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Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport. You will be met by our representatives and transferred to the hotel (early check-in). Free time.
In the afternoon, you will have an Ashgabat city tour. In 2013, the Guinness Book of Records named Ashgabat a “white marbled city” – here you can see the largest number of structures in the world made out of white marble. You will see the Ashgabat Olympic Stadium, Monument and Park of Independence, the main flagpole of Ashgabat, the Arch of Neutrality, the Constitution Monument, Ferris Wheel, Wedding Palace, and enjoy a panoramic view of Ashgabat from the top of the hill, Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, Alabay monument, and Ertogrul Gazi Mosque. Overnight in Ashgabat.
Later, drive to visit the Horse Stable to see the national pride of the Turkmen people—Akhalteke horses, the nicest horses in the world. 5000 years ago, Turkmens began breeding Akhalteke horses. The World’s unique breed was never mixed with other breeds. Illustrious Emperors like Alexander the Great and Darius I desired to own Ahalteke horses. There are over 35 beautiful horses on the farm. Per superstition, every sick person who touches an Ahalteke horse will get well soon. Overnight in Ashgabat

Breakfast at the hotel. Hotel check-out is at noon. Then, drive to visit “Altyn Asyr” Oriental Bazar (opens on Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun) – Jygyldyk, located 20km to the north of Ashgabat. It is one of the world’s largest open bazaars, filled with colorful rugs, jewelry, carpets, silk, and national Turkmen costumes and animals in other parts.
Alternatively, you can visit Gulistan Bazaar, the oldest covered market in Ashgabat, and a must-visit for any traveler. The ground floor of the bazaar is dedicated to fresh produce, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and dairy products. Stalls also sell spices, nuts, dried fruits, and other food items. The second floor is home to a variety of shops selling clothing and souvenirs.
Afternoon drive to Darvaza burning Gas Crater (276km, 4h), which is one of the top international tourist destinations. The area is rich in natural gas. Burning for more than 50 years, Darvaza Gas Crater shines like a pearl in the middle of the Karakum desert. Besides Darvaza Gas Crater, you will also see water and mud craters. One of the most vivid and addictive features of this trip is the fresh air of the desert and experiencing the nomadic life in person. At night, while the light of the Gas Crater hits the sky, you will camp in the Turkmen national yurt or private tents and barbecue for dinner. This unique landscape in the world will fascinate you, and you will want to come again

Picnic-style breakfast at the yurt camp. Drive to the Turkmen/Uzbek border, Shavat (309km, 5h)