What to see in Dagestan?

How to get there

By plane 

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Dagestan is to take flights to Makhachkala. Flights to Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan, are regularly operated . The flight takes approximately 2.5 hours, and the St. Petersburg — Makhachkala flight takes about 3.5 hours. The plane arrives at Makhachkala Uytash International Airport (MCX).

By train 

An option for romantics. Such a journey will clearly take more time than by plane, but along the way, you can admire nature and villages. It takes approximately 40 hours and 50 hours .

By bus

Intercity buses to Makhachkala regularly depart . The journey is long: 30 hours and about 40 hours .

By car 

Go by car if you are confident in your abilities — the journey is not short: approximately 1,600 km to Makhachkala, and 2,600 km .

When is the best time to go

It's best to choose the time for your trip based on the activities you plan and what you want to see. 

We recommend going in spring. Nature comes alive, plants are in full bloom, there are no crowds of tourists yet, and no exhausting heat. The weather depends on the month: in March-April, the temperature ranges from 10–20 degrees Celsius, and in May, the thermometer can soar up to 30 degrees. Spring is the best time to visit if you plan to go hiking, or visit historical and cultural attractions in Dagestan.

Summer is the peak tourist season, so be warned: there will be many people. This is an ideal time to go to Dagestan if you prefer warm weather, plan to relax at the Caspian Sea resorts, and are not bothered by crowds of tourists (although there are unlikely to be more than in the Krasnodar Krai). 

In autumn, the temperature drops to a pleasant 15–20 degrees, and trees turn vibrant colors — it's incredibly beautiful in the mountains at this time. In September, you might even manage to swim, but in October-November, it's better to dress warmly — go sightseeing during this period.

Although winters in Dagestan are mild, it still gets cool for walks during this season. It's especially cold in the mountains, where temperatures drop below zero. However, at this time, you can visit, say, the Chindirchero ski resort — learn snowboarding, go skiing, or try tubing.

How to prepare for the trip

Many myths circulate about Dagestan: the main one being that it's unsafe here. In reality, everyone is very welcoming to tourists, but remember to respect the local culture and behave modestly. 

Let's provide a brief overview of the region's history and culture. Dagestan is one of the most ethnically diverse places in Russia: over 30 ethnic groups live here, each with its own traditions and characteristics. Most Dagestanis practice Islam, so when visiting local mosques and religious sites, appropriate etiquette should be observed. Specifically regarding clothing: women are not recommended to wear short skirts and low necklines, and men should avoid shorts. Do not behave provocatively in public places, and do not appear intoxicated on the street. In Dagestan, it is not customary to openly express romantic feelings (i.e., kissing and hugging in public). 

The region has both sea and mountains, with differing climates. Therefore, be sure to check the weather forecast and prepare appropriate gear to avoid any mishaps. 

A small note on booking accommodation. It's better to rent apartments in advance, as the demand for tours to Dagestan has begun to grow exponentially. Cozy and comfortable places may simply not be enough. 

Main attractions of Dagestan 

Makhachkala

Our list of what to see in Dagestan begins with the capital: if you're not traveling independently to the republic, you'll definitely end up there. Visit the central beach, explore the National Museum, and admire the city panorama from the Tarki-Tau observation deck.

Derbent

If you're wondering what to see in Dagestan in three days, head to Derbent. It is one of the oldest cities in Russia and the world, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Derbent stands on the shores of the Caspian Sea, so beautiful views are guaranteed.

Derbent is an ancient city, and the attractions awaiting you are fitting: the houses of the Old City, the 6th-century Persian fortress Naryn-Kala, and the Juma Mosque, built in the 8th century, the oldest in the former USSR.

Sulak Canyon

One of the deepest (1,920 meters!) and most picturesque canyons in Russia, located on the Sulak River. Here you can enjoy majestic landscapes and engage in active recreation — rafting or rock climbing. Although extreme sports are not necessary if you want to see the sheer cliffs from below — pleasure boats also operate on the Sulak.

Gunib village

This picturesque aul (mountain village) is located at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, surrounded by mountains. The place is so amazing that poets and artists have praised it in their works: writer Rasul Gamzatov called it "the living beauty of Dagestan," and Aivazovsky depicted its local beauty in his work "Aul Gunib in Dagestan."

Waterfalls on the Khunzakh Plateau

Tobot is one of the highest waterfalls in Dagestan and the North Caucasus, at 75 meters. The flow is not always turbulent — it's best to visit the plateau in May, during the snowmelt. At this time, the Tobot River, which forms the waterfall, is at its fullest. On the other side of it is another waterfall — Itlyatlyar. The recommendations are the same: go in late spring, just as the ice melts.

Shalbuzdag Peak

The name of the peak translates from the Lezgin language as "mountain of God." Shalbuzdag is a sacred peak with a height of 4,142 meters. Pilgrimages to holy sites here usually take place in July-August — special facilities are equipped along the path for pilgrims. Along the route, there are narrow gorges through which, according to legend, only travelers with a pure soul can pass.

Sarykum Barkhan

An amazing natural monument just 18 km from Makhachkala — in just half an hour's drive from the regional capital, you can teleport to a desert. Sarykum is a huge sand dune, the second largest in the world. Its length is 12 km, width is 4 km, and height is 252 meters. Sarykum is far from a lifeless desert: 350 local plant species and nearly 200 birds are listed in the Red Book. In summer, the sand here heats up to 60 degrees Celsius but cools down just as quickly.

The place is truly remarkable: many legends and tales explain how this large sand dune appeared in a clayey area. According to one version, the dune emerged from a great love story. Two brothers loved a girl who lived in a house surrounded by water. She promised to give her heart to whoever would dry up the water — one of the brothers cut and collapsed rocks, while the other carried sea sand to the lake but scattered it, and the sand turned into a mountain.

Karadakh Gorge

A gorge 500 meters long and 5 km wide, surrounded by 170-meter high walls. The sun barely penetrates here: only a thin strip of sky is visible above. This place is definitely not for claustrophobes: when you are inside, you get the feeling that the walls are about to close in.

Troll's Tongue

This is what Dagestanis call Maiden Rock — a rock outcrop where people often come to get an adrenaline rush and take breathtaking photos. By the way, Troll's Tongue is very close to the abandoned villages of Old Goor and Old Kakhib — their history is also stirring: once, residents left for another place because the lands were cursed.

Ghost Aul Gamsutl

Another unusual idea of what to visit in Dagestan. The architecture here resembles Peru's Machu Picchu. Once, life was bustling in the aul, but over time, people began to leave for work elsewhere. Thus, the village became deserted. The last (and at that time, only) resident died in 2015, and the aul gained fame as a mysterious tourist spot.

Lake Kezenoy-Am 

A mountain lake on the border of Dagestan and Chechnya. You can't swim here — the water temperature barely reaches 15 degrees Celsius, even on the hottest days. So come here to admire the breathtaking landscapes — and there are plenty of those near the emerald-colored lake.

Transport in Dagestan

The most convenient way to travel between locations is by car. This is the best option if you prefer freedom of movement and are prepared for not-so-smooth roads. You can rent a car upon arrival in Makhachkala for the entire duration of your trip. 

In the mountainous regions of Dagestan, roads can be winding and narrow — we recommend driving in such places only for experienced drivers. Caution comes first! In some cases, especially if you are going deep into the mountains, you will have to use the services of local drivers or switch to another mode of transport: for example, a horse, to reach attractions hidden in the mountains.

If you don't drive, buses and trains are at your service. You can easily travel between cities on them: just a couple of hours, and you'll teleport from Makhachkala to Derbent. Check the schedule in advance and keep track of time to make sure you catch the right train.

Accommodation in Dagestan

The hotel business in Dagestan is not particularly developed — at least, in the most remote corners, you will definitely have to stay in tents or with locals. But this doesn't mean everything is bad — rather, you'll have to spend time searching, especially during high season when the best options are taken first. 

In large cities like Makhachkala and Derbent, you can find both budget and luxury hotels. Another option is to stay in a guesthouse. These hotels have a homely and cozy atmosphere; they are usually small and family-run, with simple but comfortable rooms.

Hostels are the most affordable accommodation option for budget travelers. In a hostel, you will live in a shared room, but such places usually have common kitchens and lounge areas where you can meet other travelers.

If you are traveling with a large group or family, consider renting an apartment for daily stays.

In the mountainous regions of Dagestan, tourist bases and campsites welcome guests, where you can stay in cabins or tents. Such places usually offer basic amenities and are suitable for those who come to the republic for active recreation.

Food in Dagestan

Local food + Caucasian hospitality = round-the-clock satiety. Below is a list of what you absolutely must try.

Khinkal

A traditional Dagestani dish consisting of pieces of dough, usually boiled in meat broth and served with broth, meat, and sauce. Khinkal is made from lamb, beef, and chicken. The dough is served not only in rectangles but also in rhombuses, balls, and tubes — each hostess gets creative in her own way. Khinkal is traditionally eaten by hand: dipped in sauce, eaten with meat, and washed down with broth.

Kurze

Kurze is a dish similar to dumplings and manti, but of a different shape. They are usually filled with meat, cottage cheese, eggs, or potatoes.

Chudu

Thin flatbreads filled with various fillings: inside there can be pumpkin, potatoes, cheese, or meat. The flatbreads are cooked on a dry pan and served hot.

Khychin

A dish very similar to chudu, borrowed from Balkar cuisine. Khychins are often made in the form of pies and prepared from yeast dough, with potatoes and cheese placed inside.

Shashlik 

Shashlik was not invented in Dagestan, but it is loved here as much as throughout the Caucasus. We recommend lamb, and if you get tired of the classic, try lyulya-kebab.

Urbech

For dessert in Dagestan, try urbech — a paste made from nuts or flax seeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds with added honey.

We hope you have a great time in Dagestan. We wish you the highest mountains and smooth roads on your journey!