Turkmenistan

An ancient cultural crossroads blessed with rich cultures, ruined cities and dramatic landscapes, Turkmenistan is Central Asia's least visited and most mysterious nation.

It was across these remote lands that nomadic empires, ancient conquerors and Silk Road traders traversed, leaving behind a rich cultural and archaeological legacy. Join us as we explore the highlights of Turkmenistan!

Explore incredible ancient ruins at the sprawling archaeological site of Merv, once a major oasis city along the famous Silk Road trading route; and marvel at the haunting landscapes of the Karakum Desert.

Head to the laidback capital of Ashgabat to explore mosques, museums and monuments, as well as the Palace of Turkmenbashi and the nearby ancient ruins of Nisa, one of the earliest and most important cities of the Parthian Empire.

Engage with rich local cultures; trawl colourful markets for vibrant carpets and handicrafts; and enjoy the famous hospitality of some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet.

Take a look at our Central Asia Journey or Tashkent to Isfahan adventures to get a taste of this isolated gem of Central Asia.

Turkmenistan's Yangykala Canyon at sunset  | Richard I'Anson

Find your Turkmenistan adventure

Turkmenistan highlights

 

Why travel with us

Our all inclusive approach

Quality services at the best prices make our Turmkenistan adventures great value for money. We aim to incorporate as many inclusions as possible in the tour cost such as most meals, sightseeing and entry fees, transfers and quality accommodations, eliminating the risk of having to carry large sums of money with you on your journey.

Innovative Itineraries

An ancient land on the Silk Route with trading posts dating back more than 8000 years, there is much history and culture to be experienced in Turkmenistan. We travel off the beaten path to explore historic towns including Marv and Ashgabat on foot, encompassing the highlights that this unique land has to offer.

Experienced local guides

Our guides in the field are what make your Turkmenistan adventure special. Their passion and professionalism will shine through as they share their extensive knowledge while you discover the culture that they are so proud of.

Responsible travel

 

Leave No Trace

We operate our itineraries following the principles of Leave No Trace, ensuring that we take out all waste that we bring in and more where possible.

Child safe tourism

Children working and living in tourist areas are especially vulnerable to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. We protect vulnerable children by adhering to our Child Protection Code of Conduct.

Animal welfare focus

We advocate for cruelty free animal encounters, encouraging travellers to follow the guidelines in our comprehensive Animal Welfare Code of Conduct as we seek to inform stakeholders about animal welfare matters.

Accommodation

Hotels

In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and reliable.

Inns

We use quality inns, typically situated in natural environments. They are not luxury inns however we ensure they offer you a truly authentic experience.

Camping

Enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents erected in scenic wilderness.

Leaders in the field

Jabbar Usta Juma

Jabbar has been working as an English-speaking guide for more than six years. Jabbar was raised in northern Afghanistan before returning to his ancestral homeland in the early '90s. He is interested in all things that make up the Turkmen identity, from history to flora and fauna, as well as legends and linguistics. He loves sharing local legends over a camp fire to bring the Turkmen spirit alive for you during your visit through Turkmenistan.

Laura Kirk

Originally from the United Kingdom, Laura brings a wealth of travel experience to the World Expeditions team having explored over 60 countries to date. Her adventures have included setting up community projects in Myanmar, studying Mandarin in China, trekking in Nepal, spending time in a remote Bedouin camp in Jordan and chasing the Big 5 through Tanzania. With a particular passion for all things Asia, Laura loves to share the best of this region with others.

Custom made itineraries

A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.

Trip reviews

Videos

Tehran & Isfahan with World Expeditions

Country information

Currency

Turkmenistani Manat

USD is the only currency recommended to carry as it is the easiest to change. You should bring larger denominations (US$50 & US$100) of US$ bills in good condition without rips or tears and of recent issue.

Credit cards are of limited use in Turkmenistan.

International Dialing Code

+993

Electricity
Type C plug

Electricity in Turkmenistan is 220 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

Visas

Visas are required for passport holders from the following countries:

Australia

New Zealand

Canada

United States

United Kingdom

The Letter of Invitation (LOI) for Turkmenistan that allows you to obtain your Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Ashgabat Airport is arranged by our local operator as a group visa. Subject to change, as at 13 Feb 2024, the cost of this visa is around US$89 per person (or around US$119 per person for UK passport holders). You must carry with you the correct money in USD Cash on arrival plus some extra for any changes in the price. The visa is obtained on the border by our Turkmenistan representative.

In order to arrange your Visa on Arrival (VOA), please refer to the Visa Advice for Turkmenistan instructions provided with your pre-departure documents, and complete the Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation (LOI) application form (excel document) and provide scanned colour copies of your passport page, and one recent passport sized photo. Please ensure you complete the information accurately in the LOI application form, do not leave any boxes blank, and return with all accompanying documents by six (6) weeks before your first departure flight, or you will not receive your letter of invitation (LOI) in time and will be denied boarding your flight.

Note the official Letter of Invitation (LOI) issued by the Turkmenistan migration authority does not allow for independent travel. Accordingly all bookings for additional hotel nights or extension trips in Turkmenistan must be made strictly through World Expeditions, since our local operator arranges the LOI.

It is always recommended to carry some spare passport photos.

Safety

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.