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Turkmenistan

One of earth's most enigmatic destinations: the flaming Darvaza gas crater, marble-white Ashgabat and Silk Road ruins deep in the Karakum desert.

  • Currency m Turkmenistan Manat (m)
  • Language Russian, Turkmen
  • Visa
  • Plug Type B/C/F · 220V
  • Best time
  • Safety Check FCDO FCDO →

One of earth's most enigmatic destinations: the flaming Darvaza gas crater, marble-white Ashgabat and Silk Road ruins deep in the Karakum desert.

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Turkmenistan is among the world's most mysterious and least-visited countries, a Central Asian enigma of vast deserts, ancient Silk Road cities and surreal, marble-clad modernity.

Its most famous sight is otherworldly: the Darvaza gas crater, a fiery pit blazing in the Karakum desert, best seen glowing against a night sky. Add the golden ruins of Merv and the white city of Ashgabat, and few places feel this singular.

For 2026, Turkmenistan offers a genuine frontier adventure along the Silk Road, an extraordinary journey for the intrepid traveller seeking somewhere truly unlike anywhere else.

When to go

Weather & timing in Turkmenistan RIGHT NOW 43° mostly clear

Best Apr, Oct–Nov · Shoulder Mar, May, Sep

  1. Jan / -4°
  2. Feb / -2°
  3. Mar 12° /
  4. Apr 18° /
  5. May 24° / 14°
  6. Jun 28° / 18°
  7. Jul 30° / 20°
  8. Aug 28° / 18°
  9. Sep 24° / 14°
  10. Oct 18° /
  11. Nov 12° /
  12. Dec / -2°
Best for
  • Culture
  • Cuisine
  • Landscape
  • History
At a glance
Sunshine 7 hr/day (est.)
Rain days 8 days/mo (est.)
Wettest December · 60mm
Driest June · 10mm
Part of Central Asia →
Turkmenistan monthly temperature & rainfall charts
Things to do

Nature, culture & hidden gems

Editorial content coming soon

We're hand-picking the standout places, hidden gems and can't-miss activities in Turkmenistan. Meanwhile, the cities above are a great starting point.

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Curated Turkmenistan itineraries

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