About Turkmenbashi
Situated on the Krasnovodsk Gulf, Turkmenbashi is a port city on the shores of the Caspian Sea in Turkmenistan. It is the country’s most important commercial and industrial city. In 1869 the city’s name was changed to a version of the original, Kyzl-Su (Red Water), which was based on the city’s location where the river spilled into the sea, mixing with the soil, and therefore creating a red flow.
The city is the site where the Soviets first entered the country, naming it Krasnovodsk. The city gained independence in 1991 and was renamed Turkmenbashi meaning ‘leader of all Turkmen’. As Turkmenistan’s most important port city, Turkmenbashi has rich oil and gas reserves. The city has become an attractive center for investment in these areas for multinational companies. The free trade zones in the city, created with Russia, offer a significant contribution to the national economy.
In addition to commercial and industrial investments, tourism is very important in the city. Investment in marine tourism is particularly noteworthy. The city has many beaches worth visiting. Other major attractions include the Museum of Regional History, Gate of former Krasnovodsk fort, Natural History Museum, and the Hazar State Natural Reserve. The city receives little rainfall year-round and experiences a desert climate. The Turkmenbashi International Airport is the country’s second largest airport and is located 6.8 km from the city center.
Transportation to Turkmenbashi City Center from Airport
Turkmenbashi Intl. Airport
Buses and minibuses are being used as a means of public transport in Turkmenbashi. While minibuses carry passengers at shorter distances, it is possible to get to the places that are relatively outside the city center with buses. Both transportation vehicles are generally quite crowded and drivers are not sensitive enough about traffic rules. It is not recommended to tourists to use public transport unless you are obliged.
The bus ticket prices are very reasonable. Prices for shared cars vary according to the distance traveled but in general it is cheaper than bus ticket prices. On average, there are between 5 and 7 passengers. You can rent these shared cars for a day or a couple of hours by yourself. It can be a good alternative especially if you are traveling in groups. But if this is not your intention, you should be careful not to be the only passenger, otherwise you may be asked for a higher price on the consideration that you rented it only for yourself.
In Turkmenbashi, you can easily find a taxi at any time. Everyone who is a car owner is in some way taxiing. Anyone may take you to wherever you want and ask for a fee that is reasonable for you. Since there is no standard price tag and taximeter device, it is absolutely necessary to negotiate and agree about the fare in advance. You should not make your payment in advance. Tourists can generally be charged as twice the normal rate. However, because taxis are easy to find, it is the most preferred means of transport in Turkmenbashi, as it is both comfortable and safe compared to public transport, as well as you can have a good bargain and convenient fare. Despite everything, if you will take a taxi, it is recommended that you act with the guidance of someone you know or ask your hotel to arrange a car for you.
Car rental is also an alternative transportation option that you can choose if you stay in Turkmenbashi for a while. There are many car rental companies in the city, most of them domestic. Land vehicles are generally preferred because the roads are neglected and the tourists want to see the desert as well. You must pay attention to the fact that the documents are complete during the leasing process. You should also ensure that all damage has been identified and recorded before the vehicle is delivered.
There is no public transport from Turkmenbashi International Airport to the city center. However, shuttle buses of a private company serving at the airport are closing this gap. You can easily reach Turkmenbashi city center by taking a taxi. Another alternative is to rent a car at the airport.
Shuttle
You can get to the city center by shuttle buses of a private company serving at the airport. You can request help from the information desk at the terminal for information on service times, routes and departure points. Shuttle services can vary in size.
Taxi
Most people who own cars in Turkmenbashi are unregistered taxi drivers so you can easily find a vehicle at the airport exit to take you to the city center or to your hotel. None of these vehicles have a taximeter and the price tag is not fixed. For this reason, you must agree in advance with the driver about the place you will go to and the fare. You have to negotiate as usually tourists are asked for much higher fares.
Car Rental
You can see the car rental offices at Turkmenbashi International Airport. You can rent your car with a driver, but if you want to use it yourself, you should keep in mind traffic jams, strict police checks and bad roads. During the rental process, record any small or large damage and lashes in the car, and make sure that you receive the documents in full.
