Turkmenistan

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

Plug Type CPlug Type 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