Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan offers a truly unique and surreal travel experience. The capital, Ashgabat, holds a Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of white marble buildings in the world. It is a city of grand, empty boulevards, golden statues of former leaders, and futuristic monuments, all part of a highly controlled and often bizarre state vision. In stark contrast, the ancient ruins of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site, were once one of the world's great Silk Road cities before being destroyed by the Mongols.

The country's most famous attraction, however, is the Darvaza Gas Crater. This giant, fiery pit has been burning continuously in the middle of the Karakum Desert since a Soviet-era drilling rig collapsed in 1971. Camping overnight near its roaring edge is an unforgettable experience. A trip to Turkmenistan is a journey into a strange and fascinating country that is completely closed off from the rest of the world.

Reasons to Visit

• The "Gates of Hell": Witness the spectacular and surreal sight of the Darvaza Gas Crater burning in the middle of the desert at night.
• Marble City of Ashgabat: Explore one of the world's most unusual capital cities, a glistening, modern city of white marble and gold statues.
• Ancient Merv: Wander through the vast and historic ruins of Merv, once a major oasis-city on the Silk Road.
• Ultimate Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel: Visit a country that sees very few tourists and offers a glimpse into a highly isolated and controlled society.

Things to Avoid

• Independent Travel: It is virtually impossible to travel independently in Turkmenistan. You must be on a pre-booked, guided tour at all times.
• Photography Restrictions: Be extremely careful with photography. It is forbidden to take pictures of government buildings, military personnel, and in many public places. Always ask your guide first.
• Discussing Politics: Do not discuss local politics or the country's leaders. The country has one of the most authoritarian governments in the world.
• Breaking the Rules: Your movements will be monitored. It is crucial to follow your guide's instructions at all times to avoid any trouble.

Local Transportation Tips

All transportation for tourists is arranged by the official tour company. This will typically be a private vehicle or a 4x4 for desert travel. There are some domestic flights and trains, but these will be booked for you by your guide.

Travel Etiquette

• Follow Your Guide: Your guide is responsible for you. Adhering to their instructions is the most important rule of etiquette and safety.
• Politeness: Be polite and respectful in all interactions.
• Gifts: A small gift from your home country for your guide and driver is a nice gesture at the end of the tour.
• Modest Dress: While Ashgabat can be modern, a conservative and modest dress code is recommended throughout the country.

Did You Know?

The former president of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat Niyazov, who styled himself "Türkmenbaşy" (Leader of the Turkmens), wrote a book called the Ruhnama, which was mandatory reading in all schools and even part of the driving test.

Cool Turkmenistan Stats

• Marble City: Ashgabat holds the Guinness World Record for having the highest density of white marble-clad buildings in the world.
• Fiery Crater: The Darvaza Gas Crater is about 69 meters (226 feet) wide and 30 meters (98 feet) deep.
• Neutral Nation: Turkmenistan is one of the few countries in the world to have its policy of permanent neutrality formally recognized by the United Nations.

Recommended Age Group

Turkmenistan is suitable only for resilient and curious Adults who are comfortable with the restrictions of a fully guided tour in a highly controlled state.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not recommended.
• Teens (13-19 years): Not recommended.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended for well-traveled adults with a keen interest in unique political systems, history, and bizarre sights.
• Seniors (65+ years): Not recommended due to the restrictive and sometimes arduous nature of the required tours.

Accessibility Level: Low

• The country has no tourist infrastructure for accessibility.
• Travel is by private vehicle, but the main sites, including the ruins of Merv and the gas crater, are not accessible.
• The modern city of Ashgabat has wide pavements, but overall accessibility is not a consideration in the country's infrastructure.
• All travel must be on a guided tour, which is not designed for those with mobility issues.