turkmenistan travel 2023

Turkmenistan Tours & Vacations

Turkmenistan is an eclectic country that oozes history and quirkiness, with warm inhabitants who enjoying extending a welcoming hand to visitors (even if the government is somewhat less effusive). Visit this eccentric nation to forge a path across windswept deserts and jagged mountains, through aromatic spice bazaars, along the ancient Silk Road, all the while encountering the distinctive faces of Central Asia .

Our Turkmenistan trips

6 ways you can go beyond Asia’s hotspots in 2023 

Turkmenistan at a glance

Capital city.

Ashgabat (population 883,000)

6.2 Million

Turkmen, Russian, Uzbek

(GMT+05:00) Ekaterinburg

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type B (American 3-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Turkmenistan

Geography and environment.

Over 80% of Turkmenistan's land mass is covered by the Karakum Desert, which stretches from west to east for 550 Miles. Consequently, the landscape is dominated by undulating sandy desert dunes, with low mountains to the south and south-east, and the Caspian Sea running the length of the western fringe. Turkmenistan shares borders with Kazakhstan to the north,   Uzbekistan   to the east, Afghanistan to the southeast and   Iran   to the south.

Further reading

Best time to visit turkmenistan.

With a dry, subtropical desert climate, Turkmenistan earns the rank as Central Asia's hottest country. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are the ideal times to visit, as this is when weather conditions are the most comfortable. During summer - particularly July and August - the mercury can tip up to 49 °C (120 ° F) on a regular basis, while winters can get very cold, down to freezing in some parts of the north.

Top 5 things banned by Niyazov

Listening to car radios, lip-synching and recorded music were all prohibited as he believed they stifled the natural creative talents of Turkmen.

2. TV newswomen wearing make-up

Banned in 2004, because he believed Turkmen women were beautiful enough already without make-up. (Although, some reports claim this was actually because he was struggling to tell the difference between the male and female newsreaders!)

3. Gold teeth

Banned in April 2004 - instead Niyazov decreed the youth of Turkmenistan should chew on bones to preserve their teeth, in the same way dogs do.

4. Opera, ballet and the circus

Banned in 2001 for being unnecessary and 'decidedly un-Turkmen-like'.

5. Dogs in Ashgabat

Banished from the streets of the capital as a result of their 'unappealing odour'.

Turkmenistan travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Turkmenistan?

TURKMENISTAN  All travelers to Turkmenistan require a visa. A Letter of Invitation (LOI) is also required before you can apply for the visa. We recommend all travelers plan to receive a Visa on Arrival at either the airport or land border, depending on your itinerary. Please follow the instructions below to have your LOI for visa on arrival issued before you travel.

To apply for your LOI we require the following: - clear, color scan of the photo page of your passport - digital copy of a color passport photo (not a scan of a printed photo) - Turkmen LOI Application form (please contact your booking agent)

After submitting these documents to your booking agent our local partners will process your LOI. This service is included in your trip cost. We advise that you apply for your LOI no later than 3 months before your trip to allow time for processing. Turkmenistan LOIs are processed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Turkmenistan and usually take around 4 weeks to be processed, with up to 6 weeks in peak travel season not uncommon. We strongly suggest submitting all documents no later than 2 months before arrival in order to allow sufficient time for processing.

NOTES: -  Independent travel in Turkmenistan is not permitted and your visa will only be valid for as long as tour services (including accommodation, guides, transport etc) are provided. - Make sure you have a print out of your LOI before boarding your flight or leaving for your trip.  - You will need to complete a migration card and pay a US$12 migration fee ($10 fee plus $2 admin charge) on arrival in Turkmenistan. - You will need 2 printed passport photos for your leader to submit to the migration office after your arrival in country. 

CUSTOMS: - A number of medications containing tramadol, morphine, opiates or any other similar constituent component are banned in Turkmenistan and are considered narcotic drugs. Do not bring any medications containing these drugs into the country.

Is tipping customary in Turkmenistan?

Tipping isn't customary in Turkmenistan. 

What is the internet access like in Turkmenistan?

Internet access is available in all large towns at state-run internet cafes. Free wi-fi is sometimes available, although may be also be charged in some places. All internet access is via the state-run domain so emails may be monitored and many websites (including social media like Facebook and Twitter) are blocked.

Can I use my cell phone while in Turkmenistan?

Roaming agreements are in place with some international phone companies, however cell phone coverage is mostly limited to Ashgabat. Remember to activate global roaming with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan has a mix of squat toilets and flushable toilets. As a developing nation, expect to adjust to different levels of sanitation. Always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer as these are rarely provided.

What will it cost for a…?

Soft drink = 3-4 TMT Bottle of imported beer = 5-6 TMT Simple lunch = 15-20 TMT Dinner in an inexpensive restaurant = 35-45 TMT

Can I drink the water in Turkmenistan?

Tap water isn't considered safe for tourists to drink and you should also be careful when eating salads and other uncooked foods that may have been washed in water, avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Ask your leader and accommodation provider for local advice on where drinking water can be accessed.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Turkmenistan?

Credit card usage - including cash advances - is only available in Ashgabat, and even then, mostly in hotels. Large hotels, restaurants and tourist service providers generally accept credit cards, but expect smaller operators and shops to accept cash only.

What is ATM access like in Turkmenistan?

ATMs are difficult to find, even in Ashgabat. If traveling through rural and remote areas, be aware that there will be no ATM access. Most ATMs are only of use to locals and do not accept foreign cards.

What public holidays are celebrated in Turkmenistan?

• 1 Jan New Year
• 12 Jan Memorial Day
• 19 Feb National Flag Day
• 8 Mar International Women's Day
• 21 Mar National Spring Holiday
• 22 Mar National Spring Holiday
• 9 May Victory Day 
• 18 May Constitution Day
• 26 Jun Eid al-Fitr
• 2 Sep Eid al-Adha
• 3 Sep Eid al-Adha Holiday
• 4 Sep Eid al-Adha Holiday
• 6 Oct Day of Remembrance of the victims of the earthquake in 1948
• 27 Oct Independence Day
• 28 Oct Independence Day
• 12 Dec Neutrality Day

For a current list of public holidays in Turkmenistan go to:   http://www.worldtravelguide.net/turkmenistan/public-holidays

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

• Central African Republic
• DR Congo – Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Somalia – Somaliland
• São Tomé and Principe
• South Sudan
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Turkmenistan
• Saudi Arabia
• Yemen – Mainland
• Yemen – Socotra
• 4 days tour
• 10 days tour
• 3 days tour
• 12 day tour
• DRC Kinshasa – 5 days tour
• East DR Congo – Bukavu & Gorillas – 4 days tour
• Congo Brazzaville – 4 days tour
• 5 days tour
• 11 days tour
• 8 days tour
• 6 days tour
• 12 days tour
• 13 days tour
• 10 Days Tour
• 11 Days Tour
• 14 days tour
• 5 days tour – Federal Iraq
• 6 days tour – Kurdistan
• 7 days tour
• Mainland Yemen – 4 days
• Socotra – 8 days tour
• Grand Angola Tour
• West Congo & Cabinda Tour
• Burundi, DRC & Rwanda Tour
• Uganda Tour
• DR Congo Kinshasa & Brazzaville Tour
• Congo, DRC & Cabinda Tour
• Independence Day Tour
• October Tour
• Voodoo Summer Tour
• Highlights Tour
• Grand Venezuela Tour
• Marathon Tour
• Labour Day Tour
• Mt. Paektu & Victory Day Tour
• Liberation Day Tour
• Northeast & National Day Tour
• Founding of the Party Tour
• New Year’s Eve Tour
• Southern Pakistan Tour
• Karakoram Highway Tour
• Iraq Highlights Tour
• Kurdistan Highlights Tour
• Kurdistan Newroz Tour
• Kurdistan NYE Tour
• Yemen Hadramaut
• World Nomad Games Tour 2024
• Day + Multiple day tours
• Alternative Tours
• São Tomé and Principe Tour
• Partnerships & Agents
• Women Empowerment & Travel
• Sustainability

Turkmenistan Reopens for Tourists in 2023

Here’s what you need to know

After a long wait, Turkmenistan is finally reopening for tourism on March 1st, 2023. As travel restrictions are gradually easing up across the globe, this news comes as a breath of fresh air for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts.

If you’re planning to visit Turkmenistan, one of the first things you need to consider is the visa requirements . Currently, travelers from many countries need to obtain a visa in advance to enter Turkmenistan. However, the specific visa requirements for 2023 are still being finalized, so it’s important to keep an eye on the latest updates .

Latest update on visiting Turkmenistan

As per the latest update, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is has finalised the visa requirements . With our extensive experience in the travel industry, you can trust us to be your trusted source of information for your upcoming adventure.

For those who have always been fascinated by the Silk Road, this is your chance to explore the ancient trading routes and delve into the rich history of Turkmenistan. You will have the opportunity to link up with the rest of the Stans and witness the cultural diversity that this region has to offer.

What are the requirements for visiting Turkmenistan in 2023?

Follow our How To Get A Visa For Turkmenistan 2023 guide. 

When will CultureRoad restart its Turkmenistan tours?

Our first group tour is in November 2023 and we are offering private tours of the country. Land borders will reopen for tourism.

From exploring the ruins of the ancient city of Merv to visiting the fiery Darvaza gas crater, you will have the chance to witness some of the most awe-inspiring natural and man-made wonders in the world.

In conclusion, Turkmenistan’s reopening for tourism is excellent news for all travel enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for the latest information about visa requirements, and get ready for an adventure that will take you on a journey across the Silk Road and into the heart of Central Asia. With CultureRoad by your side, you can expect an experience like no other.

Do you want to discover Turkmenistan? Take a look at our  independent tours  or  group tours  to Turkmenistan. Do you need more information? Get in touch with us now.

contact form CultureRoad

Fill in the form and we will get back to you.

• First name *
• Last name *
• Nationality
• Hidden Language
• Yes, I want to receive CultureRoad’s amazing newsletter.
• Ja, ik ontvang graag de nieuwsbrief van CultureRoad.
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Turkmenistan | A Complete Travel Guide

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: December 22, 2021  - Last updated: April 2, 2022

Categories Central Asia , Destinations , Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is the strangest and the least explored of all the six countries in Central Asia. It’s also one of the least visited countries in the world, with less than 10 000 foreign tourists a year. This unique country is hard to get entry to but what awaits is a world of intrigue and an experience that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. 

With that in mind, here is a complete travel guide to Turkmenistan to get you prepared and ready, with a few Turkmenistan facts and strange laws to go along with it. 

During my visit to Turkmenistan so did I travel around a significant part of the country for eight days, visiting big parts of the country doing this itinerary: Ashgabat – Nisa – Geok Tepe – Kov Ata cave – Nokhur – Parau Bibi – Balkanabat – Yangy Kala Canyon – Turkmenbashy – Ashgabat – Darvaza Gas (The Gates To hell) – Ashgabat.

Getting to Turkmenistan

Officially, foreign tourists are welcomed, but the requirement for expensive guided tours and a lengthy and difficult visa process discourage many foreign visitors from visiting Turkmenistan.

Getting to Turkmenistan is the hardest part of the trip. There are no online bookings for flights with the national airline yet, so tickets can only be purchased through an agent. You can also only fly into Ashgabat city as this is the only port of entry for international arrivals and departures. 

To Turkmenistan with flights

There are only a few international flights to Turkmenistan, with only Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa being the international airlines flying into Turkmenistan. However, the local Turkmenistan Airlines offers international flights to London, Birmingham, Dubai , Bangkok , Beijing, Paris, New Delhi , Amritsar , Moscow, Saint Petersburg , Jeddah , and Minsk. NB. Since the outbreak of Covid, all international flights to Turkmenistan have been canceled.

Visa for Turkmenistan Travel

The visa process to gain entry to Turkmenistan is strict, to say the least. Probably the most difficult visa in the world. A tourist visa for Turkmenistan is only possible to obtain with help from a local Travel Agency, meaning you will have to book a guide and a tour, but the good news is with a pre-booked trip, are you able to get the visa on arrival at the international airport in Ashgabat. Once you get the invitation letter, so will it only take about 2 min to get your visa at the airport. If you are traveling overland, so it is possible to get a 3 or 5-day transit visa for Turkmenistan on your own without  too much difficulty. But over the recent years, rejections have become an estimated 50% rejection rate.

The most up-to-date information about Turkmenistan visas can be found here .

Registration in Turkmenistan 

After all the red tape that you have to jump through to get into Turkmenistan, you will have to register your stay with the local Migration officials upon arrival, and every city you stay in during your visit. This is only for those who manage to obtain a visa on their own, though. If you go with a tour agency, then they should take care of this for you. 

Best Places to Visit in Turkmenistan

During a visit to Turkmenistan, you can travel around a significant part of the country for eight days, and this is the best itinerary for it.

Ashgabat 

The capital city of Ashgabat is an odd place that once had elements and influences of Soviet Russia. This all changed when the new President took over. He demolished the older Russian structures and created all-new buildings made of white marble. 

One thing that’s a little creepy is that the city is very quiet, to the point where it almost feels like it’s abandoned. It is because of this that the city has the nickname ‘the city of the dead by many foreign tourists, however, I did really like Ashgabat.

Take a while to explore all the marble and gold buildings and take a trip to the Gates to Hell outside of the city. 

Just outside of Ashgabat is the ancient city of Nisa, also known as Parthaunia. This massive city was the first capital of the area and dates back to 250 BC. The fortress within the city was made a UNESCO Heritage site with Parthian remains discovered inside of it. 

It is believed that this was the Arsacid Empire’s first seat. It was an immensely important trading center for the Parthian Empire and was also famous for its incredible horses that were both beautiful and fast. 

Kov Ata Cave

One of Turkmenistan’s natural wonders, this cave dives down to around 59m/195 feet underground and has a naturally heated lake at the bottom of it. You can actually swim in this lake with the waters believed to have medicinal powers; thanks to the thermal heat of the lake, the lake is 35+ warm.

Oh, the cave is also home to an immense number of bats that will circle overhead while you are in the lake. Be aware that the lake is really deep, while there´s a small platform to stand on, so is it often crowded with locals, so you should be able to swim to enjoy the lake. You should only spend a maximum of 20 minutes in the lake and 45 minutes in the cave in total because of the sulfur fumes. But nobody checks.

There´s a small changing area at the lake, but the whole area is really dark without any safety guards or life jackets if someone gets into problems in the water.

NB. The place is absolutely not wheelchair available or for people with a bad knee.

This little area is very remote and has an interesting set of beliefs as they credit that they are descendants of Alexander the Great. The inhabitants speak a different dialect which other Turkmen struggle to understand. 

They are known for their odd customs and their work ethic. They are a rich little village with new cars being a pretty common sight.

This is a beautiful area to hike with the several different villages that make up the area being within walking distance. Take to the trails past the swimming areas and waterfalls and bask in the nature around you. 

But most people that visit Nokhur, come here for the Nokhur cemetery. A pretty strange site. The graves at Nokhur cemetery are marked by the horns of mountain goats, point to burial rites steeped in animism, sprinkled with Zoroastrianism. The goat horns are believed to fight off evil spirits, while the stones are marked with steps, to help the deceased ascend to heaven.

The white Parau Bibi mausoleum is a pilgrim site and shrine to the patron of all pregnant women and infants. Women from across Turkmenistan will gather here and ask for help when needed. This is an amazing area to visit and one that will leave a lasting impression. 

This city is the capital of the largest region in Turkmenistan but also one of the youngest. It’s famous for being where the oil and gas for the country were found. Here, you’ll take a step inside modern Turkmenistan, with all the interesting structures and also having a very small amounts of people. 

Yangykala Canyon

The Yangykala Canyon is an often overlooked or forgotten place that most Turkmenistan people haven’t even seen themselves. It´s a real off-the-beaten-path destination in Central Asia. This natural attraction is something to behold, with sights of yellow, red, and pink rock contrasting the sharp canyon walls. 

It is even possible to camp on a plateau there overnight so you can wake up to the solitude in the desert. 

Turkmenbashy

Sitting on the edges of the Caspian sea , Turkmenbashy is a port city that offers a link to Baku from either railway or by taking a ferry. Just outside of the city is a smaller area of Awaza, which happens to be an insanely popular holiday destination of the country. 

This area has a strong Russian influence and overall a very luxurious and more high-quality environment. For those looking to relax in luxury while in Turkmenistan, this is the place for you. 

What is Turkmenistan Famous for?

The first thing that comes to mind about Turkmenistan is its interesting government, but there is more when it comes to tourism in Turkmenistan so let’s take a look. 

Darvaza Gas Crater

The famous ‘ Gate of Hell’ is in Turkmenistan . Locally known as the Darvaza gas crater, it is a man-made crater in the desert that is continuously on fire.

The Gate of hell Turkmenistan was created by mistake in 1971 when a Soviet drilling rig accidentally punched into a massive underground natural gas cavern.

This caused the ground to collapse and the entire drilling rig to fall in. You can still see the old metal pipes sticking out of the ground in the crater.

Almost 50 years on, and geologists still have no idea how much longer it will burn for. It might die out tomorrow, or it might burn for another 100 years; nobody knows.

Taking a trip to see it at night is a must when the fires flare up and give a stark contrast to the sheer darkness of the desert.  

Silk Road Cities

The ancient city of Merv is one of Turkmenistan’s Silk Road contributions. It is a massive urban center that is the largest on Silk Road. This is an oasis of a city that is a UNESCO site, with another city, Kunya-Urgench, being another UNESCO site. 

The City Center is Made of Marble

Ashgabat is unique in that a majority of the structures and public areas are built with white marble. It actually holds a Guinness World Record for having the highest density of buildings made of marble in the world. 

There are no big billboards with commercials anywhere in the city, and best of all, there’s no Starbucks, no KFC, no Mcdonalds, etc. Only small, locally owned businesses here.

But the few tourists that make it to Ashgabat will see a city that is extremely well-organized with an easy bus system, and it’s also probably the cleanest city anywhere in the world. Dirty cars are not even allowed in the city.

What Language do They Speak in Turkmenistan

An interesting fact about Turkmenistan is that it has three spoken languages and only one written one. Uzbek, Russian, and Turkmen are the different languages that you can speak while in Turkmenistan. 

Turkmen is a member of the Turkic family of language. It is very similar to Turkish and is spoken in seven different dialects throughout the different provinces of the country. The sole written language, however, is Turkmen, so brushing up on a few key phrases is recommended. 

Things You Should Pack to Visit Turkmenistan

Your luggage will depend on what time of the year you are planning to travel. If going in summer, you can expect high temperatures, so lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as your swimsuit, is essential. Winter is the complete opposite, and multiple layers of clothing that are also waterproof are needed. 

For women, even though it is technically an Islamic country, it has a complicated relationship with its views, and so it’s not an unacceptable thing for you to show skin. Turkmenistan is, in fact, one of the most liberal Muslim countries in the world.

Essential medication is also a must as while there are pharmacies in major cities where you can get the basics, there is no access to any form of medication outside of these major areas. 

However, don´t expect much shopping in Turkmenistan, while there’s a big fancy shopping mall with “everything” in Ashgabat, so is there not much when it comes to shopping outside the capital. Maybe the best thing to buy in Turkmenistan is locally woven carpets which are among the best in the world.

Trips to Turkmenistan Information

When it comes to tourism in Turkmenistan and planning your trip, there are a few things that you need to know to make sure that you are fully prepared for what lies ahead of you. 

Getting Around Turkmenistan

If you make your own way into the country, then you only really have a train or taxi to use to get around.

If you go with a tour guide, then you should be taken around in a 4×4 vehicle while exploring the country. There are buses, but there aren’t many at all. 

All three of those options are pretty cheap ways to get around, but winter does have an impact on the transportation system with interruptions to power supplies. The trains and buses are also slow, but at least they are reasonably comfortable. 

But the fastest and cheapest way to get across Turkmenistan is by flying; domestic flights in Turkmenistan with the local airline Turkmenistan Airlines are subsidized by the government, making Turkmenistan probably the cheapest country in the world for local flights. My flight from Turkmenbashy to Ashgabat was only 7 USD.

Money in Turkmenistan

The Manat is the main currency of Turkmenistan, while a single Manat is made of 100 Tenne. It is worth remembering that there are not that many ATMs at all. Don’t bank on using a card either, as cards will rarely be accepted by any store.

There are currency exchanges throughout, and they will happily change US Dollars and Euros into local Manat at a fixed rate and take no commission. They love to exchange US Dollars and prefer them, so bring various low denominations in cash, which you can exchange as you need in a small discrete bag . 

The notes need to be in near perfect condition for them to be accepted, as any marked or damaged notes will not be accepted. You will be expected to settle your hotel bill in cash with US Dollars if you won’t use a credit card. All other payments will have to be made in cash. 

NB. Changing money on the black market, (strictly illegal) will give you a much, much better rate, often three times the official rate.

Internet in Turkmenistan

Don’t expect too much internet while you visit Turkmenistan. The connection has always been a struggle, but the state also has strict laws on internet access and is heavily filtered. When you do gain access, your online activity will be monitored, and a large number of websites are blocked from access. If you thought the Great Firewall China or the internet in Eritrea was strict, then you haven’t been to Turkmenistan, even with a premium VPN, so was about every social media still blocked and unavailable, even WhatsApp, telegram, etc. was impossible to log into, even with a VPN. In general, there is wifi in the higher-end hotels in Balkanabat, Turkmenbashi, and Ashgabatand at most one old-school internet cafe in each city. But even in the high-end hotels, so is the internet connection extremely slow.

If you are looking for a social media or internet detox, then a Turkmenistan holiday isn’t a bad idea while exploring this unique country.  Because while the first day it´s pretty frustrating with not being able to connect to the outside world, but after a few days, it feels actually good.

Safety in Turkmenistan

In general, Turkmenistan safety is considered to be good and a safe place to explore, but there are consequences of breaking the law. It is an authoritarian state and not widely known as a tourist hotspot. And criticizing the President is a serious offense. The standard safety precautions should be carried out as there is a crime, just like in any other major city. 

Seeing as that almost all sales are cash-driven, be careful with the amount that you carry on you at any given time and keep it in a discreet place. Going out alone, especially at night, is not recommended as the police can get a little suspicious. Also, don’t take any photographs of the military or any government buildings and markets.

And be aware there´s secret police everywhere, personally so did I get stopped 3 times by the secret police, once for taking a photo of the University in Asgahbat, the central market and just for walking down a random street, however, while the secret where polite, so are they strict and not open for discussion.

Electricity in Turkmenistan 

Surprisingly, there is plenty of access to electricity throughout Turkmenistan, with most of the population receiving gas and electricity for free. However, it is pretty inefficient, and there have been reports of various problems with the supply of electricity. There are even problems with the heating in Ashgabat, not a nice thing to have to endure while visiting in winter. 

The older power stations are heavily impacted by the weather so expect frequent blackouts in both the colder winter months and also in the warm summer months. Ensure that you always keep a bottle or two of water on you as the electricity going out in Ashgabat causes issues with the supply of water as well. 

Drinks and Alcohol in Turkmenistan

Although it is a predominantly Muslim country, Turkmenistan is still somewhat liberal around the consumption of alcohol. There are, however, quite a few strict laws in Turkmenistan around the sale of alcohol. But is not often strictly enforced. About every restaurant and shop in the country offers at least beer. But to the surprise of many, so do Turkmenistan, produce their own, beer, vodka, wine, and brandy. Mainly that it cannot be consumed on public transport or in public areas of any kind. Beaches, forests, and elevators, as well as at any sporting facilities, are a few other areas.

There is also a ban on the sale of alcohol on weekends from establishments that are not either bars or restaurants. But this rule doesn´t seem to be very strictly enforced. And there´s no shortage of bars and restaurants anywhere in Turkmenistan, so you don’t have to worry about staying “dry”. Beer is insanely popular and the drink of choice for almost everyone, even though it is pretty low in alcohol percentage. For all the wine lovers, there are some amazing local wines.

The Turkmenistan people also make stunning Brandy, and even vodka, believe it or not. Start your night off over a few bottles of Tac Premium beer, and then maybe sample some brandy after that. 

When Will you Travel to Turkmenistan?

There are surely a ton of interesting facts about Turkmenistan. But, if you are ready to pay the high price and go through the hassle to obtain a visa, Turkmenistan has a lot to offer. From three historical UNESCO World Heritage sites, two of the strangest natural sites in the world, and a one-of-a-kind capital covered with white marble. 

There are gold statues and a lot of obscure monuments and strange architecture to add even more reasons to travel here. So the question remains, when will you travel to Turkmenistan?

Thursday 23rd of December 2021

Thx for the report. I have been twice in Turkmenistan ( 2006 and 2017). strange but interesting country to visit.

Explore Turkmenistan

Plan Your Trip to Turkmenistan: Best of Turkmenistan Tourism

Essential turkmenistan.

Trending in the forums

• Turkmenistan

Why should you choose Koryo Tours?

Choosing to travel to unusual destinations such as North Korea is a big decision, and choosing the right people to take you is an incredibly important part of that. Learn about how we facilitate tourism responsibly in some of the most interesting and unique destinations on our planet, and at the same time ensure you get the most out of your once-in-a-lifetime experience .

My next tour will be to:

Come with us to Central Asia's most enigmatic and fascinating Stan—unforgettable sights and experiences guaranteed on this remarkable journey!

Our tours to Turkmenistan will take you to all the country’s highlights. You will experience the local colour of Ashgabat (best described as a merging of Pyongyang and Las Vegas!), journey deep into the desert for some underground swimming, and camp next to the amazing and unique Darvaza Gas Crater - otherwise known as the 'Gates of Hell' or 'Doors to Hell'. You will visit the Silk Road ruins of Konye-Urgench, or experience Yangykala, the ‘Turkmen Grand Canyon’—a breathtaking area of amazing natural beauty. Wherever you go, your Turkmenistan tour will be an epic trip through a remarkable country. Turkmenistan tour dates don't work for you? We can also arrange Turkmenistan Independent Tours for individuals, families, friends, and groups. For more on Turkmenistan, visit our Turkmenistan Travel Guide page. Darvaza Gas Crater Ashgabat, Turkmenistan Yangykala Canyon Serdar Health Walk Turkmenabad, Turkmenistan Note: We require all travellers on international and North Korea tours to have valid travel insurance .

Turkmenistan is an overlooked Central Asia gem, a complicated and little-known place with a very rich history that more people should know about. I’ve entered and exited by air, by sea, and by land via both Uzbekistan and Iran, as one of the great attributes of the country is that it is located in the middle of the world – ideal for onward travel! — Simon Cockerell, Koryo Tours General Manager & Tour Leader.

May 2024 — 1 tour

May 11 - may 18 2024, turkmenistan tour (may) 2024: ashgabat, darvaza gas crater & beyond, 7 nights exploring turkmenistan.

Featuring the white marble fantasy-capital of Ashgabat, a night camping at the bizarre Darvaza gas crater, the ancient Silk Road ruins of Konye-Urgench, and much more! From 2250 USD per person

Please apply by 20th April, 2024 .

Turkmenistan Tour (May) 2024: Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Crater & Beyond

This tour is managed by...

Rich Beal is our International Tours Manager.

Rich is  one of our most experienced tour leaders . He has led tours worldwide since 2004, specialising in Mongolia , Tajikistan , Turkmenistan , and the surrounding area. Currently living in Mongolia , he leads multiple specialised trips annually and has over 20 years of experience running and designing tours of the region. 

Join experts in Turkmenistan travel, Koryo Tours, on this epic journey to Central Asia’s most enigmatic and least-visited country; Turkmenistan.

We will see history unfold as we travel from ruined ancient cities to gleaming modern marble-clad towers. From flaming pits deep in the desert to deep subterranean pools of health-infusing water. We will make sure to visit the main sites during our time in Turkmenistan such as Ashgabat and the Darvaza Gas Crater (Gates of Hell) , but also take you off the beaten path to really experience and understand Turkmenistan. Meet local people, learn about their lives and history, their differences and commonalities.

We look forward to sharing it with you in Turkmenistan!

This tour will be led by our Destinations manager and travel specialist Rich Beal , who first travelled to Turkmenistan more than ten years ago. Over many trips, he has made close friends there, explored widely, and maintained a deep interest in the country and region. Rich now lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia - the perfect home for his many forays into the Central Asian region. You can rest assured that you will be in safe hands during your Turkmenistan tour and that you will get the most out of your trip into this unexplored land!

If dates don’t suit you, check out our Turkmenistan tour in October , or   contact us to organise a private tour.

Scroll down for an overview of the Turkmenistan Tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, Turkmenistan visa information, and extra add-ons.

• Nisa Fortress – UNESCO listed archaeological site.
• Darvaza Gas Crater - The ‘Mouth of Hell’.
• Kow Ata Underground Lake - Natural hot spring 80m under the ground.

May 11th - Saturday

• Assemble in Ashgabat - Airport pickups will be arranged wherever you fly in from and we will have a group dinner to get introduced and start the adventure! 

Meals: Dinner

May 12th - Sunday

• Tolkuchka Bazaar - The nation’s largest market, built outside the city and home to various sections selling household goods, clothes, the famous Turkmen carpets, camels & other animals, and much more!
• Ashgabat Hippodrome – Sunday is a day at the races, with the sacred Ahal-Teke horses in full display.
• Afternoon city tour including Independence Park and Monument, Arch of Neutrality topped by the gold statue of Turkmenbashi, Ahal-Teke Horse Monument, Earthquake Monument and Museum.
• This evening is free for further exploration of Ashgabat . 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

May 13th - Monday

Darvaza Gas Crater & Bokhurdag

• Desert adventure!  We head off in a fleet of 4x4s into the deep desert today.  
• Bokhurdag:  This Semi-nomadic village affords us a great look at what desert life is like today. The visit here is made even better as we enjoy lunch in a local family home.  
• Onwards to the bizarre mud and water craters, scenes of accidents that opened sinkholes in the desert.
• Finally, we arrive at the stunning and unforgettable   Darvaza Gas Crater  in the centre of the country and the scene of a 40-year-old industrial accident that ended with a giant flaming pit burning to this day. A hypnotic sight and one of the strangest and most spectacular things you can see.
• We camp tonight beside the crater; it is best seen at night. Dinner cooked on the spot.

Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight:  Camping at the Darvaza Gas Crater - Camping in the desert with tents, sleeping bags and roll mats provided. We will also provide tents based on your rooming options. Camping affords us the best opportunity to view the fantastic gas crater from before sunset to sunrise.

May 14th - Tuesday

• We return to Ashgabat, driving through the morning with a stop at a monument to the Soviet defeat (or suppression) of the Basmachi Rebellion , guerillas who resisted first Russian Imperial and then Soviet rule in Central Asia.
• Once back in the capital the rest of the day is yours to do with as you please; explore, relax, shop, take a side-trip (drivers are available for hire), we and our local guides can advise on the spot.

Meals: Breakfast  Overnight: Olympia Hotel, Ashgabat

May 15th - Wednesday

Dashoguz & Konye-Urgench

• We take a morning 1-hour flight from Ashgabat to the northern city of Dashoguz , in the Uzbek-majority part of the country.
• We’ll see the local bazaar and a taste of life in this very different city.
• The ancient silk road ruined city of Konye-Urgench , ravaged by successive invaders over the centuries and now hope to minarets, impressive mausoleums, and all manner of historical tales and stories – one of the most important sites on the old silk-road.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Hotel Uzboy, Dashoguz - This local hotel may be basic although there are not many options in this far-flung town. It does offer us the chance to walk out into the local streets and experience life away from the marble city of Ashgabat.

May 16th - Thursday

Ashgabat & Kow Ata

• We’ll fly back to Ashgabat and get on with some more touring activities straight upon arrival.
• Ahal-Teke horses considered as heavenly and sacred beasts in Turkmenistan; this stud farm visit will show you why. Have a ride on one of the horses if you like.
• We then drive on to the bizarre Kow-Ata underground lake . A Sulphur-heated lake 100m deep underground. Take a swim, explore the cave, and then have lunch at a shashlik restaurant on the spot.
• After lunch, we will visit a couple of large mosques; first, the Geok Deppe Mosque, built on the site of a late 19th Century massacre that marked the beginning of Russian dominance in the region.
• Then we see the even more massive Gypjak Mosque, built on the site of the 1949 Earthquake that devastated the city; this is also home to the Turkmenbashi Mausoleum which we will visit.
•  Back to the city for a relaxing evening before beginning the final day of this adventure!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

May 17th - Friday

Ashgabat & Kopet Dag Mountains

• Free morning in Ashgabat for any final shopping, wandering, or relaxing that you want to do, and then we meet for a packed last afternoon.
• A cable car ride into the Kopet Dag mountains to see a view of the city from above.
• The world’s largest indoor Ferris Wheel – yes, indeed! A bizarre and quite fun trip to this oddity at the edge of town.
• An evening drive around the marble city, stopping at some viewpoints for some great photos of the nighttime illuminations which are very impressive.
•  Final dinner of the tour, time for goodbyes and the last night out if you’ve got the energy!

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

May 18th - Saturday

Departure day

• Departure day – airport transfers are provided for everyone regardless of the time of flight or where you are going

End of tour, OR; OPTIONAL EXTENSION (+550 EUR) Extension day 1: Mary & Margush

• Flight from Ashgabat to Mary, in the centre of the country and the nearest city to the ancient Silk Road metropolis of Merv.
• Visit Gonur-Deppe (Margush); another ancient city in this area, with some lovely extent architectural features.
• Back to Mary City and explore this modern town, mix with the locals, go to parks, bars, etc. as you like, a sleepy area with welcoming and friendly locals.

Meals: Breakfast

May 19th - Sunday

Extension day 2: Ancient Merv

• Excursion to  Ancient Merv .  Merv was once one of the most important cities in the world at certain times of its history. This ancient site is now a place where you will learn a great deal about the history of Central Asia, the rise and fall of dynasties and cities, the silk road, and human civilisation in this part of the world. Animals, travellers and archaeologists now roam the existing building, ruins, etc. All contribute to a sense of the dynamism of the ancient silk road.
• In the afternoon you fly back to Ashgabat for a final rest/night out before departure. Please let us know if you wish to book an extra night in Ashgabat. The flight should return to the capital at around 8 - 9 PM.

Upgrade to your own room in Turkmenistan

The default rooming option for this tour is shared hotel room or tent (one night). Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night

What is / is not included?

• English speaking guide
• Western tour leader
• Accommodation
• Internal flights
• All included sight seeing
• All taxes & entrance fees to protected areas

NOT INCLUDED

• Optional extension to Merv is USD 550
• Optional single supplement: USD 55 per night
• Visa issuing fee - USD 80 to USD 140 depending on nationality
• Room extension - USD 120
• International flights to/from Turkmenistan not included
• Return flights from Beijing to Ashgabat

**This tour will be accompanied by a Western tour leader if there are over five passengers booked**

HOW TO APPLY

Please email Rich Beal at  [email protected]  to begin your tour application. We do require a deposit paid upon booking the tour as we start paying tour costs when your visa application process had begun. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. You must apply at least four weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Most travellers opt to have the visas issued upon arrival into Turkmenistan. If you would prefer to have the visa issued before your arrival or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. The LOI will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application. If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via Koryo tours; We will email the e-ticket voucher to you as soon as it has been received into our office. If you are purchasing your flight ticket via other airlines or agents, we need these flight details ASAP. We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also. We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour. Single supplement is accessible on this tour at 50 USD per night; if you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee, we will attempt to match you up with another traveller. You will also have to pay the visa issuing fee, at Ashgabat airport this ranges from US$80 to $130 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS

Please note: The visa fee for this tour is not covered in the tour cost and you will be responsible for this. Due to the extended amount of time that it takes to have a visa authorised and sent to an Embassy of Turkmenistan, it is much simpler to collect the visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport, the fee payable here varies according to your nationality, it's usually around US$100. The visa is stamped in your passport and is the same as it would be if issued at a Turkmen Embassy. If you insist on having your visa issued at an Embassy, then please be sure to apply for the tour as early as possible.

If your visa is refused, a full refund (less banks charges) will be issued. Should the client wish to cancel after the visa application has been submitted, charges imposed on us by our Turkmenistan partners will be paid out of the 50% deposit and the balance returned to the client. If you have paid in full, we will return 50% plus the balance of what is left after charges. In all cases, we aim to return as much as we can, and we do not take a fee for the client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will be joinging the tour when you send all application details.

September 2024 — 1 tour

September 23 - october 12 2024.

Kazakhstan And Turkmenistan Adventure

Kazakhstan & Turkmenistan Tour; The Heart of Central Asia.

Visit vibrant multi-cultural Kazakhstan and eclectic Turkmenistan. Ticking off all the higlights as well as getting off the beaten path! From 4900 USD per person

Please apply by 1st September, 2024 .

On our most adventurous 20-night adventure, we will start in the new capital of Kazakhstan, Astana  and finish in the ostentatious city of Ashgabat Turkmenistan.

In between these two fascinating cities, we will travel by road, rail, and air as we adventure and explore parts of Kazakhstan only a few have seen before. We will be heading to the industrial base of Karaganda , the infamous Semipalatinsk (in two words; Gulags and Nukes), and Kurchatov - the Los Alamos of the USSR, where the Red Bomb was developed and tested. Plus, we will even visit ‘ The Polygon ’ ; the vast nuclear testing range full of abandoned measuring platforms, bunkers, craters, buried machinery, and the scenic yet chilling ‘Atomic Lake’.

Please Note : the situation vis-a-vis access to the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Polygon is very much changeable with no notice. So while we do intend to run the tour as scheduled here there is a chance that things may change and we have to adjust to which areas we visit, where we stay overnight, and so on. We have explored this area thoroughly though and have redundancies and backup plans in place, so we can still assure all visitors that they will experience as much access to the site as possible when they visit with Koryo Tours.

We will make sure to visit the main sites during our time in Turkmenistan such as Ashgabat and the Darvaza Gas Crater (Gates of Hell) , but also take you off the beaten path to really experience and understand Turkmenistan. Meet local people, and learn about their lives and history, their differences and commonalities.

Dates don't suit? Check out our Explore Kazakhstan | Astana to Almaty September Tour , or  contact us  for more information on private tours.

• Combine Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan for the ultimate adventure.
• Astana | Ashgabat | Almaty Nuclear Polygon – USSR’s testing range for atmospheric and underground nukes.
• Darvaza Gas Crater - This Giant burning crater known as the ‘Mouth of Hell’.

Day 1 of 21

Monday 23rd September

Arrival Day

• Flights to  Astana (airport code NQZ) arrive from many international destinations – let us know which flight you will be on, and we will arrange your pick-up and transfer to the hotel. Arriving even earlier is, of course, fine and can be accommodated.  
• Today we start the tour with a group dinner of some excellent local food, coordination and briefing session, before the adventure ahead!

Overnight: Astana - Kazakhstan's shiny new Capital City!

Tuesday 24th September

• Astana is a new city rightly famed for its unique approach to architecture; it piles together with a wide range of different styles and forms. The result is either a glimpse at the future of post-modern cities or a horrifying un-curated mish-mash of clashing buildings.  
• Bayterek Tower – now the icon of the city, this ornate monument has a viewing platform 97 metres above the ground (1997 is when Astana become the capital city) and is designed to evoke a folk tale about a bird laying an egg in a tree. Amazing views over the city from here.  
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation – glass Pyramid from the eminent architect Norman Foster with the vague but noble aim of reconciling the world’s faiths and ideologies and bringing an end to violence. Even if this goal remains elusive, it is a stunning building and worth exploring!  
• Hazret Sultan Mosque – the biggest in Kazakhstan (and second in the region only to the monstrous Gypjak Mosque in Turkmenistan). Classically Islamic in style and Kazakh in décor, this impressive building can house up to 5000 worshippers at once.  
• Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre – perhaps the building that architecturally sums up modern Astana more than any other. Another Carbuncle/work-of-genius (delete as you prefer) from Norman Foster, this ingenious structure looking somewhat like a lop-sided tent maintains an even temperature year-round and provides leisure facilities, shopping, entertainment in general.  
• River Ishim – we’ll stroll the banks of this waterway in the centre of town, a good way to see a slice of local life and people enjoying their time. Remember that almost all of Astana’s population are recent arrivals so a big mix of people from around the country and beyond can be met with here.

Overnight: Astana

Wednesday 25th September

Akmol & Karaganda

• We take a drive out of the city to the nearby village of Akmol ; home of the chilling Museum of the Camp for Wives of Traitors to the Motherland – A sensitively-done spot telling the story of the loyal (going to such a place could often be avoided with a divorce and public denunciation) women sent here when their husbands were persecuted.  
• We see a little more of this settlement on a walk around; church, mosque, and apartment buildings now occupy this former gulag-site before leaving for a 3 hour drive to the major city of Karaganda (lunch along the way)  
• An introductory walking tour of the city centre - focusing on the architecture, history, and local culture of this city (all of which is varied and fascinating), we’ll visit the central park as well and see and mix with locals spending leisure time here.  
• Karaganda is a large city but with a very walkable centre – the Russian/Soviet influence here is strong and our guide (a local to this place) will tell us all about the city, you’ll find it fascinating for sure! He can also recommend good spots for dinner/evening socialising/etc  
• We will also visit a local painter - famed for having no arms and painting with the brush in his mouth. He sells his amazing work and can speak about his history growing up close to the nearby nuclear weapons testing area

Overnight: Chaika Hotel – amazing brutalist Soviet monstrosity. Real time-warp stuff. One part of the hotel was built specifically for the visit of Valentina Tereshkova , the first woman in space. The rooms are comfy and modern. The building itself is timeless!

Thursday 26th September

• We drive an hour out to the museum of KarLag , the local gulag system – a dark part of history indeed told through the rooms of this former NKVD HQ . State ‘enemies’, departed nationalities (a vast number of whom were dumped in central Asia due to Stalin’s paranoia about enemies within – the largest numbers being Germans from the west and Koreans from the east. Their stories are told here in this chilling memorial to the all-too-recent evils.  
• The village around this museum is made up largely of former Gulag barracks, admin buildings, and medical centres, we will take a look around and also visit the depressing cemetery for children who died in this cruel system.  
• The nearby town of Shahtinsk hosts us for lunch and some views of local industries; coal mining primarily, but also steel production and agriculture.  
• In the afternoon we offer the choice between free time to further explore Karaganda City or a trip to a former execution ground (what a choice, we know!) marked by tasteful and meaningful memorials to the various nationalities whose people were among the unfortunate souls to perish here.

Overnight: Chaika Hotel

Friday 27th September

Astana/Train Ride

• We return to Astana by road in the morning. A special lunch with a local family awaits us when we arrive back in the Kazakh capital and then time to shop for some supplies for the overnight train ride ahead of us.  
• All aboard! We jump onto a sleeper train making its way through the night and across the country to the city of Kurchatov - home of the Soviet atomic weapons program. Comfy beds and a clean restaurant await us and rolling steppe outside the windows for this 800km journey. We will have dinner delivered to us on the platform at Ekibastusz Station that evening.

Overnight: Onboard the train – 4 beds in each room. Comfortable and clean

Saturday 28th September

Semey/Nuclear Polygon/Kurchatov

• We arrive in the morning in the eastern city of Semey and grab breakfast and the chance to leave our luggage in a local hotel (we will be back in a couple of days) - we then board our vehicles for an epic adventure in a fascinating and formerly forbidden area  
• We go deep into the Polygon - heading for a wide range of sites associated with the Soviet nuclear weapons program - the Atomic Lake , abandoned and derelict ICBM sites , underground bunkers , buildings erected and then destroyed in nuclear test explosions, and much more. it will be an epic adventure and, of course, protective clothing is provided when required.  
• We’ll make a few stops on the way through but most significantly Atomic Lake – caused by a deep underground nuclear blast – this was in fact made deliberately and is known as the world’s first and only use of industrial nuclear weapons. Find out what on earth they were thinking and meet some fishermen looking for three-eyed fish in the 180m deep lake.  
• We’ll have a Roadside Picnic (note to non-literature lovers, this is a joke – read this book and you will find some eerie similarities to this part of the trip) and continue to see some relics of the testing program. A local expert will also be with us to explain in detail, answer questions, etc.  
• We arrive in Kurchatov and check in at our hotel, used mainly by scientists still studying the effects of all the nuclear tests in this region.  Kurchatov was founded in 1947 simply to make Soviet Nuclear weapons a reality. Under the control of then KGB Chief Lavrentiy Beria and scientist Igor Kurchatov, this is where the arms race became a two-horse event.

Overnight: Mayak Hotel – another time-warp hotel with period furnishings and decor.

Sunday 29th September

Kurchatov/Chagan

• Museum of the Semipalatinsk Test Site – a detailed and deep explanation of what this place is, what happened here, and what effect their inventions can have. Some machines from that time are displayed here too. (note: this museum opens and closes at the whim of higher powers, so its opening cannot be 100% confirmed - if not open we will have a lecture on the history of the area at a different location  
• We board our vehicle and take a drive, deep into a formerly off-limits (very off limits!) area; the Semipalatinsk Polygon – nuclear testing ground chosen due to its remoteness, lack of population, and because it seemed like a good spot to blow a few things up. we provide protective gear of course  
• Next stop is Chagan – once a deeply secret long-range bomber base . Now a deeply abandoned former long-range bomber base. See the massive runways, the remaining ammunition hangars, and the collapsing main buildings of the base. Plus the garrison town nearby which housed the base staff from 1954 to 1994 and now stands completely stripped like a spooky post-apocalyptic warning. A bit of UrbEx here  
• We will visit a local family who used to live in Chagan - hear their stories of what it was like living at the front line of the Cold War so far in the USSR interior, and what things have been like for them since the base closed and their lives changed forever.

Overnight | Mayak Hotel

Monday 30th September

• We leave Kurchaov and the Polygon/Test Field behind us today as we return to Semey. Semipalatinsk is actually the former name of this city; correctly it is now referred to as Semey , we explore with a city tour of this little-visited settlement.  
• We will spend some time with a very special group of people - a local school who specialise in teaching disadvantaged children from more modest backgrounds. They teach English to a very high level here and we will meet with some teachers and children from the school who will give us some information about their hometown, give us a performance, and give us a chance to learn from these kids as well as helping them with a chance for conversation time with visitors - this is another Koryo Tours exclusive and something you will never forget  
• After lunch we liberate you for free time – a couple of recommendations include;​​​​​​ Fine Arts Museum – not just the best collection in Kazakhstan but also a display of abnormal anatomy, something quirky and troubling (especially with our trip to the nuclear test site coming up) Stronger Than Death Monument – in the Tatar section of town (itself an attraction we will explore some more) – shows the resilience of those who live and have lived in this remote part of the world.  
• Free time from the later afternoon to explore the city, have an evening out away from the shadow of nuclear tests and enjoy a very unique place indeed on a very special day.

Overnight: Semey Hotel – very Soviet-style place with an aesthetic unlike what you may be used to! All the charm of the late-USSR but with free wifi! You’ll love it!

Tuesday 1st October

Semey/Almaty

• Once upon a time Semipalatinsk was a wealthy trading city, situated between China and Russia, and acted as a gateway to the Central Asian territories added to the Russian Empire in the 19th Century. We will explore mainly on foot and see buildings from various eras, statues and monuments, mosaics and a little-known part of history. All explained to us as we make our way on a short walking tour around this unexpectedly-charming place. Sites we visit include...  
• Lenin Alley – a common sight in Kazakhstan’s smaller cities; a collection of Lenin's in a nice park setting. The central piece is awe-inspiring.  
• Victory Park – with statues, tank monument, and a hang-out place for locals.  
• Dostoyevsky Museum – the titan of Russian Literature, was exiled out here in Semipalatinsk and this museum explains the importance of his works. Pro-tip: read Crime and Punishment before your visit.  
• After an early lunch we head to Semey Airport for a flight to Almaty - the former capital and the most charming city in the country  
• We transfer to our hotel and you can head out for exploring, enjoying the very lively coffee shop scene, hot up some amazing restaurants and bars, pamper yourself at a beauty centre. Do whatever you like in this very modern but also laid-back place. You've earned it after the long journeys of the last few days!

Overnight: Hotel Kazakhstan – a towering monstrosity offering great views over the city as well as faded-luxury. An iconic structure in an iconic city; ideal for finishing off our Kazakhstan adventure

Wednesday 2nd October

• We embark on a walking tour of this amazing city - Almaty. Nestled against the precipitous Tian Shan Mountain range and dotted with parks, theatres, boulevards, and much more. Sites we visit include...
• Almaty Metro – one of only two subway systems in the whole of Central Asia (the other is the Moscow knock-off in Tashkent) this system opened in 2012 and strikes a balance between Moscow opulence and modern efficiency
• Green Bazaar & Rakhat Chocolate Factory – these neighbouring sites are local institutions. You can smell the sweetness from the latter all across this part of the city. Banter and barter with sellers in the market, pick up the apples that Almaty is known for as well as all manner of other delicious local delicacies. Get your sweet tooth into action with the terrific and very affordable selection at the chocolate factory (ideal for gifts too!)  
• Panfilovets Park – Almaty's main place of leisure. Very pleasant and marked with stunning and evocative monuments to the Kazakh soldiers who fell while fighting to defend Moscow from the Nazi invasion. Zenkov Cathedral is also located in this park.  
• Central Mosque – With its broad ethnic mixture and clear secularism, it is easy to forget that Kazakhstan is a majority-Muslim country. We’ll have a look at the main mosque in Almaty to see how the locals worship and what their faith means to them.  
• Arbat Street – every good former USSR town has one; a pedestrian area ideal for promenading, window shopping, café culture, public art sales, and so on. This one is very modern, and is lined with some great examples of brutalist apartment buildings.  
• Kok-Tebe – a cable car ride up to a mountain overlooking the city. Amazing views, a statue of the Beatles, A Ferris Wheel and toboggan ride, small zoo, bars, and entertainment in general. Simply put, this is the city’s best spot and a very popular area for local families, youths, and everyone really. We’ll have a final lunch of the tour along the way. A fitting relaxing end to an intense, mind-blowing week!

Overnight: Hotel Kazakhstan

Thursday 3rd October

Goodbye Almaty welcome Ashgabat

Today you travel between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan - two fascinating and very different states in the same region. In terms of logistics, there are only occasional flights directly on this route - if one is available we will help you with that, but otherwise, the safer and most reliable route would be to fly via Istanbul or Dubai - two places well-connected several times daily to both Almaty and Ashgabat. Get in touch with us for help with planning this route.

You can make this journey all in one day, or arrive the following day, this will still get you there in time for the Turkmenistan tour to begin, so explore options and let us know what you think.

Arriving in Ashgabat/ Turkmenistan you pass through its multi-billion dollar marble-clad eagle-shaped airport - the kind of ostentatious building any country in the Middle East would be proud of. Exchange the Letter of Invitation (LOI) we have sent you in advance for a visa on arrival and a pickup and transfer to the hotel will be provided along with a local guide.

This evening is free for your short own exploration or to relax in another exciting country.

Overnight: Olympia Hotel, Ashgabat - Built for the 2017 Asian indoor martial arts game this well-located and modern hotel allows access to malls, shops, and restaurants, and provides guests with quality facilities in a fascinating part of the city

Friday 4th October

This morning there is time to relax and soak up your surrounding before this afternoon's orientation walk around the city visiting.

• Tekke Bazaar - Walk through this real, local slice of life, a true local market very popular amongst local people for shopping. On weekends, there are also local booksellers in the park opposite the market selling a selection of second-hand books. If you're lucky, you may pick up a copy of the Ruhnama the book written by Saparmurat Niyazov, the Turkmenistan president. Niyazov famously said, "a person that reads Ruhnama three times becomes smart, and after it, he will go straight to heaven".  
• Inspiration park - A public park at the centre of Ashgabat this narrow parkland is lined with sculptures of Persian poets, scholars and great thinkers all surrounding an artificial river and impressive water fountains.   
• Russian Bazaar - located in the very centre of town, this covered bazaar is where you can buy almost everything you may need in daily life; fruit & nuts, cables & chargers, sweets, kimchi, baked goods, souvenirs, and so on. Nearby is also the Alty Asyr Shopping Centre which is a good place to buy cotton goods (tracksuits, towels, bedsheets, etc. all made from local cotton, and all very cheap).  
• Lenin statue - Best described as a small Lenin on a giant plinth decorated in central Asian tile work.   
• Pushkin Monument - this small bust erected to Russia's most famous poet Pushkin is easily visited only 5 minutes from Lenin.  
• Pervyy park - this is one of Ashgabat's oldest parks founded in 1890 named officer park, Lenin park, first park and independence park.  
•   Ashgabat Train station - originally built in 1888 the first railway station was destroyed in the earthquake of 1948 along with much of the city. A new station was built shortly after in 1950 although this was remodelled 2009 taking on its now grand form crowned by the eight-pointed star (Rub El Hizb).

We return to the hotel after this mini-adventure to meet the new tour members at dinner. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Olympia Hotel, Ashgabat

Saturday 5th October

A free day in Ashgabat. We can make recommendations for what to do and help to arrange drivers, and guides, as needed for excursions outside of the city. Or you can simply wander, relax, go shopping, use leisure facilities, and so on.

Ashgabat has malls, galleries, museums, and other sites open to visitors. Just tell us what kind of thing you would like to do and our local partners and we can help with making a plan for you.

The tour starts properly this evening with a group dinner and orientation. Meet those arriving just for the Turkmenistan part of the tour and get ready for a further group adventure! Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday 6th October

Ashgabat City Tour

• Tolkuchka Bazaar – The nation's largest market, built outside the city and home to various sections selling household goods, clothes, the famous Turkmen carpets , camels & other animals, and much more!
• Cooking course  – for today's lunch, we attend a local restaurant which gives us a tutorial and the opportunity to bake some local Turkmen pies. If it's not for you, don't worry, you'll be able to relax whilst your meal is cooked for you. 
• Afternoon city tour – Including Independence Park and Monument , Arch of Neutrality topped by the gold statue of Turkmenbashi, Ahal-Teke horses monument , Earthquake Monument and Museum .
• Free evening for a night out in the city.

Monday 7th October Darvaza Gas Crater & Bokhurdag

• Desert adventure! We head off in a fleet of 4x4s into the deep desert today.
• Bokhurdag semi-nomadic village for a look at what desert life is like today and lunch at a local family home.
• Onwards to the bizarre mud and water craters , scenes of accidents that opened sinkholes in the desert.
• Finally, we arrive at the stunning and unforgettable   Darvaza Gas Crater in the centre of the country and the scene of a 40-year-old industrial accident that ended with a giant flaming pit burning to this day. A hypnotic sight and one of the strangest and most spectacular things you can possibly see.
• We camp tonight beside the crater; it is best seen at night, and dinner is cooked on the spot.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Camping at the Darvaza Gas Crater - Camping in the desert with tents, sleeping bags and roll mats provided. we will also provide tents based on your rooming options. this affords us the best opportunity to view the amazing gas crater from before sunset to sunrise.

Tuesday 8th October

• We return to Ashgabat, driving through the morning with a stop at a monument to the suppression of the Basmachi rebellion.
• Once back in the capital the rest of the day is yours to do with as you please; explore, relax, shop, take a side trip (drivers are available for hire), we and our local guides can advise on the spot.

Wednesday 9th October

Nisa Fortress and Kow Ata Underground Lake

• Nisa Fortress - a UNESCO site and former capital of the mighty Parthian state in ancient times.
• Ahal-Teke horse s are considered heavenly and sacred beasts in Turkmenistan, and this stud farm visit will show you why. Have a ride on one of the horses if you like.
• We will drive in our 4x4 fleet on to the remote city of Balkanabad ; this sleepy town is easily explored on foot in a couple of hours of free time before dinner and overnight in a hotel shaped like a giant yurt.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Hotel Niebitchi , Balkanabat - Yurt-shaped curiosity in the town centre, well-situated for wandering around and exploring.

Thursday 10th October

Yangykala Canyon & Turkmenbashi

• We drive to the stunning Yangykala Canyon , known as the ‘Turkmen Grand Canyon’ little-known but a gorgeous area with shifting colours in the rocks, amazing formations, and some wonderful photos to be taken.
• Through the afternoon we make our way across the country, stopping at scenic areas, pilgrimage sites and so on until we reach our destination; the Caspian sea city of Turkmenbashi and the bizarre ‘touristic zone’ of Awaza . This place has to be seen to be believed, and we will have a look around the hotel-covered peninsular before checking in for a relaxing evening at the coast.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Overnight:  Serdar Hotel. A comfortable beachside option. You can also upgrade to the Yelken Yacht Club, the finest establishment in Awaza. Contact us for more details!

Friday 11th October

Awaza to Ashgabat

• A free morning to relax at the coastal resort, try swimming (although the Caspian is a cold sea) or some watersports, wandering around, or even sleeping in!
• Late morning we will take a boat ride down a canal stretching the length of the Awaza area, see the different architectural styles of the buildings here, all of which have sprung up in the last few years.
• We will drive to Turkmenbashi city for lunch, the oldest city in the country and one settled by Russians during their invasion from across the sea during the late Great Game.
• A city tour of Turkmenbashi – the local bazaar, railway station, Oil Workers’ Square, various monuments, and even a cemetery for Japanese POWs who were brought here to labour after their capture at the end of WWII, and never got home again.
• Flight back to Ashgabat for the final dinner of the tour, time for goodbyes and the last night out, if you’ve got the energy!

Saturday 12th October Departure

• Departure day – airport transfers provided for everyone regardless of the time of flight or where you are going.

End of tour, OR; OPTIONAL EXTENSION (+600 EUR) Extension day 1: Mary & Margush

• Flight from Ashgabat to Mary, in the centre of the country and the nearest city to the ancient silk road metropolis of Merv.
• Visit Gonur-Deppe (Margush); another ancient city in this area, with some lovely ancient architectural features.

Meals: Breakfast 

Sunday 13th October Extension day 2: Ancient Merv

• Excursion to Ancient Merv , probably the most important city in the world at certain times of its history and a place where you will learn a great deal about the history of Central Asia, the rise and fall of dynasties and cities, the silk road, and human civilisation in this part of the world in general. This vast area is roamed by animals, explorers, extant buildings, ruins, etc. All contributing to a sense of the dynamism of the ancient silk road.
• In the afternoon you fly back to Ashgabat for a final rest/night out before departure. Please let us know if you wish to book an extra night in Ashgabat. the flight should return to the capital at around 8 PM - 9 PM.

Upgrade to your own room in Kazakhstan

All hotel rooms on our all-inclusive group tours to Kazakhstan feature twin beds, and will be shared. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night

• English-speaking local guides
• Meals where indicated
• Internal trains
• All included sightseeing
• All taxes & entrance fees to areas where special permits are required
• Airport transfers
• An amazing time in two very different yet amazing countries!
• Tips for local guides and drivers
• Incidentals, extra drinks, etc
• Optional single supplement: USD 50 per night (Kazakhstan) and USD 55 Per night (Turkmenistan)
• Kazakhstan: Visa fee - depending on nationality – most Western nationalities do not need visas to Kazakhstan. Please do check first to be sure
• Turkmenistan: All visitors will need a visa USD 80 to USD 150, depending on nationality; we will do the work required for this
• International flights to Kazakhstan and from Ashgabat
• Flight between Almaty and Ashgabat - we can assist with recommendations for this route

How to Apply: To apply simply click on the application button listed with this tour and fill out the online form, upload a passport copy and photo (or send to us by email) and you can consider yourself to be booked on this adventure! For any questions, comments, etc about this trip get in touch with Rich at [email protected] We ask for an application to be completed a minimum of one month in advance of the tour, ideally six weeks or more if possible: We will require a deposit to be paid at this time as we start taking on administrative costs as well as an obligation to pay for the visa invitation as soon as we send off an application. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. Cancellation & Refunds: Please note that if you require a visa for Kazakhstan you will need to pay this fee yourself. Most visitors do not require visas though.

Check https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Kazakhstan For Turkmenistan everyone will need a letter of invitation this is used upon arrival to obtain your visa for the country. We will send you further details upon booking. We practice the same cancellation policy with this tour as we do with our DPRK tours. This is listed on our website T&C. However, we do not seek profit from people who cannot go on tours but we do make arrangements and commit to payments in good faith once a booking is received and payment is made. So we always try to refund more than the minimum. As with any trip it is best to be as sure as possible that you will be able to attend the trip when making the final booking. If the tour is cancelled by Koryo Tours for any reason then a full refund is of course made. In all cases we return as much as we can and we do not take a fee for client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will definitely be joining the tour when you send all application details.

October 2024 — 2 tours

October 5 - october 12 2024, turkmenistan tour (october): ashgabat, darvaza gas crater & beyond, an amazing turkmenistan adventure.

Spend 7 nights in Central Asia’s least visited country! Visit Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s white marble fantasy capital, see the bizarre Darvaza Gas Crater, and explore the coast of the glorious Caspian! From 2400 USD per person

Turkmenistan Tour (October): Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Crater & Beyond

Join Koryo Tours this October for our Turkmenistan tour as the adventures continue. Turkmenistan is Central Asia’s least visited country.

This means it may be a bit difficult to access and travel around, but it certainly doesn’t have any less to offer! Join Koryo Tours as we explore the beautiful capital city Ashgabat , camp over at the famous Darvaza Gas Crater , otherwise known as ‘the Gates of Hell’, and be dazzled by the colourful desert canyons to the Caspian Coast.

As we journey through the country we will see the serious and the sublime, the freaky and the frivolous – join us on this amazing adventure that we simply do better than anyone else. Koryo Tours have been working in Turkmenistan for over a decade. Over this time, we’ve built this special experience through dozens of visits and the best local contacts and relationships meaning our Turkmenistan tours are unrivalled in quality, experience, and fun !

This tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal . Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004 and has been leading   tours to Turkmenistan for a decade (and to the rest of Central Asia much longer!). He is incredibly knowledgeable about the area and a great storyteller — ask and he will tell you plenty of fascinating travel anecdotes from his many adventures!

If dates don’t suit, check out our Turkmenistan tour in May , or  contact us to organise a private tour.

• Ashgabat - All the highlights and local colour Darvaza Gas Crater - The ‘Mouth of Hell’
• Kow Ata Underground Lake - Natural hot spring 80m under the ground
• Nisa Fortress – UNESCO listed archaeological site
• The stunning Yangykala Canyon, known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Central Asia’
• The Caspian Sea city of Turkmenbashi & the unique & Weird Awaza Area
• Extend the tour to visit the Capital of the Silk Road – Ancient Merv

Saturday 5th October  Arrival in Ashgabat

• Assemble in Ashgabat , airport pickups will be arranged wherever you fly in from, and we will have a group dinner to get introduced and start the adventure!
• For those who arrived in Turkmenistan earlier, there will be an optional walking tour around Ashgabat this afternoon; we'll see some architecture, local markets and a slice of local life. 

Meals: Dinner 

Overnight: Olympia Hotel, Ashgabat - Built for the 2017 Asian indoor martial arts game, this well-located and modern hotel allows access to malls, shops, and restaurants and provides guests with quality facilities in a fascinating part of the city. Should the heat of the day prove too much you can quench your thirst in the rooftop bar or take a plunge in the included swimming pool.

Sunday 6th October Ashgabat City Tour

• cooking course  – for today's lunch, we attend a local restaurant which gives us a tutorial and the opportunity to bake some local Turkmen pies. If it's not for you, don't worry, you'll be able to relax whilst your meal is cooked for you. 
• We camp tonight besides the crater, it is best seen at night, dinner cooked on the spot.
• Once back in the capital the rest of the day is yours to do with as you please; explore, relax, shop, take a side-trip (drivers are available for hire), we and our local guides can give advice on the spot.

Wednesday 9th October

• Ahal-Teke horse s are considered as heavenly and sacred beasts in Turkmenistan, this stud farm visit will show you why. Have a ride on one of the horses if you like.
• We then drive on to the bizarre Kow-Ata underground lake . A Sulphur-heated lake 100m deep underground. Take a swim, explore the cave, and then have lunch at a shashlik restaurant on the spot
• We will drive in our 4x4 fleet on to the remote city of Balkanabad, this sleepy town is easily explored on foot in a couple of hours of free time before dinner and overnight in a hotel shaped like a giant yurt.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Hotel Niebitchi , Balkanabat - Yurt-shaped curiosity in the centre of town, well-situated for wandering around and exploring.

Thursday 10th October

• We drive to the stunning Yangykala Canyon , known as the ‘Turkmen Grand Canyon’ little-known but an absolutely beautiful area with shifting colours in the rocks, amazing formations, and some wonderful photos to be taken.
• Through the afternoon, we make our way across the country, stopping at scenic areas, pilgrimage sites and so on until we reach our destination: the Caspian sea city of Turkmenbashi and the bizarre ‘touristic zone’ of Awaza . This place has to be seen to be believed and we will have a look around the hotel-covered peninsular before checking in for a relaxing evening at the coast.
• A free morning to relax at the coastal resort of Awaza, try swimming (although the Caspian is a cold sea) or some watersports, wandering around, or even sleeping in!
• A city tour of Turkmenbashi – the local bazaar, pre-Soviet railway station, Oil Workers’ Square, various monuments, and even a cemetery for Japanese POWs who were brought here to labour after their capture at the end of WWII, and never got home again.
• Flight back to Ashgabat for the final dinner of the tour, It's time for goodbyes and the last night out, if you’ve got the energy!

Saturday 12th October Departure

• Departure day – airport transfers are provided for everyone regardless of the time of flight or where you are going.

End of tour, OR; OPTIONAL EXTENSION (+600 EUR) Extension Day 1: Mary & Margush

• Back to Mary City and explore this modern town, mix with the locals, go to parks, bars, etc as you like, a sleepy area with welcoming and friendly locals.
• Optional extension to Merv is USD 600
• Visa issuing fee - USD 80 to USD 140, depending on nationality
• Return flights from Beijing to Ashgabat cost approximately USD 1000 Return flights from London to Ashgabat cost approximately USD 1040 (Estimates only, we can book these tickets for you or you can purchase separately)

Please email Rich Beal at [email protected] the following information a minimum of one month in advance of the tour, ideally six weeks or more if possible: Full Name Gender Date of Birth Passport Number Address Job Title Company Details of any previous visits to Turkmenistan Please also indicate where you plan to join the tour from (London, Beijing, Istanbul etc). We also require a deposit to be paid at this time as we start taking on administrative costs as well as an obligation to pay for the visa invitation as soon as we send off an application. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. You must apply at least 4 weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain in order to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We can arrange to have the visas issued on arrival at Ashgabat airport or any other point of entry to the country, but if you would prefer to have it issued at the Turkmenistan Embassy in your home country or have any questions at all about the visa process (it is rather complicated!) please contact us early! the LOI's will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application. If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via our offices we email the e-ticket voucher to you and also inform you if anyone else is joining the tour from your place of departure so that you can meet up on the way to join the tour. If you are purchasing your own flight ticket via alternate airlines or agents we need these flight details ASAP. We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also. We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour. Single supplement is available on this tour at 55 USD per night, if you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee we will attempt to match you up with another traveller. You will also have to pay the visa issuing fee, at Ashgabat airport this ranges from US$80 to $150 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.

Please note that for this tour you are required to pay the fee for the issuance of the visa yourself. Due to the extended amount of time that it takes to have a visa authorized and sent to an Embassy of Turkmenistan it is much simpler to collect the visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport, the fee payable here varies according to your nationality, its usually around US$100. The visa is stamped in your passport and is the same as it would be if issued at a Turkmen Embassy. If you insist on having your visa issued at an Embassy, then please be sure to apply for the tour as early as possible. The deposit is non-refundable if the tourist cancels himself. If however, we cannot arrange visas or for whatever reason, it is not possible to travel at the specified time (or you cannot make rescheduled dates) a full refund will be made. Should the client wish to cancel after visa application has been made, charges imposed on us will be paid out of the 50% deposit with the balance being returned to the client. If you have paid in full we will return 50% plus the balance of what is left after the cancellation fee we pay to our partners in Turkmenistan. If you book and cancel a plane ticket through us we charge only the airline’s cancellation fee. In all cases we return as much as we can and we do not take a fee for client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will definitely be joining the tour when you send all application details.

October 5 - October 17 2024

Turkmenistan & uzbekistan adventure, join us as we venture across the deserts of turkmenistan, ancient cities of uzbekistan, and meet the local people who call this incredible region home.

Join us as we venture across the deserts of Turkmenistan, ancient cities of Uzbekistan, and meet the local people who call this incredible region home! From 3750 USD per person

Please apply by 10th September, 2024 .

Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan Adventure

This adventure will take us through the heart of  Central Asia , beginning with a journey across  Turkmenistan ’s vast deserts, experiencing the stunning  Darvaza Gas Crater , the shining white capital city, built entirely of marble, and visit the far west of the country to venture through the mysterious  Awaza resort .

After Turkmenistan, we’ll make a crossing into neighbouring  Uzbekistan  for a trip through time as we visit the ancient capitals of  Samarkand  and  Bukhara , before heading north to round off our adventure in the nation’s capital,  Tashkent  – home to incredible history, and a few secrets which few know about!

All in all, if you’re looking for a true adventure in Central Asia, this is the trip for you – hitting all the highlights of these two great republics, and mixing in ancient history with stunning modernity – a true great Central Asian adventure!

• Gateway to Hell: The Darvaza Gas Crater
• The Mysterious Caspian Resort at Awaza
• The Rarely Visited Turkmenbashi City
• The Pearls of Persia: Bukhara & Samarkand
• The Mighty Tashkent Solar Furnace

Day 1 of 13

We’ll meet in the heart of  Turkmenistan ’s capital and after a bit of rest we’ll begin our day with an optional in-depth orientation walk around  Ashgabat .

Upon leaving the hotel, we’ll wander along the tree-lined boulevards of the nation’s capital, heading to the  Tekke Bazaar . Tekke Bazaar is a busy market, popular amongst local people; this covered bazaar sells it all – meat, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and clothing whilst opposite, second-hand booksellers set up on weekends in the small park. If you’re lucky, you may find a copy of the Ruhnama, written by the president of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat Niyazov. Niyazov famously said, ”a person who reads Ruhnama three times becomes smart, and after it, he will go straight to heaven”. From the Tekke Bazaar, we will wander to  Inspiration Park  – a public park at the centre of downtown Ashgabat. Inspiration Park is a narrow parkland lined with sculptures of Persian poets, scholars and great thinkers, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

We’ll continue our exploration, calling at another Bazaar, the  Russian Bazaar . A covered market where you will be able to pick up a vast array of items – the perfect stop if there’s anything you’ve forgotten to pack! Cables, chargers, sweets, kimchi, baked goods, fruit & nuts as well as souvenirs. This market has it all, unless you’re after Turkmen cotton. The  Alty Asyr Shopping Centre  over the road is an excellent stop for some well-priced Turkmen cotton goods offering everything from tracksuits and T-shirts to towels and bedsheets.

Once we have stopped for a spot of lunch, we will continue the walk, checking out Ashgabat’s Soviet past on our visit to the  Statue of Lenin . Ashgabat’s Lenin may not be the biggest, but his enormous carpet patterned plinth compensates for this. Not far from Lenin we’ll catch a glimpse of Russia’s most famous poet, Pushkin at the  Pushkin Monument . From Pushkin, we will walk onwards to visit Pervyy Park – Ashgabat’s oldest park, founded in 1890, formerly named Officer Park, Lenin Park, First Park and Independence Park.

From the park, it’s a short stroll to  Ashgabat Train Station . Initially built-in 1888, the first railway station was destroyed in the 1948 earthquake along with much of the city. A new station was built in 1950 and remodelled in 2009; the station looks impressive, crowned by the eight-pointed star (Rub El Hizb). Finally, we will head back to the hotel for our first group meal.

Accommodation:  Olympic Hotel,  Ashgabat

Included Meals:  Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we’re up and out into Ashgabat, our first stop, the  Altyn Asyr Bazaar , formerly the Tolkuchka Bazaar. Located on the outskirts of Ashgabat, it’s the largest market in the country and one of the largest in Central Asia. Relocated to its current location in 2011, Altyn Asyr is a massive affair selling everything from household goods, clothes, Turkmen carpets, camels and much more!

After our mega shopping experience, it’s off to the races as we make our way to the  Ashgabat Hippodrome . Sunday is race day here in Ashgabat, and what better animal to watch racing than the legendary Turkmen  Akhal-Teke Horses . The greyhound of the horse world, the Akhal-Teke horse is one of the oldest existing horse breeds in the world.

After a delicious lunch, we’ll explore a little more of Turkmenistan’s marbled capital. Our first visit  Independence Park  and  Independence Monument , constructed to celebrate the independence of Turkmenistan on the 27th October 1991. As well as the memorial, the park is home to an impressive array of statues of characters from Turkmen history.

From Independence to Neutrality we go! Our next visit is the  Monument of Neutrality  built in 1998; a gold statue of Turkmenbashi tops this impressive structure.

We hope you’re not too tired of statues just yet as we have a few more to go – next up, the  Earthquake Monument and Museum . A grim reminder of the terrible earthquake that struck Ashgabat in 1948, killing 110,00 people and levelling the city. Both are tastefully presented and very educational.

On our way back to the hotel, we will pass a few of Ashgabat’s more unusual buildings, The Ministry of Gas is shaped like a giant cigarette lighter, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is shaped like a globe, and our personal favourite, The Ashgabat Dental Hospital is shaped like a massive tooth!

Once we have returned to the hotel, you are free to continue exploring Ashgabat or enjoy some well-deserved rest.

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

This morning there is a bit of free time for relaxing or shopping for supplies, which may be useful as later today we’re off into the desert.

Our first stop is the small desert village of  Bokhurdag . It is here that we stop to sample the local cuisine and learn a little more about living outside the bright lights of Turkmenistan’s flamboyant capital. After lunch, before heading a little deeper into the  Karakum Desert , we will make a stop at the village of  Erbent . Erbent is similar to most of the surrounding desert settlements, however, it is here that the  Monument to the Basmachi Revolution  is located. The Basmachi revolutionary monument is built here as this area was a Basmachi stronghold during the 1920s. The Basmachi were an Islamic group fighting the occupying Soviet forces.

Once our journey resumes, we’ll continue stopping as we travel to see other examples of the desert’s mining history, visiting two other craters (one filled with water, the other with mud) a perfect pretext for the great  Darvaza Gas Crater .

The incredible Darvaza Gas Crater, continuously burning since 1971, was created when Soviet engineers were drilling what they thought were vast oil fields. No oil was found, and the fields turned out to be rich in gas, evident when the drilling rig at Darvaza hit a void and collapsed in on itself. Sometime later it’s believed that the escaping gas was set alight to prevent methane from polluting a nearby village. Here we are all these years later, and the gas crater has now become one of the world’s most unusual tourist attractions.

We’ll arrive during daylight hours to observe the transition from light to dark as the night sky becomes illuminated by the flickering blaze of the crater.

Camping next to this burning void, we will enjoy a delicious  Turkmen BBQ  prepared by our local crew.

Accommodation:  Camping, Darvaza Gas Crater

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

For some, it may be a little bit of a hazy start after enjoying a night of peering into the flaming heart of the Darvaza Gas Crater. After breakfast, we’ll climb back into the 4X4s, arriving in Ashgabat before lunch.

Once we have checked in and had a chance to freshen up, we will take local taxis into Ashgabat’s marble-clad city centre to see its famous white heart. First stop, Ashgabat’s grandiose, opulent shopping mall, Berkerar.  Berkerar Mall  was opened in 2015 and it looks like a cross between a mosque and a palace, from the outside at least. While the inside is just as grand, for us it’s an excellent opportunity to grab a spot of lunch and see some local life before starting our walk.

Once we’ve eaten, it’s out into the city passing wide open streets and pristine white apartments as we make our way back to the hotel. The start of our city hike takes us past the imposing  2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games Stadium Area . The stadium area was built at the cost of around 5 billion USD. At its heart lies the  Saparmurat Turkmenbashy Olympic Stadium , noticeable as part of the stadium is the shape of a giant Akhal-Teke Horse Head.

As we walk on through the city, we will skirt the  Presidential Area Complex , forbidden to head inside, but we can still marvel at the magnificent golden domes and massive structures.

Before we reach our hotel, we will pass more statues, mosaics, and impressively whitened buildings.

Accommodation:  Olympic Hotel, Ashgabat

After breakfast today, we’ll be checking out of our hotel and once again heading out of Ashgabat to explore a little more of Turkmenistan.

Our first stop is the ancient  Nisa Fortress , a UNESCO listed site, this former Parthian capital is now just a shadow of its former self, but still fascinating. A journey around Nisa Fortress is a must for those interested in history. Believed to have been started by the first Parthian king, Arsaces I, Nisa Fortress was later named Mithradatkirt (Fortress of Mithradates) after the famed Parthian who elevated the Parthian Empire to historic greatness!

The Parthians, like their Turkmen descendants, were famed for their beautiful horses, and our next stop gets us up close to the magnificent  Akhal-Teke horses  as we visit a nearby stud farm. We will learn more about the famed Turkmen horse and its actual value at the stud farm.

As we slowly edge away from Ashgabat, we’ll make one more stop at the Bakharden Cave around 60 km away from the city. The  Bakharden Cave  is a popular stop for locals on holidays and weekends who travel here to venture deep underground and swim in the  Kow-Ata Underground Lake . Yes, it’s dark, smelly, and a little bizarre, but the 100m deep sulphur-heated lake is one of those things worth trying just once. Once you’ve taken a swim or watched everyone else attempt it, we will lunch at one of the delicious shashlik restaurants just outside.

After lunch, it’s on with the adventure as we travel further with our 4X4s to the remote desert city of  Balkanabad . We should arrive in late afternoon, giving you the chance to explore a little of this friendly city on your own.

Accommodation:  Hotel Niebitchi, Balkanabat

We’ll depart our hotel early this morning as we have a lot of driving and a lot to see. Our first stop is the  Balkanabat Market . It may be small, but it’s still an exciting stop to catch a little of the local life in this town. As we pass many of the local Soviet-style buildings on our way through town, we will make one final stop at the  Monument to the Desert Explorers . Located on the  outskirts of town, the Monument to the Desert Explorers is an impressive memorial constructed to honour those early Russian researchers who discovered oil and were responsible for the founding of Balkanabat.

Once we leave the dusty streets of  Balkanabat , we’re out into the desert on our way to the  Yangykala Canyon . Along the way, we pass impressive desert features such as rolling sand dunes, steep cliffs and geological features such as fossil beds containing evidence that this whole area was once a vast inland sea.

Known by some as the  ’Turkmen Grand Canyon’, the Yangykala Canyon  is an impressive yet little known geological feature located deep within the desert. Never failing to impress, the canyon plays host to rock formations sporting many varied colours and cliffs and canyons to make even the best-travelled visitor happy to have made this lengthy detour. With breathtaking views all around us, we will be sure to stop and enjoy our packed lunch in this most stunning location. Once you have taken as many photos as you can, we will board our 4X4s and drive to Turkmenbashi.

As we cut our way through the desert, we’ll eventually catch sight of the mighty  Caspian Sea , the largest inland sea in the world. Clinging to the Caspian coast, we will pass through the port city of Turkmenbashi on our way to our final destination of the day, the resort town of  Awaza .

A bizarre collection of grandiose tourist hotels, attractions and sites, Awaza is a place that has to be seen to be believed. We have a real treat in store as our accommodation is one of the best in the area, and the most surreal. We will check in with enough time to catch the sunset over the Capsian before a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation:  Yelken Yacht Club, Awaza

Today, unlike previous days on this Turkmen adventure, you’ll have a free morning to rest, relax or explore your unusual surroundings. If it’s warm enough or your feeling particularly daring, you can take a plunge into the Caspian, wander along the shoreline looking at the interesting architecture or enjoy the Truman Show feel of our hotel resort.

If it’s operating, we will make the day a little more bizarre and take a boat ride on the artificial  Awaza Canal . A short 50-minute ride set to puzzle and confuse you is a perfect prelude to a pleasant lunch in  Turkmenbashi , the oldest city in the country. Whilst the city is nowhere near as visually impressive as Ashgabat, it does have some exciting sites dotted around, many of which we will be sure to visit.

Formerly Krasnovodsk, the city was named after a fort built by the Russians after their second invasion in 1869. Krasnovodsk served as a vital jumping point for Russian imperial soldiers as they continued forwards with their conquests of Khiva and Bukhara.

On the 8th October 1993, President-for-Life Saparmurat Niyazov would rename the city after himself Turkmenbashi (Head of all Turkmens). First, we will visit the Turkmenbashi Railway Station; this pleasant Russian built station was constructed in 1895 and still departures and arrivals to and from locations across Central Asia.

From the station, we’ll cross the road to see the  Oil Worker’s Square  and the  Monument to the Great Patriotic War  commemorating all of those Turkmens who lost their lives in this distant conflict, including Atamurat Niyazov, the father of Saparmurat Niyazov. From the square, we will look at some of the city’s architecture, which may not be so inspiring, but much of it was built by Japanese and German POWs from the war.

Our final stop of the day will be the  Cheryomushki Bazaar , located at the heart of Turkmenbashi. This bustling market is one of the country’s best, with friendly stallholders selling local snacks and crafts. For those interested in fish from the Caspian, the fish market on site boasts an impressive selection of the sea’s bounty.

Once we’ve had our fill of Turkmenbashi, we’ll head to the nearby airport for our flight to  Ashgabat , where we will arrive in time for our last group meal in Turkmenistan, and prepare ourselves for the adventure onward to Uzbekistan!

This morning we’ll depart Ashgabat and make our way to the airport for our connecting flight to  Turkmenabat , Turkmenistan’s border city with its northern neighbour, Uzbekistan. Once we’ve arrived in the city, we’ll head for the border, passing through the various customs checks before finally waving goodbye to our Turkmen friends, and heading into  Uzbekistan .

Once we’ve crossed the border, we’ll meet up with our new Uzbek guides, and head towards the nearby city of  Bukhara , an ancient city that was once the heart of empires in the region. Along with nearby Samarkand, Bukhara served as the heart of the Persian world for centuries under numerous empires, and continues today as Uzbekistan’s seventh largest city, and one of its most popular attractions for foreign travellers, owing to its rich history as a Persian capital, and an outpost on the renowned Silk Road.

We’ll head straight for our hotel where we’ll have a free evening to relax, before heading out tomorrow to experience Bukhara!

Accommodation:  3* Hotel

Today we’ll enjoy a day in the picturesque surroundings of  Bukhara , exploring the ancient legacy of this stunning city. Our first stop of the day will be the magnificent Kalyan Minaret.

Built in 1127, the  Kalyan Minaret  is all that survives of a once grandiose  Djuma Mosque , designed for crowds of people to worship at once. Today, the site has been rebuilt around the footprint of this great tower, now at the centre of a courtyard surrounded by galleries and stunning architecture. It’s from here that the ancient call to prayer would have blasted across the city, and many locals would have descended on the site. It was, in fact, built twice – evidence suggests the soft ground led it to collapse after being nearly completed the first time – however, after almost a millennium, it shouldn’t fall down again!

Next, we’ll make our way to  Khoja-Gaukushon ; a great ensemble at the heart of the city, home to mosque, madrassah, and minaret. The area once served as a kind of plaza for local people to meet, trade, set up market stalls, and (rather oddly) slaughter animals – hence the name ‘Gaukushon’ which means ‘Slaughter of Bulls’. Later, a large minaret, mosque, and madrassah were built on the site, adding to the great patchwork of beautiful buildings littered across the skyline of Bukhara.

Finally, we’ll wrap up with the  Mausoleum of Naqshbandi  and the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara which sits a few kilometres outside the city itself. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage for many Sufis and a place of incredible beauty, whilst the summer palace is known as ‘the place where the moon meets the stars.

This evening, we’ll head to the train station to catch a late high-speed train to nearby  Samarkand , another gem in the heart of this region.

This morning we’ll wake up surrounded by the ancient city of  Samarkand , an we have a full day to experience the sights and sounds of this bustling place.

Our first stop will be  Registan Square . The Registan is an ensemble of majestic and stunningly beautiful madrassahs, the most incredible example of Islamic architecture. The plaza would once have been dominated with a great bazaar, allowing local people to go about their business . Meanwhile, the surrounding madrassahs allows scholars to work and create a centre for Islamic scholars across Central Asia. Today, the Registan is the number one, must-see sight in the country, an unmissable experience!

We will also make a stop at the  Mausoleum of Tamerlane , known as the Gur Emir, a national icon in Uzbekistan, followed by a visit to a necropolis which graces the northern part of the city,  Shah-i-Zinda . A fabulous example of traditional Islamic architecture in the region, comprising of numerous buildings, towers and beautiful domed rooves. The turquoise mosaic tiling contrasts against the arid sandy backdrop of Samarkand’s desert surroundings.

We’ll also visit the  Bibi-Khanym Mosque , once the largest in Central Asia, before breaking away from the ancient history to explore the local market, known as the  Siab Baazar .

Whether you’re searching for textiles and fabrics, exquisite and intriguing foodstuffs, or just looking for an opportunity to rub shoulders with Samarkand’s locals – Siab Baazar is the place to visit. The market is a great place to pick up souvenirs, clothes, snacks, and all manner of things, but it’s also an oddly peaceful and fun place to spend some time. Wander the aisles, chat with shoppers and market vendors, and experience life as it’s truly lived in this city.

This morning we’ll bid farewell to  Samarkand  as we head to the train station to catch a high-speed train from the city and head north. This journey will take around 3 hours to our destination,  Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan . Since it’s near destruction during an earthquake in 1966, the city has been redeveloped, initially by the Soviet Union, leaving an obvious trace of the USSR in its city planning.

This afternoon, we’ll take a trip outside of the city to the  Institute of Solar Physics , a huge series of mirrors used to heat up a large furnace. The institute will open just for us, and run a test of the system to demonstrated the immense power of this Soviet-era megaproject.

Situated 45km outside the city, we’ll pass through some of Uzbekistan’s northern countryside, a far cry from the dry desert-like environment which dominates the rest of the country. Upon arrival, we’ll witness the effect of these huge parabolic mirrors, heating the furnace to over 3000*C. We’ll also learn about the potential that exists for clean energy from this system, since the energy produced is completely clean, and could be put to work in the future for clean energy.

Our accommodation tonight will be the  Hotel Uzbekistan  – once the premiere hotel in the country for visiting dignitaries, government officials, and the rare foreign tourist.

Accommodation:  Hotel Uzbekistan

This morning we’ll step out into the bustling city of  Tashkent . Our day begins with a visit to  Amir Timur Square  at the heart of this vibrant capital.  One of the main squares in Tashkent, Amir Timur is graced with a magnificent  Statue of Tamerlane , a medieval conquerer, on horseback. Although Amir Timur is not the largest square in the city, the tree-lined pavements, and bright green grass make it perfect for an evening stroll amidst the locals of Tashkent.

From here, we will spend some time in the beautifully domed  Chorus Bazaar , a great place to observe local life or buy those last-minute bargains, and another chance to chat with locals from the city, as well as support local independent business in Tashkent.

No visit to Tashkent would be complete without first a ride on the  Tashkent Metro  built in the former USSR; it opened in 1977. The metro network consists of three lines which crisscross beneath the streets of the city. This incredibly ornate metro system was opened in 1977 and has only grown in beauty since then. Not only is it an incredible tourist attraction in its own right, but you can use it to get between Tashkent’s other incredible above-ground sites! Tashkent metro is one of only two subway systems currently operating in Central Asia (the other one being the Almaty Metro).

Our last stop for the day will be the  Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan . There are, of course, hundreds of museums across the Uzbek capital worth poking your head in, however our favourite must be the State Fine Arts Museum, home to thousands of artefacts from across Russia and Europe. This Soviet-era museum holds many of the treasures confiscated from the Grand Duke Romanov, who himself likely stole them from St Petersburg. In addition, artwork from across Russia and the Soviet Union are displayed throughout this museum.

Finally, we’ll return to our Soviet hotel – from here, we’ll have a free evening. You’ll be able to wander the streets, find and try unsual delicacies, and meet local Tashkenters.

This morning, airport transfers will be provided to all travellers heading to the airport for international flights. For extension opportunities, please contact your tour manager.

END OF TOUR

Included Meals:  Breakfast

English Speaking Guide

Western Tour Leader

All Listed Meals

Internal Flights

All Included Sightseeing

All Taxes & Entrance Fees

Single Supplement

Extra Night(s) Accommodation

International Flights

Uzbekistan Visa

May 2025 — 1 tour

May 10 - may 17 2025, turkmenistan tour (may) 2025: ashgabat, darvaza gas crater & beyond.

Please apply by 20th April, 2025 .

Turkmenistan Tour (May) 2025: Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Crater & Beyond

We will see history unfold as we travel from ruined ancient cities to gleaming modern marble-clad towers. From flaming pits deep in the desert to deep subterranean pools of health-infusing water. We will make sure to visit the main sites during our time in Turkmenistan such as Ashgabat and the Darvaza Gas Crater (Gates of Hell) , but also take you off the beaten path to really experience and understand Turkmenistan.

Meet local people, and learn about their lives and history; their differences and commonalities.

This tour will be led by our Destinations manager and travel specialist Rich Beal , who first travelled to Turkmenistan more than ten years ago. Over many trips, he has made close friends there, explored widely, and maintained a deep interest in the country and region. 

May 10th, Saturday

• Assemble in Ashgabat | Airport pickups will be arranged wherever you fly in from. We will have a group dinner to get introduced and start the adventure! 

Meals |  Dinner

May 11th, Sunday

• Tolkuchka Bazaar  | The nation’s largest market, built outside the city and home to various sections selling household goods, clothes, the famous Turkmen carpets, camels & other animals, and much more!
• Ashgabat Hippodrome  | Sunday is a day at the races, with the sacred Ahal-Teke horses in full display.

Meals | Breakfast, Lunch

May 12th, Monday

• Bokhurdag |  This Semi-nomadic village affords us a great look at what desert life is like today. The visit here is made even better as we enjoy lunch in a local family home.  
• Finally, we arrive at the stunning and unforgettable   Darvaza Gas Crater . It lies in the centre of the country and is the scene of a 40-year-old industrial accident that ended with a giant flaming pit burning to this day. A hypnotic sight and one of the strangest and most spectacular things you can see.
• We camp tonight beside the crater. It is best seen at night. Dinner cooked on the spot.

Meals |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight |  Camping at the Darvaza Gas Crater. Camping in the desert with tents, sleeping bags and roll mats provided. We will also provide tents based on your rooming options. Camping affords us the best opportunity to view the fantastic gas crater from before sunset to sunrise.

May 13th, Tuesday

• Once back in the capital the rest of the day is yours to do with as you please. Explore, relax, shop, or take a side-trip. Drivers are available for hire. We and our local guides can advise on the spot.

Meals |  Breakfast  Overnight |  Olympia Hotel, Ashgabat

May 14th, Wednesday

• The ancient Silk Road ruined city of Konye-Urgench . It was ravaged by successive invaders over the centuries. Today, it is home to minarets, impressive mausoleums, and all manner of historical tales and stories. It's one of the most important sites on the old Silk-Road.

Meals |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight |  Hotel Uzboy, Dashoguz. This local hotel may be basic although there are not many options in this far-flung town. It does offer us the chance to walk out into the local streets and experience life away from the marble city of Ashgabat.

May 15th, Thursday

• Ahal-Teke horses are considered as heavenly and sacred beasts in Turkmenistan. This stud farm visit will show you why. Have a ride on one of the horses if you like.
• After lunch, we will visit a couple of large mosques. Fiirst, the Geok Deppe Mosque. It was built on the site of a late 19th-Century massacre that marked the beginning of Russian dominance in the region.
• Then we see the even more massive Gypjak Mosque. This mosque was built on the site of the 1949 Earthquake that devastated the city. This is also home to the Turkmenbashi Mausoleum which we will visit.

Meals |  Breakfast, lunch

May 16th, Friday

• Free morning in Ashgabat for any final shopping, wandering, or relaxing that you want to do. We meet for a packed last afternoon.
• The world’s largest indoor Ferris Wheel. Yes, indeed! A bizarre and quite fun trip to this oddity at the edge of town.

Meals | Breakfast, Dinner

May 17th, Saturday

• Visit Gonur-Deppe (Margush). This is another ancient city in this area, with some lovely extent architectural features.

Meals |  Breakfast

May 18th, Sunday

• Excursion to  Ancient Merv .  Merv was once one of the most important cities in the world at certain times of its history. This ancient site is now a place where you will learn a great deal about the history of Central Asia, the rise and fall of dynasties and cities, the Silk Road, and human civilisation in this part of the world. Animals, travellers and archaeologists now roam the existing buildings and ruins, etc. All contribute to a sense of the dynamism of the ancient Silk Road.
• In the afternoon, you fly back to Ashgabat for a final rest/night out before departure. Please let us know if you wish to book an extra night in Ashgabat. The flight should return to the capital at around 8 - 9 PM.
• All included sight-seeing

Please email Rich Beal at  [email protected]  to begin your tour application. 

We require a deposit paid upon booking the tour as we start paying tour costs when your visa application process has begun. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee.

Application Deadline

You must apply at least four weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Turkmenistan LOI & Turkmenistan Visa

Most travellers opt to have visas issued upon arrival into Turkmenistan. If you would prefer to have the visa issued before your arrival or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The LOI will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application.

Flight Purchases

If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via Koryo Tours, we will email the e-ticket voucher to you as soon as it has been received in our office. If you are purchasing your flight ticket via other airlines or agents, we need these flight details ASAP.

We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also.

Entry by Land or Sea

We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour.

Single supplement is accessible on this tour at 50 USD per night. If you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee, we will attempt to match you up with another traveller.

Visa Issuing Fees

You will also have to pay the visa-issuing fee. At Ashgabat airport, this ranges from US$80 to $130 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.

Please note: The visa fee for this tour is not covered in the tour cost and you will be responsible for this. Due to the extended amount of time that it takes to have a visa authorised and sent to an Embassy of Turkmenistan, it is much simpler to collect the visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport. The fee payable here varies according to your nationality.

The visa is stamped in your passport and is the same as it would be if issued at a Turkmen Embassy.

If you insist on having your visa issued at an Embassy, then please be sure to apply for the tour as early as possible.

The deposit is non-refundable if the tourist cancels himself.

If however we cannot arrange visas or for whatever reason, it is not possible to travel at the specified time (or you cannot make rescheduled dates) a full refund will be issued. Should the client wish to cancel after the visa application has been submitted, charges imposed on us will be paid out of the 50% deposit with the balance being returned to the client. If you have paid in full, we will return 50% plus the balance of what is left after the cancellation fee we pay to our partners in Turkmenistan.

If you book and cancel a plane ticket through us, we charge only the airline's cancellation fee. In all cases, we return as much as we can, and we do not take a fee for the client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will be joining the tour when you send all the application details.

October 2025 — 1 tour

October 4 - october 11 2025.

Please apply by 1st September, 2025 .

Saturday 4th October  Arrival in Ashgabat

Sunday 5th October Ashgabat City Tour

Monday 6th October Darvaza Gas Crater & Bokhurdag

Tuesday 7th October

Wednesday 8th October

Thursday 9th October

Friday 10th October

Saturday 11th October Departure

Sunday 12th October Extension day 2: Ancient Merv

Next tour departure dates

Camel winch.

Desert 4x4 - these notoriously stubborn animals sometimes have to be moved in unorthodox ways at local animal bazaars

Gypjak Mosque - outside Ashgabat

Central Asia's largest mosque - also home to the mausoleum of the Turkmenbashi and his family

Local schoolchildren

kids in national costume visiting Ashgabat's Independence Park on a national holiday

Turkmenistan has the world's best wool carpets - every pattern and motif has its own meaning. see for yourself!

Constitution Monument - Ashgabat

One of Ashgabat's many mega-monuments. seen here at its opening night ceremony

Door to Hell! - Darvaza

An unforgettable night on each tour - camping next to this massive flaming gas crater deep in the desert - utterly amazing place!

Yangykala Canyon - the Crocodile's Mouth

The 'Turkmen Grand Canyon' - remote and amazing place. Utterly stunning views in this massive and almost-unknown natural formation

Awaza Touristic Resort

Some of the many usually-empty marble-clad hotels in the bizarre Awaza area on the Caspian Sea coast

Shashlik and beer with the locals

Our favourite watering hole in Ashgabat - the Zip Cafe (Gunes is the real name). a must-visit on at least one evening of every tour

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

• Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Pyongyang Marathon
• Cultural Engagement
• Country profile
• Terms & conditions
• Why choose Koryo

[email protected] | + 86 10 6416 7544 Room A409, Jucai Building. No. 76 Caoyuan Hutong. Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100027, PR China

中国北京市东城区草园胡同76号聚才大厦A 座409 室, 邮编：100027 Download contact card

Not registered yet? Register now

Trouble logging in? Reset password

* All fields are mandatory

Got an account already? Let me log in

Search Smartraveller

Turkmenistan

Latest update.

Reconsider your need to travel to Turkmenistan overall due to entry restrictions and limited transportation options.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Turkmenistan (PDF 228.78 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 03 or go to the hospital.

Call 02 or go to the local police station.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to Turkmenistan overall.

Do not travel to the region bordering Afghanistan.

Do not travel to the region bordering Afghanistan due to political and civil unrest and the high threat of violence.

See Safety .

• Pickpocketing, mugging and theft occurs. The risk is higher on trains and at markets. Don't go out alone, especially at night. 
• Criminals target travellers using unofficial taxis. Always book a licensed taxi. Don't get into taxis that are already occupied. 
• Police and other local officials have reportedly harassed, mistreated and extorted foreigners.
• Earthquakes are a higher risk in the south-west and north-east regions. Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.
• If you travel to the region bordering Afghanistan despite our advice, monitor local and international media for updates. The security situation is extremely dangerous. Consular help is extremely limited.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Some sleeping tablets and medications containing codeine may be restricted. Check legal limits before you travel and declare all prescription medication and other restricted items on arrival.
• Infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis, measles, tuberculosis, typhoid and COVID-19. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Medical facilities are limited. Medicines and equipment are often in short supply. You may need to pay cash up-front to receive treatment.

Full travel advice:  Health

• You must always carry ID. Security officials often ask for proof of identity. Ask for identification if you are unsure the person is an official.
• Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include long prison sentences.
• It's illegal to have same sex relationships.
• Obvious displays of affection, even between married couples, may offend. Police may harass or detain you.
• It's illegal to drive with a blood alcohol reading over 0%. It's illegal to smoke in restaurants, hotels and public spaces or gift tobacco.
• It's illegal to photograph sensitive sites. Take care when taking photos of infrastructure. 

Law enforcement agencies in Turkmenistan cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent State (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

• Turkmenistan doesn't recognise dual nationality. This may limit consular help we can give to dual nationals who travel on a Turkmen passport.

Several informal restrictions have been introduced on women's appearance and behaviour. There have been some reports of women not being allowed to sit in the front seat of cars and take rides with male drivers who are not their family members.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You need a visa for Turkmenistan, even if you're only transiting. Get a visa before you arrive. There are penalties for overstaying your visa. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Turkmenistan for the latest details.
• Some regular international commercial flights are now operating into and out of the country. You must take a COVID-19 (PCR) test on arrival, and if you have a positive test result, you may be required to quarantine in a state-run facility or at your place of residence under medical supervision.
• Inter-regional travel can be restricted at short notice.
• If you're travelling with a child, you may need evidence of parental, custodial or access rights. You may also need a letter of consent from any non-travelling parent.
• Customs rules control the import or export of items, including jewellery, musical instruments, antiques and protected animals. It's illegal to export artefacts or cultural items, including carpets, without a certificate from the Ministry of Culture.
• You must declare any foreign currency when you arrive and depart. Exchange any unspent local currency before you leave. You may not be able to exchange local currency outside Turkmenistan.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Turkmenistan. Contact the  Australian Embassy in Russia  for consular help.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Crime in Turkmenistan includes:

• pickpocketing

The risk is higher:

• on trains, particularly overnight services

People travelling in unofficial taxis have been  robbed .

To protect yourself from crime in taxis:

• ask staff at hotels, restaurants or places of entertainment to book a licensed taxi for you
• avoid getting into taxis that are already occupied

The risk of crime is also higher at night.

Crime risks are higher for women.

To protect yourself from crime:

• avoid travelling or walking alone, especially at night
• avoid isolated areas
• pay attention to your surroundings
• avoid using public transport
• keep valuables out of sight

Police and other local officials have reportedly harassed, mistreated and extorted foreigners. Ask for identification if you are unsure the person is an official.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Public protests and events that attract large groups of people can turn violent.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

• Terrorist threats

Afghanistan border

The security situation is extremely dangerous in the region bordering Afghanistan due to:

• militant activity
• clashes between militants and Afghan forces
• drug smuggling
• smuggling of other goods

The security situation could get worse without warning.

We are extremely limited in the consular help we can provide to Australians in these border regions.

If you travel to this region despite our advice, monitor local and international media for updates.

Climate and natural disasters

Turkmenistan can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

Earthquakes

Earthquakes  are a higher risk in the south-west and north-east regions.

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Severe weather

Flooding  can occur in the Chardzhou region.

To stay safe during a natural disaster or severe weather:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in regular contact with friends and family
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor media for updates

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some sleeping tablets and medications containing codeine are controlled in Turkmenistan.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Turkmenistan. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Declare all prescription medication and other restricted items on arrival.

Ask DFAT to  authenticate  medical documents if needed.

You could be refused entry, prosecuted or charged if you:

• carry amounts over the legal limit
• don't have a prescription for medication you're carrying
• don't declare medication and other restricted items, even if you have a prescription

Health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other  infectious diseases  are common, including:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities are limited in Turkmenistan.

Medicines and equipment are often in short supply.

You may need to pay cash up-front to doctors and hospitals, even for emergency care.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Proof of identity

Always carry ID. Security officials often ask for proof of identity.

Internal security may target foreigners with extra security checks and increased scrutiny. Internal security may question you or search your home or car.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include long prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

In Turkmenistan it's illegal to:

• have sexual relations between males
• drive with a blood alcohol reading over 0%
• smoke in restaurants, hotels and public spaces
• gift tobacco

It's also illegal to take photos of sensitive sites, such as:

• military zones, assets and personnel
• transportation facilities
• government buildings

Penalties can be severe and can include:

• imprisonment
• your equipment being confiscated

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Turkmenistan doesn't recognise dual nationality. The government prohibits dual citizenship for all adults.

If you're a dual citizen and you travel on your Turkmen passport, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your  Australian passport .

Australian-Turkmen dual nationals may be required to perform military service in Turkmenistan.

If you're a dual national, seek advice from an embassy or consulate of Turkmenistan before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Obvious displays of affection, even between married couples, may offend. Police may harass or detain you. Avoid public displays of affection.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Turkmenistan. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to enter Turkmenistan, even if you're just transiting.

You must get a visa before you arrive.

Make sure you have the right visa for the purpose of your visit, especially for business and work visas.

Before you travel, make sure your visa has the correct:

• passport number
• date of birth

Turkmen visas specify:

• the validity of the visa
• the number of entries you're allowed to make
• how long you can stay

You can only stay in Turkmenistan for the number of days shown on your visa.

There are penalties for infringing your visa, including:

• deportation

Transit visas

Transit visa holders must:

• register at entry and exit points
• let authorities know of any changes to their route through the country

You can't change a transit visa to another class of visa once you're in Turkmenistan.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

There is no embassy or consulate of Turkmenistan in Australia. See the Turkmenistan Government's  list of embassies and consular offices .

Border measures

Some regular international commercial flights are now operating into and out of Turkmenistan. 

You must take a COVID-19 (PCR) test on arrival, and if you have a positive test result, you may be required to quarantine in a state-run facility or at your place of residence under medical supervision.

Contact your airline or the nearest  embassy or consulate  to confirm entry and quarantine requirements. There is no embassy or consulate of Turkmenistan in Australia. See the Turkmenistan Government's  list of embassies and consular offices .

Other formalities

When you arrive, you must:

• present a migration card
• pay a registration fee
• register with the  State Migration Service  within 3 working days of arrival, not counting the arrival date

If you don't register, or if you stay in Turkmenistan with an expired visa, you may face:

All foreign citizens, except accredited diplomats, must pay a tourist fee for each day of their stay. Your hotel may include the fee in your bill.

Adults travelling with a child may need evidence of parental, custodial or access rights. They may also need a letter of consent from any non-travelling parent.

Import and export

Customs rules control the import or export of:

• musical instruments
• protected animals

You need a certificate from the Carpet Museum in central Ashgabat to export carpets from Turkmenistan. It must show that the carpet has no historical value. You may be able to get this certificate in some private shops.

• State Migration Service of Turkmenistan  

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The official currency is the Turkmen Manat (TMM).

Declare any foreign currency when you arrive and depart.

Turkmenistan is largely a cash-based economy.

Traveller's cheques are only accepted in some major hotels.

There are very few ATMs in Ashgabat, and none outside the capital city.

US dollars can be readily exchanged. Make sure banknotes are in good condition and aren't counterfeit. Only use authorised foreign exchange providers.

Exchange any unspent local currency before you leave. You may not be able to exchange local currency outside Turkmenistan.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You must have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Turkmenistan.

Road travel

Road travel between regions of Turkmenistan can be restricted at short notice.

Designated restricted zones are closed to foreigners who don't have government permission. These zones include:

• regions bordering Afghanistan, Iran and Uzbekistan
• areas of the Caspian Sea coast
• areas of Dashoguz

Road conditions and driving standards are poor.

Avalanches and landslides can make road conditions dangerous, particularly during winter and spring.

Driving at night is dangerous due to a lack of lighting.

Access to service stations can be limited in rural areas.

Random police checks and security checkpoints on roads are common. Carry certified copies of your passport and visa.

• Driving or riding

Only use licensed, official taxis. These are yellow and clearly identified.

Negotiate your fare with the driver before you travel to avoid disagreement.

Rail travel

Rail travel can be unreliable and dangerous due to criminal activity.

To protect yourself on trains:

• store your valuables in a safe place
• don't leave luggage in your compartment unattended
• lock your compartment door from the inside

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Turkmenistan's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter   for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas. 

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Turkmenistan. The  Australian Embassy in Russia  provides consular assistance to Australians in Turkmenistan.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky  Pereulok Moscow  119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070 Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au Twitter:  @PosolAustralia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Turkmenistan?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Turkmenistan

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

• Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan Coronavirus - Travel Advice

Last updated: August 28, 2023   

Turkmenistan and Coronavirus 

In Turkmenistan, main tourist destinations, shops, bars, restaurants, beauty salons, hotels, and mosques are currently open. Public gatherings are limited, and wearing masks in public remains mandatory.

Travelstyles

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Turkmenistan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 22, 2024, turkmenistan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Updated to reflect new Travel Advisory level and “if you decide to travel” section.

Exercise normal precautions in Turkmenistan.

Please read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Turkmenistan.

If you decide to travel to Turkmenistan:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter/X .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Turkmenistan.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, turkmenistan map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Traveller Account

Turkmenistan holidays 2023 (2 days)

• Vehicle Car
• Group Size 1-10
• Accomodation Camp
• Fitness level 5
• Arrival on BP Shavat
• Departure from BP Shavat
• Best season Spring, summer, autumn
• Tour type Cultural, traditional, excursion, ecological tour
• Meals Half board
• Language English, German, Spanish, Russian, Turkish

Trip code: WTE-1689

Tour of Turkmenistan in 2 days, an excellent way to introduce you to the history, traditions, culture and nature of the Turkmen people in an accelerated mode.

Day 1 : BP Shavat -Kunya Urgench-Darwaza

In the morning drive to Turkmenistan border post Shavat. After border formalities and meeting with guide, drive to Kunya Urgench (UNESCO) for excursion. Explore historical park with Kutlug Timur minaret, Mausoleum Turabek Khanum, Mausoleum Tekesh, Mausoleum Il Arslan, Caravan-saray gateway and etc.

After excursion, drive to Darvaza Gas crater located in the middle of Karakum desert Empire. Arrive at the crater, set up the camp. Enjoy a delicious fire-cooked meal for dinner near the burning Gas crater. Overnight in tents.

BBQ dinner in the evening.

Day 2 : Darwaza – Dashoguz – BP Shavat

After camp style breakfast, drive to BP Shavat via Dashoguz. Arrival at border post before lunch time. Cross the border.

Accommodation

• Visa support (Letter of Invitation, State Registration, Travel Pass)
• Road transport as per program per AC regular road vehicle(s) or 4WD vehicles, as terrain requires, as per table above
• Accommodation based on shared trekking tent (incl. sleeping mat, sleeping bag, pillow), including breakfast and BBQ dinner
• Entrance fees to sites mentioned in the program
• Guide interpreter services
• Bottled drinking water en route (long transfers) 1,5l pppd
• Porter services en route

“Please note that we use a local supplier for your arrival airport transfer. As tourism is a growing industry in Central Asia, your driver may not speak English.”

Please bring only cash USD for your local expenses in Turkmenistan, no EURO and no credit cards

Please be aware that a member of staff of our agency will need to take your original passport for several hours for registration

Please be aware that there may be various vehicles and drivers used during your tour, depending on the route section and type of transport needed on that section

Timur Alimov

Dear friends!

My name is Timur Alimov, and I represent our group of travel experts in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. Our travel experts will guide you through Uzbekistan and Central Asia. For the past ten years we have been gathering and guiding groups of more then 10000 happy travelers. We can show the country through the eyes of the locals, as if you come not as a tourist, but as a guest visiting friends. We give to our travelers only the routes that we checked personally or it was checked by our guides. Some members of My team has traveled this route more than 10 times, and during these trips we have made a lot of friends in each cities who become our friends and help us.

Our travel company office is based in Bukhara, but our travel experts are set in each country we represent. Company is officially registered and has certificates and tourist licenses # T-0087 Unique Travel issued by state gov of Uzbektourism.

I look forward to seeing you as our clients!

You can book your seat through the booking form , click on "Book now" and follow the process. You can also contact me or our team to get the consultation.

Get Expert Advice on Your Central Asia Tour - Free Consultation

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Turkmenistan travel advice

Latest updates: Laws and culture – updated information on Ramadan 2025

Last updated: April 15, 2024 14:40 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, turkmenistan - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Turkmenistan due to heightened tensions throughout the region and crime.

Border with Afghanistan - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 5 km of the border with Afghanistan due to the dangerous security situation and the risk of terrorism.

Back to top

Border areas with Afghanistan

The Turkmenistan–Afghanistan border has transit points for drugs and other smuggled goods. The security situation in Afghanistan is extremely unpredictable due to ongoing insurgency, terrorist attacks, kidnapping and a high crime rate. You should not travel near or attempt to cross the border.

Border with Kazakhstan

The border between Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan is currently closed to traffic.

Street crime, such as mugging and pickpocketing, occurs. Acts of banditry occur in remote areas. Remain vigilant and ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure. Don ’ t travel alone, and avoid showing signs of affluence. Alcohol-related incidents, including bar fights and drunk driving, are common. At nightclubs, drinks should never be left unattended, and drinks should never be accepted from unknown people.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur. regularly.

Participants to minority religious gatherings have been the target of police raids, arbitrary arrests and beatings.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. 

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Identification

There is a significant police and military presence throughout Turkmenistan. Carry your original passport, a photocopy of the passport or other photo ID at all times, as officials frequently request proof of identity. Cooperate with police authorities if stopped for questioning. Leave a photocopy of your passport with a relative or a friend at home.

Chesckpoints

Security personnel maintain checkpoints on major roads and may place visitors under surveillance. Foreigners are often subjected to questioning and car and home searches. Hotel rooms, telephones, e-mail and fax machines may be monitored, and personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. Some foreigners have been detained. 

Curfews may be imposed, and areas may be cordoned off on short notice. The violation of a curfew can result in immediate deportation and a ban against returning to Turkmenistan for five years.

Women’s safety

Women should not travel alone in Turkmenistan.

There are sensitivities around relationships between foreign men and local women, and Turkmen authorities are known to take action against both.

Advice for women travellers

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are limited, especially outside Ashgabat. Many goods and services are not available.

Telecommunications

Cellular reception is poor outside of major cities.

Internet connections outside the larger hotels can be unreliable and many social media sites, including YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, are blocked.

Some messaging Apps, such as WhatsApp, are also blocked.

Road safety

Driving standards are poor. Rural roads are often in disrepair and unlit. Animals frequently wander onto the road. Random traffic police checks and roadblocks are common.

There is no roadside assistance in Turkmenistan.

Public transportation

Don’t travel or use public transportation after dark.

Use only officially marked taxis and pre-negotiate the fare. Avoid shared taxis.

Avoid travel by train, as service is slow and crime is prevalent. If you must travel by train, store your personal belongings in a safe place and do not leave the compartment unattended. Secure your door from the inside.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Turkmen authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date on your letter of invitation.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

Letter of invitation

You must present a letter of invitation in support of your visa application. Obtain this letter from the person you intend to visit, from the company for which you will be working, or from an authorized travel agency in Turkmenistan. The person/organization inviting you must submit a request to the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan (SMS).

State Migration Service of Turkmenistan

Migration card

You must complete a migration card and pay a migration fee upon arrival at an airport or border crossing. Border officials will provide you with a copy of this card, which you must carry with you and return to border officials upon departure. Failure to produce the card or return it on exit can result in fines and departure delays.

Registration

If you plan to stay for more than three working days, you must register your arrival with the SMS. You must also deregister with the SMS prior to departure. Failure to register properly can result in fines, arrest and/or deportation. If you are deported for these violations, authorities will bar your return to Turkmenistan for up to five years.

Border areas

Areas bordering Iran, Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, including the city of Dashoguz and areas of the Caspian coast, are restricted zones. You must obtain permission from the Government of Turkmenistan to travel to these areas. Submit applications to travel to these areas at least 10 working days before your intended date of travel. 

Health entry requirements

You must produce a negative result on an HIV test certificate if you intend to remain in Turkmenistan for longer than three months.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Avoid medical clinics as they often lack basic drugs and equipment and have poor hygiene standards. Most health-care providers only accept cash payments.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medications

If travelling with prescription medication, check with the Government of Turkmenistan to ensure that the medication is legal in Turkmenistan.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines. 

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It is against the law to smoke outside in Turkmenistan, except in designated smoking areas.

Prostitution

Prostitution is illegal.

Authorities will generally consider any Turkmen woman leaving a club with a foreign man late at night to be a prostitute. On that basis, the foreigner may be detained.

Lèse-majesté

Avoid publicly discussing politics or criticizing the country’s current and previous leaders.

Photography

Photography of military installations, police stations, airports, government buildings and other sensitive sites may result in a penalty.

Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

Communications

Satellite phones and other forms of communication are illegal. 

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Turkmenistan prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Turkmenistan.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Turkmenistan.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Turkmenistan, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Canadians with Turkmen citizenship may be subject to national obligations, such as taxes. Check your status with the Embassy of the Republic of Turkmenistan in Washington, D.C., prior to departure.

Dual Turkmen–Canadian citizens are likely to have a difficult time returning to Canada after visiting Turkmenistan, and it might be necessary for them to renounce Turkmen citizenship in order to be allowed to depart. The renunciation process can take six months or longer.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Turkmenistan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Turkmenistan, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Turkmen court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Turkmenistan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Cultural objects, such as woven carpets and artefacts, must be authenticated by the Ministry of Culture prior to departure.

Failure to do so will result in confiscation and/or a fine that may be greater than the value of the item in question.

Drinking and driving is strictly forbidden. Drivers may be fined or jailed if any amount of alcohol is detected.

You should carry an international driving permit.

Foreigners residing in Turkmenistan must apply for a local driver’s licence with the Road Police Department. 

International Driving Permit

Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan

The currency is the new Turkmenistan manat (TMT).

The economy is primarily cash-based. A few hotels and restaurants in Ashgabat accept credit cards (specifically American Express and Visa) and traveller’s cheques in U.S. dollars. U.S. currency and euros can be exchanged into the local currency at banks and exchange bureaus. Since there are few international ATMs in the country, you may find it difficult to obtain cash.

You must declare all foreign currency you bring into the country.

Turkmenistan is located in an active seismic zone.

Heavy rains may trigger floods and landslides.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 02 (002 from mobile)
• medical assistance: 03 (003 from mobile)
• firefighters: 01 (001 from mobile)

Consular assistance

There is no resident Canadian government office in Turkmenistan. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the Embassy of Canada to Kazakhstan, in Astana.

Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Kazakhstan, in Astana, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Turkmen airline suspends Moscow flights over safety concerns

• Medium Text

Coming soon: Get the latest news and expert analysis about the state of the global economy with Reuters Econ World. Sign up here.

Reporting by Marat Gurt Writing by Olzhas Auyezov Editing by Gareth Jones

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

Series of earthquakes rattle Taiwan, centred on east coast

More than 80 earthquakes, the strongest of 6.3 magnitude, struck Taiwan's east coast starting Monday night and into the early hours of Tuesday and some caused shaking of buildings in the capital Taipei, the island's weather administration said.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

• Publications
• Our Methods
• Short Reads
• Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

Americans who have traveled internationally stand out in their views and knowledge of foreign affairs

Do people who travel think differently about the world? A new Pew Research Center survey suggests they do.

Americans who have traveled internationally are more interested in and knowledgeable about foreign affairs, feel closer to others around the world, and favor a more active foreign policy, according to the survey of 3,576 U.S. adults conducted in spring 2023. We also surveyed people in 23 other countries about their international travel habits.

This analysis examines international travel with a focus on Americans’ travel, including which Americans travel abroad and how their interest in the world and views of international affairs differ from others.

For this analysis, we surveyed 3,576 U.S. adults from March 20 to March 26, 2023; 3,581 U.S. adults from March 21 to March 27, 2022; and 10,606 U.S. adults from June 14 to June 27, 2021. Everyone who took part in these surveys is a member of the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel that is recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses. This way nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about the ATP’s methodology .

For non-U.S. data, this report draws on nationally representative surveys of 27,285 adults conducted from Feb. 20 to May 22, 2023. All surveys were conducted over the phone with adults in Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Surveys were conducted face-to-face in Hungary, Poland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. In Australia, we used a mixed-mode probability-based online panel.

Here are the June 2021 survey questions and responses used in this analysis. Those for the March 2022 survey may be found here , as well as those for the March 2023 survey .

How many Americans have traveled internationally?

Roughly three-quarters of Americans (76%) have visited at least one other country, including 26% who have been to five or more. About a quarter (23%) have not traveled internationally, though most in this group say they would if they had the opportunity.

Related:  How experience with international travel varies across 24 countries

To analyze how Americans’ travel experiences relate to their attitudes on other questions, we placed people into three categories:

• Globe-trotters have traveled to at least five other countries. About a quarter of the U.S. public (26%) falls into this category.
• Casual travelers have traveled to between one and four other countries. Half of Americans fall into this category.
• Nontravelers have never left the United States. This category includes 23% of Americans.

Compared with Americans, people in many European nations are more likely to have traveled to five or more other countries. For instance, 88% of Swedes have done so.

However, international travel is much less common in many middle-income nations. It is strongly correlated with a nation’s gross domestic product per capita. (For more on international travel and views about global engagement, read “Attitudes on an Interconnected World.” )

Who travels internationally?

Perhaps unsurprisingly, older people are more likely than younger people to have traveled internationally. Americans ages 65 and older are more than twice as likely as adults under 30 to fall into our globe-trotter category (37% vs. 17%).

Income is even more strongly related to travel than age. Two-thirds of upper-income Americans have traveled to at least five countries, compared with 9% of Americans with lower incomes.

Similarly, Americans with a postgraduate degree are far more likely to be globe-trotters than those with a high school education or less (59% vs. 10%).

Residents of suburban and urban areas generally have more international travel experience than people who live in rural areas.

There are no significant partisan differences when it comes to international travel: 26% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents qualify as globe-trotters, as do 28% of Republicans and GOP leaners.

Do travelers know more about the world?

Globe-trotters are especially likely to say they are interested in foreign affairs and follow international news. Casual travelers, in turn, are more likely than nontravelers to do so.

Globe-trotters are also the most knowledgeable about international affairs. In 2022, we conducted an international affairs quiz , asking Americans 12 questions related to international news. On average, globe-trotters got 8.2 of the 12 questions correct, compared with 6.4 for casual travelers and 4.2 for nontravelers.

Is international travel related to views of global engagement?

International travel experience is also linked to Americans’ views about international affairs and their feelings of connection to other people around the world.

When asked which comes closest to their view, 57% of globe-trotters say the U.S. should be active in world affairs, while 43% say the U.S. should pay less attention to problems in other countries and concentrate on problems at home. In contrast, most casual travelers and nontravelers say the U.S. should focus on problems at home.

In all three groups, at least half of respondents say that when the U.S. is making foreign policy, it should take other countries’ interests into account – even if that means making compromises. But globe-trotters are especially likely to hold that view.

Globe-trotters are also particularly likely to say they feel close to people around the world, with 42% saying so. By comparison, 34% of casual travelers and 30% of nontravelers say this.

• International Affairs

Rising Numbers of Americans Say Jews and Muslims Face a Lot of Discrimination

Younger americans stand out in their views of the israel-hamas war, how u.s. muslims are experiencing the israel-hamas war, how u.s. jews are experiencing the israel-hamas war, as obesity rates rise in the u.s. and worldwide, new weight-loss drugs surge in popularity, most popular.

1615 L St. NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 |  Media Inquiries

Research Topics

• Age & Generations
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Economy & Work
• Family & Relationships
• Gender & LGBTQ
• Immigration & Migration
• Internet & Technology
• Methodological Research
• News Habits & Media
• Non-U.S. Governments
• Other Topics
• Politics & Policy
• Race & Ethnicity
• Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of  The Pew Charitable Trusts .

Copyright 2024 Pew Research Center

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Settings

Reprints, Permissions & Use Policy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• It List 2024 Overview: It List 2024
• The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year
• The Best New U.S. Resorts of 2023
• The Best New Affordable Luxury Hotels of 2023
• The Best New International Resorts of 2023

The Best New Cruise Ships of 2023

• The Best New City Hotels of 2023
• The Most Luxurious New Hotels of 2023
• Hotels + Resorts
• It List 2024 The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year The Best New U.S. Resorts of 2023 The Best New Affordable Luxury Hotels of 2023 The Best New International Resorts of 2023 The Best New Cruise Ships of 2023 The Best New City Hotels of 2023 The Most Luxurious New Hotels of 2023 CLOSE Part of It List 2024

Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

US airlines did better with mobility devices in 2023: Here's how each performed

U.S. airlines got a little bit better with mobility devices in 2023. The 10 major carriers transported 835,327 wheelchairs and other aids last year, and there were 11,527 reports of damage, according to the Department of Transportation. That’s a rate of 1.38 devices damaged per 100 carried, down from 1.41 per 100 in 2022.

USA TODAY covered incidents of mobility device damage by airlines throughout 2023, and a recurring theme in the reporting was that when wheelchairs or other mobility devices are damaged in transit, it’s akin to broken legs for the person who uses the device.

The DOT tracks these incidents and released full-year numbers in February. The data showed a slight improvement in wheelchair handling across the industry, but for advocates and regulators, it’s still not enough.

“Any number greater than zero is not an acceptable number,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg previously told USA TODAY . “This not only affects your trip, it affects your life.” 

How many mobility devices did the major US airlines mishandle last year? 

Here’s are the rankings:

• Allegiant Air carried 21,926 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 82 reports of mishandling – a rate of 0.37 per 100. 
• Delta Air Lines and its regional partners carried 189,263 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 1,292 reports of mishandling – a rate of 0.68 per 100.
• United Airlines and its regional partners carried 152,549 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 1,761 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.15 per 100.
• Hawaiian Airlines carried 12,270 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 148 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.21 per 100.
• JetBlue carried 29,965 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 482 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.61 per 100.
• Southwest Airlines carried 212,721 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 3,460 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.63 per 100.
• American Airlines and its regional partners carried 146,061 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 2,589 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.77 per 100.
• Alaska Airlines and its regional partners carried 30,918 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 568 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.84 per 100.
• Frontier Airlines carried 28,125 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 528 reports of mishandling – a rate of 1.88 per 100.
• Spirit Airlines carried 11,529 mobility devices in 2023, and there were 617 reports of mishandling – a rate of 5.35 per 100.

Frontier Airlines did not provide comments about their performance. Still, Delta, United, Hawaiian, JetBlue, American, Alaska and Southwest all emphasized that they understand the importance of mobility devices to the travelers who rely on them and pointed out various investments and improvements they have made toward accessibility in recent years. 

Spirit Airlines, which had notably worse performance than its competitors, said it aims to improve but did not outline specific steps it was taking.

“We are committed to safely transporting our guests and their mobility devices, and we are looking into this to ensure that the level of service being provided consistently meets our standards,” a statement from the airline said.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].