Safety Information for Turkmenistan: Areas Near the Border Are Extremely Dangerous!

Turkmenistan is a Central Asian country facing the Caspian Sea. It is located between Uzbekistan and Iran, with its capital in Ashgabat. Its land area is larger than Japan’s, but its population is only around 5 million.
Since it lies along the ancient Silk Road, Turkmenistan has several ruins that have become popular tourist attractions. Here, we will explain the safety information you should be aware of when traveling in Turkmenistan.

Regions Near Afghanistan Are Dangerous

Large-scale terrorism or serious violent crimes rarely occur inside Turkmenistan. However, its southeastern neighbor, Afghanistan, continues to suffer from ongoing conflict. Because of this, serious incidents may occur in the border areas between Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.
When sightseeing in Turkmenistan, it is best to avoid areas near the southeastern border close to Afghanistan. Be sure to always obtain the latest safety information when traveling.

Avoid Going to Crowded Places

In Turkmenistan, income inequality has become a social issue. This means that many people struggle to meet their daily needs. As a result, public safety has deteriorated slightly, particularly in urban areas.
Another thing tourists must be especially cautious about is crowded places. When you move around in areas with a large number of people, the risk of falling victim to pickpocketing increases. If you are touring the capital, Ashgabat, be sure to keep your valuables securely at all times.

◎ Summary

This article has explained the safety situation in Turkmenistan. Because Afghanistan is nearby, extreme caution is required when visiting the southeastern region of the country.
Additionally, in urban areas or other crowded locations, the risk of crime is slightly higher. While it cannot be said that Turkmenistan is particularly dangerous overall, it is important to take basic safety precautions.