Baku , Azerbaijan

Guba & Khinalig tour

Active

(189 reviews)

12h - 13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Nestled at an impressive altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level, the remote Khinalug village will be the highlight and final destination of this tour. Here, you’ll not only admire the ancient architecture of the village but also take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The adventure includes an exciting safari through the stunning Gudiolchay Gorge in iconic Soviet-era off-road vehicles, leading to the village of Khinalug. Along the way, you might spot majestic eagles soaring in the skies, wild horses racing along the rocky riverbanks, and clouds so low they seem close enough to touch.

Available options

Group tour(Lunch included)

Duration: 12 hours Lunch Van, Kia Sportage, Mini bus Pickup included

Group Tour

Duration: 12 hours Mini bus/Van

Private tour(All Inclusive)

Duration: 12 hours Lunch VAN, Kia Sportage Pickup included

What's included

Landing and facility fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Professional Guide services in two languages (English and Russian)

Transferring to Khinaliq village

Fuel surcharge

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Pink Lake (Masazir) — the most unique lake in Azerbaijan, renowned for its unusual hue. There are only eight pink lakes in the world, and one of them is right here in Azerbaijan.

Driving along the M1 motorway connecting the capital of Azerbaijan with the largest cities of Russia, you will see the mountain Beshbarmak, located near the coast of the Caspian Sea. Beshbarmak is a place of pilgrimage for the local population and thanks to its height and shape has been an excellent reference point for sailors since ancient times. The holy place “Pir Hydyr Zundzha” is located at the foot of the Beshbarmag Mountain, where the travelers stop to perform prayers and worship. Your professional guide will tell you the mythical stories associated with this place.

After lunch, you will head to the village of Khinalug in legendary Soviet off-road vehicles. On the way to this hidden settlement, you will pass through the Gudialchay Gorge, a historic route that has been traveled for centuries by people from all over the world. Local shepherds guiding their flocks to the river of the same name and warriors from the greatest empires of the East have all walked this path.

Isolated from the Wolrd, Khinalug village is located at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level and will be the last point to visit during this tour. You will see not only the ancient architecture of this village, you will also enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the peaks surrounding this village. And on the way to Khinalig, you can often see eagles flying overhead, wild horses galloping along the banks of stony rivers and clouds descending so low that sometimes they can even be touched.

Where the land of the Absheron peninsula passes into the continent, the massif of the foothills of the North Caucasus, the mountains of Khizi, begins. Daghlis live here. Daghli is a sub-ethnos of the Iranian nation, Azerbaijanis of Persian origin, one of the few European Persian tribes.

There is a section in Khizi where the mountains are unique in their appearance. Candy Cane Mountains (also called Colored Mountains, Agate Mountains and Rainbow Mountains) are popularly called for their similarity in color to sugar candies in purple stains.

A picturesque asphalt road winding like a mountain river running between the Colored Mountains for several kilometers is an indescribable positive emotion and an invaluable experience even for a sophisticated traveler.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

6 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

183 reviews

5★

176

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Important notes

Minimum count of guests in the group is 2.

About Baku

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition. Situated on the Caspian Sea, it's known for its futuristic skyline, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage, including the ancient Maiden Tower and the iconic Flame Towers.

Top Attractions

Maiden Tower

A 12th-century monument that is a symbol of Baku. Its exact purpose remains a mystery.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (5 AZN)

Flame Towers

Three futuristic skyscrapers that are landmarks of modern Baku. The towers are designed to resemble flames, a reference to Baku's ancient history as a center of the fire-worshipping Zoroastrian religion.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to view from outside

Old City (Icheri Sheher)

The historic core of Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, attractions within have varying costs

Baku Boulevard

A scenic park along the Caspian Sea with walking paths, cafes, and entertainment options.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to enter, activities have varying costs

Heydar Aliyev Center

A stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. The center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and conferences.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (depends on the event)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, and vegetables. It's often served at special occasions and is considered a national dish.

Main course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Dushbara

Tiny dumplings filled with minced meat and served in a broth. It's a popular street food in Baku.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Piti

A traditional soup made with lamb, chickpeas, and noodles, served in a clay pot.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Baku Dolma

Grapes leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

Appetizer Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gobustan National Park Exploring mud volcanoes Visiting the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory Strolling along Baku Boulevard Enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse Relaxing at a local hammam (bathhouse) Exploring the Old City Visiting museums and historic sites

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Baku with pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Crowds are moderate, and the city hosts several festivals during these months.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Azerbaijani
Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Baku is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Heydar Aliyev International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Baku Railway Station

By bus

Baku International Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bina Taxi, Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old City (Icheri Sheher) Nizami District Khatai District

Day trips

Gobustan National Park

60 km from Baku • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and a unique desert landscape. It's a great place for hiking and exploring.

Lankaran

220 km from Baku • Full day or overnight

A city in southern Azerbaijan known for its lush greenery, historic sites, and the nearby Hirkan National Park. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.

Shamakhi

120 km from Baku • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient Juma Mosque, the Yeddi Gumbaz mausoleums, and the nearby Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. It's a great place for history lovers and those interested in astronomy.

Festivals

Baku International Jazz Festival • October Baku International Film Festival (BAFTA) • October Novruz Bayrami • March 20-21 (or around the spring equinox)

Pro tips

Visit the Flame Fountain in Baku Boulevard, a unique attraction where natural gas flames continuously burn from a stone fountain
Try traditional Azerbaijani tea in a local teahouse, such as Sazaghan Teahouse or Chaykhana #1
Explore the Old City on foot, taking in the narrow streets, historic sites, and local markets
Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes
Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid