Darvaza Gas Crater

The Darvaza gas crater, known as the "Gates of Hell", lies in the heart of the Karakum Desert, about 260 km north of Ashgabat. The best-known story says that in 1971 a Soviet drilling rig broke into an underground gas cavern and the ground collapsed. Geologists set the escaping gas on fire, expecting it to burn out in a few days. It has been burning ever since.

The crater is about 70 metres wide and 20 metres deep. By day it is a strange sight in the sand. After dark it is unforgettable: the glow can be seen from far away, and standing at the rim you feel the heat on your face.

Highlights:

The burning crater at sunset and at night

Off-road drive across the Karakum dunes

Overnight stay in a yurt or tent camp near the crater

Dinner by the fire under a sky full of stars