3-Day Darvaza Gas Crater Tour3 Days | Darvaza, Ashgabat, Merv

Set off on an exclusive 3-day Darvaza Gas Crater tour that will take you on a captivating journey through Turkmenistan’s most extraordinary landscapes and historic sites. Begin your adventure with the awe-inspiring Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the "Door to Hell," where you'll witness the mesmerizing flames against the desert sky. Explore the white-marble city of Ashgabat, with its stunning mosques, grand monuments, and rich cultural heritage. Finally, traverse the ancient Silk Road to the historic city of Merv, uncovering the remnants of its glorious past. This unforgettable tour promises breathtaking sights and immersive experiences at every turn.

Tour itinerary:

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Day 1: Khiva – Darvaza gas crater

At 09:30 drive from Khiva to Turkmenistan border point Shavat-Dashoguz (60 km, 1 h.). Go through border formalities on both checkpoints. Cross 1.5 km neutral zone (transportation may not be available). Upon arrival at the customs and passport control on both sides, kindly proceed to the exit of the border control area. At that point, our guide/driver will be waiting for you with the sign with your name. Meet your Turkmenistan guide and drive to Darvaza gas crater located in the middle of Karakym desert (270 km, 4 h.). Set up the camp. Enjoy a view of the sunset with the delicious fire-cooked meal for dinner near the burning gas crater. Overnight in tents.
Meals: dinner

Day 2: Darvaza gas crater – Ashgabat

After early breakfast drive to Ashgabat (280 km, 4hrs), visits mud and water craters on the way. Upon arrival start a sightseeing tour. Visit to Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, Independence Park, Neutrality Arch, National Museum, Nissa (UNESCO) and Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum. Transfer to the hotel for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours

Day 3: Ashgabat – Mary – Merv – Bukhara

Early breakfast. Transfer to the airport to take a morning flight to Mary (370 km, 40 min). Upon arrival drive to Merv (40 km, 30 min), an ancient city that was a major center of international trade and crafts located on the Silk Road. Discover historical park with Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Large and Small Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, Keshk Fortress, and others. In the afternoon depart to Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan border point (45 km, 1 h). Go through border formalities on both checkpoints. Meet your driver and continue to Bukhara (100 km, 1 h 30 min). Arrival in Bukhara, check in to the hotel. Free time. Overnight at the hotel. End of 3-day Darvaza Gas Crater tour.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours

Price includes:

All transfers;
Sightseeing tour program with an English-speaking guide;
Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
Visa support letter for Turkmenistan tourist visa;
Utensils and necessary equipment for staying in tents (sleeping bags, sleeping mats, pillows, dining table, chairs);
Camp style dinner and breakfast at Darvaza crater;
Air ticket Ashgabat – Mary;
Tour leader to accompany travelers for the whole period of the tour in Turkmenistan.