• 23.01.2026

7-Day Turkmenistan Route: Shavat – Darvaza – Ashgabat – Merv – Farap

If you are planning to cross Turkmenistan between Uzbekistan borders, this 7-day route is one of the most practical and complete options. It combines the country’s top highlights: UNESCO heritage sites, the Karakum Desert, the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, and modern white-marble Ashgabat.

Below you’ll find a clear day-by-day plan with realistic driving legs and useful tips.

Who this route is for

• Travelers entering from Uzbekistan via Shavat and exiting via Farap

• Anyone who wants to see Darvaza at night plus Ashgabat and key UNESCO sites

• Travelers who prefer a comfortable pace (no rushing)

Day-by-day itinerary (7 days)

Day 1 — Shavat → Dashoguz → Kunya-Urgench → Dashoguz

• Border formalities at Shavat (Turkmen side)

• Drive to Kunya-Urgench and visit the historical complex (UNESCO)

• Return to Dashoguz

• Overnight in Dashoguz hotel

Day 2 — Dashoguz → Izmukshir → Darvaza

• Morning departure from Dashoguz

• Short stop at Izmukshir ruins/fortress for a walk and photos

• Continue to Darvaza area

• Sunset and night visit to Darvaza Gas Crater (best after dark)

• Overnight at desert camp / yurt camp

Day 3 — Darvaza → Ashgabat (Water & Mud Craters en route)

• Morning drive towards Ashgabat

• Photo stops at the Water Crater and Mud Crater

• Arrival in Ashgabat

• Evening viewpoints and city lights

• Overnight in Ashgabat

Day 4 — Ashgabat + Nisa (UNESCO)

• Full day Ashgabat city tour: main landmarks, parks, panoramic stops

• Visit Ancient Nisa (Parthian heritage, UNESCO)

• Free time for bazaar/souvenirs

• Overnight in Ashgabat

Day 5 — Ashgabat → Mary → Ancient Merv (UNESCO)

• Morning transfer (drive or domestic flight depending on schedule)

• Explore Ancient Merv: key sites of the Silk Road oasis

• Evening in Mary city

• Overnight in Mary

Day 6 — Mary → Lebap (Dayahatyn) → Turkmenabat

• Drive east across the country

• Stop at Dayahatyn caravanserai / historical sites (time and season permitting)

• Optional short viewpoint stop at the Amu Darya area

• Arrival in Turkmenabat

• Overnight in Turkmenabat

Day 7 — Turkmenabat → Farap (exit)

• Morning transfer to Farap border

• Exit formalities and onward travel to Uzbekistan

• End of route

Practical tips

• Documents: most travelers need an LOI/visa — start early

• Cash: bring USD/EUR in small bills for exchange and daily expenses

• Connectivity: download offline maps; signal can be weak on highways

• Darvaza: pack a warm layer — desert nights can be windy and cold

• Water: keep extra drinking water in the car on long drives

• Photo rules: some areas may have restrictions — ask your guide in advance

• Timing: always plan buffer time for roads and checkpoints

Need this route for your exact dates

We tailor itineraries to your pace and interests and help with logistics, accommodation and visa support.