In the middle of the Karakum Desert, a giant fire pit has been burning for decades. Known as the Darvaza Gas Crater, or the Door to Hell, it is one of the most unusual sights in Central Asia. Flames rise from a crater nearly 70 meters wide, glowing bright against the dark desert night. It is remote, dramatic, and strangely beautiful.
Travelers who make the journey often say it feels like standing on the edge of another world. You smell the sulfur, hear the roar of the fire, and feel the heat on your face. In this guide, you will learn the history of the crater, how to get there, and what to expect if you visit.
What Is the Darvaza Gas Crater
The Darvaza Gas Crater is a man-made accident. In 1971, Soviet geologists were drilling for natural gas when the ground collapsed, creating a huge sinkhole. Fearing a release of toxic gas, they set the crater on fire, expecting it to burn out in a few weeks. Instead, it has been burning ever since.
The result is a massive pit of fire that has become Turkmenistan’s most famous landmark. Scientists still study the site, and it continues to draw curious travelers despite its remote location.
How to Get There
The crater is located about 260 kilometers north of Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. It sits in the Karakum Desert, with nothing around but sand and scrubland.
- By car: The drive from Ashgabat takes about four hours. The final stretch is across desert tracks, so a 4×4 vehicle is necessary.
- Tours: Most travelers join organized tours from Ashgabat, which include transport, camping gear, and meals. Independent travel is possible but challenging without local contacts.
- Public transport: There is no direct public transport to the crater. The nearest village is Darvaza, but from there you need a jeep or driver to cover the last 10 kilometers.
When to Visit
The crater can be seen year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons.
- Summer: Extremely hot during the day, often over 40°C. Visiting at night is more comfortable.
- Autumn and spring: The best seasons, with milder temperatures.
- Winter: Cold and sometimes snowy, but the fire creates a striking contrast.
Most people arrive in the late afternoon, stay for sunset, and camp overnight to see the crater after dark.
What to Expect
Arriving at the crater, you first notice the heat and the sound of the fire. Flames dance across the pit, with some areas glowing brighter than others. At night, the crater lights up the desert like a giant torch.
There are no safety rails or fences around the edge, so visitors must be careful. The ground near the crater is solid but crumbly in places. Staying back a few meters is wise.
Camping is the usual way to experience the site. Tour operators set up tents nearby, and many provide traditional meals cooked over an open fire. Watching the crater while sitting under the desert stars is the highlight for most visitors.
Other Nearby Sights
While the Darvaza Gas Crater is the main draw, there are two smaller craters in the area.
- A mud crater with bubbling gas vents
- A water-filled crater that sometimes has flames around the edges
These are less dramatic but show the variety of natural gas phenomena in the region.
Costs and Permits
Turkmenistan has strict visa rules. Most visitors need a visa arranged in advance, often with a letter of invitation from a tour company. The crater itself does not require a special permit, but most tours include the cost in their package.
- Guided tours: Expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a one- or two-day trip from Ashgabat, including food and camping.
- Independent drivers: Negotiating directly may be cheaper but requires speaking Russian or Turkmen.
Tips for Visiting
- Bring warm clothes if camping. Nights in the desert can be chilly, even in summer.
- Wear sturdy shoes. The ground is uneven and rocky near the crater.
- Carry plenty of water, especially if traveling in summer.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp for moving around camp at night.
- Do not get too close to the edge, both for safety and to avoid breathing in concentrated fumes.
Photography
The crater is most photogenic at sunset and after dark. The flames glow brightest against the night sky, and long-exposure photos capture the fire’s movement. A tripod is useful. During the day, the scale of the crater is clearer, but the fire is less striking.
Why It Matters
The Darvaza Gas Crater is more than just a spectacle. It is also a reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment. Created by accident, it has burned for more than 50 years, releasing gas continuously. For Turkmenistan, it has become both a symbol of natural resources and a tourist attraction.
In 2010, the country’s president suggested closing the crater, but it remains open, partly because of its popularity with visitors. Scientists also continue to study the site for insights into methane-consuming microbes that could have implications for climate research.
Combining with Other Travel
Turkmenistan is not an easy country to visit, but those who do often combine the Darvaza Gas Crater with other highlights.
- Ashgabat: A surreal capital city filled with white marble buildings and grand monuments.
- Konye-Urgench: Ancient ruins near the Uzbek border, once part of the Silk Road.
- Merv: A UNESCO-listed ancient city with impressive archaeological remains.
Final Thoughts
The Darvaza Gas Crater is one of the most unusual travel experiences in the world. It is remote, inconvenient, and requires planning, but it leaves a lasting impression. Standing at the edge of a pit of fire in the middle of a silent desert is unforgettable.
For travelers who enjoy unique destinations, this is worth the effort. It is not a place for comfort, but for adventure and perspective. Seeing the Door to Hell in person gives you a story that very few people can share, and it captures the raw, unpredictable side of travel in Central Asia.
