Dagestan, officially known as the Republic of Dagestan, is a federal subject of the Russian Federation. Dagestan is located in the North Caucasus and is part of the North Caucasian Federal District, one of eight federal districts of the Russian Federation.
The republics share its borders with Stavropol Krai to the northwest, and the republics of Chechnya and Kalmykia to the west and north. The southern border is shared with the former Soviet republics of Azerbaijan and Georgia. The eastern border is along the Caspian Sea.
Dagestan’s largest and capital city is Makhachkala. Other major cities include Derbent, Kizlyar, Izberbash, Kaspiysk, and Buynaksk.
Geography of the Republic of Dagestan
Dagestan means “Land of the Mountains” in Persian or Turkish, which clearly reflects its geography. The republic is located in the North Caucasus Mountains in the southernmost part of the Russian Federation. Mount Bazarduzu, the highest peak, is 4470 m. Most of the republic is mountainous.
The major rivers include Sulak, Samur, Terek, and Andi Koisu which all flow into the Caspian Sea, the world’s largest lake.
Administrative and municipal divisions of Dagestan
Dagestan is divided into 41 districts and 10 cities which are governed by local administrations and are accountable for regional services and governance.
Notable districts are Gunibsky, Derbentsky, Akhvakhsky, Khasavyurtovsky, and Babayurtovsky. The 10 cities are, Makhachkala, Derbent, Kaspiysk, Khasavyurt, Buynaksk, Izberbash, Kizilyurt, Kizlar, Dagestanskiye Ogni and Yuzhno-Sukhokumsk.
The list below will focus on the cities and districts our group tours will visit in Dagestan.
Makhachkala
The largest and capital city of Dagestan, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural centre of the Republic. The city is located on the Caspian Sea with a population of over 1 million. The residents are ethnically diverse which reflects its universities, theatres, and major industries.
Although famous for its beautiful mosques, cuisines, and hospitality, many associate the city with the mixed martial arts fighter Islam Makhachev.
Derbent
Located on the Caspian Sea, Derbent is regarded as the second most important city in Dagestan. With a population of 120,000, it’s considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the oldest city in Russia.
Derbent is renowned for its medieval fortress, particularly Naryn-Kala which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city has links to Alexander the Great, particularly the legendary Gates of Alexander.
Gunibsky District
With administrative centre being located in Gunib, surrounded by beautiful mountains. The district is famous for its picturesque scenery and rural settlements. Our tours will visit Sogratl anandich will focus on the cultural heritage of the towns and villages.
Akushinsky District
The district is located in the southern central part of the republic with Akusha being the administrative center. The district is divided into a further 13 Selsoviet. It is famous for its traditional heritage, history, and natural beauty. The district is renowned for its Dagestan’s highland communities. Our tour will visit Balkhar, located 1,672 meters above sea level.
Untsukulsky District
Located in the heart of the district, with Untsukul being the administrative center. The geography of the district is mountainous with rugged terrain, valleys, and steep cliffs. The population mostly identifies with Avars, considered one of the largest ethnic groups in Dagestan.
The district is known for its traditional wooden crafts, purchases often support the local community and make a nice gift, which are highly sought after internationally. Our tour will visit Gimry, where Ghazi Muhammad and Imam Shamil were born.
Tours to Dagestan
Although we don’t openly advertise certain parts of our itinerary for our North Caucasus tours, we do take a detour into Dagestan and visit several small towns and villages. Why not join us in this very un-touristy region and let us deal with the complex logistics.
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