Private Half Day Absheron Tour to Gala, Ateshgah and Yanardag

Baku , Azerbaijan

Private Half Day Absheron Tour to Gala, Ateshgah and Yanardag

Active

5h - 6h

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 private Absheron Peninsula tour explores Azerbaijan’s iconic fire landmarks and cultural heritage in a five-hour journey from Baku. Visit the Gala State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve, showcasing Bronze Age and medieval artifacts, traditional dwelling and recycled art. Experience the spiritual and historical significance of the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a limestone sanctuary with a natural eternal flame revered by Zoroastrian, Hindu and Sikh traditions. Witness Yanardag-Burning Mountain, where natural methane flames burn continuously, highlighting Azerbaijan’s title as the Land of Fire. Gain scientific, historical and cultural insights from a private guide at each location. Scenic drives connect heritage sites, ancient architecture, and natural wonders for unforgettable photo opportunities. Conclude with a comfortable return to Baku, completing a high-impact exploration of the region’s fire history and landscapes.

Available options

Included Entry Tickets

Sedan car, Minivan and Minibus<br/>Pickup included

Excluded Entry Tickets

Pickup included

What's included

Pick-up from your hotel, and drop-off back to your hotel

All Entrance Fees (if the "Included Entry Tickets" option selected)

Comfortable Transportation

English speaking Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

After meeting the guests heading to Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve. This is a complex of museums in Baku, Azerbaijan. Inside there are three different types of museums: open air Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, Castle Museum and the Museum of Antiques. The museum is 1.5 ha in area and has rock paintings, pottery, household items, jewelry, weapons and coins belong to the ancient times of Azerbaijan. In this museum, there are more than 2,000 different archaeological and architectural monuments – mounds, seats of ancient settlements, burial places dating back to thousands of years ago.
Driving distance from the city to Gala Museum Complex is 30 minutes way. Guests will spend 1 hour and 30 minutes here, visit 3 main sightseeing.

Stop 2

The tour continues with a 20-minute drive to the Ateshgah-Fire Temple in Surakhani, a pentagonal limestone complex historically significant for Zoroastrian, Hindu and Sikh fire worshippers. The central altar once hosted a natural eternal flame, fueled by underground gas and surrounded by a courtyard and monastic cells used by pilgrims and resident ascetics. The temple illustrates the cultural and spiritual significance of fire as a sacred element across multiple civilizations. Guests spend approximately 60 minutes at the site with insights from their private guide.

Stop 3

Next, the itinerary proceeds 30 minutes to Yanardag-Burning Mountain, a natural gas phenomenon that has burned continuously for centuries. Flames up to three meters high emerge from a porous sandstone hillside along a ten-meter-wide stretch. The fire ignites naturally as methane gas seeps from underground reservoirs and contacts oxygen, creating a self-sustaining flame visible even in rain or snow. Yanardag holds historical and spiritual significance, once serving as a site of Zoroastrian fire worship. Travelers spend around 30 minutes observing and learning about the geological and cultural importance of this natural marvel.
The tour concludes with a 30-minute return to Baku, ending at the designated drop-off point, completing a full exploration of Azerbaijan’s unique fire heritage, historical settlements and cultural landscapes

What's not included

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travelers are advised to review the Inclusions section in detail, as 2 pricing tiers are available based on the scope of services provided. The first option includes a guide and driver, with entry tickets excluded. The second option (Included Entry Tickets) comprises a guide, driver and entry tickets included.

As specified in the Inclusions section, all entrance tickets are provided if the "Included Entry Tickets" option is selected. Entry admissions cover access to the following cultural, historical, and natural sites: Gala Museum Complexes (Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, Castle Museum and Gala Antiques Museum), Ateshgah-Fire Temple and Yanardag-Burning Mountain.

Meeting point

We can pick up the guests from the Doble Gate of Old City-Icherisheher

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