Day 1: Ashgabat; Day 2: Ashgabat – Mary – Merv – Ashgabat; Day 3: Ashgabat – Darvaza; Day 4: Darvaza – Dashoguz; Day 5: Dashoguz – Koneurgench – Dashoguz – Ashgabat; Day 6: Ashgabat – Turkmenbashi – Yangikala - Balkanabat; Day 7: Balkanabat – Nohur – Ashgabat; Day 8: Departure
Ancient Merv is an entire historical and archaeological complex located in eastern Turkmenistan. Merv is one of Turkmenistan's main cultural attractions. Covering an area of 1,500 hectares, it contains several historical buildings and fortress ruins scattered widely. The oldest fortress is Erk-Kala, over 2,500 years old. The largest monument is the 38-meter-tall Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar. The city of Mary, 30 km west of Merv, offers overnight accommodations.