Getting around Turkménistan
Asia
From Europe ✈️
Direct flight from Paris
No (1-2 stopovers)
Duration
8-12h with 1 stopover (no direct flight from Paris)
Indicative round-trip price
600-1000 EUR A/R
Book
2-3 months ahead, at the same time as the letter of invitation
Recommended airlines
Local transport
Bus
City buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) very cheap in Ashgabat, but vague schedules and impractical for a passing visitor.
Train
Slow rail network linking Ashgabat to Mary, Turkmenabat and Dashoguz. Cheap but slow and uncomfortable; booking via an agency advised.
Taxi
Taxis partout à Achgabat, souvent des voitures particulières : conviens du prix avant de monter. Pas de vraies applis internationales de VTC.
Metro
No metro.
Essential apps
Common routes and indicative prices
| From | To | Mode | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | Ashgabat | Vol Turkish Airlines | 4h | 300-500 EUR A/R |
| Ashgabat | Darvaza (crater) | 4x4 with a driver | 3-4h | 80-150 EUR/day all-inclusive |
| Ashgabat | Mary (Merv) | Train ou vol intérieur | 1h flight / 7h train | 20-60 EUR |
| Ashgabat | Dashoguz (Konye-Urgench) | Vol intérieur | 1h | 30-60 EUR |
Indicative prices for 2025-2026. Fares vary by season, demand and how far ahead you book.
Vehicle rental 🛵
Scooter / Motorbike
Not available
Car
Almost impossible independently
International permit : Required or strongly recommended
Transport scams to know ⚠️
Taxi d'aéroport surfacturé
À l'arrivée à Achgabat, certains chauffeurs annoncent un prix touristique très gonflé.
Tip :Have your transfer arranged by your agency, or agree on the fare before getting in.
Exchange at the official rate
Hotels and banks impose the official rate, far less favorable than the real market rate.
Tip :Change only what you strictly need and ask your guide for advice.
Photos in the wrong place
Photographing an official or military building or the presidential palace can lead to being stopped and having your images deleted.
Tip :Always ask your guide before pulling out the camera in town.
Practical tips
- Tout se prépare via une agence agréée : lettre d'invitation, visa, guide et itinéraire. Le voyage 100% indépendant est en pratique impossible.
- Always keep your passport and registration papers on you: checks are frequent.
- Always ask before taking photos: many places and official buildings are off-limits to images.
Other transport guides
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