Turkmenistan 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Darwaza gas crater
Border Crossing & First Meal in Turkmenistan
After the border crossing adventure, we were relieved to finally sit in a modern, air-conditioned sedan with our guide and driver, ready for lunch.
Our first stop was in Dashoguz, where we ate at a hotel restaurant with no menu—just a few available dishes to choose from. I ordered chicken and was surprised to be served a whole chicken, neck and all! Aesthetics aside, it was absolutely delicious and could have easily fed a small family. Even better, it only cost $4–$5.
Journey to Darwaza Crater
With full bellies, we set off on the four-hour drive to the Darwaza Gas Crater. The journey was rough but stunning, with vast desert landscapes stretching as far as the eye could see. Along the way, we saw countless camels and baby camels casually hanging out by the roadside, making the drive even more memorable.
Arriving at the Campsite
In the late afternoon, we arrived at the Darwaza crater campsite, operated by Owadan Tourism (each agency has its own camp). The campsite was recently built and exceeded all expectations—spacious yurts, a large communal area, and even showers (though only with cold water).
After some time to relax, we were served a delicious BBQ dinner and a shot of local Turkmen vodka. With the sun fully set, it was time to see the famous "Gates to Hell."
Visiting the Crater at Night
The Darwaza Gas Crater was just a five-minute walk from our campsite. Even before reaching it, we could see the red glow in the sky, a surreal sight in the pitch-black desert. While the crater is no longer a hidden gem—many tourists and cars were gathered around—it was still an absolutely breathtaking experience.
The Story Behind the "Gates to Hell"
Back in 1971, Soviet engineers accidentally drilled into an underground gas-filled cavern, causing the ground to collapse. To prevent the spread of dangerous gases, they set it on fire, expecting it to burn out within days. More than 50 years later, it’s still burning.
Initially, the government tried to keep the crater a secret, as it was both an environmental disaster and a result of human error. There were even discussions about extinguishing the fire, but it seems the authorities have accepted its fate as a major tourist attraction.
Despite its eerie history, standing at the edge of the glowing crater, surrounded by darkness, was an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of our trip.