Turkmenistan is a fascinating and still unexplored destination where ancient history and traditions intertwine with contemporary elements, creating a unique harmony between past and present.
A crucial node along the Silk Road, the famous network of trade routes that connected Asia to Europe, Turkmenistan presents a history dating back thousands of years, the evidence of which is still visible in archaeological sites and ancient cities, such as Nisa, the capital of the Parthian Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site, or Merv, the “Queen of the World,” an oasis city and center of cultural and political exchange.
Turkmenistan offers various attractions, capable of fascinating anyone who explores the country. These include extraordinary natural landscapes such as the Karakum Desert, which hosts the suggestive Darvaza gas crater among its dunes, the Yangykala Canyon, whose colors change throughout the day, the underground lake Kow Ata with its warm therapeutic waters, the plateau with fossilized dinosaur footprints, and the Kopet-Dag mountains, offering breathtaking views and trekking opportunities for sports enthusiasts.
Regarding the cities, the modern capital Ashgabat will captivate you with the grandeur of its imposing commemorative monuments, such as the Independence Monument of Turkmenistan from the former USSR, and its white marble buildings illuminated by lights and neon, creating an interesting contrast with the rural villages where the authenticity of handed-down traditions and the simplicity of daily life can still be felt. A common element remains the hospitality of the people, a fundamental part of Turkmen culture, who warmly and generously welcome their guests. There is also the skill in the art of weaving the famous Turkmen carpets, with vivid colors and geometric patterns, and the purebred Akhal-Teke horses, pride of the Turkmen, descendants of nomadic tribes.
Practical Information:
- To visit the country, it is necessary the passport (with at least 3 months of remaining validity) and an entry visa, issued at the airport or the border (upon payment in cash in dollars).
- The visa is issued based on a Letter of Invitation (LOI), obtainable via email through a local travel agency accredited by the Turkmen government, and requestable 90 days before departure.
- It is not possible to obtain the LOI without having booked the trip (accommodation and transportation) with the agency.
- In addition to the visa fee, it is required to pay the “Migration Tax” (about $15 USD) and the Covid Test fee (please note that visa and Covid Test fees may be subject to changes, therefore it is recommended to contact the Embassy or the travel agency with which the trip has been organized for any updates).
- It is recommended to register your travel details on the “Dove siamo nel Mondo” website and notify the Italian Embassy in Ashgabat of your presence and any movements upon arrival in the country: ashgabat.info@esteri.it (emergency mobile number: +993 61 174271).
- It is advisable to bring cash, as the use of credit cards and VISA is limited (note that the official currency is the Turkmen Manat, but the Dollar is also widely used).
- No mandatory vaccinations are required.
For more information, you can consult the following link to the Farnesina “Viaggiare Sicuri” portal related to Turkmenistan:
https://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/find-country/country/TKM
Last updated: 2 march 2025