Due to stringent visa policies and complex application process, visiting Turkmenistan requires more effort. Every foreign traveler needs a tourist visa to enter and must book a tour package to complete all itineraries accompanied by a local guide. To get a tourist visa, you’ll need a Letter of Invitation (LOI) authorized by the government - we can provide it if you travel with us. After receiving the LOI, you can apply for a visa at the Turkmenistan Embassy or Consulate abroad or get a visa-on-arrival when you land in Ashgabat.

Please note that it takes 3-4 weeks to apply for the LOI, so to avoid long waits and any delay, it’s better to submit your request and a copy of your passport ID page at least 8 weeks in advance and book your guided tour with us 6 months ahead of time.

The springtime from April to June and autumn from September to November are the best times to plan your Turkmenistan tours. Due to the country’s continental climate, the weather is mild between April and June, and you can catch some major events like the Racing Horse Festival and the Carpet Festival. As temperatures cool down from September to November, it would be bearable to visit unshaded ancient city ruins and hike through canyons. Another fun activity is camping to experience nature and slow down. 

Most of Turkmenistan is covered by the Karakum Desert, so be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from sunlight. You can pack layered clothing to deal with changeable weather and chilly nights, as well as a mask and veil for desert crossings.

Please skip July to August when temperatures in the desert reach 45°C (113°F) and December to February when the lowest temperature drops to -10°C (14°F), making most outdoor sites inaccessible.

The Darvaza Gas Crater, aka the Door to Hell, is a must-see in Turkmenistan, which has been burning for over 50 years since 1971. You can also glimpse the country’s rich past by exploring the ruins of ancient Silk Road cities like Nisa in Ashgabat, Ancient Merv in Mary, and Kunya Urgench near Dashoguz. If time permits, add Turkmenbashi to your Turkmenistan packages – it’s a city on the Caspian Sea, different from the country’s desert landscape.

If you’re flying into Turkmenistan, you can land at Ashgabat International Airport, which has regular direct flights from London, Dubai, Delhi, Istanbul, etc. For travelers who are on a multi-country tour and entering Turkmenistan from neighboring countries like Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan, you can use several land borders, including Shavat crossing, Farab crossing, and Temir Baba crossing. With a well-developed airline system, it’s easy to travel between major cities like Mary, Dashoguz, and Turkmenbashi. You can also travel by train if you prefer.

Since most citizens in Turkmenistan are Muslims, it’s respectful to avoid wearing revealing clothes such as tank tops and shorts. When visiting religious sites, females should cover their heads or shoulders with a scarf, and males should wear medium or long-sleeved shirts. Moreover, photography is not allowed at some government buildings - the guide will remind you during the trip.