Baku Islands Tour: Absheron National Park and Pirallahi Island

Baku , Azerbaijan

Baku Islands Tour: Absheron National Park and Pirallahi Island

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About this experience

Join this guided tour to explore Azerbaijan's captivating blend of nature, history, and culture. Discover the untamed beauty of Absheron National Park, the rich heritage of Pirallahi Island, Lighthouse, Zira Ecopark and the cultural treasures of Gala Historical Reserve.

Available options

Private tour

Flexible itinerary<br/>Individual tour<br/>Pickup included

Group tour

Shared tour<br/>Small groups<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pickup & drop-off

All Entrance Fees

Detailed itinerary

Absheron National Park, located at the southeastern tip of the Absheron Peninsula, is a pristine natural reserve offering breathtaking views of the Caspian Sea. Visitors can hike to Shah Dili Island, the easternmost point of the peninsula, and experience the tranquility of being surrounded by endless sea and sky.

Head to Shah Dili Island, known locally as the "Nose of the Eagle". Take a 30-minute walk (2 km) to reach the edge of Shah Dili Island (Shah Spit), where the Caspian Sea stretches endlessly in all directions. Experience the serene isolation and breathtaking views, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Drive through Zira village - one of the oldest in Absheron Peninsula Baku. Direction is Pirallahi Island.

Next, cross the iconic Damba Bridge to Pirallahi Island.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at the famous Pirallahi Fish House, savoring local delicacies like sturgeon and kutum fish. Prices start from 15 AZN, vegetarian options are available.

Next to the restaurant, relax by the sea and explore Pirallahi Narakand Park, where traditional fishing boats are displayed, showcasing the island’s fishing heritage.

Continue your journey with a sightseeing roundtrip drive around Pirallahi island, discovering the history of island with the tour guide.

Visit the historic Pirallahi Lighthouse — while access is restricted, you’ll get as close as possible to capture stunning photos against the Caspian Sea backdrop.

On the way back, stop at Zire Ecopark, a sustainable cultural project. Visit the Carpet Museum at Zira Culture Centre, where intricately woven carpets showcase Azerbaijan’s textile artistry. Explore the peaceful park surroundings and learn about traditional craftsmanship.

Arrive at Gala Village and explore the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum Complex, where ancient artifacts and reconstructed medieval dwellings tell the story of Azerbaijan’s past.

Finally, visit the From Waste to Art Museum to see how discarded materials are transformed into creative artworks, promoting sustainability through art.

What's not included

Lunch prices start from 15 AZN (8.5 USD)

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN TR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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