Darvaza — "The Gates of Hell"

Darvaza — "The Gates of Hell" — is a famous gas crater in the middle of the Karakum Desert, approximately 260–270 km north of Ashgabat. It formed as a result of geological exploration during the Soviet era; escaping natural gas was set on fire in the expectation that it would quickly burn out. However, the flames have been burning for decades. Today, the fire is noticeably weaker than it once was.

How to get there officially? 🚙 From Ashgabat — about a 4-hour drive towards Dashoguz, followed by a stretch through sandy terrain. A proper 4×4 off-road vehicle is required. 🧭 The optimal choice is an organized tour with a driver and guide, especially if you plan to stay overnight in a yurt camp. 📄 Foreign tourists should arrange the trip through a licensed tour operator and verify current visa requirements. Available sources do not explicitly confirm whether a separate official permit is required solely for visiting the crater. 🌌 It is best to arrive around sunset and remain after dark, when the fire is most striking. Approaching the edge of the crater is hazardous.