Discover Central Asia
EXPLORE
TURKMENISTAN
Your local partner for unique experiences
in Turkmenistan and beyond.
Where to go
Our Destinations
Why choose us
The Meridian Difference
Trusted & Licensed
Fully licensed DMC with years of experience operating in Central Asia.
Local Team
Our guides and staff are locals who know every corner of the region.
Tailored Experiences
Every tour is customized to match your interests, pace, and budget.
Reviews
What Our Clients Say
"Turkmenistan surprised me in every way. The white marble city of Ashgabat, the ancient ruins of Merv — I had no idea this country was so rich in history and culture."
"Professional team, smooth visa process, and an itinerary that covered everything I wanted to see. Highly recommend Meridian for anyone visiting Central Asia."
"An absolutely unforgettable experience. The Gates of Hell at night was one of the most spectacular things I have ever seen. Meridian handled everything perfectly."
Got questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, almost all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Turkmenistan. To obtain a tourist visa, you must first secure an official Letter of Invitation (LOI). This invitation can only be issued by a licensed travel agency in Turkmenistan and must be approved by the State Migration Service.The LOI processing typically takes 2–3 weeks. Once approved, you can collect your visa at the nearest Turkmenistan Embassy or directly upon arrival at the Ashgabat International Airport or land border checkpoints.
Yes, this is a core part of our tour organization. We prepare the entire document package and submit it to the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan. The approval process takes 2–3 weeks, after which we will send you the official invitation letter required to get your visa upon arrival.
The decision to grant a visa depends entirely on the State Migration Service. In the rare event of a refusal, we promptly cancel your hotel and ticket reservations. The terms for refunding your deposit depend on the timing of the refusal and are clearly outlined in our booking contract.
Turkmenistan offers a unique mix of ancient history and modern architecture. Popular attractions include:
The Darvaza Gas Crater ("Door to Hell"),
Ashgabat, the capital city,
Ancient Merv (UNESCO World Heritage Site),
Kunya-Urgench,
Yangykala Canyons,
Nisa Archaeological Site,
Yes! Visiting the famous Darvaza Gas Crater is a highlight of almost every tour. It is located deep in the Karakum Desert, about a 4-hour drive north of Ashgabat.
Here is what you need to know:
- Access: The crater is remote and only accessible via a 4x4 vehicle with an experienced driver (which we provide).
- The Experience: The best way to see it is at night. We organize overnight stays in traditional yurt camps or tents right near the crater rim.
- Dinner Under the Stars: All our trips include a traditional campfire barbecue dinner in the desert.
- Current Status: Government initiatives to manage the gas source have reduced the intensity of the flames compared to the past, but it remains a spectacular and unique sight.
The absolute best times to visit Turkmenistan are during the Spring (mid-March to May) and Autumn (mid-September to November). During these shoulder seasons, the weather is pleasantly warm, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F)—ideal for outdoor exploration.
Spring (March – May): Highly recommended. The desert briefly bursts into green vegetation and wildflowers, and temperatures are perfect for hiking the Kopet Dag mountains or touring ancient Silk Road ruins. Travel in late March also allows you to experience the vibrant local Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations.
Autumn (September – November): Another ideal window. The fierce summer heat tapers off, making it excellent for overnight wild camping near the Darvaza Gas Crater or walking through ancient Merv. This is also harvest season, meaning local markets are filled with fresh fruits and world-famous Turkmen melons.
Yes, Turkmenistan is widely considered one of the safest travel destinations in Central Asia. Violent crime and opportunistic street crime (like pickpocketing) are extremely rare, and the local people are exceptionally welcoming and hospitable toward foreign guests. Because international tourists generally explore the country accompanied by a licensed tour guide and driver, you will have professional support throughout your entire journey.