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Turkmenistan FAQ

Is tipping customary in Turkmenistan?

Although tipping isn't customary in Turkmenistan, establishments in tourist areas like Maputo are increasingly accepting (and expecting) tips. A tip of 10% in restaurants and cafes should suffice, although it's not entirely necessary. With many service workers receiving low wages, tipping waiters, porters and drivers is considered generous.

What is the internet access like in Turkmenistan?

The government strictly controls internet access and internet cafes have all been shut down.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Turkmenistan?

Roaming agreements are in place with some international phone companies, however mobile 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 sanitiser 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 travelling through rural and remote areas, be aware that there will be no ATM access.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Turkmenistan?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your 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

What public holidays are celebrated in Turkmenistan?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 12 Memorial Day
Feb 19 National Flag Day
Mar 8 International Women's Day
Mar 21 Novruz Bairam (Turkmen New Year)
May 8 Heroes' Day
May 9 Victory Day
May 18 Constitution Day
Aug 8 Oraza Bayram (End of Ramadan)
Oct 6 Remembrance Day (Anniversary of the 1948 Earthquake)
Oct 15 Kurban Bayram (Feast of Sacrifice)
Oct 27 Independence Day
Dec 12 Neutrality Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Turkmenistan/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Turkmenistan?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • TURKMENISTAN (DRAGOMAN OVERLAND):

    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - in advance
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Yes - in advance

    All visitors to Turkmenistan require a visa. Visas can only be issued once a letter of authorisation has been obtained. The cost of the visa varies depending on your nationality, you should allow approximately US$85 in cash.

    Dragoman will apply for the authorisation letter on your behalf through our Turkmenistan agent. In order to do this we need all passengers to complete the Asia form found here:
    http://www.dragoman.com/images/stories/files/Central_Asia_China visa_form.pdf
    Return this completed form to centralasiavisas@dragoman.co.uk as soon as possible, along with the following:
    1. A completed Turkmenistan visa form downloadable here - www.dragoman.com/images/Turkmenistan_Visa_form.xls
    2. 1 good quality, scanned colour passport photo (size 3x4cm)
    3. A quality, scanned copy of your passport. It is crucial that this scan is clear, in colour, and high definition. If your copy is not good enough quality it will be sent back to you which could hold up the process.

    If you are starting your trip in Istanbul or Tbilisi you must obtain a visa for Turkmenistan before travel. Costs for this will vary.

    If you are entering Turkmenistan overland on a westbound trip your visa will be obtained en route at the land border into Turkmenistan where the original letter of invitation will be sent. This will costs between US$55 - US$85 depending on your nationality. A tax is also payable at the border of approx US$14 pp. You will need to fill out an immigration card upon entering. Please make sure you keep this card for the entire journey.

    If you are flying into Ashgabat you can obtain your visa on arrival at Saparmurat Turkmenbashy International Airport. This will cost approximately US$85. A printed copy of your approved Invitation letter will be required at the check-in
    desk for your flight to Ashgabat as proof of visa authorisation. Dragoman will once again apply for this on your behalf
    but please note, Dragoman will require exact details of your intended arrival date and flight details before we can start
    this process.

    You can also obtain your visa in advance if you wish to do so. Please indicate where you wish to obtain your visa on the Asia visa form.

    ***Please note that if you decide to obtain the visa in a different location a new letter of invitation will be required which may delay you obtaining your visa therefore it is vital that you are clear on where you will obtain your visa. ***

    You will need at least four passport photographs for registration purposes.

    A tax is payable at the border of approx US$14 pp. You will need to fill out an immigration card upon entering. Please make sure you keep this card for the entire journey.

    Name of Host:
    Ayan Travel.
    Magtymguly Avenue 108-13, 14,
    Ashgabat,
    Turkmenistan.
    00993 12 352914

    Address in Turkmenistan:
    Ak Altyn Hotel
    141/1 Magtymguly ave
    744000
    Ashgabat
    Tel: 0099-312-363700

    Travelling to Turkmenistan in October:
    Independence Day in Turkmenistan is on October 27th. The government usually imposes restrictions on the issuance of the Letters of Invitation (and therefore visas) during the month of September for all those travelling to Turkmenistan in October. Dragoman must therefore have all the requested information and a copy of a passport in August as applications made after this date may not be granted.

    *Please note that from time to time some visa applications are rejected by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Turkmenistan or incorrect dates given for travel. If this happens, we will contact you as soon as it is known and we will help you arrange alternative travel plans. Unfortunately neither Dragoman nor Intrepid cannot be held responsible if your visa application is refused.
  • The visa process for Iran and countries in Central Asia can be quite complicated and time consuming. We highly recommend that you use the services of a qualified visa agent for the process. Your booking agent can advise of a reputable service.

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Turkmenistan at a glance

  • 20
  • Ashgabat (population 695,000)
  • 5.1 million
  • Turkmen, Russian, Uzbek
  • TMT
  • (GMT+05:00) Ekaterinburg
  • Type B (American 3-pin), Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)
  • +993

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