Turkmenistan Tours

Turkmenistan Private Tours

For those seeking a deeper and more personal journey, we offer private Turkmenistan tours designed entirely around your interests. Whether you want to explore ancient Silk Road cities, camp beside the Darvaza Gas Crater, photograph the surreal white marble architecture of Ashgabat, or venture into remote desert and mountain regions, we can tailor the experience around you. From accommodation and domestic transport to trusted local guides and carefully planned logistics, everything is arranged so you can experience Turkmenistan in a way that feels immersive, comfortable and unforgettable.

Enquire now to start planning your private Turkmenistan adventure.

Turkmenistan Private Tours

Turkmenistan Tour FAQs

Is Turkmenistan safe to visit?

Turkmenistan is generally considered one of the safer countries in Central Asia, with very low levels of street crime.

As with all Beyond The Borders Tours trips, safety is our main priority and we work closely with our trusted local guides and partners throughout the journey.

Travellers should remain respectful of local customs, photography rules and government regulations while travelling in the country.

Can I withdraw money in Turkmenistan?

ATMs in Turkmenistan can be unreliable and international bank cards often do not work consistently.

We strongly recommend bringing USD cash with you for the duration of the tour. Our local guides will assist with exchanging money locally when required.

What currency should I bring to Turkmenistan?

We recommend bringing USD cash in good condition, ideally newer notes issued after 2009.

Smaller denominations such as $1, $5 and $10 notes are useful for smaller purchases and airport procedures.

Most places in Turkmenistan still operate primarily in cash.

What should I wear in Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan is generally conservative, particularly outside of Ashgabat and in rural regions.

We recommend lightweight, respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially when visiting villages, religious sites and local communities.

Comfortable footwear is essential due to uneven terrain and archaeological sites.

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation throughout the tour includes a mixture of standard hotels, local guesthouses and traditional yurt accommodation in the desert.

Hotels in Ashgabat are generally modern, while accommodation in remote regions is more simple and locally focused.

All accommodation is arranged through our trusted local partners.

Why are there long drives on the tour?

Turkmenistan is a large country with many of its most interesting sites located in remote desert and mountain regions.

Travelling by road allows us to experience changing landscapes, smaller settlements and places that are inaccessible by domestic flight.

Some of the most rewarding moments of the trip happen between destinations.

When is the best time to visit Turkmenistan?

Spring and autumn are widely considered the best times to visit Turkmenistan due to milder temperatures and more comfortable travel conditions.

This tour takes place during Nowruz celebrations, offering a unique opportunity to experience traditional festivities and local culture across the country.

Summer temperatures in Turkmenistan can become extremely hot, particularly in desert regions.

What food can I expect in Turkmenistan?

Turkmen cuisine is influenced by Central Asian and nomadic traditions, with grilled meats, rice dishes, soups, fresh bread and dumplings commonly found throughout the country.

Popular local dishes include plov, shashlik and manti.

Vegetarian options are possible in larger cities, although choices can be more limited in remote regions.

How do I get a Turkmenistan visa?

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkmenistan.

We provide the required Letter of Invitation (LOI) and supporting documents through our local partner to assist with the visa process.

The LOI is an essential part of the application and can usually be used to obtain a visa either before arrival or at Ashgabat Airport depending on nationality and current regulations.

Can I tip the guides?

Yes, tipping local guides and drivers is appreciated and completely optional.

Recommended tipping guidance will be provided during the tour.

Can I access the internet in Turkmenistan?

Internet access in Turkmenistan can be limited, slow and unreliable compared to many other countries.

Some websites, apps and social media platforms may not work without a VPN.

Wi-Fi is available in some hotels, although speeds can vary significantly. We recommend downloading the IMO messaging app before travelling if you wish to stay in contact with family or friends during the tour.

Are there photography restrictions in Turkmenistan?

Yes, photography restrictions exist in certain locations throughout Turkmenistan.

Government buildings, military sites, airports and some official areas should not be photographed unless permission is clearly given.

We also recommend asking permission before photographing local people, particularly in rural regions and markets.

Do I need insurance to visit Turkmenistan?

Yes, we strongly recommend travelling with comprehensive travel insurance.

Please ensure your policy covers Turkmenistan and any activities included within the itinerary.

You can read more about our recommended travel insurance requirements here: Travel Insurance.