Turkmenistan - Worth the hassle?
 

Hi all, looking for some input on Turkmenistan

Initially I'd just wanted to go for the Darvaza Gas Crater but due to strict visa regulations, it'll cost me about 1500USD for a 5 day guided tour during which I'd also visit Ashgabat and Mary

Alternatively I could spend the time (and money) in Uzbekistan

Thoughts from those who have been?

https://scontent.fsyd3-1.fna.fbcdn.n...33&oe=592D4332

Is it worth?
 

Turkmenistan is a country closed and hard to reach, and because of that very worth watching. People are opened and hospitable (gov not necessarily).
I was in Turkmenistan and chose the determination in order to oneself there one more time.
However for the 1 500 price USD I could go in 30 days travel from Poland to Turkmenistanu and back on my Toyota so you must answer yourself whether it is worthwhile paying it for 5 days.

I think you need to ask yourself what the value of $1,500 is to you. If it's the sort of money that you make back quickly, then don't worry about it, but if it'll compromise future travel plans then for sure you can get better value travel elsewhere.

I managed to see just about everything I wanted in Turkmenistan on three trips with 5 day transit visas, which together would have cost a lot less then $1,500. If money is tight, try to work with a transit visa.

Thanks for the feedback

Unfortunately a transit visa won't work for me as I'd be entering and exiting both from Uzbekistan