Warnings & Dangers in Turkmenistan
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Turkmenistan is generally a safe country to travel to. It is essential to know about local laws and regulations. Don't get involved in politics and have a local guide. Use common sense and don't do here what you wouldn't have done in your country.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is not very safe, and the road surface is not always in good condition. It is recommended to travel by rented car or taxi. Please be aware that local drivers may not still drive carefully.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : LOW
Pickpockets are found in crowded places of tourists and bazaars, train stations. However, this is still a rare occurrence, and common sense will help you avoid any trouble with pickpockets. Don't leave things unattended and be on the lookout for your surroundings.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
The population and economy of Turkmenistan are prone to earthquakes and floods, with earthquakes posing a high risk of a severe impact. Study the situation before your visit to this country.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
Armed attacks and kidnapping are rare in Turkmenistan. Avoid walking in the dark, and the country usually has a curfew after 11 am. Keep valuables in a safe place and use common sense.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
Turkmenistan is not susceptible to terrorist attacks and this risk is quite low in the country. However, use common sense, do not participate in political or other demonstrations, and avoid large crowds.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
In Turkmenistan, there is not a high risk of being deceived by a fraudster; however, sometimes, petty deceptions can occur. Most often, this is due to souvenir sellers who may inflate the prices of trinkets or taxi drivers who do not turn on the taximeter and ask for an inflated fare.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone can travel around Turkmenistan if they follow specific rules: they do not walk alone late at night, dress modestly, and do not attract undue attention to themselves by their behavior. It is also better not to shine with a lot of cash and expensive jewelry.
How Safe Is Turkmenistan for Tourists?
Turkmenistan is quite a safe country to visit if certain precautions are taken.
The crime index here ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are associated with petty thefts, break-ins, and car theft. The country also has a high level of corruption and bribery.
When traveling, do not criticize or insult local politics.
This country remains a somewhat tightly controlled police state.
Stick to your opinion of the country’s politics to yourself, as opposing the government is a crime for which you can be sentenced to prison.
There are very few cases of violent crime in Turkmenistan, mainly because the government of Turkmenistan punishes crimes harshly and that most laws are strictly enforced.
The curfew prevents people from leaving from 11 p.m., and this law applies to non-residents as well.
Curfew inevitably helps to curb street crime at night, and if you go outside, you could get arrested.
The drive from the airport to the hotel in the middle of the night is acceptable.
In Turkmenistan, it is better to have a local guide.
Vaccinations against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, hepatitis A and B are recommended.
Typhus vaccination is also recommended if you remain in poor hygienic conditions, and rabies vaccination is recommended for extended stays and frequent contact with animals.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Turkmenistan?
In accordance with the law, citizens of all countries require a visa to visit Turkmenistan, unless they have special passports or are from certain parts of Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Turkmenistan?
The manat is the currency of Turkmenistan. The ISO 4217 code was TMM, and the manat was subdivided into 100 tenge.
How's the Weather like in Turkmenistan?
The best times to visit Turkmenistan for ideal weather are April to June and September to mid-October. Average temperatures in Turkmenistan vary drastically, and the weather feels very lovely much of the year but hot in the summer and cold in the winter with a little chance of rain or snow throughout the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Turkmenistan?
There are several airports in Turkmenistan. Ashgabat International Airport is the busiest international airports in Turkmenistan. It is located approximately 10 km northwest of the capital Ashgabat.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Turkmenistan?
Turkmenistan is a country in Central Asia, washed by the waters of the Caspian Sea. A significant area of the country is occupied by the Karakum Desert. Here are the ruins of the ancient settlements of Nisa and Merv, through which the Great Silk Road once ran.
Is the Water in Turkmenistan Safe to Drink?
Difficulties with water conservation and pollution from sewage and drainage water are the main obstacles in the country. Tap water isn’t drinkable.
Is Uber Safe in Turkmenistan?
There is no Uber taxi in Turkmenistan. But you can use any other taxi service in here.