Sand Barkhan, Dagestan Chudu and Restaurant-Museum

Most likely you will arrive to Makhachkala by plane, in which case the day will start with renting a car. But if you are here by your own car, go to get acquainted with Dagestan without any delay.

The Sarykum sand dune is one of nature's wonders. A place of dazzling beauty, a bright yellow piece of desert among the green Dagestan hills. You can reach the barkhan by any car, the last 5 km of the route will be on an unpaved road but it is well groomed. Leave your car at the parking lot and go to climb the barkhan by the comfortable planking stairs. Firstly, there may be snakes in the sand and secondly, there is a fine. At the top you can take mind-blowing photos.

For lunch go back to Makhachkala - the choice of establishments here is greater than outside the city. There are interesting and very authentic ones. The owners of this ethno-café, for example, spent five years collecting recipes of ancient dishes in the mountain villages. Here you can try national chudu pies, old low-alcohol bouzou, mountain soup and many other delicacies.

You probably won't be allowed inside - it's not a tourist attraction, but an active mosque for Muslim believers. But it makes a strong impression from the outside as well.

Park near the Central Square, which resembles a Soviet postcard, and go for a walk along Rasul Gamzatov Avenue, the main walking street in Makhachkala.

If you're interested in the history of the city, you can stop by this museum.

Descend towards the Caspian Sea through Suleiman Stalsky Boulevard and the City Garden. Here the new renovated embankment and the city beach of Makhachkala begins.

As a beach it's not too interesting, but for sitting with a view of the sea, listening to the waves and soaking your feet, it's perfect.

The lighthouse itself is closed by a fence, but on the way to it you will see the real old Makhachkala and return to your car, completing the circular route around the capital of Dagestan.

Extremely authentic and interesting place with unique exhibits, ancient national costumes and decorations, real Caucasian hospitality and, of course, Dagestan cuisine based on ancestors' recipes. We recommend booking a table in advance.

After a long walk, falling asleep to the sound of the sea is the perfect ending to your first day.