Frequently asked questions about Turkmenistan

Yes, most tourists require a visa to enter Turkmenistan.

According to the visa policy of Turkmenistan, citizens of all countries are required to obtain a visa and a letter of invitation to enter the country. The only exceptions are holders of diplomatic or service passports, as well as certain categories of travelers from certain regions of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Obtaining a tourist visa can be a lengthy and expensive process. Foreign nationals need to obtain an invitation from an officially authorized tour operator or other sponsor, and then apply for a visa at the Embassy of Turkmenistan.

Independent travel in Turkmenistan is not allowed. Tourists are required to plan accommodation, transportation and itinerary in advance, indicating all the places they are going to visit. During the trip, they are accompanied by a licensed guide, driver or both.

The climate in Turkmenistan is sharply continental, with large variations in daily temperatures. In summer (July), the average temperature is +30-32°C, while in winter it drops to -5°C. Annual precipitation varies from 80 mm in desert areas to 400 mm in the mountains. There are strong hot winds and dust storms on the plains. The best time to travel is spring (April-June) and fall (September-October).

Foreign citizens may bring foreign currency funds into Turkmenistan without any limits, provided that they declare them to the customs authorities.

Euros and dollars can be exchanged for manats at banks, exchange offices of hotels, shopping centers, as well as at airports and railway stations. To exchange dollars, it is recommended to use new-type US dollars issued after 1996.

Credit cards are accepted in some large five-star hotels in Ashgabat. Cash withdrawal from MasterCard, AMEX and Visa cards is possible only in Ashgabat.

Drinking tap water is not recommended. It is better to use boiled or bottled water, which is sold throughout the country.

Vegetarian cuisine is not so widespread in Turkmenistan, but specially prepared dishes can be ordered in restaurants. A wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables is always available at local markets.

Free Wi-Fi is available in 4- and 5-star hotels.

The voltage is 220V. To use 110/120V devices, a step-down transformer or a combination converter is required.

There are no strict restrictions on clothing, especially among young people. However, it is recommended to avoid shorts and open clothing when visiting religious places. It is advisable for women to cover their shoulders and breasts and to wear a headscarf or hat.

- Ambulance and emergency services: 03

- Militia: 02

- Helpdesk: (12) 222222

It is safe to travel in Turkmenistan. In Ashgabat, there are police checkpoints every 300 meters.

The official language of Turkmenistan is Turkmen. However, a significant part of the population also speaks Russian and English.

Yes, most tourists require a visa to enter Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan is in the UTC+5 time zone.

The transportation system in Turkmenistan is underdeveloped, so most tourists use cabs or private drivers.