Darvaza Gas Crater: Visit the ‘Door
Oct 05, 2026
This hole in the desert has been on fire since 1971. And it’s finally starting to go out.
In the middle of Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert, there’s a giant crater full of flames. It glows orange all night, roars like a jet engine, and has been burning for more than 50 years. People call it the Door to Hell. If you’ve ever wanted to see it, now is the time.
In 1971, Soviet geologists were drilling for natural gas when the ground underneath collapsed into a huge cavern. Gas started leaking out. To stop it spreading, they set it on fire, expecting it to burn out in a few days.
It never did. Five decades later, it’s still burning.
Interesting detail: there’s no official record of the accident, so parts of the story come from local accounts. But the crater, and the fire, are very real.
Turkmenistan’s state energy company says the flames have dropped by nearly three times. Gas around the crater is being captured through new wells, so less is reaching the fire.
That’s good news for the environment, because burning gas releases emissions. But it also means the Door to Hell may not glow forever. Visitors today still see a big fire, but it’s smaller and calmer than in older photos.
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the most comfortable. Summer days are extremely hot and winter nights are freezing. Whatever the season, arrive before sunset and stay after dark. The glow only really comes alive at night.
Turkmenistan is one of the least visited countries in the world, which is part of the adventure. Visitors usually need a visa arranged with a letter of invitation, normally through a licensed tour agency. Most trips include a driver and guide.
From Ashgabat, the drive takes around 4 hours. The last part goes off-road across sand, so you’ll need a 4×4.
The classic experience is an overnight desert camp. Tour companies set up tents or yurts a safe distance away, cook dinner over a fire, and let you walk up to the rim after dark.
Standing at the edge, you feel the heat on your face and hear the low roar of gas burning. Above you, with no city lights for miles, the stars are incredible.
Combine Darvaza with Ashgabat’s white marble city, the ancient Silk Road city of Merv (a UNESCO site), or Kunya-Urgench in the north. Turkmenistan is full of surprises for travellers who like places few people have seen.
Why was the Darvaza crater set on fire? A lightning strike, to burn off dangerous gas, a volcano, or for a film? Answer on my post at @explor_shan.
Then try the AI prompt challenge and create your own night at the Door to Hell.
Is the Darvaza crater still burning in 2026?
Yes, but the flames are noticeably smaller than they used to be.
Can I visit on my own?
In practice, most visitors go with a licensed agency, which also helps with the visa.
Is it safe?
Yes, if you keep your distance from the edge and follow your guide.
Would you sleep next to it? Save this before the fire goes out, and tag your adventure buddy.
Explore with me every day. Follow @explor_shan on Instagram for the daily challenge, and comment EXPLORE on any post to get the guide in your DMs.
