A Full Day Absheron Castles and Oil Heritage Private Tour
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A Full Day Absheron Castles and Oil Heritage Private Tour

Active
5h - 6h
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

If you’re planning to visit some of the most historically significant and culturally rich sites around Baku, you will explore the Mardakan Castle, Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve complex, Balakhani Village, Bibiheybat Mosque and World’s first Oil Well those highlight the region’s unique heritage, from medieval castles to ancient oil history. Also, this tour offers a fascinating journey through the city's transformation during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it became a global oil capital. Embarking on this Tour in Baku provides a unique glimpse into the city's rich industrial past and architectural splendor, offering insights into how the oil industry shaped its development and captivating journey through Azerbaijan's rich history, unique natural phenomena, and cultural heritage.

Available options

A Full Day Absheron Castles and Oil Heritage Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Comfortable transportation
Pick-up from your hotel, and drop-off back to your hotel
Entrance fee to the Gala State Historical and Ethnographic Museum Complex
English speaking tour guide
Entrance fee to the Mardakan Castle

Detailed itinerary

1

Pick up from any address or arranged meeting point within Baku. After meeting at the arranged meeting point we drive to Absheron peninsula. Our first visited place is Mardakan Castle. This is a medieval fortress located in the Mardakan village, this castle provides a glimpse into the defensive architecture of the region and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is 60 minutes driving distance from the meeting point to there. Guests will spend here approximately 30 minutes with the explanation by their private guide.

2

Proceeding to Gala State Historical Ethnographic Reserve Complex. It is 15 minutes driving distance from the Castle to Gala Complex. It is an open-air museum complex in Qala, this site features ancient rock paintings, archaeological artifacts, and reconstructed dwellings that offer insights into the region's history and culture. Guests will Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, Castle Museum, Museum of Antiques and Waste to Art Museums and spend here approximately 90 minutes with the explanation by their private guide.

3

The third visited place is Balakhani Village. It is 30 minutes driving distance from the Gala Complex to to this point. Balakhani is one of the key villages in the Absheron Peninsula and is famous for its historical role in Azerbaijan's oil industry. It was here that Azerbaijan’s oil boom began in the 19th century. Today, visitors can learn about the area’s oil history and see remnants of the early oil fields. Guests will spend here approximately 30 minutes with the explanation by their private guide.

4
Stop 4

Tour continues to Bibiheybat Mosque. It is 60 minutes driving distance from the village to the Mosque. The Bibiheybat Mosque is an iconic structure in Baku, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. It was originally built in the 13th century but was destroyed during the Soviet era. It was reconstructed in the 1990s to preserve its cultural and spiritual significance. The mosque is a prominent example of Islamic architecture and holds a place of importance for both locals and visitors. Guests will spend here approximately 20 minutes with the explanation by their private guide.

5

The last stop of the tour day is World’s first Oil Well. It is only 5 minutes driving distance from the Mosque to here. Bibiheybat is also home to the world’s first drilled oil well, marking a turning point in the global oil industry. The well was drilled in 1846, and it was a pioneering achievement that led to the industrialization of oil production in Azerbaijan. The area has historical markers commemorating the development of the oil industry and its impact on Baku's growth into an industrial city. The site is part of the Baku Oil History Museum, where you can learn more about the oil boom and its global impact.Travelers will spend here about 20 minutes with explanation by their private guide.
We complete the tour here and return back to the meeting Point. Driving Distance from the last point to the Baku City Centre is 10 minutes.

What's not included

Food and drinks
Gratuities
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We can also pick up the guests from the guests from Qosha Qala Qapisi (Double Gates) which is the main entrance for the Old City

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 12-99
1
Childs
Age 4-11
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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