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Arrive in Turkmenbashi at 0900h. We leave the main road an hour later and drive through the Balkan Mountains, then across vast flat highlands grazed by camels, sheep, and in spring — tortoises. The white, pink and orange limestone formations are extraordinary; look closely at the ground and you'll find seashells from when this plateau sat at the edge of the sea. Picnic lunch on site. Explore the canyon by jeep and on foot, with views stretching on clear days to the Garabogaz Gulf and the Caspian Sea. We find a good spot and set up camp for the night.
Drive to the pilgrim site and mausoleum of Kemal Ata, set at a natural spring with a vivid green patch surrounded by rare hard-rock concretions — a geological phenomenon found in only a handful of places worldwide. Continue deeper into the area to Yangikala Viewpoint for walks along spectacular coloured cliffs. In the afternoon, head to Koymat — a semi-nomadic settlement where you'll see yurts and camels, meet the locals, and get a real glimpse into their way of life. Overnight with the community.
Head east along the dry riverbed of the ancient Uzboy River towards Melegoch village, where we stop for lunch and witness the falconry traditions of the Turkmen tribe living in the desert. Continue to the early Parthian fortress of Ygdykala — perched on a high cliff carved out by the river in ancient times. After exploring the fortress remains, carry on across soft sand dunes until we find a perfect camp spot for the night.
Continue east across more heavy sand dunes. After 70 km we reach Balishem village for lunch, then rejoin the main road connecting Ashgabat with Dashoguz. The evening is unforgettable: shashlyk, cold drinks, and a night in traditional yurts — just metres from the burning Darvaza gas crater roaring against a pitch-black sky.
Drive back from Darvaza and check in to your hotel in Ashgabat. After freshening up, head out to explore more of this extraordinary marble city — visiting monuments and landmarks you may have missed on Day 1. In the afternoon, lose yourself in the local markets and bazaars, picking up souvenirs, handicrafts and a taste of everyday Turkmen life before a final evening in the capital.
Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your flight home. End of an extraordinary journey through one of the world's most extraordinary and least-visited countries.
