Azerbaijan: the land of burning flames
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We provide Land of Burning flames tour on Absheron Peninsula. Start time is 10:00. Duration usually takes 3-5 hrs. You will see Fire temple and burning mountain and will learn many facts about Azerbaijan and traditions.
Available options
Fire Temple & Burning Mountain
Absheron Peninsula: We are ready to show you why do people call Azerbaijan as the land of Flames. We will take you to Ateshgah temple of fire, then to burning mountain<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
Our accredited tour guide and professional driver will pick you from your hotel or apartment and take you to the Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanardag Burning Mountain
2
Stop 2
Ateshgah often called the "Fire Temple of Baku" is a castle-like religious temple in Surakhani town, a suburb in Baku. The pentagonal complex, which has a courtyard surrounded by cells for monks and a tetrapillar-altar in the middle, was built during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was abandoned in the late 19th century, probably due to the dwindling of the Indian population in the area. The Baku Ateshgah was a pilgrimage and philosophical center of Zoroastrians from Northwestern Indian Subcontinent, who were involved in trade with the Caspian area via the famous "Grand Trunk Road". The Temple of Fire "Ateshgah" was nominated for List of World Heritage Sites, UNESCO in 1998
3
Stop 3
Yanardag is natural gas fire which blazes continuously on a hillside on the Absheron Peninsula on the Caspian Sea near Baku. Flames jet into the air 3 metres (9.8 ft) from a thin, porous sandstone layer. The reason offered for the Yanar Dag fires is the result of hydrocarbon gases emanating from below the earth's surface. Alexandre Dumas, during one of his visits to the area, described a similar fire he saw in the region inside one of the Zoroastrian fire temples built around it. Only a handful of fire mountains exist today in the world, and most are located in Azerbaijan. Due to the large concentration of natural gas under the Absheron Peninsula, natural flames burned there throughout antiquity and were reported on by historical writers such as Marco Polo.
People often go there to see these dancing flames which never get extinguished and enjoy a cup of tea at the nearby café. It's a fascinating phenomenon to watch, especially at dusk. It's easy to understand how such eternal fires, fueled from the earth itself, became objects of worship.The appearance of the Zoroastrians in Azerbaijan almost 2,000 years ago is closely connected with these geological phenomena, and, according to one theory, the name "Azerbaijan" itself was derived from the word for "fire" in Persian. The cult of fire worship was paramount throughout the history of pre-Islam in this region.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Entrance tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please kindly contact before booking
Important notes
Two separate tickets will be provided in museums
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
