The North Caucasus remains a high risk area. Although the Eastern provinces Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan are officially no longer war zones, they’re not considered safe for tourism.
Ferry from Baku (Azerbaijan) to Aktau (Kazakhstan) There is a cargo ferry by ASCO that leaves when full. For drivers, buy your tickets in the port of Alat and prepare to pay about $220 for
Turkmenistan transit visas aren’t being issued since covid. You can apply for a tourist visa (prices uncertain, on source stated $85), but you’ll have to book a tour and be accompanied by a guide.