Turkmenistan is a captivating destination, rich with historical landmarks, monuments, and a vibrant culture that has been preserved over the centuries. Whether you are an experienced traveler or embarking on your first adventure, a trip to Turkmenistan promises to be a remarkable and unforgettable experience. Turkmenistan offers a diverse array of attractions that can leave even the most seasoned explorer in awe. This guide aims to provide you with practical details that will help you prepare for your visit to this unique country.
Before you embark on this enchanting journey to Turkmenistan, here’s what you need to know and the arrangements you should make to ensure a seamless adventure. To ensure that your choice of departures, tours and hotels are available, we highly recommend an early reservation, especially during the high seasons, which run from mid April through mid June and from the end of August through early November. Book in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak tourist seasons or to popular destinations like Ashgabat and Merv.
Do check the latest visa requirements for your nationality and apply well in advance. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from the date of entry and has enough blank pages for stamps.
Understanding Turkmen customs and a few phrases in the local language can greatly enhance your experience. Learn basic Turkmen greetings and read up on the cultural norms to show respect and build rapport with locals.
Turkmenistan is filled with must-see destinations, from the Darwaza crater in Kyzyl Kum desert to the ancient city of Merv. Plan your itinerary to include these highlights, but also allow time for unexpected discoveries.
Prepare for a range of climates depending on the season. Pack light, breathable clothing for the hot summers and warm layers for the cooler months. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring the cities’ historical sites.
The most efficient and straightforward way to reach Turkmenistan is by flying into its capital, Ashgabat. International flights are predominantly operated by Turkmen Airlines, with a limited number of services from other global carriers. To secure a seat on these flights, it’s advisable to book tickets well in advance due to high demand and limited availability.
Traveling to Turkmenistan by train or bus is not an option as there are no direct rail or bus links from neighboring countries. For those considering driving, it’s worth noting that this journey can be particularly exhausting, requiring multiple border crossings and significant travel time. Therefore, driving to Turkmenistan is not recommended unless you are prepared for a challenging and lengthy trip.
An alternative route for adventurous travelers is to take a ferry from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan. However, this option comes with its own set of challenges. The ferry service operates on an irregular schedule, departing only when it is fully booked and weather conditions are favorable. The voyage typically lasts between 12 and 15 hours. Due to the lack of a fixed timetable and potential delays, this mode of travel is best suited for those with a flexible schedule and a sense of adventure.
For those traveling from nearby countries, such as Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, or Uzbekistan, road travel is possible. Specifically, travelers from Uzbekistan can benefit from the proximity of tourist attractions in both countries. Cities like Khiva and Nukus in Uzbekistan are relatively close to Turkmenistan’s Dashoguz and Kunya-Urgench. Additionally, journeys from Bukhara to the ancient city of Merv in Turkmenistan are common, though they can take a full day to complete.
In summary, the most reliable and comfortable way to reach Turkmenistan is by air. Alternative methods, such as traveling by ferry from Baku or driving from neighboring countries, offer unique experiences but come with their own challenges.
Travelers wishing to visit Turkmenistan are required to have a valid entry visa. To secure this visa, you must first obtain visa support, also known as an invitation letter. This process involves applying for the necessary documentation, which is then reviewed by the Immigration Service of Turkmenistan. Typically, this review takes around three weeks. Once approved, you can collect your visa either from the Turkmenistan Embassy or at a border checkpoint, provided you have the visa support document. Additionally, a 10-day visa can be issued upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport.
When planning a trip to Turkmenistan, it is advisable to use a local travel agency rather than attempting to organize your itinerary independently. A travel agency can help you navigate the complexities of travel within Turkmenistan and ensure you make the most of your visit.
For travelers to Turkmenistan, it’s important to be aware of the customs regulations regarding currency and goods. Foreign visitors are prohibited from bringing Turkmen currency into or out of the country. However, there are no restrictions on the import of foreign currencies, though any amount brought into Turkmenistan must be declared. When leaving the country, you may only export the amount of foreign currency declared upon entry. To avoid potential issues at customs, it’s advisable to keep all receipts for currency exchanges and shopping transactions.
At the border, travelers will need to complete two copies of a customs declaration form. One copy will be retained at the checkpoint upon entry, while the second copy must be presented when exiting the country.
Notably, for avid smokers: Turkmenistan has strict anti-smoking policies, and finding a pack of cigarettes can be challenging even in the capital. Therefore, it is advisable for smokers to bring the allowable maximum of 40 cigarettes or 2 packs.
When it comes to exporting items from Turkmenistan, certain restrictions apply. The export of carpets, jewelry, musical instruments, artwork, archaeological artifacts, antiques, and similar items is allowed only if you possess valid documentation proving the legal acquisition of these items. Specifically for carpets, you must obtain a certificate from the Turkmen Carpet Museum in Ashgabat, confirming that the carpet does not hold historical value. Additionally, a tax based on the size of the carpet will need to be paid.
Be aware that certain items are strictly prohibited for export. This includes black caviar and fish, which cannot be taken out of the country under any circumstances.
Foreign nationals arriving in Turkmenistan for more than three working days are required to register with the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan by the third working day following their arrival. The main office for this service is located in Ashgabat at 63 Azadi Street. Typically, your tour company will manage this registration process on your behalf.
Travelers with a transit visa are exempt from registering with the Migration Police (OVIR) unless their transit visa is valid for more than 5 days. If your stay extends beyond this period, you must reside in a hotel to have a registered address. Hotel staff will handle your registration and provide you with the necessary documentation. It is crucial to keep this registration certificate until the end of your trip.
After receiving the registration certificate from the hotel, you should proceed to the OVIR office on Gogol Street in Ashgabat. To complete your registration, you will need to present a copy of your passport (including the main page and the visa for your next destination) and a passport-sized photo.
Upon entry into Turkmenistan, tourists are issued an immigration card, which must be updated with details of your accommodation and the daily fee of $2. If you receive your visa upon arrival in Turkmenistan, you will also be required to pay an immigration tax of $14.
At Shahina Travel, we prioritize the well-being and peace of mind of our adventurers. That’s why securing travel insurance is a highly advisable step for all our tour members. When you’re preparing for your journey, it’s essential to partner with a trusted insurance provider to ensure you’re covered comprehensively throughout your travels. Your policy should shield you against unforeseen events, including personal injuries, medical bills, emergency evacuations, and even the loss of personal belongings. Additionally, it should safeguard you against the financial implications of having to cancel or cut short your trip.
We advise arranging your insurance with a firm based in your home country, simplifying the process should you need to file a claim. While we pledge to offer unwavering support in the event of illness during your tour, it’s crucial to understand that medical costs, doctor’s fees, and return travel expenses fall under your financial responsibility. And in the unfortunate circumstance that illness requires you to leave the tour early, please be aware that Shahina Travel cannot offer refunds for the unused portion of the trip.
Turkmenistan is served by a single mobile network operator, TM Cell (also known as «Altyn Asyr»), which also provides mobile internet services. SIM cards can be purchased at Ashgabat Airport, the central bazaar, and various sales points, with a typical SIM card costing around $30.
The internet situation in Turkmenistan is less than ideal. Users may experience slow website loading speeds and weak Wi-Fi coverage. Additionally, access to social media, messaging apps, and news websites is heavily restricted. Even using a VPN may not always bypass these blocks. As a result, travelers to Turkmenistan should expect to be largely offline during their visit.
Tours in Turkmenistan
