Whilst the nearest major city is Balkanabat, the Yangykala Canyons can be reached from the Turkmen capital of Ashgabat (around six or seven hours away), with the preferred method of transportation over the rugged desert terrain being 4X4 vehicles. As well as taking in the impressive views created by the vibrant pink, yellow, orange and red-colored rock formations, other popular activities here include camping and hiking trips.
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The road to the canyons, as well as the route through them can be challenging at times, so the best way to negotiate the trails is in 4X4 vehicles. These come with all the comfort of a normal car, but with all the necessary modifications to take on the rugged landscape – quite an experience when you’re sitting inside taking in the stimulating surroundings.
To come all this way to one of the most stunning parts of Turkmenistan without spending the night would be a missed opportunity, and what better way to do so than by pitching up your tent on one of the plateaus above the canyon and sleeping underneath the stars (after all, you won’t find a hotel anywhere nearby)? Watch the red sun sink low beyond the horizon and wake up to a new day as it rises in the east.
The best way to see the Yangykala Canyons in all their glory is on foot, so pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots for a hike around the rocks. Although impressive in height, most of the hiking trails here don’t involve particularly challenging climbs, so novices can participate just as much as the seasoned hikers.
Although this canyon range rises high into the sky, once you’ve reached the top plateaux you’ll realize that the surrounding terrain is incredibly flat, meaning you can see for miles. This makes for perfect photography opportunities, especially as the sun sets over the western horizon, often illuminating the already bright canyon range in brilliant shades of orange and red.
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The Yangykala Canyons, situated seven hours away from Ashgabat, are amongst the most spectacular of sights - not just in Turkmenistan - but in the whole of Central Asia. This three-day excursion is your chance to see the isolated, atmospheric, and deep flame-colored canyons in all their glory.
Yangikala Canyons, Turkmenistan
The Yangykala Canyon is one of Turkmenistan’s most stunning natural phenomena; incredibly isolated and without a hotel in miles, it would be a shame to come all this way without spending the night. Therefore, the best – and only way to stay here is by pitching a tent and spending the night under the stars in a comfy sleeping bag. The best place to stay is on one of the high ridges above the flame-colored canyons; although it can get a little windy up here, the views of the surrounding landscape are simply awe-inspiring. Watch as the red sun sinks slowly below the horizon in the evening and wake up as it rises over the eastern edge of the rugged desert terrain.
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