Yes. In most cases, tourists must have a visa to enter Turkmenistan, and a Letter of Invitation must also be arranged prior to departure. Visa requirements can vary; it is a good idea to check on current requirements prior to departure.

Visas are each traveler’s responsibility. It is recommended that you check your government’s travel advisories or essential trip information for this purpose.

Yes. Travel insurance is a requirement before your trip. Ensure your travel insurance policy covers medical costs and emergency evacuation or repatriation, as this can vary depending on your destination. Be sure to check the Travel Insurance section of your Essential Trip Information.

It is worth noting that it is not possible to be part of the group unless the tour leader confirms the insurance policy number with the relevant provider, together with the provider’s contact details for emergencies, upon the start of the tour. This is considered an essential element for responsible travel due to the differences in access to healthcare and the associated costs.

In the case of travelers living in the USA, EU, or Switzerland, the legal aspect is clear: the insurance cannot be mandatory for the traveler, but rather a recommendation to buy it. If the person decides to embark on the trip without the insurance, they will sign a form known as the "Travel Insurance Waiver Form."

Tipping is welcomed in Turkmenistan, especially if service is good. If you do decide to tip, try to use clean notes, as coins, small amounts of cash, or dirty notes can be considered impolite.

In Turkmenistan, the temperatures are extreme, with very hot summers and cold winters, so packing according to the season is a necessity. In the warmer seasons, light-colored long-sleeved shirts made of light material are best suited, especially if one is planning a trip through the desert region. Even during the summers, it gets surprisingly chilly at night.

In addition, if your trip is to take place during winter, it is a must to bring proper attire to protect yourself from the cold, as well as a windproof and waterproof jacket. In visiting places of worship, it is a must to wear modest attire, which means covering your arms, shoulders, and legs. In addition, a headscarf is a must if a woman is to enter a place of worship; it is also useful as a protective measure from the sun and wind in desert areas.

Because it works at its own pace. The public spaces are eerily quiet, cities are beautifully organized, and much of the country remains sparsely populated. The overall ambiance has an otherworldly feel that visitors often describe as an alternate universe from the rest of the modern world.

Yes. It is a conservative country and they take rules and laws very seriously. Photography is restricted around government areas and military areas, and there might be restrictions on certain areas as well, so it is better to take permission first if you want to take a picture there. It is better to have a guide to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.

No. Tap water is not potable in Turkmenistan. If you want to avoid plastic waste, it’s recommended to use filtered water instead of bottled water, which can be arranged by your local leader. Bringing water purification tablets with you can also be helpful, especially if you will travel to places far from metropolitan areas. Also, it’s recommended to avoid ice in drinks and only consume peeled fruits and veggies.

Internet access is limited, and one can find internet cafes in larger towns that are state-operated, but they are all on government-controlled internet connections. Internet usage is also heavily restricted, so it would be wise to prepare yourself for limited internet access.

Limited coverage is available. There are some inter-operational agreements in place for international roaming, but mobile service is limited to Ashgabat. It is essential to activate your service provider’s international roaming option before you leave if you want to use your phone while in Turkmenistan.

We take the health and safety of our travellers seriously and take every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and inclusive for everyone. When you travel with us, you have access to our global support network and local on‑ground leadership, and you can rest easy knowing we have a zero-tolerance policy on discrimination.

We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure. The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.