Travel Info

Visa & Entry Requirements

Most foreign visitors need a tourist visa to enter Turkmenistan. A Letter of Invitation (LOI), issued by the Turkmen authorities, is required before you can receive a visa. How it works: You send us your passport copy and basic travel details. We apply for your LOI through the State Migration Service. Processing usually takes around 2–3 weeks, but it can occasionally take longer. Once approved, we email you the LOI so you can: Get your visa at a Turkmenistan embassy/consulate, or Obtain a visa on arrival at Ashgabat International Airport (if allowed for your nationality). Important: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip and have enough blank pages. You must not overstay your visa or travel outside the permitted dates or regions, as this can lead to fines or legal issues. On arrival you will receive a migration card and may need to pay a small migration fee. Hotel registration is normally arranged through your accommodation or our agency. We will guide you through every step of the visa and LOI process.

Dress Code & Cultural Etiquette

Turkmenistan is a traditional, mostly Muslim society, but dress standards are relaxed in big cities. Clothing: In cities: Casual clothing is fine; avoid very revealing outfits. In rural areas, villages and religious sites: Dress modestly – shoulders and knees covered. Women may wish to carry a light scarf for visiting mosques or shrines. Etiquette & photography: Ask permission before taking close-up photos of people. Photography of military sites, some government buildings, checkpoints or airports can be restricted – always follow your guide’s advice. A friendly greeting and a smile go a long way; Turkmen people are known for their hospitality.

Getting to Turkmenistan

The main entry point is Ashgabat International Airport. By air: International flights to Ashgabat are operated by Turkmenistan Airlines and a few foreign carriers. It is strongly recommended to book flights well in advance as schedules and availability can change. By land: In some periods, it is possible to enter by road or rail from neighboring countries (Uzbekistan, Iran, etc.), but regulations can change and some borders may be closed or restricted. We will inform you about the latest situation for your route.

Best Time to Visit

Turkmenistan has a continental desert climate with hot summers, cold winters, and very little rainfall. Best seasons: Spring (March–May) – mild temperatures, green desert landscapes, and blooming flowers. Autumn (September–November) – pleasant weather and clear skies. Summer (June–August) Very hot, especially in the Karakum Desert, with temperatures often above 40°C. Desert trips are still possible but require good preparation. Winter (December–February) Cold, especially at night and outside Ashgabat, but usually dry. Some regions can experience snow and strong winds. We will help you choose the best travel dates based on your interests and comfort.