Guba & Khinalig & Candy Mountains (Private or Group)
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Guba & Khinalig & Candy Mountains (Private or Group)

Active
(78 reviews)
12h
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 region has always been one of the biggest and one of the most beautiful parts of Azerbaijan! So, if you decide to visit other Azerbaijani cities, we highly recommend you to see Quba! Guba has been founded in the XV century and is located 165km to the north from Baku.

Khinaliq village is the most remote village among all others in Quba. It is also the highest village as it is located in the middle of Caucasian mountains. And this remoteness is exactly what helped the inhabitants of the village to survive from the invasions. The history of this village goes right back until the Albanian period. The remains of ancient caves of early humans are still left in this territory between the mountains. Due to its long history, Khinaliq village is considered one of the oldest inhabited places in the world and has been included in the UNESCO list of World Historical Monuments.

Available options

Private tour

Traditional Homemade Lunch<br/>KIA Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe: or Mercedes VITO<br/>4X4 NIVA RIDE: In a private tour, we will drive all the way to Khinaliq without changing vehicles the off-road transport is already included<br/>Pickup included

Group Tour

Pickup included

What's included

All Entrance Ticket
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch - Azerbaijani National Dishes (Local House-Museum)
Professional Tour guide – English, Russian
Pickup and drop-off service from accommodation(in Baku only)

Detailed itinerary

1

We will pick up from central hotels in Baku except Hotels that are situated in the Old City and near by. That guests are coming to the Double Gates - main gates of the Old City (Qosha Qala qapisi).

2

Just over an hour’s drive north-west of Baku along the Guba highway is a 382-metre high mountain whose bizarre shape long ago led to it being called Mt. Beshbarmag, which is Azerbaijani for ‘Five-finger Mountain’. Legend has it that sometime in the ancient past a prophet called Khidr ventured here in search of a ‘potion of life’ and having drunk from a spring at the summit achieved immortality. Today the mountain is shrouded in mystery with locals coming here to pray for strength and good fortune.

3

One of Azerbaijan’s most beautiful stretches of road leads for about 40 kilometres from the Guba-Baku highway west towards the mountain village of Altiaghaj. Roughly mid-way between the two one passes through a dramatic valley flanked by rolling shale mountains whose astonishing red, orange, pink and chalk-coloured swirls led British travel writer Mark Elliott (author of the very popular 'Azerbaijan' guidebook) to dub them the Candy Cane Mountains, a name that’s stuck with travellers ever since.

4

OPTIONAL STOP (ONLY IN PRIVATE TOUR, IF REQUESTED)
Red Village (Krasnaya Sloboda)
Red Village is one of the most unique places in Azerbaijan — a centuries-old settlement that is home to the Mountain Jewish community. Known for its rich culture and traditions, it is often called the only all-Jewish village outside of Israel and the United States.

5

Qechresh is one of the largest villages in the Guba region. The area is covered with forest on all sides. Qechresh is famous for its natural springs and plants.

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

Qriz Bridge. Suspended between steep cliffs and surrounded by dramatic landscapes, this spot is one of the most picturesque in the region. The bridge offers a perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos, making it a favorite stop for travelers and photographers alike

8

On the way to Khinaliq village, we will make a stop at the breathtaking Eagle Top viewpoint. This natural landmark, located high in the mountains, offers panoramic views of deep valleys and winding roads. The place is named after its eagle-shaped rock formation and the frequent sight of wild eagles soaring in the sky. We will stop here to take beautiful photos of the stunning mountain landscapes and enjoy the fresh Caucasus air.

9

In Qecresh forest we will need to switch to a Soviet off-road vehicle to reach Khinalug!!!
Khinalig is an ancient Caucasian village dating back to the Caucasian Albanian period. It is located north of Guba, in the midst of the mountains of the Greater Caucasus, which divide Russia and the South Caucasus, at an altitude of 2100-2200 meters above sea level over the Kudialchay River. Famous for its language, peculiar customs and traditions. Today, about two thousand people live in Khinalig. Almost the entire population is indigenous. In Khinalig retain their language for more than 4000 years.

10

We will start approximately 8 Am in the morning. The way to Guba Khinaliq and Back to Baku total duration which we spent in the car will be approximately 8 hours

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 4.8
23 reviews
5★
20
4★
1
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
55 reviews
5★
52
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

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 13-99
1
Childs
Age 4-12
0
Infants
Age 1-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook