How to get from Ashgabat to Darvaza
Ashgabat to Darvaza (the “Door to Hell” gas crater) is best done with a 4×4 and a driver who knows the sand tracks. Your main choices: a guided/chartered 4×4 from Ashgabat (fastest and safest), a DIY 4×4 self-drive (advanced only), or a public transport combo to Darvaza village/roadside plus a local jeep to the crater. Most visitors time their arrival for sunset and stay after dark to see the glow.
At A Glance (Ashgabat to Darvaza)
| Mode | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 🚙 Guided / Private 4×4 (Ashgabat → Darvaza) | ~3.5–4.5h road + 15–25m off-road (each way) | Most travelers; safe & simple |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~US$180–350 per car (day/evening visit; varies by group size) » compare guided options | private car quotes | ||
| 🛻 Self-Drive 4×4 (DIY) | ~3.5–4.5h road + 15–25m off-road (each way) | Experienced off-road drivers |
| 🏷️ Cost: Rental (if available) ~US$60–120/day + fuel; collateral/permits may apply » compare rentals | ||
| 🚌🚕 Intercity Bus/Share Taxi + Local Jeep | ~4.5–7h total (connection-dependent) | Budget travelers with patience |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~US$10–35 total (bus/minivan + arranged 4×4 to crater) | ||
| ⛺ Overnight Camp (Guided) | Leave pm, back next morning | Night photography, unhurried visit |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~US$240–450 per person incl. transport/camp meals (varies by operator) » overnight options | ||
Which Option or Route Should You Choose?
- Fastest & safest: Guided/private 4×4—no guesswork finding the sand track, easier checkpoint logistics, flexible sunset timing.
- Cheapest: Public transport combo—works if you have time, speak some Russian/Turkmen, and can arrange a local jeep near Darvaza.
- Most immersive: Overnight camp—see the crater at night and again at sunrise with fewer people.
- Experienced driver only: Self-drive 4×4—carry recovery gear, know how to drive sand, and download offline maps.
How to Book and Practical Tips
- 4×4 is essential: The last kilometers are sandy tracks. Standard sedans often get stuck—don’t risk it.
- Time it for sunset: Leave Ashgabat mid-afternoon to arrive near dusk; the glow intensifies after dark.
- Bring: Passport (checkpoints), cash, headlamp, scarf for wind, warm layer (nights are cool), 2L water pp, snacks.
- Connectivity: Expect weak signal near the crater; download offline maps.
- Ride-hailing/Drivers: Apps are limited; for an English-language quote use GetTransfer.
- Stays & flights: If you’re overnighting in Ashgabat before/after, compare Ashgabat hotels and check Booking.com Flights for regional connections.
🚙 Option #1 — Guided / Private 4×4 from Ashgabat (Most Popular)
Easiest Safest Flexible timing
- Overview: Hotel pickup in Ashgabat → M37 highway north → turnoff near Darvaza → 4×4 sand track to the crater rim. Stay for sunset/night photos; return the same night or camp.
- How to book (with price): From ~US$180–350 per vehicle for a same-day/evening visit; more if camping and meals included. Compare offers on GetYourGuide or request a fixed private quote via GetTransfer.
- Pros: Local driver knows the track and checkpoints; minimal planning. Cons: Costs more than DIY; availability fluctuates off-season.
Step-by-step: Guided / Private 4×4
- Book your date and confirm pickup (hotel/address in Ashgabat) via GetYourGuide or ask for a private quote on GetTransfer.
- Be ready mid-afternoon with passport, water, and warm clothes; your driver handles fuel and checkpoint stops.
- After ~3.5–4.5 hours, switch to the sand track and reach the rim; keep a safe distance from the edge.
- Return to Ashgabat the same night (late arrival) or continue to camp if included in your booking.
Getting to the main embarking points (Ashgabat pickups)
- Hotel pickup: Most operators collect anywhere in central Ashgabat; confirm your exact meeting time and WhatsApp/phone contact.
- Return drop: Usually back to your hotel; overnight trips return next morning.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🛻 Option #2 — Self-Drive 4×4 (Experienced Drivers Only)
Max freedom Photostops Navigation risk
- Overview: Drive M37 north from Ashgabat ~260–270 km to the Darvaza area, then take a sandy track to the crater. Local knowledge is strongly advised.
- How to book (with price): Limited rentals available; if you find a 4×4, expect ~US$60–120/day plus fuel and a sizable deposit. Browse availability on Booking.com Car Rental; if none appear, consider hiring a driver via GetTransfer.
- Pros: Full control over stops/schedule; sunrise/sunset flexibility. Cons: Sand driving risk, limited roadside assistance, and checkpoints to manage yourself.
Step-by-step: Self-Drive 4×4
- Secure a suitable 4×4 with full-size spare and recovery points; carry extra water and a paper map/offline GPS.
- Depart Ashgabat by early afternoon; follow M37 north, keeping fuel topped up whenever possible.
- Near Darvaza, turn off onto the sand track (downloaded in your offline map) and proceed cautiously to the rim.
- Return the same night or camp (only with proper gear and respect for safety and local rules).
Getting to the main embarking points (Rental depots & M37)
- Pickup/return: Airport or city rental counters (hours vary); bring passport and license.
- Highway access: The M37 is the main paved route north; watch for livestock and unlit stretches at night.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚌🚕 Option #3 — Public Transport to Darvaza Area + Local Jeep (Cheapest)
Budget Adventure Uncertain timing
- Overview: Take an early intercity bus/minivan or shared taxi north toward Darvaza (ask for “Derweze”). From the highway or village, arrange a local 4×4 to the crater and back.
- How to book (with price): Buy tickets at the station or via hotel/guesthouse help; budget ~US$10–20 to reach Darvaza area plus ~US$15–30 for a local jeep roundtrip (negotiable).
- Pros: Lowest cost; meet locals. Cons: Irregular connections; limited English; risk of missing sunset if delayed.
Step-by-step: Public Transport + Local Jeep
- Go early to the Ashgabat bus/shared-taxi area and ask for rides toward Derweze/Darvaza.
- Alight at the junction or Darvaza settlement; negotiate a return price/time with a local 4×4 driver to the crater rim.
- Visit at sunset/night; return to the highway in time to catch onward transport or prearrange a ride back to Ashgabat.
- If transport back is uncertain, plan to camp with a guide or stay with your prearranged driver.
Getting to the main embarking points (City stand & Darvaza junction)
- City departure: Ask your hotel which stand currently serves the M37 northbound routes; hours can change.
- Darvaza area: Small roadside cluster and village; local drivers often wait for crater runs at peak times.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
⛺ Option #4 — Overnight Camp at the Crater (Guided)
Night glow Unhurried Cool nights
- Overview: Leave Ashgabat mid-afternoon with a guide/driver, set up tents or stay in simple yurts near the rim, photograph through the night, and return after sunrise.
- How to book (with price): Packages ~US$240–450 pp including 4×4 transport, camp gear, dinner/breakfast, and park fees. See sample listings on GetYourGuide or request a custom private quote via GetTransfer.
- Pros: Best photos and experience; no rush. Cons: Colder after midnight; simple facilities.
Step-by-step: Overnight Camp
- Reserve a guided overnight that includes tents/yurts and meals (or bring your own sleeping bag for warmth).
- Depart Ashgabat ~14:00–16:00; arrive at the rim for golden hour and set camp.
- Enjoy the crater after dark; keep a safe distance from the edge and watch your footing.
- Catch sunrise, pack up, and drive back to Ashgabat after breakfast.
Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel pickup & crater camp)
- Pickup: Central Ashgabat hotels or agreed meeting spots; confirm driver contacts and vehicle plate.
- Camp area: Simple windbreaks/yurts near the rim; limited amenities—bring headlamp and layers.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
FAQ (Ashgabat to Darvaza)
How far is Darvaza from Ashgabat?
About 260–270 km by the M37 highway plus a sandy track (allow ~4 hours each way without long stops).
Do I really need a 4×4?
Yes for the last sandy kilometers to the rim. Many sedans get stuck before reaching the crater.
Is it safe at the rim?
Keep well back from the edge, avoid loose ground, and use a headlamp after dark. Supervise children closely.
Can I visit in winter or summer?
Yes, but winters are cold at night and summers are very hot mid-day. Spring and autumn have the most pleasant temps.
Are there toilets, water, or shops at the crater?
Facilities are very limited/seasonal. Bring sufficient water, snacks, and warm clothing year-round.
Can I camp on my own?
Guided overnights are strongly recommended for safety and logistics. If self-camping, keep distance from the rim, pack out all trash, and respect local guidance.