Safety in Turkmenistan: Myths and Reality

When it comes to traveling to Turkmenistan, one of the first questions that arises for tourists is: "Is it even safe?". Due to the country's closed nature and a lack of information on the internet, many myths surround Turkmenistan.

Spoiler: Turkmenistan is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. In this article, we will tell you in detail why this is the case and what you should actually be prepared for.

🛡️ Zero Crime Rate (or Close to It)

The crime rate in Turkmenistan, especially street crime, is close to zero. You can safely walk through Ashgabat at night without fearing for your belongings or personal safety. Strict laws and the ubiquitous presence of law enforcement officers do their job. Tourists here are welcome and respected guests, so any crime against a foreigner is an extraordinary event that is strictly suppressed.

👮 Police and Control

On the streets of Ashgabat and other major cities, you will often see police officers. Their task is to maintain order. For a tourist, they pose no threat; on the contrary, you can always turn to them for help, although the language barrier may be a slight obstacle (most speak only Turkmen and Russian).

Important rule: it is forbidden to photograph government buildings, military facilities, and sometimes the police themselves. If you are in doubt whether you can take a shot, it's better to ask politely: "May I take a photo?".

🤝 Hospitality of Local Residents

The Turkmen people are famous for their incredible hospitality. Local residents are always happy to see foreigners; they will gladly give directions (or even lead you to the right place), treat you to tea or fresh fruit at the bazaar. Away from major cities, in villages and settlements, the sincere heartiness of the Turkmen people is felt even more strongly. Here you will not encounter pushy vendors or scammers looking to profit from a tourist.

🏥 Medicine and Hygiene

In tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, perfect cleanliness is maintained. The risk of catching any intestinal infection here is minimal if basic hygiene rules are followed.

• Water: Drinking tap water is not recommended; it's better to buy bottled water.
• Sun: In summer, temperatures can reach extreme values (above +45°C). The main danger at this time is sunstroke. Be sure to wear a head covering, drink plenty of water, and use sunscreen.

🚦 Road Safety

Turkmenistan has excellent roads, especially between major cities. If you are traveling with a certified guide-driver, your safety is guaranteed. Drivers follow the rules, and the quality of the highways allows you to enjoy the views from the window in total comfort.

📝 Conclusion

A trip to Turkmenistan is a step out of the comfort zone in terms of bureaucracy (visas, internet restrictions), but from the standpoint of physical safety, it is one of the calmest places on the planet. Here you can fully relax and immerse yourself in the study of a unique culture and stunning architecture.