Almost all foreign nationals need a visa. The tourist visa is only issued with an approved Letter of Invitation (LOI). TM TRAVEL provides LOI and visa support. Independent travel is not permitted — visitors must travel via a licensed operator.

What is a Letter of Invitation (LOI)?

The LOI is official approval from the State Migration Service. Processing takes 10–20 business days. Without LOI approval, embassies will not issue a visa.

How long does the LOI take?

Standard processing: 10–20 business days. Emergency processing (2–3 days) is available for an additional fee. We recommend starting the process at least 30 days before your travel date to avoid delays.

Can I get a visa on arrival?

Yes, at Ashgabat International Airport, but ONLY if you have an approved Letter of Invitation (LOI). The visa is issued at the "Visa on Arrival" counter. Cost: $55–$155 depending on your nationality, plus $14 migration tax. Payment in cash (USD).

📋

📋 Booking & Payment

5 questions

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept bank transfers, credit/debit cards via our secure payment gateway, and cash payments in Ashgabat. A deposit (30%) is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance is due upon arrival.

How do I book a tour?

Fill in the booking form on our website or contact us via WhatsApp, Telegram, or email. Our team will confirm availability within 24 hours and send you a detailed itinerary and invoice. A 30% deposit secures your spot.

What is your cancellation policy?

More than 30 days before departure: full refund minus 10% admin fee. 15–30 days: 50% refund. Less than 15 days: no refund. In case of force majeure, we offer alternative dates or full refund.

What payment methods do you accept?

Bank transfer (USD/EUR), credit/debit card via our secure payment gateway, or cash payment in Ashgabat. A 30% deposit is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance is due upon arrival.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes! Groups of 6+ travelers receive a 10% discount, 10+ travelers — 15% discount. For corporate groups or special events, please contact us for a custom quote.

✈️

✈️ Before & During Trip

7 questions

Is it safe to travel to Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan is generally safe for tourists. Exercise standard precautions — avoid political discussions, follow local laws, and carry your passport at all times.

What's the best time to visit Darvaza?

Darvaza can be visited year-round, but summer nights (July–September) are the most comfortable for camping due to warm temperatures.

Can I use credit cards in Turkmenistan?

Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants in Ashgabat, but cash is preferred. Bring USD or EUR in crisp bills.

How do I get to Turkmenistan?

Ashgabat International Airport (ASB) is the main gateway. Direct flights are available from Istanbul, Moscow, Dubai, Frankfurt.

What should I pack for Turkmenistan?

Lightweight breathable clothing for daytime, warm layers for desert nights, modest clothing for religious sites, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, power bank, and travel adapter. Bring USD cash (post-2006 bills). Download a VPN before arrival.

Can I take photos everywhere?

Do NOT photograph government buildings, airports, military sites, or border crossings. Ask permission before photographing local people. Modest dress is recommended. Remove shoes when entering mosques and some historical sites.

What should I do in an emergency?

Emergency numbers: 003 (Ambulance), 002 (Police), 001 (Fire). Contact your tour operator first — we have 24/7 support. Save our number in your phone before arrival.

🎯

🎯 Custom Tours

4 questions

Can I customize a tour?

Absolutely! We specialize in tailor-made itineraries. Tell us your preferences, duration, and budget, and we will design a unique tour just for you. Contact us to discuss your custom trip.

Can I book a private tour?

Absolutely! All our tours can be arranged as private departures with your own guide, driver, and vehicle. Private tours offer maximum flexibility in dates, pace, and itinerary. Contact us for a custom quote.

Do you have guides in my language?

We provide English, Russian, and Turkish speaking guides. For other languages (German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic), please contact us in advance — we can arrange specialist guides.

Do you organize family tours?

Yes! We specialize in family-friendly itineraries with flexible pace, shorter driving days, and activities for children. Kid-friendly options include camel riding, yurt camp experiences, and dinosaur footprint sites. Contact us with your family's needs.

📖

Looking for the complete Travel Guide?

Visa details, packing lists, money tips, transport, culture, safety and the Turkmen phrasebook — all in one place.

→