Guba, Candy Cane mountain, Khinaliq village with HOMEMADE lunch
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Guba, Candy Cane mountain, Khinaliq village with HOMEMADE lunch

Active
(222 reviews)
11h - 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

What makes this tour truly unique is the combination of breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and adventure. You will marvel at the stunning 'Candy Cane Mountains,' and as we travel to Khinaliq, you will be surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery that will leave you speechless. The tour also includes a one-of-a-kind experience of having lunch in a local house-museum, enjoying a homemade meal made from fresh, natural ingredients, including freshly baked bread. To top it off, the journey to Khinaliq features an exciting off-road adventure, adding an extra touch of thrill to your unforgettable day.

Available options

Private Tour

Traditional Homemade lunch<br/>SUV or Van: 1-3 Sedan or Jeep
4-6 Mercedes Vito
7-12 Toyota Hiace<br/>4x4 ride: In the private tour, we will drive all the way up to Khinalig without changing vehicles, meaning no off-road transport is req<br/>Pickup included

Group Tour with Homemade Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Professional Tour guide service – English, Russian
Azerbaijani national dishes Lunch will be served in the local house in Khinalug)
Comfortable Transport with AC
TripAdvisor Experiences brokerage fee
Entry/Admission - State Historical, Architectural and Ethnographic Reserve Khinalig
Pickup and drop-off service from accommodation(in Baku only)

Detailed itinerary

1

We provide pickup from central hotels in Baku, except for hotels located on Nizami Street (Tarqovaya) and in the Old City. Guests staying in these areas are kindly requested to come to the meeting point.

2

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.

3

The Candy Cane Mountains are shale mountains in the Khizi and Siyazan districts of Azerbaijan, part of the Greater Caucasus mountain range. The 'Candy Cane Mountains' were originally dubbed so by travel author Mark Elliott in his guidebook 'Azerbaijan with Excursions to Georgia'. The mountains' colors are produced by groundwater that alters the oxidation state of the iron compounds in the earth.

4

The next destination will be Guba city, which is located in one of the most beautiful natural landscapes of Azerbaijan. On the way to Guba, our guests will visit the unique settlement of Jews in mountains, "Caucasian Jerusalem" - the Red Town. The village has 13 synagogues, among which two are operational. There are about 4-5 thousand Jews live in Qirmizi Qesebe that is symbol of pluralism in Azerbaijan and symbol of peace and harmony among the different religions.

5

Qechresh is one of the largest villages in the Guba region. The area is covered with forest on all sides. Along the road, there are recreation areas and restaurants where you can sample the local cuisine. In Qecresh forest we will need to switch to a Soviet off-road vehicle to reach Khinalug!!!

6

If you go further from Gechresh forest, you find yourself in the Gudyalchay canyons: steep ascents and descents of the road pass through the steep walls of the gorge.The road that passes through two mountains, steep cliffs as well as beautify forest make the view of this village charming.

7

Here we will stop to enjoy the panoramic view of the Cascade Mountains. From this point, you can see the entire beautiful landscape.

8

The mountain village of Khinalig, which is included in the list of UNESCO historical monuments of world importance. With its inaccessibility, unique language, unique architectural appearance, and culture, the village attracts tourists from all over the world. Since 2007, Khinalig has been declared an ethnographic reserve. 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. During the tour, you’ll enjoy a full traditional lunch prepared by a local family in the heart of Khinaliq village. This is not a simple snack or a basic plate – it’s a complete meal with four different homemade dishes, showcasing the rich flavors of authentic mountain cuisine.

9

We'll return back to the starting point. Additionally, we can arrange drop off service to hotel or to any address in Baku.

10

You will spend at least 8 hours on the road (go and back).

What's not included

Any personal expenses
The fee for a Soviet off-road vehicle that will transport you to the village. (30azn per person)

Available languages

Guide guide
RU EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
55 reviews
5★
42
4★
5
3★
3
2★
3
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.9
167 reviews
5★
158
4★
6
3★
2
2★
1
1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Childs
Age 3-10
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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