West of the city of Makhachkala in the Russian region of Dagestan is one of the most spectacular – and deepest – canyons in the world. Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the North Caucasus, Sulak Canyon is, in fact, 60 meters deeper than its more famous Arizona, USA equivalent.
However, there is far more than just sheer size that makes it special. The gorgeous turquoise of the Sulak River that flows through it offers irresistible contrast with the steep and foreboding cliffs surrounding it, and the result is breathtakingly beautiful.
Visiting Sulak Canyon is not for the fainthearted. Those venturing near the cliffs will find it absent of handrails, for example, while strong winds can make for a particularly precarious trip.
A more gentile option is to take one of the organized boat trips, where you will be able to take in the magnificent surroundings from a depth of 1920 meters, quietly awestruck by one of the country’s most beautiful natural attractions.