Traveling independently, solo, by yourself, on your own, or without a tour in Turkmenistan is unequivocally impossible under the current laws and regulations. Unlike many countries, Turkmenistan strictly prohibits unsupervised travel by foreign visitors. To enter and move within the country legally, tourists must be part of an organized tour and accompanied at all times by a guide (they don’t need to be physically with you in Ashgabat, but they will still be responsible for you). Any claims or online stories of traveling independently are misleading – travellers are always on a tour, even if they market their trip as solo travel. They might be on a private tour as opposed to a group tour, but they are definitely on a tour.
Why Independent Travel Is Not Allowed
Turkmenistan’s official policy requires every foreign visitor to obtain a Letter of Invitation. This letter contains a detailed, preapproved itinerary that dictates your daily movements. Without this, you cannot enter Turkmenistan. Additionally, outside of the capital of Ashgabat, travellers must be accompanied by a guide on all excursions. Roaming freely, exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, or making spontaneous changes to plans are not permitted.
In Ashgabat, walking around or exploring by yourself is allowed, however, contrary to what you read online, you are not independent in Ashgabat. There will still be someone who is responsible for you and should you break any laws or rules, they will find out immediately. This tight control reflects the country’s highly regulated approach to tourism and security, making independent travel by yourself or on your own legally unattainable
What About Recent Visa Changes?
In 2025, Turkmenistan announced an upcoming e-visa system. Under the proposed e-visa system, you will still be required to be on a tour. In order to obtain your visa online, you will still need to have an approved Letter of Invitation. It essentially means that the current system is remaining in place, however, you will need to pay more in advance, rather than paying your visa fee on arrival. However, this reform has not yet been implemented, and even after introduction, it will not negate the need for pre-approval of itineraries or government oversight during travel.
In practice, all norms requiring a licensed tour operator's involvement and a guided itinerary will remain intact. Visitors still cannot bypass official supervision or travel solo independently. The e-visa will merely make applying for your visa more complicated in what remains a tightly controlled travel process.
How to Organize a Tour in Turkmenistan
Since independent travel is impossible, the only practical way to explore Turkmenistan is to arrange a tour. Here’s how:
1. Choose a Tour Operator: Reputable agencies, (such as Saiga Tours of course!) specialize in organizing private or group tours tailored to your preferences and schedule. They provide the necessary Letter of Invitation and assistance with visa formalities.
2. Plan Your Itinerary: Work closely with your tour operator to develop a detailed day-by-day itinerary that fits your interests and complies with government regulations.
3. Visa and LOI Application: Your operator applies for the LOI and helps you secure your visa based on the approved itinerary. Processing can take several weeks, and approval is not guaranteed, so plan ahead.
4. Travel with a Guide: Upon arrival, you will be accompanied by an approved guide who will ensure your movements comply with your itinerary.
This organized structure is essential and non-negotiable. No travel hacks or secret loopholes enable true independent travel in Turkmenistan.
To travel independently in Turkmenistan is a myth. Despite any buzz around visa reforms, the country remains one of the most strictly regulated travel destinations. Visitors must accept that travel by yourself, solo travel, or traveling on your own only exists within the framework of an organized tour with official guides. Recognizing this reality upfront ensures a smooth visa process and a legitimate, enriching experience in Turkmenistan’s mysterious landscapes and heritage.
Embrace the requirement to tour with a guide and use trusted operators like Saiga Tours to craft your journey rather than seeking impossible routes to solo exploration.
