Full-Day Darwaza Crater Excursion from Ashgabat
Highlights
Darvaza, Ashgabat
nature, photography, historical
Group Tour
1 Day
Easy
English, Russian
Description
Embark on an unforgettable full-day excursion from Ashgabat to the iconic Darwaza Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell." Experience the vast beauty of the Karakum Desert as you journey through it, stopping at the vibrant Tolkuchka Bazaar to explore local crafts and goods. Arrive at the Darwaza Crater to witness its fiery spectacle at dusk, followed by a delicious BBQ dinner camp-style near the crater.
Itinerary
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Full-Day Darwaza Excursion (From Ashgabat)
09:00 AM - Depart from Ashgabat
Begin your adventure by departing from Ashgabat in a comfortable 4WD vehicle.
First stop: Tolkuchka Bazaar, a vibrant market famous for carpets, local goods, spices, and handmade crafts. Take time to explore and shop for unique souvenirs.
11:00 AM - Drive Through the Karakum Desert
Continue your journey, driving for approximately 4 hours through the Karakum Desert, a vast, stunning expanse of sand dunes.
Make a brief stop at a desert village to learn about the local way of life and gain insight into the unique culture of the region.
1:00 PM - Lunch (Optional)
Enjoy a packed or picnic-style lunch amidst the desert scenery, or stop at a local spot along the way. (Optional depending on timing and preference).
4:30 PM - Arrive at Darwaza Crater (Door to Hell)
Finally, arrive at the Darwaza Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell," a natural gas field that has been burning for decades.
Experience the awe-inspiring sight of the fiery spectacle at dusk or nightfall, as the flames and intense heat rise from the crater, creating a surreal and mesmerizing atmosphere.
6:30 PM - BBQ Dinner Camp-Style
Set up camp near the crater for a BBQ dinner. Enjoy delicious grilled meats and local dishes while enjoying the view of the flames and the desert's eerie tranquility.
8:00 PM - Explore the Crater
After dinner, take some time to walk around the crater's perimeter and capture stunning photos of this extraordinary natural wonder, illuminated by the firelight.
10:00 PM - Return to Ashgabat or Overnight Camping (Optional)
Option 1: For those who prefer to return the same evening, head back to Ashgabat. The return journey will take around 4 hours.
Option 2: For a more immersive experience, choose overnight camping near the crater to enjoy the night sky and additional time at the site (optional).
1:00 AM - Arrival in Ashgabat (or Overnight Stay)
If returning the same night, arrive back in Ashgabat in the early morning hours, concluding the unforgettable adventure.
If staying overnight, enjoy a peaceful desert night under the stars.
End of the Tour
What's Included
What's Excluded
Meeting Point
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.
Price
Adult | |
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1 to 5 | /person |
Child | |
1 to 5 | /person |
This is a group tour |