Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Turkmenistan Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
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Suited for
Turkmenistan – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type I
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Turkmenistan Manat (TMT) £1 ≈ TMT 4.66 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 2/5
Cashless payments are not widely accepted in Turkmenistan. Cash is the most common method of payment, and credit cards are rarely used outside of major hotels.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: | We cannot recommend an eSIM provider for this country. We advise getting a local SIM card. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not widely expected in Turkmenistan, but small tips for good service in restaurants, hotels, and taxis are appreciated. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Turkmenistan, though it is generally consumed in private or licensed venues like hotels and restaurants. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in outdoor public spaces and designated indoor areas. |
| Independence Day (27 September) |
Celebrates Turkmenistan’s independence from the Soviet Union |
|---|---|
| Neutrality Day (12 December) |
Marks Turkmenistan’s declaration of permanent neutrality |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 02 (Police), 03 (Ambulance), 01 (Fire) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | |
| Other: | Turkmenistan is known for its vast desert landscapes, unique architecture, and ancient sites like Merv and Nisa. It offers a rich cultural experience for travellers seeking adventure in Central Asia. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Turkmenistan, Turkmenistan
Best for the Karakum desert, Ashgabat and the Silk Road sites (Merv, Köneürgenç) in April to May and September to October; summer heat makes desert and city trips hard
The Caspian coast resort of Avaza has its beach season June to September, the Kopet Dag foothills stay cooler in summer
Tourist visas require an approved invitation and, for most visitors, a guided tour with an official guide; independent travel is tightly restricted
Don't miss
- 🔥 Witness fiery glow of Darvaza Gas Crater at night
- 🏛️ Explore ancient ruins of UNESCO-listed Merv city
- 🗽 Visit majestic Ruhnama Monument in Ashgabat
- 🖼️ Discover intricate mosaics at Old Nisa archaeological site
- 🛍️ Stroll through the grand Altyn Asyr Market
- 🕌 Admire architecture of Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Turkmenistan?
Turkmenistan's appeal lies in its remarkable blend of ancient history and untouched natural wonders. The country boasts impressive archaeological sites including the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Merv, alongside unique natural phenomena like the Darvaza Gas Crater (often called the 'Door to Hell'). The cultural experience is enhanced by the country's rich Silk Road heritage, distinctive architecture and traditional crafts, all set against the backdrop of the vast Karakum Desert that covers about 80% of the country. However, travelers should be prepared for significant challenges. Turkmenistan is one of the most isolated and strictly controlled countries in the world, requiring visitors to book guided tours to obtain a tourist visa. The climate is extremely harsh, with summer temperatures often exceeding 40-45°C, making travel uncomfortable from May through September. It's also one of the most expensive countries in Central Asia for travelers, with tour costs averaging around $100-200 per day and limited options for independent travel.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Ashgabat
This Central Asian capital dazzles with its futuristic architecture and pristine white marble avenues. Yet, behind the grandiose monuments lies a rigid political atmosphere where visitors must navigate strict dress codes and limited access to local culture.
🏯Places worth seeing
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Independence Day Celebrations
-
Turkmen Horse Festival
-
Turkmen Carpet Day
-
Nowruz Spring Festival
-
Melon Day Festival
-
Ashgabat Day
-
Neutrality Day
-
Harvest Festival
-
Constitution Day
-
Turkmen Racing Day
Knowledge before you go
- Visa required; book through licensed tour operators only.
- Register with Migration Service within three days of arrival to avoid fines or deportation.
- Restricted border zones need special permits; apply ten days ahead for approval.
- Surveillance common; avoid photography of officials, military sites and government buildings.
How to travel to Turkmenistan
Most international visitors arrive in Turkmenistan through Ashgabat International Airport, which has connections to major hubs in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. To enter Turkmenistan, you must obtain a visa in advance, which typically requires booking a guided tour through an authorized travel agency. Tourist visa invitations cost around TMT 96 (£20.51), in addition to the visa fee itself. Transit visas (valid for 5 days) are sometimes available for those traveling through the country, costing about TMT 35 (£7.48), but these have become more difficult to obtain in recent years.
Access summary
- Fly into Ashgabat (ASB) from Istanbul/Dubai; taxis to city.
- From Uzbekistan: Shared taxis via Farap border to Mary/Ashgabat.
- Turkmenistan Airlines based in ASB; no alliance, regional flights.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan offers a range of accommodations, though quality and value often don't align with prices. Visitors on tourist visas must stay in official hotels, which tend to be expensive for the quality provided. Budget options start around US$40 – 60 (£29.90 – 44.86) for basic doubles, while decent mid-range hotels cost US$60 – 100 (£44.86 – 74.76) per night. Luxury options in Ashgabat can reach US$200 – 300 (£149.52 – 224.28). Transit visa holders can access unofficial, cheaper accommodations around US$10 (£7.48) per night. Advance booking is essential, as hotel options are limited outside major cities.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
We couldn't find any nearby hotels for now.
How to get around Turkmenistan
Getting around Turkmenistan typically requires organized transportation through your tour operator, as independent travel is limited. In cities like Ashgabat, local buses and taxis are available for urban travel. For intercity journeys, domestic flights connect major destinations like Ashgabat, Mary and Turkmenbashi, saving time over long road trips. Trains provide an affordable alternative, with the Ashgabat-Turkmenbashi route costing only TMT 2.50 – 5.00 (£0.53 – 1.07). Minibuses connect major cities, with the Ashgabat-Mary route costing around TMT 5 (£1.07).
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Turkmenistan are around 5% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend around the same on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to TMT) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Turkmenistan is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates. The strict government control means violent crime is rare. However, visitors are closely monitored and photography restrictions are strictly enforced, especially around government buildings and infrastructure.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities in Turkmenistan are limited outside major cities and often below Western standards. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. Extreme heat in summer poses health risks and water-borne illnesses can be a concern.
Accessibility
Accessibility is challenging throughout Turkmenistan. Few buildings or transportation options are equipped for mobility-impaired travelers. Major hotels in Ashgabat may offer some accessibility features, but historical sites and natural attractions present significant barriers.
Tap water
Tap water is not safe for drinking in Turkmenistan. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps, which is widely available in tourist areas. The desert climate makes staying hydrated essential, especially during the extreme summer heat.
Packing recommendations for Turkmenistan
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🕶️
Sunglasses
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
🧼
Hand sanitiser
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
especially for women
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
👛
Cash in multiple currencies
🧻
Wet wipes
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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