🌤️ When to go?
Best time to visit Turkmenistan
The best time to visit Turkmenistan for backpacking is during the spring and autumn seasons, specifically from April to May and September to October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 °C (68 to 77 °F). The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40 °C (104 °F), making it less suitable for outdoor activities. Winter, from December to February, can be cold and snowy, especially in the northern regions.
Why visit Turkmenistan in April?
April is the perfect time to visit Turkmenistan because of its pleasant weather. The temperatures are mild, making it comfortable to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and historical sites. Whether you want to visit the ancient city of Merv, the unique Darvaza Gas Crater, or the marble-clad capital city of Ashgabat, the weather in April allows for enjoyable outdoor activities and sightseeing.Additionally, April is the month of Turkmenistan’s annual Turkmen Horse Day, also known as National Turkmen Horse Holiday. This cultural event celebrates the country’s deep connection to the Akhal-Teke horse, a national symbol of Turkmenistan. Visitors can witness traditional horse races, equestrian performances, and other festivities that showcase the importance of these majestic animals in Turkmen culture.
Moreover, April is an ideal time to experience Turkmenistan’s diverse and colorful traditions. From traditional music and dance performances to local festivals and bazaars, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the country. The vibrant atmosphere and the welcoming nature of the Turkmen people make April a great time to engage with the local community and gain insight into their way of life.
Why visit Turkmenistan in May?
May is the perfect time to visit Turkmenistan because the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and historical sites. The spring season brings blooming flowers and greenery, adding a vibrant touch to the already beautiful scenery. In May, visitors can experience the unique cultural events and festivals that take place in Turkmenistan. One of the most notable events is the celebration of Turkmen Carpet Day, which showcases the country’s rich tradition of carpet weaving. This is a great opportunity to witness traditional craftsmanship and immerse oneself in the local culture.
May also offers the chance to witness the famous Akhal-Teke horse festival, where visitors can marvel at the beauty and grace of these magnificent creatures. Additionally, May is a great time to explore the ancient Silk Road cities of Merv and Konye-Urgench, as the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Overall, visiting Turkmenistan in May provides an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique traditions. Whether it’s enjoying the pleasant weather, attending cultural events, or exploring historical sites, May offers a well-rounded experience for travelers.
Why visit Turkmenistan in September?
September is the perfect time to visit Turkmenistan due to its mild and pleasant weather. The scorching heat of the summer months begins to subside, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperatures are cooler, making it an ideal time to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, including the vast Karakum Desert, the unique Darvaza Gas Crater, and the ancient ruins of Merv.During September, Turkmenistan celebrates its Independence Day on September 27th. This national holiday is a great opportunity to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, as it is marked with traditional music, dance, and food festivals. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant celebrations and gain insight into the local customs and traditions.
The autumn season also brings the opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Turkmenistan as the landscapes transition from the golden hues of summer to the vibrant colors of fall. The changing foliage creates a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
Overall, September offers an ideal combination of favorable weather, cultural festivities, and natural beauty, making it a compelling time to visit Turkmenistan.
Why visit Turkmenistan in October?
October is the perfect time to visit Turkmenistan because the weather is mild and comfortable. The scorching heat of the summer months has subsided, making it much more enjoyable to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and historical sites. During October, Turkmenistan celebrates its Independence Day on October 27th. This national holiday is a great opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions, as well as to witness colorful parades, performances, and festivities. It’s a time when the local people come together to celebrate their heritage, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of the nation.
October is also an ideal time to visit the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the ”Door to Hell.” The cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to camp near the crater and witness the mesmerizing sight of the flames illuminating the night sky. Additionally, the autumn months provide great conditions for exploring the ancient Silk Road cities of Merv and Konye-Urgench, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Overall, October offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the best of Turkmenistan, from its cultural celebrations to its natural wonders and historical treasures.
🌤️ Climate in Turkmenistan
In Turkmenistan, a country of Central Asia, the climate is arid continental. Winters are cold in the north and relatively mild in the south, wild summers are very hot and sunny. Being that the country is subject to different air masses, the weather is unstable, and there can be cold spells as well as heatwaves. The wind can be strong and can raise dust storms.Precipitation (rain or snow) is decidedly scarce, as it is almost everywhere lower than 250 millimeters (10 inches) per year, and generally occurs from October to April. Summer is the driest season.
Much of Turkmenistan is occupied by the Karakum Desert, where the temperature in summer can reach as high as 50 °C (122 °F). The coasts of the Caspian Sea are desert as well, but they are milder in winter, while they are a bit less hot but more humid in summer. In the north, in the area which was once occupied by the Aral Sea, we find Lake Sarygamysh, a lake fed by a branch of the Amu Darya River and once part of the same Aral Sea.
In the south, on the border with Iran, we find some mountain ranges, such as Kopet Dag (or Turkmen-Khorasan), from whose slopes hot winds can descend, leading to rapid increases in temperature. Another mountain range, Köýtendag (or Kugitangtau), lies in the east, and reaches its highest point in Mount Aýrybaba, 3,138 meters (10,295 feet) high, which is the highest mountain of the country. On the other hand, no obstacles are found to the north, so cold air masses of Siberian origin can easily reach the country, from April to October, but more likely from November to March.
source: climatestotravel.com
Explore Turkmenistan
Does the weather seem nice in the period you would like to go? Find all the info you need to start your trip, including reasons why to go, general country info and health and safety advice.