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🌎  Turkmenistan 🇹🇲

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4.3
(422)

📍  Darvaza Gas Crater - "Door to Hell"

✈️  Ashgabat International Airport (ASB)

🚗  277.7 KM

⏱️  4 hours, 45 minutes

The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell," is a fiery natural gas field that collapsed into a cavern in Turkmenistan. It has been burning continuously since 1971, creating a dramatic spectacle. Accessibility is limited due to its remote desert location, requiring a 4x4 vehicle. Solo visits are possible but not recommended due to the harsh environment; guided tours are preferable for safety and logistics. There are no official seasonal restrictions, but the extreme desert heat in summer can be challenging. The cost varies depending on the tour operator, but expect to pay for transportation, guide services, and potentially camping fees. A typical visit lasts a few hours to a full day, often including an overnight camping experience to witness the crater's glow at night. Be prepared for basic or non-existent facilities.