Information for overlanders: fuel availability between Makhachkala and Astrakhan
Be aware that soon after Makhachkala and following the Caspian sea towards Astrakhan, there are no fuel stations until Liman (Lukoil station with Euro 5 compliant diesel), a distance of almost 400km. From there it is still 115km to Astrakhan, again without fuel stations.
In 2019 a serious part of the route was under construction with some big detours and no habitation. Be aware of possible substantial head winds that raise fuel consumption. The area is a kind of desertlike steppe, a preview of the landscape in Kazakhstan. As you are traveling in a depression, it can become seriously hot as well.
Silk Road 2019 – Russia (Dagestan, Wolga delta), Kazakhstan SW
Getting a sense of distance immediately after the border crossing into Dagestan
One of the scarce places where you can reach the shores of the Caspian sea. And of course, I swam in it.
The Sarykum with its variable summit of up to 262m is the highest dune in Europe
Room on wheels with a view
A welcome oasis near the heat radiating Sarykum dune
Hidden pitch at the edge of the Wolga delta near Astrakhan
Camping spot close to the Kotyaevka border post before entering Kazakhstan. In the evening, the friendly mayor of the place paid us a short visit to ask if we needed something. But probably, he was just curious.