SILK ROAD TOUR OF TURKMENISTAN AND UZBEKISTAN
Start:
ASHGABAT
- 18 Apr 2026
End:
TASHKENT
- 30 Apr 2026
Type tour:
13 DAYS // 12 NIGHTS
Payments:
By request
Group:
2
About tour
Ashgabat: The striking, modern capital known for its white marble buildings, golden statues, and the Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of white marble. Darvaza Gas Crater ("Door to Hell"): An awe-inspiring, continuously burning natural gas crater in the Karakum Desert, often involving an overnight yurt camp stay. Kunya-Urgench: A UNESCO site containing the impressive ruins of the former capital of the Khwarezmian Empire. Merv (near Mary): The ruins of one of the greatest cities of the Islamic world, another major UNESCO site and a key stop on the Silk Road. Yangykala (or Yangi Kala) translates from Turkmen as "Fiery Fortress," a perfect description for its appearance. Samarkand: Home to the magnificent Registan Square, Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (Tamerlane's burial place), and the Bibi Khanum Mosque. Bukhara: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exceptionally well-preserved Old City, including the Poi Kalyan Complex, Lyab-i Hauz ensemble, and ancient trading domes. Khiva: A walled inner city (Ichan-Kala) that feels like an open-air museum, filled with minarets, mosques, and madrassahs. Tashkent: The modern capital, often serving as the arrival/departure point, featuring the Khast-Imam Complex and the famously ornate Soviet-era Metro.
Itinerary
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Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport. Meet our team and transfer to the hotel for check-in. Rest and breakfast. A full day dedicated to exploring Ashgabat. The visit begins with the important archaeological site of Nissa, the Sanctuary of the Parthian Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. Nissa is described as one of the first capitals of the Parthian Empire. It was founded by Arsaces I in the 3rd century BC, serving as a royal residence and royal necropolis for the Parthian kings. In 2013, the Guinness Book of Records named Ashgabat the "White Marble City," where you can see the largest number of palaces in the world built from white marble. Our afternoon tour includes the Wedding Palace, the Ferris Wheel, the Constitution Monument, the Neutrality Arch, the Independence Monument and Park, the Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, the Ashgabat Olympic Stadium, and the Earthquake and World War II Memorial. Overnight stay at the hotel.
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Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Mary. En route, visit the ruins of the Seyitjemalledin Mosque in Anau. The mosque was built in 1456 during the reign of Abu ibn Kasim Baber Bahadurkhan in Khorasan (1446–1457). By the 19th century, subsidence had already severely damaged the building, and it was completely destroyed in the 1948 Ashgabat earthquake. Now, only the lower portions of the portal and some fragments of the walls remain. Along the way, visit Abiwerd, once an important trading city in northern Khorasan. It was a key link on the Great Silk Road between Nisa and Merv, and also enjoyed connections to Nishapur, across the Kopetdag Mountains to the south. Visiting the Mary Regional Library (also known as the Mary Library) is an important architectural and cultural landmark in the city of Mary, Turkmenistan. It is the largest regional library in the Mary region (Mary velayat). Here are some key facts about the library: Inauguration: The new, modern library building was officially inaugurated on October 20, 2011, replacing an older structure. Architecture: The building has a distinctive spherical shape and is supported by 62 columns. It is 42 meters high. Capacity and collection: The three-story structure is designed to hold up to three million books and can accommodate 600 readers at a time. A bookstore A museum on the history of Turkmen books, featuring rare copies and ancient manuscripts. Beneath the dome, shaped like the petals of a tulip, is an observatory equipped with a powerful telescope. Then visit the main mosque in Mary, Turkmenistan, a truly impressive sight. Architecture: It is a magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture, with brilliant white marble and a striking golden dome, flanked by four tall minarets (63 meters). Capacity: The prayer hall can accommodate 2,500 people. The most important church in Mary, Turkmenistan, is the Pokrovskaya Church, also known as the Church of the Intercession of the Virgin Mary. Russian Orthodox Church. Construction: Built around 1900 by Russian forces after establishing a military and administrative headquarters in Mary in 1884. Architecture: It features a red brick facade in traditional Russian style, a practical choice in the desert region where timber was scarce. The design uses alternating red and white brick colors for details such as arches and moldings. Overnight stay at a hotel.
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Morning visit: The name Maru-Shahu-Jakhan is a historically significant term in Turkmenistan, closely related to the ancient city of Merv, near which the modern city of Mary stands. The name is likely a local or historical variant of "Maru-shahu-jahan," meaning "Merv, King of the World." Known as the Mary Regional Bazaar (sometimes called Zelyony Bazaar or Green Market).This market is a vibrant cultural and economic center in the Mary region.The Mary Regional Bazaar. The bazaar offers a classic Central Asian market experience, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. What you can find: Textiles and handicrafts: This is an excellent place to find traditional Turkmen items, colorful fabrics, embroidered clothes, and elaborate jewelry. Fresh produce: The market is full of stalls offering fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and regional delicacies. Spices and food: You can find a wide variety of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and local snacks. Continue to Merv to explore ancient Merv, the "Pearl of the Orient," "Queen of the World," one of the most important capitals of the Muslim world along with Baghdad, Cairo, and Damascus. Ancient Margiana, known as Margouch at the time of Alexander the Great, the capital of the Seljuk Turks, is one of the oldest oasis cities on the Silk Road. Visit two of Kyz Qala's Koshks (fortresses), the Qala Askhab complex, the Giaur Qala fortress, the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the largest structure in medieval Central Asia, and the Muhammad Ibn Zeid Mausoleum. Afterwards, we'll enjoy an immersive cultural experience at Gadymy Turkmen Ojak, an ethnic guesthouse where we'll sample freshly baked Turkmen bread, watch traditional dishes being prepared, and witness embroidery, wool spinning, and carpet making. We will also attend a folk-dance performance organized especially for the group. After transfer to Mary Airport for the flight to Ashgabat. Upon arrival in Ashgabat and check-in hotel. Night at the hotel
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Breakfast is at the hotel. Transfer to Ashgabat airport for morning flight to Turkmenbashi. Upon arrival transfer and check in to the hotel. Free day at Caspian Sea. Visit a bazaar where you can buy fresh, dried, or smoked seafood, such as sturgeon, caviar, sprats, or other fish from the Caspian Sea region. Overnight is at the hotel.
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After breakfast drive to Yangikala Canyon. En route, visit the pilgrimage site of Gozli-Ata, then proceed to the Yangykala Canyons, one of Turkmenistan's natural and symbolic jewels. The expression "Yangy kala" translates from Turkmen as "fortress of fire." Indeed, the steep cliffs, hued white, yellow, ochre, purple, and red, fancifully sculpted by wind and rain, are reminiscent of fantasy stone castles. Excursion to the Canyons. Departure for Balkanabat. Upon arrival and check-in hotel. Night at the hotel.
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Breakfast. Along the way, visit the Parau Bibi Mausoleum. Life on Earth ceased in the 13th century, but no one has dated or confirmed the existence of the city of Parau Bibi. This is the tradition of composing objects, beautifully arranged, with the utmost tranquility, to capture attention. This sanctuary is one of the most impressive and popular pilgrimage sites in the country. It is located in western Turkmenistan, about 20 kilometers northwest of Gyzylarbat, in the village of Paraw. The sanctuary itself is located about 100 meters above sea level on a rocky slope overlooking the village and consists of a white mausoleum-like structure (described in historical sources as a mosque). Then, drive to Nokhur, a village located in the western Kopetdag Mountains, by 4x4. Arrival and lunch at a local family's home in Nokhur for a unique experience and to enjoy the locals' hospitality. Visit the cemetery, where each grave is protected by the enormous horns of mountain goats, which the locals consider sacred. Indeed, many houses in the village have a goat skull hanging on a stick outside to ward off evil spirits. A little further on is the Kyz Bibi pilgrimage site, with its plane tree trunk covered in wishing cloths. Discover the sacred cave. The cave is surrounded by other pieces of material, some of which have been transformed into small cradles, suggesting the nature of the wishes made here. A visit to the famous stud farm to learn about the national pride of the Turkmen people: the famous Akhalteke horses, the most beautiful horses in the world. 5,000 years ago, the Turkmen began breeding Akhalteke horses. This unique breed has never been crossed with other breeds. Illustrious emperors such as Alexander the Great and Darius I desired to own Akhalteke horses. There are over 35 beautiful horses at the stud farm. Continue to Ashgabat. Arrival and hotel check-in. Overnight is at the hotel.
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Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Carpet Museum was established in 1993 to preserve and develop the traditions of Turkmen carpet weaving. More than two thousand carpets made by hand are awaiting to amaze their visitors. Both ancient and modern carpets are on display here, including one of 301 square meters that entered the Guinness Book of Records as the largest of the world. After lunch drive to Darvaza in the Karakum desert (270 km), along the way visiting the Erbent desert community. Darvaza, the center of a gas-rich area in the heart of the Karakum Desert, attracts travelers from all over the world with its unique burning crater, which offers especially spectacular views in the dark. Barbeque style dinner. Night at the camp
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After barbeque style breakfast drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kunya Urgench. This is the ancient capital of the Khorezm Empire and is a must-see for history buffs. You'll spend the day exploring the historical monuments, including: The Kutlug Timur Minaret, one of Central Asia's tallest minarets. The beautiful Mausoleum of Turabek Khanum, a masterpiece of 14th-century architecture. Other mausoleums and ruins, such as those of Sultan Tekesh and Sultan Il Arslan, which offer a glimpse into the city's past as a major center on the Silk Road. Transfer to Dashoguz/Shavat border. Border crossing. You will meet guide in border. Begin our sightseeing tour in Khiva, exploring the 26-hectare Ichan Qala complex (10th–19th centuries), a UNESCO-listed open-air museum city surrounded by massive ancient walls. We will visit: Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah & Kalta Minor Minaret – the largest madrasah in Khiva, famous for the colorful unfinished minaret. Kohna Ark – the former residence of Khiva’s rulers, consisting of several courtyards and offering insight into royal life. Muhammad Rahim Khan (Feruz) Madrasah – one of the most beautiful madrasahs, including a mosque, library, and study rooms. Juma Mosque – a unique mosque supported by 227 carved wooden columns. Tash Hovli Palace & Khan’s Harem – a magnificent palace with richly decorated interiors and separate quarters for the khan and his wives. Allakuli Khan Caravanserai – a historic Silk Road stop once used by traveling merchants. will also be trade, which will give you a special pleasure and you will feel like you are back in the past. Upon arrival, accommodation in the hotel.
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Breakfast. We continue our sightseeing tour in Khiva with visits to: Islam Khoja Madrasah and Minaret (without climbing) – one of the city’s most important landmarks, built by Islam Khoja, the prime minister of Khiva, featuring the tallest minaret in the city. Pahlavan Mahmud Complex – a magnificent mausoleum dedicated to the renowned poet, philosopher, scholar, and national hero, admired for its exquisite decoration. Mennonite Museum (Oq Masjid) – an interesting museum telling the story of the German Mennonite community that lived in Khiva in the 19th–20th centuries. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station and regular train to Bukhara. Upon arrival, accommodation in the hotel.
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Breakfast. We begin our sightseeing tour of Bukhara, the birthplace of Avicenna (Ibn Sina), one of the greatest figures in the history of world medicine. Our visits include: Labi Khouz Complex (16th–17th centuries) – a charming architectural ensemble with a historic pond, Nodir Devonbegi Khanaka and Madrasah, and Kukaldash Madrasah, a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors. Ancient Covered Trading Domes (16th–17th centuries): Toqi Sarrofon (money changers), Toqi Telpakfurushon (hat makers), Abdullakhan Timi (the largest covered bazaar), and Toqi Zargaron (jewelers’ market). Ulugbek Madrasah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah (outside view) – outstanding examples of refined Bukhara architecture. Poyi Kalon Complex (12th–16th centuries) – including the famous Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah. Ismail Samani Mausoleum (9th–10th centuries) – a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture built entirely of baked brick. Ark Fortress (5th–20th centuries) – the ancient citadel and former residence of Bukhara’s rulers. Bolo Hauz Mosque (outside view) – admired for its elegant wooden columns and decorative style. At the scheduled time, transfer to the railway station for the high-speed train to Samarkand. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and accommodation.
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Early breakfast. We begin our sightseeing tour of the ancient and ever-living city of Samarkand, with a history of nearly 3,000 years. We will visit: Amir Temur (Tamerlane) Mausoleum (14th–15th centuries) – a masterpiece of Timurid architecture, admired for its grandeur and timeless beauty. Registan Square (15th–17th centuries) – the heart of Samarkand, featuring the madrasahs of Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kori, once a major center of trade and learning on the Great Silk Road. Bibi Khanum Mosque (14th–15th centuries) – built by order of Amir Temur and once the largest mosque in Central Asia. Siyob Bazaar – the city’s most famous market, where you can experience local life and taste traditional sweets and dried fruits. Shahi-Zinda Necropolis (9th–19th centuries) – one of the most sacred sites in Samarkand, a stunning ensemble of mausoleums dedicated to Qusam ibn Abbas and members of Amir Temur’s family, each with unique architectural styles. In the evening, transfer to Samarkand railway station for the train to Tashkent. Overnight at the hotel.
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We'll begin our tour in the capital: Khast-Imam Complex where the famous Quran of Caliph Usman is located. In the Khasti-Imam complex you will visit the Barak-Khan madrasa and Muyi Mubarak, and and The Mausoleum of and the mausoleum of Kaffal Shashi; Bazaar Chorsu - it is an oriental market that is more than a hundred years old, always found in the main square of Eski-Juva; Plaza Amir Temur - The history of the square in the center of Tashkent, named after Amir Timur, the commander and founder of a great medieval empire; Independence Square - is located at the center of Tashkent. The main state events and parades are held here on national holidays. We will end the tour with the Metro Station, the only one in Uzbekistan and the first in Central Asia. Overnight in a hotel.
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Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to airport. End of our services.
Included
- Accommodation in mentioned hotels on DBL/TWIN sharing
- Breakfasts at the hotels
- Services of A/C comfortable transport with professional driver as per the program
- English speaking local guide
- Domestic air tickets: Mary-Ashgabat, Turkmenbashy-Ashgabat
- Tickets for high-speed train for Bukhara-Samarkand and Samarkand-Tashkent and in economic classes:
- Tickets for the normal train Khiva-Bukhara, in economic class (a private cabin for 4 passengers, with side beds).
- Daily 2 bottles of 0.5l water per person
- Half Board meals: 12 lunches in local/tourist restaurants (set menu).
- BBQ style dinner and breakfast at Darvaza crater
- Entrance fees to mentioned sights per program (excluding photo and video charges at sights)
- Visa support to Turkmenistan, registration and travel pass
- Porter services
- Handmade souvenir per person
Excluded
- Turkmenistan visa consular fees and processing expenses 80+15 USD per person, when obtained at land border (subject to change, nationality dependent)
- Turkmenistan migration tax 14 USD per person
- PCR nose test 33 USD
- Visa costs if it is needed -Uzbekistan
- Single supplement
- Dinners not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips for guide and drivers per person to pay at destination
- Photo and video charges at sights
- An early check-in hotel
- Beverages
- International air tickets to / out of Ashgabat
- Travel Insurance
- Extras, not indicated in inclusions
Additional info
Accommodation:
Ashgabat - Ak Altyn Hotel 3* or similar - 3 nights
Mary - Margush Hotel 3* or similar - 1 night
Turkmenbashy- Charlak Hotel 4* or similar- 1 night
Balkanabat - Nebitchi Hotel 3* - 1 night
Darvaza- Camp - 1 night
Tashkent - Florence 3* or similar - 2 nights
Khiva- New Minor Boutique or similar- 1 night
Bukhara- An Nur Boutique or similar - 1 night
Samarkand - Ideal 3* or similar - 1 night
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