Planning a time
The ideal time to visit Tajikistan spans from May to mid-October when the weather is most favorable. To ensure availability and avoid last-minute issues, it’s wise to book your flights and accommodations in advance. You can conveniently use our online booking system for arranging your tours or securing a hotel.
How to Arrive in Tajikistan
By Air or Train: The quickest and most efficient way to reach Tajikistan is by flying into its capital, Dushanbe. The city’s international airport welcomes flights from major cities like Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Almaty, Bishkek, Istanbul, Dubai, Urumqi, Tehran, and Frankfurt. Airlines such as Flydubai, Turkish Airlines, China Southern, Air Astana, and S7 Airlines operate out of Dushanbe. There are also international airports in Kulyab and Khujand. For domestic flights, local carriers like Tajik Air and Somon Air offer services, including flights to Europe.
Traveling by train to Dushanbe is also possible but less convenient, as the journey from Moscow can take up to 4.5 days and requires a transit visa through Turkmenistan.
By Car: Driving to Tajikistan is not very practical due to the need to cross multiple borders. Although there is a bus service from Russia, the trip is long and exhausting.
ARRIVAL
Visa Requirements: To enter Tajikistan, foreign visitors need a valid passport and a visa. You can apply for a visa at a Tajik embassy or obtain an electronic visa through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan’s online portal. Citizens from 69 countries can get a visa on arrival at Dushanbe’s airport. For more details on visa regulations, refer to the relevant resources.
Entry Process: Upon arrival, you will be given an immigration card to complete before passport and customs control. Ensure that the card is stamped with the arrival date and keep it for your departure. Additionally, you need to fill out two copies of a customs declaration form, detailing the amount of currency and valuable items you are bringing in. One copy will be retained by customs, while the other, stamped, will be returned to you. This document is essential for exiting the country, as it indicates the amount of valuables and foreign currency you are permitted to take out. Exporting Tajik currency is prohibited.
Registration: Foreign visitors planning to stay over 10 days and who didn’t secure visas before arrival to the country must register within three working days of arrival. Obtain a registration form from your hotel and register with the Visa and Registration Office for Foreigners (OVIR). If registration takes longer than expected, contact your hotel or tour agency for assistance.
Accommodation: In Dushanbe and other major tourist cities, you’ll find hotels that meet high standards, offering a range of services. In smaller cities, you might encounter “Soviet-style” hotels or modest private accommodations.
Money and Currency Exchange: You can exchange USD, Euros, and Russian rubles for Tajik somoni at Dushanbe’s airports, banks, and hotel exchange offices. Ensure your banknotes are in good condition, as worn or marked notes may not be accepted. Credit cards and ATMs are available only in larger cities and supermarkets. Traveler’s cheques are not widely accepted in Tajikistan.
DEPARTURE
Preparation: To facilitate a smooth departure, arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight. Ensure you have your passport, the hotel or OVIR registration form, customs declaration, air ticket, and a valid Tajik visa.
Customs Control: When leaving, fill out a departure customs declaration form. Indicate the amount of currency and valuable items you are taking with you. Note that you are not allowed to export more items than what you imported.
Handmade Goods and Souvenirs: Customs officials may inspect any handmade items or souvenirs you wish to take out to ensure they are not illegal exports of cultural or antique significance. Make sure to have the necessary documentation for such items.