Timeless 8 Days Cultural Discovery from Baku to the Caucasus

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Baku - The City of Winds
2 stops
1
Upon arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, guests are warmly received and transferred to their hotel.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Highland Park
As the sun sets, the journey begins with a panoramic evening tour of Baku. From the heights of Highland Park, enjoy sweeping views of the Caspian Sea, Flame Towers, and Martyrs' Lane - a powerful introduction to Azerbaijan’s poetic contrast of ancient heritage and sleek modernism. The evening concludes with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, offering a taste of Azerbaijani hospitality and flavors. Total tour duration of the day will cover about 4 hours with driving distances and by the explanation of professional guide in the sighteeings
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Sacred Flames and Seaside Promenades - Baku & Absheron Peninsula
5 stops
3
Ateshgah - Fire Temple
This itinerary offers a curated journey through the rich spiritual, natural, and cultural landscapes of the Absheron Peninsula, blending ancient mysticism, natural wonder, and vibrant artistry into a single immersive day. Beginning with the elemental forces of fire -both sacred and natural - visitors engage with deep-rooted Zoroastrian traditions at the Ateshgah-Fire Temple, where eternal flames symbolize continuity and devotion.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
4
This primal energy is echoed at Yanardag, the “Burning Mountain,” where nature’s own fiery phenomenon blazes ceaselessly, evoking a raw connection to the earth’s hidden powers.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
5
Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum
The day’s focus then shifts from elemental fire to the intricate craft of human creativity, with a visit to the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. Here, centuries of textile artistry and storytelling through weaving highlight the region’s dedication to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage in vibrant patterns and textures.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
6
Baku Boulevard
Complementing these rich historical and cultural encounters is a peaceful stroll along Baku’s Seaside Boulevard, a modern promenade that underscores the city’s connection to the Caspian Sea and its cosmopolitan spirit.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
7
Synagogue of the Ashkenazi Jews
A visit to a local synagogue further reflects the diverse tapestry of Azerbaijan’s cultural and religious communities, offering insight into coexistence and pluralism. Guided by a professional expert, the day’s explorations unfold over 6 to 8 hours, weaving driving segments with immersive experiences. The itinerary concludes with a relaxed dinner, allowing for reflection and connection, grounding the traveler in the contemporary vibrancy that flows through Baku’s historic veins.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Mountain Roads and Timeless Villages – Guba & Khinalug
3 stops
8
Qirmizi Qasaba
This day takes you on a transformative journey from the cosmopolitan heart of Baku into the timeless landscapes of northern Azerbaijan. After breakfast, you set out northward into the Caucasus, leaving behind the urban terrain for an immersive experience in culture, history, and elevation. The first stop is Krasnaya Sloboda, also known as the Red Settlement - a rare and historically rich Jewish town that has peacefully preserved its identity for centuries. This unique enclave stands as a symbol of coexistence, continuity, and the resilience of cultural heritage in a region shaped by diversity.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Quba
Continuing on, you arrive at the Quba Carpet Factory, where the tactile traditions of Azerbaijani craftsmanship come alive. This factory is more than a workplace - it’s a repository of intricate skills passed down through generations. Each hand-woven rug is a testament to symbolic language, family stories, and regional pride, preserving artistry that is both visually stunning and culturally profound.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Khinalug
After lunch, the journey becomes more adventurous as specialized 4x4 vehicles take you off-road and higher into the Greater Caucasus mountains. The ascent is both literal and metaphorical, transitioning you into another world - remote, elevated, and deeply preserved. Eventually, you reach Khinalug Village, one of the most ancient and highest inhabited settlements in the world. As the sun begins to descend, you retrace your path back to Baku. Upon arrival in the capital, dinner awaits, bringing the day to a close with a sense of completeness and quiet awe. This is not just a day trip; it’s a journey into the enduring soul of Azerbaijan, told through its people, its peaks, and its past. Total tour duration of the day will cover about 10 to 12 hours with driving distances and by the explanation of professional guide in the sighteeings
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Legends and Landscapes - Maraza, Shamakhi, Lahij & Basqal
5 stops
11
Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation. Afterward, check out and begin your journey westward toward Shamakhi, a city that has served as a capital of ancient Shirvan and holds a prominent place in Azerbaijan’s cultural and spiritual history. Just outside Shamakhi, visit this 18th-century royal burial site Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum (Seven Domes) built for the Shirvan Khan dynasty. Though only three domes remain intact, the site offers insight into Persian-influenced Islamic architecture and features panoramic views over the town and its lush surroundings.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
12
Diri Baba Mausoleum
Nestled into a rocky cliff near the village of Maraza (a short drive from Shamakhi), this 15th-century Diri Baba Mausoleum is an architectural marvel, blending seamlessly with the mountain face. It is believed to be the tomb of a holy man, and local legends speak of its spiritual energy and mystical past.
40 minutes • Admission ticket not included
13
Juma Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in the Caucasus, the Juma Mosque of Shamakhi dates back to the 8th century. Though it has been rebuilt multiple times due to earthquakes, its core structure and religious significance remain. The mosque showcases early Islamic architecture and stands as a symbol of the region’s enduring faith and resilience.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
14
Lahic
Travel into the Greater Caucasus Mountains to reach Lahij, a picturesque mountain village known for its cobbled streets, stone houses, and artisan culture. Wander the charming alleys lined with traditional workshops and bazaars. Lahij is especially famous for its handcrafted copperware, including intricately engraved pots, samovars, and trays. The town’s artisans are masters of metalwork, woodworking, and carpet weaving, passing their skills through generations. Many workshops offer live demonstrations, allowing you to witness the centuries-old techniques firsthand. Lahij's infrastructure is notable for a 5th-century underground sewage system and earthquake-resistant stone houses - a testament to its historical sophistication and the ingenuity of its residents.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
15
Basqal State Historical-cultural Reserve
Continue your scenic drive to Basqal, a peaceful and historically rich village. Known for its silk weaving heritage, Basqal was once a key stop along the Silk Road. Stroll through this quiet settlement to see remnants of its traditional architecture and local looms still used by weavers. The village exudes old-world charm with its wooden balconies, clay ovens, and tranquil ambiance. End your day in the Ismayilli region, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner featuring local Azerbaijani cuisine. Settle into your accommodation for the night, surrounded by forested hills and clean mountain air. The total duration of the tour is approximately 10 to 12 hours, including travel time and guided commentary throughout the sightseeing activities
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Alpine Air, Silk Road Glory - Gabala, Oguz & Sheki
6 stops
16
Tufandag Mountain Resort
This immersive day unfolds across three culturally rich and scenically captivating regions of northwestern Azerbaijan - Gabala, Oguz, and Sheki - offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical depth. The journey begins with a scenic drive to Gabala, nestled amid the majestic Caucasus Mountains. The main highlight here is an ascent to the Tufandag Mountain Resort via a modern two-line cable car system, providing guests with breathtaking panoramic views of alpine forests, valleys, and snow-dusted peaks (depending on the season). The fresh mountain air and serene vistas create a memorable start to the day, ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included
17
Oguz
From Gabala, the tour continues to the tranquil town of Oguz, known not only for its natural serenity but also for its historical ties to various ethnic and religious communities. A visit to the local synagogue offers insight into the area’s unique Jewish heritage, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s long-standing tradition of multicultural coexistence and religious tolerance.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
18
Palace of Shaki Khans
In the afternoon, guests arrive in Sheki, one of the most architecturally and historically significant towns along the ancient Silk Road. The tour includes a guided visit to the Sheki Khan’s Palace, an 18th-century gem renowned for its intricate stained-glass windows (shebeke), vibrant frescoes, and detailed woodwork, all preserved within a lush garden setting. The palace stands as a masterpiece of medieval Azerbaijani craftsmanship and royal grandeur.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
19
Church of Kish
The experience continues with a stop at the Kish Albanian Church, believed to be one of the earliest Christian temples in the Caucasus, located in the picturesque village of Kish.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
20
Sheki Karvansaray
Visitors will also explore the Sheki Art Center, showcasing local crafts, and the historic Caravanserai, a former inn that welcomed Silk Road traders and now serves as a living reminder of Sheki's vital role in ancient commerce and cultural exchange.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
21
Sheki State Art Gallery
Visitors will also explore the Sheki Art Center, showcasing local crafts, and the historic Caravanserai, a former inn that welcomed Silk Road traders and now serves as a living reminder of Sheki's vital role in ancient commerce and cultural exchange. The day concludes with a traditional dinner in Sheki, offering a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage, followed by an overnight stay in one of the town’s character-filled accommodations. The entire tour spans approximately 10 to 12 hours, encompassing transit between sites as well as expert narration provided by a professional guide during all sightseeing segments.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Day 6
Poetic Legacy and Alpine Beauty - Ganja, Goygol & Helenendorf
6 stops
22
Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum
This day offers a richly woven experience that combines Azerbaijan’s literary and historical legacy with the tranquil natural beauty of its western alpine landscapes. The day unfolds with a journey to Ganja, the country’s second-largest city, known for its deep cultural roots, architectural landmarks, and strong sense of regional identity. After breakfast and checkout from your accommodation, begin the drive westward to Ganja, a city with more than a thousand years of documented history. The day’s first highlight is a visit to the Mausoleum of Nizami Ganjavi, the celebrated 12th-century Persian poet and literary icon of the region. Nizami’s visionary poetry, particularly the Khamsa (Quintet), laid the groundwork for much of Persian and Turkic literary tradition. His beautifully landscaped mausoleum is not only a place of homage but also a spiritual and cultural touchstone for Azerbaijani national identity.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
23
Shah Abbas Mosque
Continue to explore Ganja’s rich historical core with a stop at the Shah Abbas Mosque, built in the 17th century under the rule of the Safavid dynasty. The mosque, with its classic Persian architectural elements, stands as a reflection of the Islamic and artistic heritage of the region.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
24
Mausoleum of Javad Khan
Nearby is the Javad Khan Mausoleum, honoring the last ruler of the Ganja Khanate who resisted Russian imperial rule. His mausoleum, simple yet solemn, serves as a symbol of defiance and local patriotism.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
25
Ganja Heydar Aliyev Park
A stroll through Heydar Aliyev Park, one of the largest urban green spaces in Azerbaijan, provides a relaxing interlude. With its grand monuments, wide boulevards, and manicured gardens, the park celebrates the modern nation while offering peaceful leisure space for visitors and locals alike.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
26
Following lunch at a local restaurant, your journey continues to the highland Goygol region, a land of natural elegance and historical layers. Begin with a visit to Helenendorf, a German-founded settlement established in the 19th century by Swabian immigrants. Now officially called Göygöl, the village still retains architectural traces of its German heritage, including Lutheran churches, wine cellars, and neatly arranged streets - remnants of a unique European cultural presence on Azerbaijani soil.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
27
Goygol
The day’s final destination is Goygol National Park, famed for its crystal-clear alpine lake, Lake Goygol, nestled beneath the dramatic peaks of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. Formed by an earthquake in the 12th century, the lake is surrounded by dense forests and meadows, making it a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. The area’s untouched ecosystem and serenity offer a perfect counterpoint to the urban exploration of the morning. The day concludes with a return to Ganja for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay, allowing for reflection on the day’s mix of poetic inspiration, multicultural layers, and pristine mountain landscapes. Total tour duration of the day will cover about 11 to 13 hours with driving distances and by the explanation of professional guide in the sighteeings.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Earth’s Living Canvas - Gobustan, Mud Volcanoes & Return to Baku
3 stops
28
Gobustan Rock Art
Today is a journey through time, terrain, and tradition, spotlighting the extraordinary geological and cultural heritage of Azerbaijan’s Absheron Peninsula. From prehistoric artistry carved into stone to bubbling mud volcanoes and bustling local markets, this day offers an immersive experience into the country's natural wonders and vibrant daily life. After breakfast, depart from your accommodation and head southwest to Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses one of the world’s most extensive and well-preserved collections of prehistoric petroglyphs. Accompanied by a professional guide, your visit includes the modern Gobustan Museum, which contextualizes the petroglyphs with interactive exhibits, archaeological artifacts, and reconstructions of early human life.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
29
Mud Volcanoes
A short drive from the petroglyph site takes you to one of Azerbaijan’s most unusual natural wonders: the Mud Volcanoes. With over half of the world’s mud volcanoes located in Azerbaijan, this landscape is both surreal and scientifically significant. These low-temperature volcanoes emit cool mud, gas, and sometimes small flames, creating a lunar-like terrain that fascinates both geologists and travelers. The bubbling craters and cracked, otherworldly earth offer a unique photo opportunity and a visceral connection to the region’s volatile, shifting geology.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
30
In the afternoon, the return journey to Baku includes a stop at Yashil Bazaar (“Green Market”), one of the city’s liveliest and most colorful traditional markets. This vibrant space is filled with the aromas of dried fruits, spices, herbs, nuts, and locally grown produce, making it a sensory-rich stop for those wishing to engage with Azerbaijani culinary culture. It also provides a chance to interact with local vendors, sample authentic snacks, and perhaps purchase souvenirs that reflect the region’s agricultural abundance and gastronomic identity. The day concludes in Baku, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner followed by a comfortable overnight stay in your hotel. The evening offers time to relax, reflect, and prepare for the final stages of your journey. The total duration of the tour is approximately 10 to 12 hours, including travel time and guided commentary throughout the sightseeing activities.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Echoes of Baku, Old City Walk & Departure
4 stops
31
Icherisheher Historical-Architectural reserve
Your final day in Azerbaijan is designed as a graceful farewell to a country where ancient civilization and modern vision coalesce in a dazzling display of cultural continuity and architectural splendor. It offers a reflective, curated exploration of Baku, the capital city and crown jewel of the Caspian coast. After breakfast and checkout, the day begins with a guided walk through Icherisheher, or the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the very cradle of Baku’s history. This ancient walled quarter, dating back more than 1,200 years, is a living museum filled with narrow cobbled streets, sandstone buildings, and evocative relics of bygone eras, the Maiden Tower - a symbol of Baku shrouded in mystery and local legend, Shirvanshah’s Palace - an architectural complex of royal chambers, tombs, and mosques from the 15th century, Caravanserais and bathhouses -once vital to Silk Road travelers and still bearing traces of their multicultural legacy.
3 hours • Admission ticket not included
32
Nizami Street
From the Old City, the journey flows into the modern heart of Baku with a visit to Nizami Street and Fountain Square - two of the city’s most vibrant public spaces. Nizami Street, with its blend of European-inspired architecture, bustling retail scene, and street performers, offers a lively contrast to the historical core. Fountain Square, ringed with cafés and shady promenades, provides a space to relax and soak in the energy of everyday Azerbaijani life.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
33
Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center
Later, embrace the country’s cutting-edge aspirations at the Heydar Aliyev Center, an internationally acclaimed masterpiece designed by the late Zaha Hadid. Its flowing, organic curves symbolize Azerbaijan’s break from rigid Soviet structures into a future-oriented national identity. Inside, visitors may explore exhibitions that showcase Azerbaijani art, culture, and innovation - bridging the past and the future in one fluid form.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
34
The afternoon offers free time for last-minute shopping, coffee breaks, or quiet reflection amid the boulevards, parks, or seafront promenade (Baku Boulevard) that line the city’s Caspian shores. As the day draws to a close, you’ll be transferred to Heydar Aliyev International Airport, bringing your journey full circle. Depart Baku with a suitcase of cultural souvenirs and a heart full of memories shaped by the land’s ancient echoes, alpine splendor, and the warmth of its people.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The final stretch to Khinalug involves off-road travel via UAZ or Niva vehicles due to rugged terrain.
• Narrow roads to Lahij require Niva Lada cars or minibuses for access. For the journey from the main road to Lahij and back, we will use Niva Lada cars or 15 seaters minivans for transportation.
• We offer 3 price options here according to the services. First is guide and driver, second is guide, driver and entrance fees, the third is All Inclusive. Travelers are asked to read Inclusions section carefully as we offer 3 price options.

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