Absheron Peninsula Tour - Qala, Mardakan, Yanar Dag & Ateshgah

Baku , Azerbaijan

Absheron Peninsula Tour - Qala, Mardakan, Yanar Dag & Ateshgah

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About this experience

Absheron tour covers four main historical spots of Absheron peninsula: Ateshgah Temple, Yanar Dag - Burning Mountain, Qala Museum and Mardakan Tower.
Get acquainted with old household and ethnographic traditions of ancient people at Gala open-air museum. During the tour you will also visit Quadranqular Tower, one of the ancient towers located in Mardakan village. Moreover, you will also learn legends about Burning Mountain and the gas streams located nearby. Our last stop is Ateshgah Temple, a worshiping temple of Zoroastrians and Hindus.

Available options

Standard Group Tour

Small group tour<br/>Pickup included

Private tour

Private tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Exclusive souvenir postcard

0.5 lt bottled water per person

Transportation costs

Hotel pickup and drop off

Local English speaking guide

Entrance tickets

Detailed itinerary

You will meet your guide at your accommodation. The trip will start with a visit to Gala open-air museum. Gala Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum Complex is situated in the historical part of Gala village. There are 216 monuments in the territory of the village. You will see petroglyphs (stone carvings) dating back to the third and second millennia B.C and the Middle Ages, household ceramics and archaeological artifacts discovered in the Absheron Peninsula. Merchant’s house is a magnificent example of medieval dwelling houses existing in the village. Furthermore, tombstones, kurgans (artificial mound), various tools, such as "khana" (tool for carpet weaving) are demonstrated in the museum.

Then we'll continue with the trip to see the tower in Mardakan village. Mardakan toponym is related to the name of tribe “Mard” (meaning brave). With the consolidation of the Shirvanshahs kingdom, many towers were built in Absheron Peninsula. In addition to its historical significance, Quadrangular Tower in Mardakan is one of the majestic castles and a part of Absheron’s integrated defense system. The tower was located in such a convenient place, that seashore, Gala and Ramana fortresses were easily visible from the Tower.

Stop 3

Later you will enjoy the view of Yanardag (Burning Mountain) - the burning mountain. In ancient times natural eternal flames were burning in many places of Absheron. Yanardag was declared State Historical-Cultural and Natural Reserve in order to protect natural monument.

Stop 4

Our last stop will be Ateshgah temple, located approximately 30 km from the center of Baku in the suburb of Surakhany. You will learn a lot about the temple from your guide, particularly, more about the history of creation of such a temple in Baku and unique natural phenomenon of burning natural gas outlets.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Some territories may get muddy during autumn-spring seasons, so consider wearing comfortable shoes or even boots if you're booking in these seasons

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