About this experience
Embark on a journey along one of the most vivid routes in the Mountainous Dagestan. Visit the homeland of legendary imams and explore the monument of mountain defense architecture. Discover the beauty of the turquoise reservoir and feel the power of a natural rock wonder. Immerse yourself in the frozen history of the abandoned village above the clouds. And enjoy a heartfelt meal as a guest of an Avar family.
What to Expect
The Ancestral village of Dagestan's first imams
We will meet early in the morning and head from Kaspiysk to Himry. You will drive through Russia's longest road tunnel, the Himry Tunnel, and reach a historical site in the Unzukul District—the ancestral village of two legendary Dagestani imams, Gazimagomed and Shamil. You will briefly learn about the history of the capital of the Islamic state of Imamate that existed in the territories of Dagestan and Chechnya in the mid-19th century. And you will understand the role played by the Himry defensive tower in the region's past.
The Irganai Hydroelectric Power Station and Reservoir
Located on the Avrakh Koisu River near the village of Himry, the Irganai Reservoir is the second most powerful hydroelectric station in Dagestan and the entire North Caucasus. The reservoir, formed during the dam construction, attracts guests with picturesque panoramas. However, behind this beauty lies a tragedy when local gardens, houses, and cemeteries were flooded overnight—I will tell you this story during our meeting.
The Saltinsky Waterfall
You will find yourself near a breathtaking natural monument—the only underground waterfall in Dagestan. The mountain river Saltinka flows through a canyon and suddenly plunges into the ground to a depth of 20 meters. The underground waterfall is located near the village of Salta in the Gunib District. We will reach it through a narrow (2–5 meters) gorge, walking through the water for about 30 meters.
Andalal, Gunib Reservoir, and Lunch in Cho Village
Then I will take you over the pass to the Gunib Hydroelectric Station, talk about the historical-architectural complex of Andalal, and explain the symbolism of the Red Bridge. The experience will be complemented by a climb to the tower, from which you will enjoy a wonderful view of the dam and the Gunib Reservoir on the Kara Koisu River. And afterward, I will suggest stopping in Cho village for lunch as guests of an Avar family. You will taste homemade dishes of the national cuisine and spend time in the company of hospitable locals.
"At the Foot of the Han Fortress" - The Ghost Village of Gamsutl
To conclude, you will visit a village that has recently gained the nickname "Dagestan's Machu Picchu." The village is located high in the mountains, at an altitude of 1500 meters above sea level, and its last inhabitant passed away in 2015. By walking or riding horses, you will stroll through deserted streets, explore traditional residential houses, and learn about the place's history rooted in deep antiquity. From the highest point, you will witness incredible mountain landscapes and have a view of the entire Gamsutl. We will descend by a different route.
Organizational Details
Transfer and Expenses
- The tour will take place in my comfortable off-road vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
- Transfer is included in the price, with an option for up to 4 people plus two children under 10 years (+1000 rubles/child)—the car has a third row of seats, but seating there can only be with raised knees or bent legs.
- Lunch in Cho village (600 rubles/person) and optional additional services (horseback ride to Gamsutl) are paid separately
Trip Parameters
- Departure between 07:00-08:00 in the morning, approximate arrival between 19:30-20:30
- Total mileage will be approximately 370 km
- The route is long and packed with physical activities, including a mountain ascent at the end of the trip. Please assess your strength accordingly.
