Baku , Azerbaijan

Candy Canes & Shahdag Tour

Active

11h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour combines two of Azerbaijan’s most striking yet completely different landscapes in a single unforgettable day. In the morning, you’ll marvel at the surreal beauty of the Candy Cane Mountains in Xızı, where vivid red, pink, and white stripes ripple across ancient hills formed over 250 million years ago. It’s a geological wonder found in only a handful of places on Earth.

From there, we ascend into the Greater Caucasus to reach Shahdag Resort, a year-round mountain escape. Whether blanketed in winter snow or bursting with summer greenery, Shahdag offers breathtaking panoramic views and a range of outdoor activities—from skiing and snowboarding to hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining.

The contrast between the painted desert hills of Xızı and the alpine majesty of Shahdag in a single journey makes this experience truly one-of-a-kind. It’s not just a tour—it’s two completely different worlds in one adventure.

Available options

Candy Canes & Shahdag Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Tour on a private basis

Pick up & Drop off

Comfortable Car with English-speaking driver

Detailed itinerary

After picking you up, we’ll drive north along the Caspian coast and into the semi-desert landscapes of the Xızı region, home to the breathtaking Candy Cane Mountains. These striking hills get their name from the vivid red, pink, and white stripes that ripple across their slopes, resembling layers of a giant candy cane.

The colorful bands are formed by layers of mineral-rich rock and clay, shaped over millions of years by wind, rain, and tectonic forces. Some layers date back more than 250 million years, making this one of the oldest exposed geological formations in the region.

We’ll stop at panoramic viewpoints where the sweeping striped hills stretch into the horizon, creating a surreal, painterly landscape perfect for photography. Walking along the foothills, you’ll see the colors change with the shifting sunlight—a natural masterpiece unlike anywhere else in Azerbaijan.

As a next stop, we head north towards the Greater Caucasus Mountains, where the road winds through picturesque valleys and highland villages before reaching Shahdag — Azerbaijan’s first and largest mountain resort.

Located at an altitude of around 2,350 meters, Shahdag offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks in winter and lush alpine meadows in summer. Covering thousands of hectares, the resort boasts modern ski slopes of varying difficulty, stretching for several kilometers, and is equipped with high-speed chairlifts and gondolas to carry you effortlessly to the mountaintops.

In the summer months, Shahdag transforms into an adventure paradise, with activities like hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and horseback riding. In winter, its perfectly groomed slopes and world-class ski facilities make it the ultimate destination for both beginners and seasoned skiers. You will have free time to enjoy different activities, such as Cable Car, Roller Coaster, Zip Line & etc. there.

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Entrance fees to the activities

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We pick up all guests from their hotel or accommodation

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