Istanbul To Ashgabat (47 Days) Caucasus and Persia Explorer (Caia47)
Istanbul To Ashgabat (47 Days) Caucasus and Persia Explorer (Caia47)
Istanbul To Ashgabat (47 Days) Caucasus and Persia Explorer (Caia47)
47 Days Starting in Istanbul, Turkey and ending in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Visiting: Armenia, Falkland Islands, Turkey, Turkmenistan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
461
Specialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 10
Age range:
18-80
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an extraordinary 44-day adventure from Istanbul to Ashgabat, uncovering the hidden gems of the Caucasus region and beyond. This tour offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and thrilling experiences, including a guided tour of the marble city of Ashgabat, a 4X4 desert safari in Turkmenistan, and visits to Azerbaijan's bubbling mud volcanoes. Discover the ancient Savanavank monastery by Lake Sevan, the historic wine-growing region of Telavi, and the bizarre architecture of Batumi on the Black Sea Coast. Marvel at the dwellings carved into Cappadocia's eroded landscape, relax in Pamukkale's white travertine terraces, and explore the ancient city of Ephesus. Conclude your journey with a poignant visit to the battlegrounds and war graves of Gallipoli. This adventure tour promises an unforgettable experience through diverse terrains and rich histories.
Highlights
Itinerary
Istanbul
Our trip starts in Istanbul. Today a modern metropolis and one of the world's liveliest cities, it is a place full of history and rich in culture. Our first day is free, which you can choose to spend visiting one of the many famous sights such as the iconic Hagia Sophia and stunning Blue Mosque, or strolling around the Grand Bazaar on the lookout for some bargains. During the evening be sure to try some of the wonderful local cuisine, such as authentic kebabs, baklava or any of the many other treats on offer.
Many of our travellers starting their trips in Istanbul choose to arrive early to make the most out of the city. Please note that if your trip takes you further across Asia you may need to arrive in time to pick up some visas. If you are thinking of doing this, be aware that consulates are closed at weekends.
Days 2 - 10
Istanbul to Cappadocia
Leaving Istanbul, we embark on a half day drive through olive groves and rural settlements to Gallipoli and the Straits of the Dardanelles. In World War I, on this blustery and exposed peninsula, ANZAC and British Forces struggled unsuccessfully for nine horrendous months to dislodge Turkish troops from the hills above the beaches. It is a moving experience to visit the war graves and battlegrounds where so much suffering and unnecessary loss of life took place.
We then follow the Mediterranean coast south, past the ancient site of Troy, and drive to Ephesus. Built by the Greeks a thousand years before Christ and then rebuilt by the Romans, this immense ancient city boasts an amphitheatre that can seat 24000 and a harbour with no water - still in good condition after all these years. Reaching Selcuk we then drive inland towards Pamukkale where we see the strange stepped calcium travertines, and you can swim in warm, mineral-rich waters.
Our next stop is Cappadocia, where we stay for a few nights. Here, over the centuries, houses, churches, fortresses and even underground cities have been carved into this eerily eroded volcanic rock. The Goreme Valley provides us with an astonishing setting in which to spend a few days investigating the region. Why not take in the scenery from the skies in a Hot Air Balloon flight (optional). We will take you to one of the underground cities where you can explore alone or with a guide this ancient and mysterious area!
Days 11 - 20
Cappadocia to the Black Sea and Tbilisi
After a busy few days in Goreme we again hit the road to cover some more miles as we travel towards Georgia. Crossing rural Turkey, we head towards the Black Sea before following the coast east. This captures the essence of an overland adventure expedition, as we stop for bush camps in the evening and are able to watch as the stunning and varied scenery of this rarely-visited part of the country rolls past, stopping off to meet locals and buy food and drinks as we go. En-route we will stop to visit the incredible setting of Sumela monastery which clings to a sheer cliff, high above evergreen forests.
Our first destination in Georgia is the port city of Batumi. Here we spend some time to check out the city with its modern and often bizarre architecture and enjoy our first taste of Georgia's famous warm hospitality. A walk along the waterfront promenade is always popular, especially at night when the buildings are lit up in bright neon colours.
We spend the next two days exploring the Svaneti region. This mountainous area is beautiful and untamed, and offer fantastic hiking options with the mighty Caucasus mountain range as a stunning backdrop. Using our overland truck as our base we will bush camp and spend some time travelling around, including a visit to Mestia, a pretty small town that forms the centre of the region. Weather and climate can be unpredictable so this part of the trip is kept quite loose to allow for itinerary changes, depending on what is our best option at the time, but with the truck carrying all of our camping and cooking gear we are free to travel almost anywhere!
Returning to civilisation following our time in rural Georgia we visit Kutaisi¸ the country's second largest city and home to a buzzing fruit and vegetable market where you can barter for goods with the local traders. Kutaisi offers a glimpse of what modern day life in urban Georgia is like, and the real joy of the city is found in simply wandering the streets and observing the locals go about their routine. We’ll also stop to see the Prometheus Cave and if time allows, to see the dinosaur footprints at Sataplia.
We then travel east towards the capital to Georgia, Tbilisi. On the way we visit Gori the birthplace of Georgia's most infamous son, Josef Stalin and we have time to visit the museum dedicated to him which is built alongside the house where he was born, which still stands today. Here you will find many items from Stalin's reign, and also his bullet-proof train carriage, in which he travelled across the Soviet Union. There may also be the chance to stop at Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city built into the mountains not far from Tbilisi. Dating from the early Iron Age, this historic site says much about Georgia's long and often turbulent past at the crossroads of a number of might empires throughout the centuries.
We arrive in Tbilisi where we spend a couple of days, and there is no shortage of things to do. There are countless bars and restaurants offering tasty local dishes and Georgian wine, and exploring the Old Town you are rewarded with a huge range of bohemian-style buildings housing anything from private homes through to art galleries. There is a famous flea market, which sells items as diverse as household furniture to Soviet-era memorabilia, and a number of different museums to check out.
Days 21 - 22
Tbilisi
The Old Town of Tbilisi has much to offer. Here you can take a stroll along narrow cobbled streets, past traditional old houses with carved wooden balconies, relax in the warm waters of the historic sulphur baths and visit some of the city’s key historical sites; Metekhi Church, Narikala Fortress, Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Church. If we need to obtain Iran visas, we may pick them up here too.
Days 23 - 29
Tbilisi to Yerevan
Upon leaving Tbilisi our next stop is Telavi, the principal town of the Kakheti region, famous for its vineyards and wineries. Wine has been produced in Georgia since 4000BC and the industry has played a small but significant role in the country's history ever since, as winemaking (and its consumption) has enjoyed an important role in Georgian culture and society. Here we have the option of taking a wine tour to find out more about the history of the area, why wine production has been so important, and of course to try some ourselves!
Telavi itself is a fascinating and relaxing place to spend a couple of nights with many good restaurants and cafes, and not far from the town there are other sites well worth a visit, such as the monastery of Akhali Shuamta, and the small village of Ikalta and its Church of the Transfiguration which dates from the 8th Century BC.
After departing Telavi we cross the border to Armenia and carry on to the ancient town of Dilijan, famous for its hiking, food and arts. We should have time for a day hike here before will head to high altitude Lake Sevan with the possibility to visit the Hayravank Monastery that overlooks the lake.
Leaving the Lake Sevan area, we make our way via the Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple to one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world that is Yerevan where we will be based for the next couple of days and where there is plenty to see and do.
Days 30 - 31
Yerevan to Iran or Azerbaijan
From Yerevan we head south to Tatev, which at 5.7km long, hosts the longest cable tramway in the world; the "Wings of Tatev", that whisks you up into the mountains where there are lots of additional activities to take part in.
Important Note: From Tatev, our journey will either head north, towards the border into Azerbaijan. Or, head south to the border with Iran. Both routes come together again in Ashgabat in Turkmenistan. Which we take will depend on the current situation with regard to border closures, Caspian Sea ferry operations, and regional security issues. We will make a final decision on which route we will take a couple of months before each trip departs.
Days 32 - 40
Iran – Tabriz to Esfahan OR Azerbaijan - Sheki to Baku
Iran route: After crossing into in Iran our first stop will be in Tabriz, where we can explore its impressive Grand Bazaar. We’ll then continue east towards the capital Tehran. This is a friendly city, and we can visit the Golestan Palace, several excellent museums, and in the evening perhaps take a walk up from Darband where there are many restaurants and cafes either side of the river which forms the start of the hiking trail up to Mount Tochal.
From Iran we head south towards Kashan, famous for Persian ceramics, and woollen & silk carpets. Then we arrive in Esfahan, for many the highlight of their travels through Iran. Exploring the huge main square, bazaars, beautifully mosaiced mosques, and the famous bridges will take up a couple of days here.
Azerbaijan route: On arrival in Azerbaijan we get to visit the 18th Century UNESCO town of Sheki and continue on to the picturesque ancient village of Lahich with its copper beaters and ancient crafts. Heading south we visit the mud volcanoes of Qobustan before arriving in the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku. Baku has an amazing blend of the old city and the ultra-modern and is fascinating to explore.
Leaving Baku we head to the ferry port for our crossing of the Caspian Sea to Turkmenistan. Ferry schedules are notoriously unreliable and unpredictable and we may need to wait for a day or two (or more) for the next ferry to fill up and depart. The crossing takes approximately 18 hours.
Days 41 - 45
Continue to Ashgabat
Iran route: We will leave Esfahan and head East towards Mashhad. Our route is flexible, and may include stops to explore the Morteza Ali Canyon, and the old adobe village of Esfahak, destroyed by the big earthquake in 1978. In Mashhad, the holiest city in Iran, we can see the Imam Reza Shrine, where the eighth Shia Imam, Ali al-Rida is buried. From Mashhad we head north and cross into Turkmenistan and drive straight to the capital, Ashgabat.
Azerbaijan route: After crossing the Caspian Sea we arrive in our next country, Turkmenistan. On arrival in Turkmenbashi, we will be collected by off road jeeps and head off for our desert adventure. This will be a truly unique experience as we get to visit the Yangikala Canyons via the Balkan Mountains, then on past the white cliffs of Koymat, and along the banks of the dried up Uzboy River before reaching the desert settlement of Melegoch. We will pass several traditional villages on the way before setting up camp near the dunes of Melegoch. Much of this trip will be off road, and totally remote and will truly be a new experience. Finally, we head towards Ashgabat and arrive at our hotel for a well-earned rest!
Days 46
Ashgabat
We have some free time and enjoy a city tour of Ashgabat. Turkmenistan’s capital, founded in the 1880s by the Russian Tsarist government, sits between the foothills of the Koptedag mountains to the south, and the vast Karakum Desert to the north. The city was almost entirely destroyed following an earthquake in 1948 and rebuilt in the Soviet style. Following independence in 1991 the city has been transformed into a futuristic, and in many ways bizarre collection of unique structures and wide streets lined with white marble. All cars must by law also be white, and for many travellers, Ashgabat is one of the most mystifying and unusual cities they will ever experience.
On the city tour we visit Independence Park, the Ertogrul Gazi Mozque, the Arch of Neutrality, the Turkmenbashi Mosque Mauasoleum and many other sites throughout the city. There are plenty of fantastic photo opportunities, and we will have the chance to explore some of the markets and meet the locals.
Days 47
Ashgabat
The trip ends after breakfast. Additional nights in Ashgabat must be booked in advance through us as they need to be registered with your visa Letter of Invitation and all arrangements in the country made with our local agent. Departure airport transfers are included in the trip price, and you will be taken straight from the hotel to Ashgabat’s futuristic, falcon-shaped airport to catch your flight.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is split throughout this trip between simple hotels and hostels and camping. Approximately 65% camping and 35% simple hostels and hotels.
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Arrival Airport Transfer
Arrival airport transfer into Ashgabat is included.
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Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation
Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation support and fees are included.
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Ashgabat City Tour
A guided tour through the marble city of Ashgabat is included.
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4X4 Desert Safari
Experience the desert proper on a 4X4 safari in Turkmenistan.
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Caspian Ferry
The Caspian Ferry ride is included.
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Meals
Approximately 50% of meals are included.
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Gallipoli Tour
A tour of Gallipoli is included.
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Transport
All transport on the Oasis Expedition Truck is included.
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Camping and Cooking Equipment
Camping and cooking equipment are provided.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Local Payment
Local payment is not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.
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Flights
Flights are not included.
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Airport Taxes and Transfers
Airport taxes and transfers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Meals
Approximately 50% of meals are not included.
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Drinks
Drinks are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
More Info
Join this overland adventure starting in the isolated desert country of Turkmenistan, travelling across the Caspian Sea to the Caucasus states of Georgia and Armenia before continuing to Turkey. From Ashgabat to Istanbul, this trip is full of fascinating and varied history, demonstrating the contested and often turbulent past of this relatively unknown region. Those who do travel here are rewarded with breathtaking scenery from stunning snowy mountains to seemingly endless desert, ancient and medieval sites that rival and often outdo any found in Europe, and a wide array of eclectic cultures, with consistently friendly and welcoming locals.
Mode of Transport
The Oasis expedition truck will be your new home giving you a comfortable & secure base with which to experience your trip. We use a purpose built truck which has been converted especially for this expedition, which passes through all types of terrains from soft sand, mud, rock and potholed roads to tarseal. It is reassuring to know that these vehicles can handle the tough conditions that they are put through. The truck is equipped with all of the equipment we may need en-route, including a professionally compiled expedition Medical Kit, large water & fuel carrying capacities, an extensive range of spare parts as well as the kitchen sink, (well almost!) so all you need is your sleeping bag, a roll mat and your own personal gear!
Seatbelts
All Oasis Overland trucks are fitted with seatbelts. For your own safety and security we recommend that travellers wear these at all times whilst the vehicle is moving. Most of our overland trucks also have a ‘beach area’ which is a chill out zone to be used when the truck is not moving.
Accommodation
Accommodation is split throughout this trip between simple hotels and hostels and camping. The variety of accommodation provided is great and often a totally unique experience, including bush camps with no facilities, yurts and simple village pensions. Some are well managed and some very basic. Oasis uses roomy three-person tents but only for two people. They are specially made for us to meet the tougher conditions of an expedition trip and have mosquito netting sewn into the door and windows. It would also be a good idea to bring your own freestanding mosquito net so as to give you the freedom of sleeping under the stars at night. At bush camps you will be living off the truck, so there will be no showers or en-suite facilities, so digging your own toilet pit with the shovels supplied is essential!
Check out our Q&As
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What type of vehicle will we be traveling in during the tour?
You will be traveling in an Oasis expedition truck, which is a purpose-built vehicle designed to handle various terrains such as soft sand, mud, rock, and potholed roads. The truck is equipped with essential equipment, including a professionally compiled expedition medical kit, large water and fuel carrying capacities, an extensive range of spare parts, and even a kitchen sink. It also has seatbelts for safety and a 'beach area' for relaxation when the truck is not moving.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation on this tour is split between simple hotels and hostels and camping. You will experience a variety of accommodations, including bush camps with no facilities, yurts, and simple village pensions. Oasis uses roomy three-person tents but only for two people, which are specially made to meet the tougher conditions of an expedition trip. At bush camps, you will be living off the truck, so there will be no showers or en-suite facilities, and you will need to dig your own toilet pit with the shovels supplied.
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What are some of the unique experiences included in this tour?
Some unique experiences included in this tour are a guided tour through the marble city of Ashgabat, a 4X4 desert safari in Turkmenistan, visiting the bubbling and sometimes explosive mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan, exploring dwellings carved from the eroded landscape in Cappadoccia, and taking a dip in the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. You will also have the opportunity to roam around the ancient city of Ephesus and visit the battlegrounds and war graves of the forces.
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What should I bring for camping during the tour?
For camping during the tour, you should bring your own sleeping bag, a roll mat, and your personal gear. It is also recommended to bring a freestanding mosquito net to give you the freedom of sleeping under the stars at night.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Meals are included for approximately 50% of the tour. The rest of the meals will be at your own expense.
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What is the starting and ending point of the tour?
The tour starts in Istanbul, Turkey, and ends in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.
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What kind of activities can I expect in Tbilisi?
In Tbilisi, you can take a stroll along narrow cobbled streets, visit traditional old houses with carved wooden balconies, relax in the warm waters of the historic sulphur baths, and visit key historical sites such as Metekhi Church, Narikala Fortress, Sioni Cathedral, and Anchiskhati Church.
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Will there be any guided tours during the trip?
Yes, there will be guided tours during the trip, including a city tour of Ashgabat and a Gallipoli tour.
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What are some of the historical sites we will visit?
Some of the historical sites you will visit include the ancient city of Ephesus, the Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple in Armenia, the Stalin Museum in Gori, Georgia, and the battlegrounds and war graves at Gallipoli.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.
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How many people do you take on your Trips?
On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.
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Low Deposit
Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of oasis overland charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 65% of booking price.
At 39 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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