TURKMENISTAN CHALLENGE

Z Adventures is proud to present the Turkmenistan Challenge. Join us on an exciting adventure as we explore one of the least visited country on earth and run the only official marathon in the country. The challenge is designed to accommodate every kind of runner and walker. Participants will get a chance to explore the country, meet like-minded adventure-athletes, and soak in the sights and sounds of each destination. Runners & walkers can choose any distance they like ranging from 5K, 10K, half marathon to full marathon.

DATES: October 26-29, 2024

LOCATION: Turkmenistan.

FULL PACKAGE: USD 1,500.00 per person. This includes:

Welcome dinner in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.
3 nights accommodation based on twin sharing basis.
Transfers to all race locations.
Entry fee to both professionally-managed official races.
All meals as specified (Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner).
Unique finisher's medal for each race.
Swag.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: USD 170.00

INCLUDED:

English speaking guide, transport and entrance fees for sightseeing on Day 1
Double/twin shared room in the hotel as per itinerary
- Ashgabat – Ak Altyn Hotel
Breakfast at the hotel every day
Support during marathon (cars support, water, snacks, picnic lunch, and local guidance)
Transport in 4x4 to Gates of Hell
Support during 10km run at Gates of Hell
Ambulance and doctor on duty during marathon (required by the Turkmen authorities)
Airport transfer at beginning and end of tour (on first and last day of tour only – other days will be charged separately at $20 per person)

EXCLUDED:

Single supplement
Airport transfer on days other than first and last day of tour (other days will be charged separately at $20 per person)
International flights (to and from Ashgabat)
Visas and entry tax
Tourist tax in Turkmenistan ($2 per person per night at hotels)
Other services not mentioned above

EXTRAS:

Extra night at hotel in Ashgabat – $100 single, $140 twin/double per night

TRIP ESSENTIALS:

All runners are required to have either a GPS watch or smartphone with distance calculation app as a back-up.
Trip and medical evacuation insurance.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Sat 26 October 2024

Arrive in Ashgabat.
Sightseeing tour of Ashgabat, including the Monument to the Constitution, Alem Centre, Arch of Neutrality & Independence Park.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
In reality, the vast majority of people will arrive on either Turkish Airlines or Fly Dubai at 2 or 3:30am. So in this case, some people may probably need an extra night of accommodation for the night of 25th, so they can check in straight away. The price is $140 (Double) / $100 (Single) for extra night at Ak Altyn. Status quo is check in at 12:00 on 26th.
MEALS: D

Day 2 - Sun 27 October 2024
Race 1: ASHGABAT MARATHON

Marathon starting point will be outside the hotel.
After the marathon transfer back to the hotel for lunch.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
MEALS: B/L/D

Day 3 - Mon 28 October 2024
Race 2: GATES OF HELL 10K

Day trip to Gates of Hell.
Run 10K around the crater.
Wait for sunset, then return to Ashgabat after dark.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
MEALS: B/L/D

Day 4 - Tue 29 October 2024

Airport transfers as per flight times (included).
MEALS: B