Everything you need to know before visiting Turkmenistan
You can reach Turkmenistan by several means of transport, although there are currently no international train connections.
The fastest and most convenient way to travel is by flying into Ashgabat, the country's capital and main international gateway.
Ashgabat International Airport
It is possible to enter Turkmenistan overland via borders with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Iran.
9 border crossings available
For a more adventurous option, travel by ferry across the Caspian Sea. Note that schedules can be unpredictable—best for flexible travelers.
Turkmenbashi (TKM) ↔ Baku (AZE)
| Country | Turkmenistan Side | Other Side |
|---|---|---|
| Kazakhstan | Garabogaz | Temirbaba (KAZ) |
| Uzbekistan | Dashoguz | Shabat (UZB) |
| Uzbekistan | Konye-Urgench | Hojoyli (UZB) |
| Uzbekistan | Farap | Alat (UZB) |
| Afghanistan | Serhetabat | Torghundi (AFG) |
| Afghanistan | Ymamnazar | Aqina (AFG) |
| Iran | Bajgiran | Bajgiran (IRN) |
| Iran | Serakhs | Sarakhs (IRN) |
| Iran | Artyk | Lotfabad (IRN) |
What you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable trip
Cash is the most common way to pay in Turkmenistan. Credit cards are rarely accepted, especially outside major hotels. If you plan to get a visa on arrival, you will also need USD in cash to pay the visa fee. Currency exchange services are available in banks and hotels particularly in the capital city of Ashgabat. Make sure to bring new and crisp bills.
Turkmenistan has a conservative culture. Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas. Showing respect for local customs will help you connect better with locals. Public displays of romantic affection such as kissing or hugging are considered inappropriate, even for married couples.
Traveling in Turkmenistan often involves long drives and hot weather, especially in desert regions. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing suitable for warm climates. Don't forget head coverings, sunscreen and sunglasses. When trekking, high boots are preferable to sandals as protection from snakes, spiders and hot sand. Bring a light scarf to protect from dust and dust-proof bags for cameras. Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking tap water unless boiled. Carry toilet paper, wet napkins and a small flashlight.
Traditional handmade carpets and silver jewelry decorated with carnelian stones are famous Turkmen souvenirs. To take carpets or jewelry out of the country, you need to present an official receipt and registration from where you bought the items to customs officials. Many antique souvenirs, especially silver, and items dating back as little as 20 years are entirely restricted from export.
Drones are usually not allowed without special permission. Taking photos of government buildings, military areas, and police officers is not allowed—always ask permission when photographing people. Smoking is prohibited in many public places. Alcohol consumption is restricted in many public areas. Morphine, Codeine, Tramadol, Temazepam, or similar ingredients in medicines are prohibited from import. Bring a doctor's prescription and keep medicine in original packaging.
Internet access in Turkmenistan is limited and slower than in many other countries. Some popular websites and apps such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube may not be available. Many hotels offer Wi-Fi, but the connection may not always be reliable. If you need internet access during your trip, it's a good idea to prepare in advance.
If you are staying more than 3 working days, your travel agency must register you with the State Migration Service.
| Turkmenistan visa | 55 USD - 85 USD per person (depends on nationality) |
| Turkmenistan migration tax | 12 + 4 USD per person |
| PCR test | 30 USD |
Traveling through Turkmenistan with your own vehicle is possible, but requires careful preparation and awareness of local conditions.
To bring a foreign-registered vehicle into Turkmenistan, you must have:
Original registration must be in the driver's name. If not, a Power of Attorney (notarized and preferably translated) is mandatory.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended to avoid issues with local police.
You must have a pre-approved Letter of Invitation (LOI) to obtain your visa.
Turkmenistan's border fees are complex and must be paid in cash USD. Credit cards are generally not accepted at land borders.
All fees shown in USD
| Vehicle Category | Entry Permit | Insurance | Bridge Fee | Migration | Admin | GPS Tracker | Sanitary | Fuel/km |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorbike | $30 | $15 | $10 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Car (incl. 4x4) | $67 | $35 | $10 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Pick-up / Car + Trailer | $76 | $45 | $10 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Minibus (up to 12 seats) | $76 | $45 | $50 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Bus (13-30 seats) | $111 | $45 | $50 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Bus (Over 30 seats) | $163 | $45 | $50 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Truck (Up to 10 tons) | $130 | $100 | $40 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Truck (10-20 tons) | $180 | $100 | $60 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
| Truck (Over 20 tons) | $250 | $100 | $80 | $14 | $15 | $20 | $5 | $0.20 |
* Bridge Fee (Amuderya) applies when crossing the river. Fuel fee is charged per kilometer traveled in Turkmenistan.
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