Darvaza

Discover the incredible Darvaza Gas Crater, known globally as the 'Door to Hell', 'Gate to Hell', 'Crater of Fire', and 'Darvaza' or 'Derweze' Crater. Take captivating photos and videos of this fiery natural spectacle, nestled within the desolate expanses of the Karakum desert, 266km north of Ashgabat city. In 1971, mesmerizing sight of the Darvaza Gas Crater was unintentionally created by Soviet geologists. Situated near the quaint village of Darvaza (Derweze), meaning 'gate' in Turkmen, they accidentally pierced a cavern filled with natural gas. An unfortunate accident led to equipment falling into a newly formed cavernous hole, from which gas began to escape. With concerns about the potential release of poisonous gases, the team decided to ignite the gas. The expectation was the fire would extinguish after consuming the available fuel within a few days, but surprisingly, the fire still burns today. In 2004, safety concerns prompted Turkmenistan's President, Gurbanguly Berdimukhamedov, to relocate the residents of Darvaza village. Despite the unanswered question of how long the gas supplies will last or if the hole will eventually close, this extraordinary natural gas fire has become a compelling Turkmenistan attraction, captivating tourists every year. Visiting Darvaza Gas Crater is a unique experience. During the day, the Crater may seem like a simple hole in the ground. As you approach, however, the spectacle becomes apparent - thousands of fire pieces flicker within the 70-meter-wide crater, as escaping gas continues to fuel the flames, intensifying the heat. We recommend evening tours to savor the stunning sunset view, highlighting the vivid flames of the Crater. Other nearby holes, including one filled with a striking turquoise liquid, are also worth a daytime visit. Please be cautious near these crumbling edges and be prepared for the high temperature and natural gas odor. Unlike many other global attractions, the Darvaza Gas Crater stands out for its tranquillity and simplicity. This secluded attraction doesn't feature traditional tourist amenities such as parking lots, hotels, or souvenir shops - instead, you'll find a scattering of tents and yurt camps. The only available dining option is the yurt camp constructed close to the Darvaza crater. For basic necessities, you might attempt to shop at the village of Yerbent, located 90 km south. However, don't rely on good fortune advisable to bring everything you need from Ashgabat before embarking on your journey. Please note, access to the crater requires an off-road vehicle due to the sandy conditions of the last few hundred meters of the journey. Make your visit to Turkmenistan unforgettable by witnessing the awe-inspiring man-made wonder of the Darvaza Gas Crater.