Trekking in Turkmenistan

The trip starts in Ashgabat – the capital of Turkmenistan. From Ashgabat we drive to the trek starting point, making a stop at Kov-Ata Lake on the way – to take a swim in the warm underground lake.The first four days of our trek we’ll walk through the foothills and valleys of northern slope of Kopetdag mountain range and will reach Kunia-Gumbez village in Nokhoor region. While staying at the place of our local guide – Ekiboly – we will see the life in a traditional Turkmen village as it is. We will learn how large felt mats are made, how famous Nokhoor goats and sheep are fed, milked, etc. Authentic cuisine will add more flavor to your impressions.The second part of our trek is in Aydere valley and neighboring valleys, which are situated in the subtropical zone and are home of many plants, in particular of pomegranate. While most of the mountain regions in Europe and Asia are still covered with snow and it’s still cold, here in Turkmenistan you can enjoy the trek and nice warm weather

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 1. Arrive in Ashgabat. Transfer to hotel. Orientation city-tour.

Day 2. Drive to the trek starting point (about 5 hours).

Days 3-4. Trek to Arvaz (15 km) and further to to Ipay-Kala along the valley gaining altitude from 450m. to 1100m.

Days 5-6. Trek along the valley and then on the plateau. Descend to Kunia-Gumbez village.

Day 7. Trek to the upstream of Aydere river.

Days 8-10. We descend along the Aydereh River.

Day 11. Today we will explore the area visiting Kurudzhey village and will have about 15 km. walk returning to the same campsite.

Day 12. This day is started with a climb along the valley up to 1200m. then continued by a walk on the plateau. Finally we enter Koshdemir valley.

Day 13. Transfer to Ashgabat. We will make some stops to see the highlights along the road: “Moonscape”, watermill in Suncheh village (built in the 17th century), mausoleum of the 15th century in Murcheh. Arrive in Ashgabat. Hotel.

Day 14. Transfer to the airport and departure.