Things To Do
Natural Wonders
Yangykala Canyon
Balkan Region
The Yangykala Canyons ("Fire Fortresses") are a remote, 24-kilometer stretch of vibrant red, white, and yellow limestone cliffs, located 160 km east of Turkmenbashi in northwest Turkmenistan. Formed 5.5 million years ago by the ancient Tethys Sea, these stunning, wind-eroded landscapes resemble colorful, demonic layer cakes or colossal frozen waves, making them a breathtaking, rarely visited natural wonder where seashells can still be found on the ground today, a reminder of their ancient ocean past.
Best Time to Visit
March-June, September-November
Duration
Full day or overnight recommended
Highlights
Panoramic viewpointsPhotography paradiseGeological wonders
Travel Tips
- •Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip for walking along cliff edges
- •Arrive before sunset for the most spectacular colors
- •Bring plenty of water — there are no shops or facilities in the area
- •A 4x4 vehicle is required to reach the canyon