Derweze

Travel Guide

Derweze
Photo by Marion MacQueen
Photo by Marion MacQueen
Photo by Hira
Photo by Hira
Photo by Mike Corey
Photo by Mike Corey
Photo by Hira
Photo by Hira

Popular places to visit

Alternatively called Derweze or the door to hell, this crater can be found in the Karakum desert of Turkmenistan, north of Ashgabat. While drilling in 1971, the Soviets tapped into this cavern filled with natural gas. They lit it thinking it would burn itself out in a matter of days. Not so, as you can see! It was mighty hot around the crater's edge, especially when there was a gust of wind. Can you see the people standing near the edge at the back in the middle? That will give you an idea of the size.

Darvaza Flaming Crater

Explore the great outdoors at Darvaza Flaming Crater, a lovely green space in Derweze. Discover the desert landscape while you're in the area.

Darvaza Flaming Crater