Turkmenistan is one of Central Asia’s most distinctive travel destinations, offering a remarkable combination of ancient history, vast desert landscapes and living local traditions. From the white marble avenues of Ashgabat and the glowing Darvaza Gas Crater to the ancient Silk Road cities of Merv and Kunya-Urgench, every part of the country reveals a different side of Turkmenistan.

A journey through Turkmenistan may take you across the Karakum Desert, along the dramatic cliffs of Yangykala Canyon, to the shores of the Caspian Sea and into remote villages where centuries old customs remain part of everyday life. Travellers can explore archaeological sites, discover the story of the Silk Road, meet the famous Akhal Teke horses and experience the genuine hospitality of the Turkmen people. Travel to Turkmenistan requires some advance planning, particularly for the visa and Letter of Invitation, but the experience is well worth the preparation. As a local Turkmenistan tour operator, Darvaza Tour provides visa support, professional guides, private transport, accommodation and carefully planned group and private tours throughout the country.

1. Is Turkmenistan Worth Visiting?

2. Plan Your Dream Trip to Turkmenistan

3. Turkmenistan Visa and Letter of Invitation

4. Is Turkmenistan Safe to Travel?

5. Transport and Getting Around Turkmenistan

6. Best Time to Visit Turkmenistan

7. Turkmenistan Travel Map

8. How Many Days Do You Need in Turkmenistan?

9. Turkmenistan Travel Services by Local Experts

10. Turkmenistan Holidays and Festivals

12. Dos and Don’ts in Turkmenistan

13. Internet, SIM Cards and Staying Connected

14. Turkmenistan Travel Guide: Further Reading

15. Did You Know? Interesting Facts About Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is well worth visiting for travellers searching for a destination that feels genuinely different from anywhere else in Central Asia. It combines ancient Silk Road history, vast desert landscapes, monumental modern architecture and traditions that remain an important part of everyday life.

A journey through Turkmenistan can take you from the white-marble avenues of Ashgabat to the glowing Darvaza Gas Crater, the remote cliffs of Yangykala Canyon and the archaeological remains of Ancient Merv and Kunya-Urgench. Travellers interested in history can explore cities that once stood at the centre of international trade, while nature lovers can cross the Karakum Desert, visit mountain villages and discover the Caspian coast.

Turkmenistan is also memorable because of its people and cultural heritage. Traditional carpets, Akhal-Teke horses, national clothing, music and family customs offer a deeper understanding of the country beyond its famous landmarks. Visitors are often surprised by the warm hospitality they receive from guides, drivers, local families and people they meet during their journey.

Travel to Turkmenistan requires more advance planning than travel to many neighbouring countries, particularly because of the visa and Letter of Invitation process. However, with support from an experienced local tour operator, the arrangements become straightforward and the experience is worth the preparation.

For travellers who value unusual destinations, ancient history, desert adventures and authentic cultural encounters, Turkmenistan can become one of the most unforgettable countries in Central Asia.

A holiday in Turkmenistan can be built around history, culture, nature, adventure, or a combination of all at once. Some travellers come for a short trip to the Darvaza Gas Crater, while others spend a week or more crossing the country from the Uzbekistan border to Ashgabat, Merv, the Caspian Sea or Turkmenabat.

History lovers can stroll among the ruins of ancient cities that once served as stopover points for merchants travelling along the Great Silk Road. Adventure seekers can camp in the Karakum Desert, explore Yangykala Canyon by 4WD and spend a night by the famous Darvaza Crater. Culture enthusiasts can visit markets, museums, villages, carpet workshops and Akhal-Teke horse farms.

Darvaza Tour offers group tours with fixed departure dates, private tours and fully personalised itineraries. Tours can begin at Ashgabat International Airport or at selected land border crossings with Uzbekistan. We can also adapt the itinerary according to your available dates, arrival point, accommodation preferences, interests and onward travel plans.

Whether you have two days or two weeks, our local team will create a route that allows you to safely and comfortably discover the very best that Turkmenistan has to offer: 

Kunya-Urgench - Explore Medieval Architecture

Akhal-Teke Horses - Meet a National Symbol

Caspian Sea and Awaza - Relax on Turkmenistan’s Western Coast

Most international travellers require a tourist visa and an approved Letter of Invitation, commonly called an LOI, before entering Turkmenistan. The LOI is issued through the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan and serves as the basis for receiving the tourist visa.

Darvaza Tour provides complete Turkmenistan visa and LOI support. To begin the application, travellers normally need to send us:

• a clear colour copy of the passport;
• a recent photograph showing the face;
• travel dates and proposed entry and exit points;
• basic personal, education and employment information;
• home address, contact details and marital status;
• details of any previous visits to Turkmenistan.

Once the complete information has been received and checked, our team prepares and submits the application. LOI processing normally takes approximately 10 working days through our standard procedure, although the exact processing time and final decision are controlled by the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan.

After approval, we send the electronic LOI to the traveller together with clear visa instructions. Depending on the approved arrangements and entry point, the visa may be obtained through a Turkmenistan embassy or upon arrival where permitted.

Our team checks the documents before submission, answers questions throughout the process and helps ensure that the information matches the passport and planned itinerary.

Learn More About Turkmenistan Visa Support here

Turkmenistan is generally a calm destination for organised visitors, and most travellers complete their tours without encountering serious safety problems. Nevertheless, visitors should respect local laws, follow the agreed itinerary and listen to the instructions of their licensed guide.

Tourists normally travel with a local guide and an organised programme. In addition to explaining the history and culture of the country, the guide helps with hotel registration, border formalities, transportation, photography rules and communication with local people.

The main practical challenges for travellers are often long driving distances, desert heat, cold winter nights, limited internet access and changing road conditions outside major cities. Travellers should carry water, use sun protection, wear suitable clothing and inform the guide about any health requirements.

Photography is permitted at many attractions, markets, archaeological sites and natural landscapes. However, visitors should not photograph police officers, military personnel, airports, border facilities, embassies, government buildings or other sensitive infrastructure without permission. When uncertain, always ask the guide before taking a picture. Visitors should also avoid public political discussions or negative comments about the country’s current or previous leadership. Common travel precautions, respectful behaviour and cooperation with the local guide will help ensure a comfortable journey.

Turkmenistan is a large country, and many of its main attractions are separated by long distances. A well-planned combination of private vehicles, 4WD transport, domestic flights and occasional train journeys can make the trip more comfortable and efficient.

Ashgabat is connected by international flights with selected regional and international cities. Flight schedules and routes can change, so travellers should confirm their connections before purchasing onward tickets.

It is also possible to enter or leave Turkmenistan through selected land borders, particularly when combining the country with Uzbekistan. Popular routes include the Shavat–Dashoguz crossing near Khiva and the Farab–Alat crossing between Turkmenabat and Bukhara. Border operation and entry rules should always be reconfirmed before travel.

During the tour, Darvaza Tour can arrange:

• airport and railway-station transfers;
• private cars and minivans;
• 4WD vehicles for Darvaza and desert routes;
• VIP and luxury vehicles;
• transfers from land-border crossings;
• domestic flight reservations;
• Turkmenistan train-ticket assistance;
• transport between Ashgabat, Mary, Dashoguz, Turkmenabat and Balkan Region;
• vehicles for cycling, motorcycle and special-interest tours.

Private transport is the most flexible choice for city sightseeing and intercity routes. 4WD vehicles are normally used for remote desert locations, while domestic flights may save time on longer journeys.

The best time to visit Turkmenistan depends on your preferred route and tolerance for hot or cold weather. The country has a continental desert climate, with hot summers, cooler winters and significant regional differences between the northern desert, southern foothills and Caspian coast.

Autumn: Autumn is another excellent season for Turkmenistan tours. Temperatures gradually become milder, making it a good time for Darvaza, Yangykala Canyon, archaeological sites and cross-country itineraries.

Winter: Winter travel offers quieter attractions and fewer visitors, but temperatures can fall significantly at night. Northern Turkmenistan, the mountains and the desert may experience cold weather, wind or occasional snow. For a comprehensive trip covering Ashgabat, Darvaza, Merv and Kunya-Urgench, the most comfortable periods are usually spring and autumn.

Use our Turkmenistan travel map to understand the location of the country’s main cities, historical sites, natural attractions, airports and border crossings:

The ideal length of a trip to Turkmenistan depends on your arrival point, preferred itinerary and the regions you would like to explore. Some travellers visit the country for a short journey to the Darvaza Gas Crater, while others spend one or two weeks discovering historical cities, desert landscapes, mountain villages and the Caspian coast.

The recommendations below provide a practical starting point for planning your Turkmenistan itinerary. Travel times between regions can be considerable, so it is important to allow enough time for road journeys, domestic flights and border formalities:

Ashgabat - Turkmenistan’s capital is famous for its white-marble architecture, impressive monuments, spacious parks and modern city avenues.

How long should I stay? 1-2 days

Major sites: Turkmen Carpet Museum, Monument of Neutrality, Independence Park, National Museum of Turkmenistan

How to get off the beaten path: Visit the UNESCO-listed ruins of Old Nisa, explore the remains of ancient Anau or travel to Geok Depe Mosque and the historic Geok Depe Fortress. An Akhal-Teke horse farm can also be included in a day trip from Ashgabat.

Kunya-Urgench, near Dashoguz - Once an important capital of Khorezm, Kunya-Urgench is now one of Turkmenistan’s most significant historical and pilgrimage destinations.

How long should I stay? Half a day to 1 full day

Major sites: Kutlug-Timur Minaret, Turabek Khanum Mausoleum, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, Najm ad-Din al-Kubra Mausoleum

How to get off the beaten path: Spend additional time observing local pilgrimage traditions, visit the regional market in Dashoguz or stay overnight in the city before continuing toward the Darvaza Gas Crater.

Ancient Merv, near Mary - Ancient Merv was one of the most influential cities on the Great Silk Road and today forms one of the largest archaeological areas in Central Asia.

How long should I stay? 1 day for Merv, or 2 days when combining Merv, Mary and Gonur Depe

Major sites: Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Greater and Lesser Kyz Kala, Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala, Askhab Mausoleums

How to get off the beaten path: Take a full day excursion to the Bronze Age settlement of Gonur Depe or spend time in Mary visiting the Mary History Museum, local market and city centre.

Nokhur - Nokhur is a traditional mountain settlement in the Kopet Dag range, known for its distinctive customs, stone houses and surrounding landscapes.

How long should I stay? Half a day, or overnight for a deeper cultural experience

Major sites: Nokhur Cemetery, Gyz-Bibi pilgrimage site, mountain viewpoints, local village streets

How to get off the beaten path: Stay in a local guesthouse, enjoy dinner with a village family or combine Nokhur with Kow Ata Underground Lake and an Akhal-Teke horse farm on the return journey to Ashgabat.

Balkan Region and the Caspian Coast - Western Turkmenistan offers some of the country’s most dramatic natural scenery, from multicoloured canyons to the shores of the Caspian Sea.

How long should I stay? 2-4 days

Major sites: Yangykala Canyon, Turkmenbashi, Awaza Resort, Caspian Sea, Trailblazers Monument

How to get off the beaten path: Explore the ancient ruins of Dekhistan, visit Tasharvat Caravanserai, camp near Yangykala Canyon or continue through remote desert landscapes rarely visited by international travellers.

Turkmenabat and Eastern Turkmenistan - Turkmenabat is an important city in eastern Turkmenistan and a useful starting point for exploring historical sites and the remote landscapes of the Lebap Region.

How long should I stay? 1-2 days in Turkmenabat, or 3-4 days when including Koytendag

Major sites: Ancient Amul Settlement, Astana-Baba Mausoleum, Lebap Regional Museum, Dayakhatyn Caravanserai

How to get off the beaten path: Travel to Koytendag Nature Reserve, explore the Dinosaur Plateau, visit mountain gorges and caves or arrange an expedition through the remote eastern part of Turkmenistan.

Darvaza Gas Crater - Located deep in the Karakum Desert, the Darvaza Gas Crater is one of the most famous attractions in Turkmenistan and is especially impressive after sunset.

How long should I stay? One afternoon and overnight

Major sites: Darvaza Gas Crater, Karakum Desert, nearby mud and water craters

How to get off the beaten path: Stop among the Karakum sand dunes, visit a desert village, enjoy a traditional camp dinner or continue north toward Dashoguz and Kunya-Urgench.

Planning travel in Turkmenistan involves visas, permits, transport, accommodation and detailed coordination. As a local tour operator based in Turkmenistan, Darvaza Tour manages every stage of the journey through one team.

Our Turkmenistan Travel Services:

Join a small group Turkmenistan tour with confirmed departure dates, professional guiding and shared travel costs.

Travel with experienced local guides and receive assistance with permits, internet access, meals and practical arrangements.

Turkmenistan celebrates national, cultural and seasonal holidays throughout the year. Travellers who schedule their trip around a public event may experience traditional music, dancing, horse competitions, exhibitions and local food.

Nowruz (21-22 March) - Nowruz welcomes the arrival of spring with traditional performances, national clothing, outdoor celebrations, horse events and festive dishes.

Best place to experience it: Ashgabat and major regional centres.

A Drop of Water Is a Grain of Gold (First Sunday of April) - This national observance highlights the importance of water in a desert country and recognises the work of water management and agricultural specialists.

Best place to experience it: Ashgabat and areas near the Karakum River.

Turkmen Horse Day (Last Sunday of April) - The Akhal-teke horse is celebrated through exhibitions, equestrian events, cultural performances and competitions.

Best place to experience it: Ashgabat and the International Equestrian Sports Complex.

Turkmen Carpet Day (Last Sunday of May) - The country honours its carpet-weaving traditions with exhibitions, conferences, artisan demonstrations and cultural events.

Best place to experience it: Turkmen Carpet Museum and exhibition venues in Ashgabat.

Turkmen Melon Day (Second Sunday of August) - Melon growers present regional varieties through displays, competitions, concerts and tastings.

Best place to experience it: Ashgabat.

Independence Day (27 September) - Turkmenistan’s principal national holiday is marked with official ceremonies, concerts and public celebrations.

Neutrality Day (12 December) - The country commemorates its permanent neutrality with ceremonies, cultural programmes and events in Ashgabat. Dates and public programmes may change, so visitors should confirm the exact schedule before planning a tour around a festival.

Respect for local laws, traditions and social customs is an important part of travelling in Turkmenistan. The following recommendations will help visitors avoid misunderstandings.

›  Do not photograph police officers, military personnel, airports, border facilities, embassies or government buildings without permission.

›  Do not photograph people who have indicated that they do not wish to be photographed.

›  Do not publicly criticise the country’s political system or current and former leadership.

›  Do not smoke outdoors or in public spaces unless there is a designated smoking area.

›  Do not drink alcohol in public parks, streets, airports, stations or other prohibited public areas.

›  Do not bring illegal drugs or unapproved communication equipment into the country.

›  Do not leave the approved route or make unplanned cross-country journeys without consulting your guide.

›  Do not display disrespectful behaviour at religious or memorial sites.

›  Do not assume that all websites, social networks and messaging applications will be available.

Internet access in Turkmenistan is more limited than in many other travel destinations. Connections may be slow, particularly outside Ashgabat and other major cities, and some international websites, social networks and messaging applications may not be available.

To help our guests stay connected, Darvaza Tour can provide a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi router with up to 20 GB of mobile data as part of our standard multi day tour packages. One portable router may be shared by several travellers, subject to network coverage.

Our team assists with:

• SIM card setup;
• mobile-data activation;
• portable Wi-Fi connection;
• hotspot sharing between several devices;
• contacting your guide and driver;
• basic troubleshooting during the tour.

Mobile coverage is generally stronger in cities and along main roads. It may become weak or unavailable in the Karakum Desert, Yangykala Canyon and other remote locations.

Access to individual websites or applications cannot be guaranteed. Darvaza Tour does not advertise or guarantee VPN access because current travel guidance states that VPN use is prohibited and such services are often blocked.

>>  Turkmenistan Travel Tips

>> Turkmenistan Tours Pages

›  Ashgabat holds a Guinness World Record for the highest density of white-marble-clad buildings. The recognised area includes 543 buildings covered with more than 4.5 million square metres of white marble.

›  Ashgabat is home to a Guinness World Record indoor Ferris wheel measuring 47.6 metres in height and containing 24 cabins.

›  The Ashgabat Television Tower features the world’s largest architectural star, covering an area of 3,240 square metres.

›  Ancient Merv, Kunya-Urgench and the Parthian Fortresses of Nisa are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

›  The art of traditional Turkmen carpet making was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019.

›  The art of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and traditions of horse decoration were added to the UNESCO Representative List in 2023.

›  Nowruz traditions are recognised by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

›  The Dinosaurs and Caves of Koytendag are included on Turkmenistan’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

›  The five traditional carpet patterns displayed on the national flag represent five major Turkmen tribal groups.

›  Much of Turkmenistan is covered by the Karakum Desert, yet the country also contains mountains, canyons, underground lakes and a coastline along the Caspian Sea.

›  Turkmenistan celebrates national holidays devoted to Akhal-Teke horses, handmade carpets, melons and the importance of water.

›  The Darvaza Gas Crater is most dramatic after sunset, which is why most tours include an overnight desert camp.

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