Flights & Logistics
Getting to and around the Stans is a unique experience in itself.
This section covers everything from flight routes and long layovers in Dubai or Istanbul, to deviation requests and post-tour extensions.
For more information on luggage, packing lists, and the Yurt stay, please see 'Prepare for Your Journey'.
Flights and getting there:
Flights and stopovers
Most travellers reach Ashgabat via Dubai or Istanbul. Dubai usually offers more frequent connections, while Istanbul may provide more flexibility if you’re planning post-tour extensions.
Because flights into Ashgabat are very limited, a long transit in Dubai or Istanbul is unavoidable. Flights typically arrive in Ashgabat in the very early hours of the morning (around 3:00am). To make this easier, your package already includes early hotel check-in, so you can head straight to your room to rest on arrival.
If your package includes airfares, we’ll also arrange a complimentary airport hotel room during your transit for your comfort.
Flight deviation requests
If you've booked your flights through us, and would you like to adjust your flights—perhaps extend your stay, upgrade your cabin, or fly in or out of a different airport—read on.
You’re welcome to submit a request using our Flight Preference Form.
We’ll always do our best to accommodate your preferences. However, please note that availability can be limited due to the restricted number of flights into Turkmenistan.
Trip extensions
There is very little flexibility in Turkmenistan when it comes to visas and Letters of Invitation. This means it’s usually not possible to secure more than one pre-tour night in Ashgabat. We recommend trying to arrive a night early if you can, though this may not be available on every departure.
At the end of the tour, however, extending your stay is much easier. While there are restrictions in Turkmenistan, there are far fewer limitations in Kazakhstan. Extending in Almaty is highly recommended — it’s a vibrant, scenic city and a wonderful place to relax after your Five Stans journey.
Pre-tour accommodation and arrival information:
Your journey through the Five Stans begins long before the sightseeing starts. This section covers everything you need to know about getting there and settling in—from where your flights will land and finish, to how border crossings work, what to expect on arrival in Ashgabat, and the details of your pre-tour accommodation. With these essentials in hand, you’ll arrive prepared, confident, and ready to begin your adventure.
Arrival and departure points
Arriving in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Your journey begins in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Most travellers arrive via Dubai or Istanbul, and because flights into Ashgabat are limited, a longer transit in one of these cities is unavoidable.
Flights typically land in the very early hours of the morning (around 3:00am). To make this easier, your package already includes early hotel check-in, so you’ll be able to head straight to your room and rest on arrival. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your starting hotel, with this early arrival night built into your tour package.
Finishing in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Your adventure concludes in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural hub set against a backdrop of beautiful mountains. Departure transfers are included if your flight aligns with the tour dates and has been uploaded to Traveller Hub.
As most flights depart Almaty in the very early hours (around 4:00am) and your final day includes a full sightseeing program, we recommend adding an extra night in Almaty. This way you can enjoy your last day at a relaxed pace, sleep comfortably, and head to the airport refreshed for your onward journey.
Border crossings country sequence
Route
- Turkmenistan → enter via Ashgabat
- Overland to Uzbekistan
- Overland to Tajikistan
- Flight to Kyrgyzstan
- Overland to Kazakhstan → finish in Almaty
Your journey will include a mix of private coach travel, one internal flight (Tashkent to Bishkek), and a high-speed train (Bukhara to Samarkand).
What to Expect
Crossing borders in Central Asia is a unique and memorable part of the experience. While we provide the most up-to-date information possible, procedures on the ground can sometimes change or differ from expectations. Fees and processes are not always communicated in advance, and occasionally vary from one crossing to another.
At each border, there will be a short period when you are unescorted, as your local guide does not cross with you. Our team will give you clear instructions, guide you as much as possible, and remain with you up to the point of crossing.
If you’re ever unsure, are asked for unexpected fees, or feel uncomfortable, please speak with your tour leader. Your safety and peace of mind are our priority. We appreciate your patience and flexibility as we navigate these crossings together — it’s all part of the adventure in this fascinating part of the world.
Pre-tour accommodation on arrival
Why this matters
For Turkmenistan, a mandatory requirement of the arrival visa is to be fully escorted at all times, and not having a hotel immediately available is deemed a breach of this condition. This means all pre-tour accommodation and transfers must be booked through our local partner.
What’s already included
Your tour includes one hotel night from 2:00 PM the day before your tour starts. This is designed to cover the common early-morning arrivals (about 1:00–3:00 AM on Day 1) so you’ll be met at the airport, escorted, and able to check in straight away.
- If you arrive before the 2pm check-in, you must have the pre-tour accommodation booked prior to departure. You will not be permitted to wait at the hotel until check-in and must be able to proceed directly to you room.
If you arrive earlier than that window
If your flight arrives in Ashgabat between 2:00 PM two days before the tour and 1:00 PM the day before the tour, you must add one extra pre-tour night when booking.
This extra night includes:
- Airport transfer for your earlier arrival
- The legally required escort from the moment you land until you join the group
Important: Under current Turkmenistan regulations, only one extra pre-tour night is permitted.
Quick examples
- Arrive 2:30 AM on Day 1? Covered by the included night ✅
- Arrive 6:00 PM two days before the tour? You must add one extra night ✅
- Arrive 10:00 AM the day before the tour? Before 1:00 PM → must add one extra night ✅
- Arrive two or more nights early? Not possible — only one extra night is allowed ❌