Turkmenistan Escorted Tours

Escorted Tours to Turkmenistan

A crossroads of civilisations, Turkmenistan is enigmatic and largely unexplored. Cloaked in the Karakum Desert, hemmed by the Caspian Sea, and dotted with haunting ancient cities, its ethos of hospitality survives from its Silk Road days.

Why choose a tour in Turkmenistan?

Declaring its independence in 1991, Turkmenistan is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. It is also among the least visited, retaining an air of mystery that begs to be explored.

It is Central Asia’s second-largest country, but 90% of its territory is uninhabitable desert, punctuated with scattered oases and just a trio of rivers. Its cities embrace modernity, while rural customs echo those of its pastoral nomad origins; and its culture has been shaped and honed since the Silk Road era, influenced by the various traders and travellers, their artworks and architectural styles.

The country’s capital is Ashgabat, set between the desert and the Kopel Dag mountains, and cut through by the Karakum Canal. Famed for its myriad marble buildings, Ashgabat was all-but levelled in a 1948 earthquake. In the rebuilt city, tower blocks intermingle with gilded palaces and dancing fountains, grandiose monuments, minareted mosques, and the huge Russian Market.

Telling the tale of Turkmenistan’s past, the National Museum is filled with exhibits from thousands of years of history; and the Parthian era fortresses of Nisa form a UNESCO listed enclave, partially excavated to reveal richly adorned architecture, built from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd AD.

A southern oasis in the Karakum desert, the modern city of Mary is a commercial hub and the base from which to explore the relics of its ancient predecessor, Merv. Set on the Silk Road, renowned for its own silks and cottons, and revered as a centre of culture and learning, it was, in its 12th-century heyday, one of the world’s largest cities. It is now a vast UNESCO World Heritage site, covering 4,000 years of history with monumental architectural relics.

In the north, the Dashoguz region teams its contemporary provincial capital with the ancient capital of Khorezm, Kunya-Urgench. A once splendid city, at a crossing of two major trade routes, the remains of its caravanserai, mosques, mausoleums and fortified settlements are spread across a now deserted landscape, protected by UNESCO as a site of Outstanding Universal Value.

Jules Verne’s tour in Turkmenistan forms part of our Great Journey through the five “stans” of central Asia, teamed with Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

When to go on Turkmenistan holidays

The country’s arid continental climate varies between the mountain foothills and the Karakum Desert, and air masses from north and south can bring unexpected cold spells or heatwaves, but in general, winters are cold to mild, and summers are warm to hot. The highest temperatures, in June to August, average 37° in the south, slightly cooler in the north. The best months for touring are April & May, September & October, hovering between 22 and 28°.

Who are Turkmenistan tours suited to?

Turkmenistan is a tapestry of history and heritage, haunting desert landscapes and ornate city landmarks, all interwoven with a sense of mystery. Off the beaten track of tourism, it will appeal to those with a curious mind and a spirit of adventure.

Jules Verne’s journey crosses the country by road and air, travelling in small groups of like-minded people, to provide a very individual experience of its highlights.

Why book Turkmenistan tours with Jules Verne?

With 45 years’ experience and a passion for creating extraordinary adventures, Jules Verne takes you to iconic landmarks and lesser-known sites, with expert tour guides who share their local knowledge, and show you hidden gems. Our journeys in Turkmenistan include a visit to the Arkadash stud farm of Akhal Tekke horses, one of the oldest breeds on earth.

Our guided tours to Turkmenistan are ABTA and ATOL protected, so you can book with complete confidence.