
A Cultural Enigma
Turkmenistan remains one of the least-visited and most mysterious countries in the world, offering a truly unique experience for those seeking the road less travelled.

Step into a world of startling contrasts, from the marble-clad grandeur of Ashgabat to the ancient Silk Road echoes of Merv and the fiery depths of the Darvaza Gas Crater.
To outsiders, this is a land few could place on the map, let alone visit. If anything of Turkmen fame has trickled down to us, it is likely rumours of a dictatorship under the bizarre 'Turkmenbashi' who created ubiquitous giant golden self-images.
And yet, to the intrepid, the former Soviet republic has a wonderful assortment of secrets to share: dramatic mountain ranges, verdant river valleys, fantastical natural and prehistoric wonders and oases which encircle the vast Karakum Desert; snaking its way across the sandy fringes runs the fabled Silk Road, lacing together some of the world's most important archaeological sites that demand joyful hours of exploration.
Turkmenistan will bestow on you an irrepressible sense of having experienced a cultural enigma.


Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan rewards travellers who slow down — the best stories are found off the tour-bus route.
From the field
The best times to visit Turkmenistan are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, temperatures are pleasant for exploring both the cities and the desert. The summer months (July and August) can be intensely hot, with temperatures in the Karakum Desert often exceeding 40°C, while winter can be bitterly cold, particularly in the northern regions and mountain areas.
Looking to travel outside the typical windows? Our Turkmenistan tailor-made team can advise on the best time for you.
Dispatches, field notes and practical advice from our specialists.
Reviews from across our small-group programme. Independently rated 4.9 Excellent on AITO by 250+ travellers.
Every one of our Turkmenistan journeys can be rebuilt around your dates, pace and interests — or we’ll design something entirely new.
We’ll build one around you.
Prefer to travel at your own pace? Our tailor-made Turkmenistan holidays allow you to design a journey around your own interests and schedule. Spend more time exploring the archaeological wonders of the Silk Road, embark on an extended desert expedition, or focus on the unique traditions of the mountain communities. Every tailor-made trip includes private transport, dedicated local guides, and flexible accommodation options, from marble hotels in the capital to traditional yurt camps in the desert.
Typical reply within 3 working days · No obligation · Trusted by travellers since 2004

Costs are generally higher than neighbouring "Stans" due to the requirement for guided travel and specific visa processes.
Shared across all tours that visit this destination. Read alongside your individual tour dossier for trip-specific details.
Before booking, please familiarise yourself with the UK FCDO advice at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. Currently, there are no warnings against travel to the parts of Turkmenistan we visit.
Join a small-group departure, or let our Turkmenistan specialists craft a private journey shaped around your dates and interests.
Trusted partners & accreditations