Private Tour to Gabala and Shamakhi Nature from Baku
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Travel into the Azerbaijan mountains from Baku on a full-day private tour that explores Shamakhi and Qabala. Without your own transport reaching the two remote destinations from Baku would be a challenge, but pre-booking a cost-effective private adventure takes the hassle out of the journey; less time spent on logistics buys you more time to discover Azerbaijani food, walk by a mountain lake, and check out alpine scenery.
Stay comfortable in a climate-controlled minivan.
Convenient pickup and drop-off at Baku hotels.
Available options
Private tour for 6 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour for 3 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour for 7 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
Driver-Only Tour
No guide, fixed 7:30 AM pickup: Private transportation only. No guide, no entry tickets. Available on Tuesdays with a fixed 7:30 AM pick-up.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour for 1 passenger
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour for 2 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour for 5 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour for 4 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transport to and from Baku hotels.<br/>Private guide: Enjoy the company of a private guide in Baku.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Professional local tour guide in Baku
WiFi on board
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pick up and drop off at the hotels
Detailed itinerary
1
The driver will meet you at Baku hotels or in the city center with a sign with your name.
2
Juma Mosque of Shamakhi or Friday Mosque is a mosque in the city of Shamakhi, Azerbaijan.Construction date of the mosque- 743-744 relies on research of a geological commission coming from Tiflis, which was led by prince Shahgulu Qajar. This date was defined with Arabic ligature on the facade of the Friday Mosque, stating the year 126 according to Islamic calendar as the establishment year.Just in this period the construction of new religious buildings – mosques – was begun in the territory of Azerbaijan. Historical appearance of ancient Islamic architectural monuments was related to Arabs’ governance and spreading of Islam in the territory of Azerbaijan. Friday Mosque of Shamakhi is considered the first mosque in the Caucasus after cathedral Friday Mosque of Derbent, which was constructed in 734.
3
Gabala (also known as Qabala) is a city in northern Azerbaijan. To the southwest, Chukhur Gabala village has ancient ruins, including imposing gate towers, from the city’s time as capital of Caucasian Albania. On the city’s northeastern outskirts, the Tufandag Winter–Summer Mountain Resort offers ski runs. An ancient Albanian church is in Boyuk Amili, nearby. To the west, Nij is home to the native Udi people.
4
Lake Nohur is a manmade lake created after World War II to supply surrounding villages with water. Today it is a popular recreation spot consisting of a large tree-lined body of water reflecting the Greater Caucasus Mountains in its green-blue waters. Swimming is prohibited but fishing and hiking are popular.
5
Tufandag Winter-Summer Tourist Complex is located 4 kilometers far from Gabala city. The resort allows visitors to enjoy different extreme sports and tourism activities in the harmony with nature.
Tufandag complex provides skiing in winter, going up to the mountains by cable cars in summer, mountain climbing by ATV quad bikes and other types of entertainment.
6
The driver will take you back to the meeting point in Baku.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
