Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Turkmenistan due to the limited travel options into and out of the country on short notice. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
+(993)(12)94 0045, Consular Information Line: +(993)(12)94 0049 (Monday and Friday, 11am – 1pm); EMER: Local calls: 940045; US Embassy Ashgabat, 9 1984 Street (formerly Pushkin Street), Ashgabat, Turkmenistan 744000; ConsularAshgab@state.gov; https://tm.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
993
Local Emergency Phone
3
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Turkmenistan: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, anthrax, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Subtropical desert
Currency (Code)
Turkmenistani manat (TMM)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
220 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages
Turkmen, Russian, Uzbek
Major Religions
Muslim 93%, Christian 6.4%, Buddhist <1%, folk religion <1%, Jewish <1%
Time Difference
UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Ashgabat (includes National Museum, Carpet Museum); Turabeg Khanym Complex; Kow Ata Underground Lake; Yangykala Canyon; Mary Regional Museum; Ancient Merv & Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar
Major Sports
Soccer
Cultural Practices
Turkmen people have a strong connection to their horses, and horsemanship is considered a symbol of prestige and bravery. This nomadic heritage is also reflected in traditional clothing, which often features long, flowing robes and hats, and in the use of portable tents for shelter.
Tipping Guidelines
Tip guides $8-10 (USD) per person per day for a tour. Tour drivers may be tipped $5 (USD).
Souvenirs
Carpets, scarves, silk, gold statues, Turkmen calendars, Turkmen sheepskin hats
Traditional Cuisine
Ishleki — a flatbread-type dough wrapped around a filling including minced lamb, onions, and spices and then fried
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Monday, October 02, 2023
