Surrounded by the Capsian Sea, the skyline of Azerbaijan is dominated by the Caucasus Mountains. The humongous mountain is home to many districts and settlements which have their own culture, cuisine, traditions, and language. To explore these regions and gain knowledge about their traditions, many tourists opt for hiking in Azerbaijan. These trails hold some breathtaking views of the country which will be captured in your memory forever. Let’s take a look at the list to know more about mountain hiking in Azerbaijan.
Top 6 Places For Hiking In Azerbaijan
We have jotted down a list of hiking trails in Azerbaijan which you must include in your itinerary for an adventurous trip. Before you begin your hiking journey, you must study the Azerbaijan hiking map and have it with you at all times.
1. The Caucasus Mountains
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The Caucasus Mountains are sprawled in Georgia, Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan and are perfect for those who wish to engage in hiking in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan comprises fewer official trails to these mountains as compared to other countries. But this doesn’t stop the adventurous souls to opt for these treks in Azerbaijan. A hike amidst the greenery of Azerbaijan is worth witnessing once in your lifetime. Moreover, due to growing tourism, an ambitious project has been started with the name the ‘Transcaucasian Trail’. This will provide an easy-to-follow trail to hikers and is expected to pass through forgotten villages. Outsiders will be able to witness a different culture of Caucasus. Get the best of Caucasus mountains hiking on these hiking trails
Location: Baku, Azerbaijan
Difficulty Level: Difficult
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2. Gelersen-Görersen Fortress
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Tucked on the coast of the Kish River, the Gelersen-Görersen fortress is an abandoned ruin in Azerbaijan which was constructed in the 8th or 9th century. In the local language, Gelersen-Görersen means ‘will come – will see’. After the collapse of the Safavid dynasty, Nadir Shah Afshar, the Persian ruler, captured the fortress. When hiking in Azerbaijan, do not forget to add this on your list!
If you want to explore the untrodden paths, then you must include this hike in your itinerary. On the way, you will get to see a slate mine which is situated on the Kish River. A walk through the unkempt greenery might rejuvenate your soul if you like to discover new places on your own. After reaching the place, you will witness how huge this fortress was and what it has dismantled into. Do not forget to enjoy the breathtaking view of the river and valley from the top. The place might intrigue you to dig up the history of this fortress. Know more about the fortress while chatting with the locals.
Location: Sheki City, Azerbaijan
Distance: 4 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
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3. Church Of Kish
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If you want to explore more, then you can continue the trail from the Gelersen-Görersen fortress to the Albanian Church of Kish which is said to be started by the Eliseus apostle in the 1st century. While hiking to this place, enjoy the serenity and beauty of the Kish village. The end of the trek has a sight to behold for the hikers.
The Church is like a museum and houses some jaw-dropping historic regalia. The building has deconstructed a little due to natural calamities and thus the structure has been changed over time. You can opt for both trekking or taxi to return, depending on your capacity. The roads are uneven which might cause a bit of problem while going back via a taxi.
Location: Gelersen-Görersen Fortress, Sheki City, Azerbaijan
Distance: 6.5 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
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4. Chiraq Qala Fortress (Chirag Gala)
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Chiraq castle is one of the magnificent towers in Azerbaijan which was built in the 5th century by the Sassanids and for those interested in unfolding the tales should definitely mark this on their list when planning for hiking in Azerbaijan. It played an important part as a defense building from the South until the 18th century. You can reach this castle by hiking via the Dashlig Yanar village and enjoy the mesmerizing views on the way. The remains of the castle are situated on a cliff top at a height of 1200m.
This is not the only sight to behold at the end of this trial. Yes, you heard me right! There is a hidden gem that you can explore after hiking to this castle. You will be able to witness the charm of one of the highest waterfalls in the area, the Laza waterfall. Panoramic views of the country from the up top lets you hear your own heartbeat.
Location: Quba, Azerbaijan
Distance: 6 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
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5. Beshbarmag Mountain
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Beshbarmag literally translates into ‘Five Fingers’ and is a tourist attraction for hiking in Azerbaijan. Beshbarmag Mountain is situated in the Guba region of the country. From there, you can also explore the highest village in Europe, Khinalug which is tucked on the Lesser Caucasus mountains at a height of 2,335 m.
In summer and autumn, the trees on the mountains turn into brown or yellow due to the direct heat of the sun, whereas the mountains are covered with greenery in the winter and spring seasons. Soak in the beauty of the place and later head back to Baku.
Location: Khinalug, Quba, Azerbaijan
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6. Dubrar Dagh
Located at an altitude of 2,000 m in Khizi district, the trail to Dubrar Dagh starts from a dirt track away from the road leading to Altiaghaj. The climb is around seven hundred meters long from the mineral-water collection station. As the hills are clear from trees and woods, the hiking trail beholds amazing views for hikers. Dubrar in the language of Azerbaijan means two, So, you will get to climb two peaks on this hike that means double the adventure and fun. The names of the two peaks are Dubrar and Kelani. Trekking in Azerbaijan on Dubrar Dagh would surely make the trip worthwhile.
Location: Khizi, Azerbaijan
Distance: 15 km
Difficulty Level: Medium-Hard
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If you like to gain in-depth knowledge about a country and its culture, then Azerbaijan is just the place for you. The ‘Land of Fire’ not only houses ancient temples but also possesses some of the most mesmerizing hiking trails. You can visit the highest settlement in Europe and know more about their culture. Hiking in Azerbaijan will definitely add more visuals to your memory. So, wait no more and plan your sojourn to Azerbaijan at this very hour to witness the charm of this place.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking In Azerbaijan
How many days do you need in Baku?
You need two to three days in Baku to enjoy your visit to the fullest. There are so many things to do and places to visit in this beautiful region that you need a minimum of two days to explore.
How large is Azerbaijan’s salt production?
The estimated amount of salt produces from Azerbaijan’s largest ake, Masazirga, is 1,735 million tons alone.
Is Azerbaijan safe for tourists?
It is safe for tourists apart from the petty crimes that you will find in any country. Understanding their culture would be a wise decision and will save you from little hassles.
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Books, travel, art, music, and dance define Bhawna perfectly. You might find her sitting on a vacant metro platform, engrossed in a book, scribbling something, sipping on some lemon soda or planning an itinerary for her next trip.
