Full Day Private Hiking Tour to Ancient Fortress Chirag Gala

Baku , Azerbaijan

Full Day Private Hiking Tour to Ancient Fortress Chirag Gala

Active

8h - 10h

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

Embark on a captivating 2.5km forest hike from Galaalti village to the ancient fortress of Chirag Gala. Nestled at the foot of the medieval fortress, Galaalti village, with around 200 residents, boasts a medical and recreational resort.

Explore the 4-5th-century Chirag Gala castle, once part of the Gilgilchay defense wall. The uphill trail through the forest offers spectacular views from the castle with vultures flying below. After a refreshing break, return to the village via a different route using a 4x4 ride or opt for an additional 4.5km hike. Food options, including a packed lunch, are available upon request.

Destination is available for year-round visiting

Available options

Full Day Private Hiking Tour to Ancient Fortress Chirag Gala

Pickup included

What's included

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

4x4 car transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Positive memories

Local travel insurance

Photos from the tour (online)

Detailed itinerary

After a ride for about ~1:15 hour from Baku, we will stop for a coffee (or tea) with a unique view of Beshbarmag mountain. You will have a chance to get to know why this place is so special.

After driving for ~40 minutes more we arrive to Galaalti village. Here we will start our 2.5km hike up through the forest. Galaalti village is an old village located at the foot of a medieval fortress. The population is around 200 citizens. A medical and recreational resort is located in this village.

Chirag Gala is an ancient castle that was built back in 4-5th centuries. It was part of the Gilgilchay long defense wall.
We will start our hike in the village of Galaalti. Most of the trail is going uphill through the forest area. After finishing last part we find ourselves in the area of the castle, spectacular views here are for sure (according to the weather). After enjoying our time here we are going further to have a short rest by looking at the Chirag Gala from better view point. Later we are going back to the village by different route using 4x4 cars (which can be replaced by the hike back as per request).

Food is not included. We can add a packed lunch (hot or cold) option for participants as per request.

Distance: ~2.6 km (can be prolonged up to 7km by excluding 4x4 pick-up as per request)
Start altitude: 630m
Max altitude: 1015m
Ascend: 484
Difficulty: 2/5 (easy-average)

After coming back to the village we are heading back to Baku.

After a total of about 2 hour drive, we are already back in Baku at the pick-up location (flexible to change within the Baku city)

What's not included

Trekking poles and hiking gear (Available for rent at 6usd/pair)

You will have to pay for your order at the coffee shop

Optional trail mix (nuts and dried fruits) is available at 5usd/person

Food is not included, however we can add dehydrated food package on request (price is 8 usd/pack)

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN TR

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total tour duration includes travel time.

Meeting point

Just in front of the Baku Central Post Office. Our minivan/car will have a windshield signboard with the name of our company "HIKEAWAY". Our guide will be ready to assist you once you are close to the meeting location.

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