Turkmenistan-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Turkmenistan

Day 1: Arrival in Ashgabat

  • Arrival: Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport (ASB)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel ( approx. $10-$20 USD)
  • Places to visit:
    • Neutrality Monument: A 62-meter-tall monument dedicated to the country’s neutrality
    • Independence Park: A sprawling park featuring fountains, sculptures, and monuments
  • Things to know:
    • Turkmenistan is a conservative country; dress modestly and remove shoes when entering mosques or government buildings
    • Learn some basic Turkish phrases, such as “Merhaba” (hello), “teşekkür ederim” (thank you)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a centrally located hotel in Ashgabat

Day 2: Explore Ashgabat

  • Places to visit:
    • National Museum of History and Ethnography: A museum showcasing Turkmenistan’s rich history and culture
    • Archaeological Park: A collection of ancient ruins and artifacts
    • Central Bazaar: A bustling marketplace selling local goods and souvenirs
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and significance
    • Visit the local market to try traditional foods and drinks
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for strict traffic regulations; pedestrians have priority, but cars often drive fast
    • Don’t drink tap water or eat undercooked meat

Day 3: Nisa National History and Ethnography Park

  • Places to visit:
    • Nisa National History and Ethnography Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient ruins and artifacts
    • Merv Historical-Cultural Reserve: An archaeological site showcasing the history of the ancient city of Merv
  • Things to know:
    • The park is a protected area; respect local rules and regulations
    • Don’t remove any artifacts or plants from the site

Day 4: Darvaza Gas Crater (optional)

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Darvaza Gas Crater ( approx. $100-$150 USD)
  • Places to visit:
    • Darvaza Gas Crater: A unique natural phenomenon featuring a burning gas crater
  • Things to know:
    • The crater is located in the Karakum Desert; bring plenty of water and snacks
    • Don’t approach the crater too closely, as it can be hazardous

Day 5: Mary City

  • Places to visit:
    • Mary Museum: A museum showcasing the history and culture of the city
    • Archaeological Park: An ancient site featuring ruins and artifacts
  • Things to know:
    • The city is a center for traditional crafts; try shopping for local goods
    • Don’t forget to visit the nearby Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar

Day 6: Abivert

  • Places to visit:
    • Abivert: A small village featuring ancient ruins and artifacts
  • Things to know:
    • The site is a protected area; respect local rules and regulations
    • Don’t remove any artifacts or plants from the site

Day 7: Return to Ashgabat

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle bus back to Ashgabat ( approx. $10-$20 USD)
  • Places to visit:
    • Independence Park: A sprawling park featuring fountains, sculptures, and monuments
    • National Museum of History and Ethnography: A museum showcasing Turkmenistan’s rich history and culture

Visa Requirements:

  • Tourist visa: Available at Ashgabat International Airport (ASB) or the Embassy of Turkmenistan in your home country
  • Duration: 10-30 days, depending on your nationality
  • Cost: Varies depending on your nationality ( approx. $50-$100 USD)

Health and Safety:

  • Make sure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Turkmenistan
  • Be aware of the local health risks, such as malaria and other waterborne illnesses
  • Follow local regulations and safety guidelines when visiting ancient sites and cultural attractions

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Widely available in Ashgabat; cost approx. $10-$20 USD for a short ride
  • Shuttle bus: Available from Ashgabat to other cities; cost approx. $5-$10 USD
  • Rental car: Available in Ashgabat and Mary City; cost approx. $50-$100 USD per day

Language:

  • Turkish is the official language of Turkmenistan
  • English is not widely spoken, but many locals understand basic phrases such as “hello” and “thank you”

Note: The itinerary above is just a suggestion and can be customized according to your preferences and interests. Be sure to research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Turkmenistan!