On this day we will drive to Baku. On the way we will pass the ancient town of Shemakha. From the road we can observe desert landscapes first which are soon changed by beautiful landscapes of Azerbaijani villages below the main Caucasus range.  In case of interest, it is possible to stop near the main road at Nohur lake for a photo or boat/catamaran ride. Upon arrival in the city, we will visit a local restaurant where you can taste delicious Azerbaijani dishes.

Overnight in Baku

We will start the day with a visit to the Baku old town - "Icheri Sheher". Walking through the narrow streets you will see wooden balconies overlooking the cobbled streets. We will visit many sights and hear interesting stories about Baku. Soon we will approach the Museum of Miniature Books, which in 2014 was included in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest collection of miniature books in the world. After exploring microscopic books , we will visit Shirvanshahs ’Palace, dating to the 15th century, which was declared to be a world heritage site by UNESCO. Our next destination will be the oldest building of the city The Maiden Tower - fortress, which is considered to be the main symbol of Baku. No one knows exactly when The Maidan Tower was built or why it was named that way. The mystery adds charm to this sight. We will pass an antiques shop, beautiful exhibits on the shelves and colorful carpets.

Then we will visit the Baku Carpet Museum, which has a very creative building. After seeing the eye-catching carpets we will go to Baku boulevard, which is the second largest in Europe. You will also have the opportunity to take a boat ride on the Caspian Sea, take photos of the largest lake in the world. and look at beautiful Baku from another angle.

Overnight in Baku.

After breakfast we will drive to one of the most ancient and continuously inhabited settlements in Caucasus - Khinalug Village. The village is located away from the daily noisy towns and cities. The 5,000-year-old settlement is home to the ancient Caucasian Albanian tribes - Khinaligi. Due to its location at 2200 meters above sea level, even in the past the enemies rarely attacked the village. Breathing cold air in this place you will really feel like on another planet. Here you will find a museum and Atesha (fire temple) which is located very high in the mountains.

From this magical place we will start trekking in Azerbaijan and hike to the Khari-Bulbul peak (Elevation - 2783m, Distance - 9km, Elevation Gain/Loss - 675m). From there we will enjoy beautiful views to the Azerbaijani mountains.

Overnight in Khinaliq.

(Distance - 16.7km, Elevation gain - 760m, Elevation loss - 940m)

Our hiking tour in Azerbaijan continues with a simple hiking trail which is great for beginners and amateur tourists. On the way to the rocky parts of the giant massif, the river Gudyal and the high peaks of Khinalig (3713 m) and Tufandag (4191 m). Soon we will reach village Galakhudat(2270m) The trails are visible and marked everywhere. The name of the village means “the ruler’s fortress” in Persian and it is thought that the area was one of main residences for the rulers of Guba khanate. If in the group there are amateur hikers it is possible to cut distance and stay in this village and continue the next day to Griz.  On the way to Griz we will cross the rivers, look at nature from the hill with a good view of the canyon, see the amazing nature and finally reach the village of Griz - A highland settlement shrouded in clouds. You will see beautiful views from this place. The environment is full of healthy air and free spirit.

Overnight in Griz(2000m). Griz is a midpoint for hikes including a panoramic route to Grizdehne which is recommended only in case you are limited in time. Our company has opted to show you the other side of the mountains and hike towards Laza and Shahdag resort.

Night in Griz.

(Distance - 19km, Elevation gain - 869m, Elevation loss - 1207)

On this day a very interesting long hike is coming, we will start our route from Griz. In summer the greenery of the mountains attracts hikers and in winter the snowy cliffs. On the way you may meet a flock of sheep. Guide will help you to be safe from shepherd dogs. You will take very nice photos along the way as the views along the way are fascinating. Trail is full of misty mountains, towering cliffs and there are even mountain waterfalls. You will make it above Shahdag mountain resort which is a famous destination for ski tourism in winter. At the end of the hike we will reach the small but very interesting Laza village(1600m). People of Laza are considered a minority and They have their own language and culture. We will rest and get ready for the next day. Accommodation during this hike will be in Guest Houses but guests may opt for staying in one of the hotels of Shahdag resort at extra cost.

Overnight in Laza village.

(Distance - 6.8km, Elevation gain - 250m, Elevation loss - 610m)

Our adventure continues. On this day we will hike from Laza village to Kuzun village. This trail is of moderated difficulty and is very picturesque. During the hike you will see beautiful nature in front of you - the huge cliffs of Gizilgaia and Shahdag will overlook you, You will hike next to the deep Gusarchay gorge and the beautiful waterfall discharging into it. After walking these amazing roads we will reach village Kuzun - traditional settlement where more than hundred families live.

After enjoying the local village life and gazing at the landscapes, we will drive to Lahich.

Overnight in Lahich.

We will start exploring Lahic in the morning. Lahich village is a calm, cozy and picturesque ancient settlement. There you can explore unique carved copper items, knitted and wooden hand-made ware, souvenirs and more.

In the end of the hiking tour in Azerbaijan we will drive a long way to the airport in Tbilisi or Baku. Alternative to car ride to Tbilisi can be a ride by train.