake deep in a cave. Swim all year round.
Gonur Depe
Karakum, near MaryBronze Age palace and temples of the Margiana culture.
When to go
Spring and autumn are mild. Summer in the Karakum passes 40 °C, winter nights in the desert drop below zero.
BestGood, cool or warmVery hot
AprilThe best month: 20–25 °C, green desert, mild nights at Darvaza.
Good to know before you go
Money
The local currency is the manat. Bring some US dollars in clean notes and change them at a bank or hotel.
Staying in touch
Hotels have Wi-Fi, and your guide is always a phone call away.
Hospitality
Turkmen hospitality starts with green tea and fresh bread. Accept the cup when it is offered: it is a warm welcome.
Dress
Covered shoulders and knees at holy sites. Warm layers for desert nights, even in May.
Food
Plov, shashlik, fresh melons in late summer. Vegetarian meals are possible if you tell us early.
Arrival
On our tours all arrival paperwork is done for you on the first day.
