National Reserves Tour - Hirkan & Qizilagac

Baku , Azerbaijan

National Reserves Tour - Hirkan & Qizilagac

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10h - 12h

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

With this tour you will discover main national reserves in Azerbaijan for wildlife, endangered species, migratory birds and marine life. Hirkan National Park is mountainous and is covered in a wonderful deciduous forest. Gizil-Agach State reserve will give you goosebumps as you can see a huge variety of migratory birds here who fly all the way over from Siberia, south of the Urals, and north of Europe to come here for wintering.

Available options

National Reserves Tour - Hirkan & Qizilagac

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional Personal Driver

Private Transportation

Professional English Speaking Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

The Hirkan National Park is one of the pearls of Azerbaijani nature located in the south of the country, in the heart of the Talysh Mountains. Hirkan National Park is mountainous and is covered in a wonderful deciduous forest. The diversity of plant species here compares with the best of the international World Heritage properties with 95 species of tree and at least 110 species of shrub. There are about 1,300 species of plants altogether of which 29 are endemic to Azerbaijan and a further 29 endemic to the Caucasus.. Up in the park’s highlands, the jungles are prowled by the majestic Persian leopard, who was believed to be extinct like the Caspian Tiger, until it was spotted in 2007. Red foxes, wolves and the lynx also roam these parts of the park.

It is a wooded reservoir in the lower foothills, which is wonderful for a picnic lunch and a relaxing nature hike. The name means "the spring of the khan" in Azerbaijani language. The water reservoir was built in 1976 in Lenkoran region of Azerbaijan. The lake is 4.7 km long and 2.2 km wide. It has been surrounded with forests that are part of Hirkan national park. Lake Khanbulan in Azerbaijan’s southeast city of Lankaran is an eye-catching mixture of Mother Nature's beauty, from thick green woods to crystal-clear waters and picturesque foothills. Khanbulan is perfect for hiking and picnicking, thanks to its all-green beauty, surrounded by the Talish Mountains.

Qizil-Aghach State Reserve was created for the purpose of protecting, creating conditions for wintering and nesting of migrant, swamp and wild birds in 1929. The Qizil-Aghach is the first reserve in the country according to the area, and the third according to the establishment.You will also find a great variety of species such as wild boar, wolf, wild cat, badger, sable, and fox in this reserve. The water basin in this reserve also offers around 54 fish species that you would love to see.

Encompassing about 54,373.5 hectares of land area, the Shirvan National Park has established itself as one of the major natural attractions of Azerbaijan. Lush lands replete with towering trees and wild shrubberies are interspersed with sparkling reservoirs. Besides gazelles, the park is one of the best places in Azerbaijan for bird watching; 14 species living here are also listed in the Red Book.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Lunch & Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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