You might be surprised to find out the entrance to the underworld is only about 20 feet beneath the ground. Located near Derweze, Turkmenistan, the Gateway to Hell is a fiery crater sitting in the middle of the country’s vast natural gas fields. Soviet engineers originally discovered the site in 1971, but were more interested in possible oil extraction.
© Antonella865 | Dreamstime
Disappointed with nothing but natural gas, the engineers unfortunately caused the ground to collapse underneath their drilling equipment, creating a huge crater measuring 230 feet wide. To prevent the leaking gases from poisoning the nearby towns, the engineers decided to burn it off, setting the crater on fire and expecting it to burn out in just a few weeks. The plan didn’t work, and the fire has been going for the past 45 years.
Since 2009, more than 50,000 people have visited the site, entranced by the heat and roaring flames. The government has been pushing the area as a travel destination, believing it has the potential to be an adventure and eco-tourism hotspot.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Sep 8, 2026Visit Ontario’s First B Corp Certified Winery
If you’re a fan of both wineries and sustainability, you’re likely keeping an eye on how your favorite vineyards put eco-friendly measures at the forefront of their operations — and now, if you live in the general vicinity of Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, (or are planning a nearby trip soon) you’ll have an excellent excuse to visit Stratus Vineyards.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
Slideshow
Sep 8, 20268 Must-Visit Libraries Around the World
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are eight must-visit libraries around the world.
North America
Sep 8, 2026New Upscale Italian Restaurant and Bar Opens in NYC’s West Village
Last month, New York City’s West Village welcomed a new restaurant and bar with some seriously promising dishes and drinks. Floradora is the newest concept from Cody Pruitt and Jacob Cohen, the team also behind Libertine, Chateau Royale and Capitaine.
Sponsored Content
Taiwan: Whatever Your Pleasure
Taiwan’s wealth of offerings ensures travelers find destinations, activities and amenities to suit all interests.
Destinations / North America
Sep 7, 20265 Unique Glamping Getaways to Take Across the South This Autumn
Did you know glamping accounted for 29 percent of all camping experiences in 2025? The elevated camping experience lets you both enjoy the great outdoors with some comforts you don’t get from just sleeping in a tent.
ShareThis