All Included: Azerbaijan I 5 nights 6 days I Baku-Shamakha-Lahij-Ismayilli-Gabala-Sheki

Given its natural abundance, Azerbaijan makes a great spot for bird watching. “Each climate zone hosts corresponding bird species,” says Sultanov. “In semi-deserts, you’ll find birds like the black-bellied sandgrouse, Menetries’s warbler, black francolin, blue-cheeked bee-eater, and European bee-eater. Forest zones are home to common European species such as greenfinches and goldfinches. Higher elevations support specific endemic species like the Caucasian black grouse and both the Caucasian and Caspian snowcocks.”

But if you’re more interested in plunging into the country than simply observing, there’s plenty to discover.

There’s more than one way to explore a country. Hiking means you can take in the landscapes, watching them slowly unfold while getting close to nature. You can take your pick of several marked routes across the countryside. Beginners can try the Gumukh-Gashgachay trail to meander through forests, while for more experienced hikers, the Kish-Bash Goynuk trail will take you up Mount Uzunyayla. Various touring companies offer guided excursions, some of which focus on visiting historical villages or exploring more remote areas, like the Caucasus Mountains.

This tour package includes walking historical and architectural tours, shopping, nature tours tours, yachting ( Caspian Sea), wine dégustation, craftsmanship master class.

You are going to see and visit FOUR cities and three ancient villages.

Beautiful hotels with swimming pool in contrast with village styled overnights.

What about astrological observatory in a high mountains at night?!

ITINERARY

Day 1:

Depend of arrival time, our professional team: tour guide and driver wait to welcome you at the international airport.

• Pick-up airport transfer. Transfer to hotel in city center;

• Check-in and rest;

• Baku Walking Sightseeing Tour. Duration:3 hours;

• Welcome dinner. We enjoy the local food with panoramic view to Baku and Flame Towers.

Day 2:

After healthy breakfast, good coffee or aromatic azerbaijani tea, we start to enjoy our tours through Baku and nearby locations.

Baku Sightseeing and Yachting Tour

Duration: full day

Start your sightseeing tour across the Baku at Highland Park. Take a fresh breeze of the Caspian Sea and take incredible panoramic view of Baku city and Caspian sea.
Admire the miraculous architectural mix of east and west contrasts.
After Highland Park you proceed to the Baku Boulevard. Baku highlights includes one of the most favorite and famous locations as downtown included Nizami street. For those, who prefer to explore historical sightseeing Baku will open its mysteries and secrets.

▶️Lunch in Shah Garden Restaurant. It is Caravansarai of 12th century.  After the lunch we enjoy the yachting in Caspian Sea.

Sailing, swimming in clear water and an even sea tan. Take an unforgettable sailing trip on our yacht to the island of Boyuk-Zira. You can swim directly from the anchored yacht, sunbathe on the deck, fish and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Our Tour ends approximately at 7 pm. We have a dinner in Chayki restaurant.

Then return to hotel. Take a rest. Free evening.

Overnight in Baku.

Day 3

Explore Azerbaijan by passing by 3 cities and 2 legendary village.

From early morning, after healthy breakfast we check out from hotel and start our next JOURNEY.

First two points:

• Shamakha city: Kalakhana Tombs and Diri Baba Mausoluem

The Diri Baba Mausoleum is a captivating historical landmark located in Qobustan, Azerbaijan, known for its striking architecture and profound cultural significance. This mausoleum is dedicated to Diri Baba, a revered figure in the region, and offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the Azerbaijani people. As you approach the site, you will be greeted by the stunning stone structure, which harmoniously blends with the rugged landscape surrounding it. The mausoleum's intricate carvings and serene ambiance provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciation of the craftsmanship that has withstood the test of time.

Nestled in the scenic region of Kelakhana, the Kalakhana Tombs stand as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Azerbaijan. The tombs, believed to date back several centuries, feature intricate architectural designs that reflect the craftsmanship of their time. Visitors can admire the fine details etched into the stone, which tell stories of the past and honor those who once rested within these hallowed grounds. As you stroll through the serene surroundings of the Kalakhana Tombs, you'll find that the atmosphere is imbued with a sense of tranquility and reverence. The site is often less crowded than other tourist attractions, allowing for a more intimate experience with history.

 Photographers will appreciate the stunning visuals, as the play of light on the weathered stones creates a captivating aesthetic. Engage with local guides who can share fascinating anecdotes and insights about the significance of these tombs, enhancing your understanding of this historical landmark. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone in search of a peaceful retreat, the Kalakhana Tombs offer a unique experience that captures the essence of Azerbaijan's past. Don't miss your chance to explore this hidden gem on your journey through the region.

▶️Lunch in Abgora restaurant

The next destination is Lahij

Located about 3 hours’ drive from Baku via a geologically spectacular canyon, the pretty little village of Lahij woos visitors with its antique cobbled streets, stone houses, souvenir shops and incredible crafts heritage. In the past over 40 different crafts were practised in this historic village, which dates back 2,000 years and is now a historical and cultural reserve. They included hat making, leather production, blacksmithing and carpet weaving. However, Lahij is best known for its stunning copperwares, which in the past were sold all over the Caucasus and today examples of them can be found in some of the world's top museums. 

The inhabitants of Lahij are ethnic Tats who speak their own language and have an interesting local cuisine which is well worth trying. The cool mountain air makes travelling here especially appealing in summer, when in addition to exploring the village you can head up into the mountains along a number of scenic hiking routes.

We are going to learn craftsmanship from local people.

Dinner in Lahij. You try local regional dishes.

Overnight in a village houses.

Day 4

We have village breakfast in fresh air around the mountains.

The next point is Gabala and Shaki.

Gabala Cable Car is located at Tufandag Mountain Resort and is a highlight of the city. It offers a scenic journey, which takes passengers on a ride up the slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. The cable car journey begins at the base station and ascends towards the Tufandag Mountain Resort. The whole ride can take around 2 to 3 hours. It is famous for being one of the longest in the world, offering riders an unparalleled perspective of Gabala's stunning natural beauty.

Spanning a distance of approximately 6 kilometers, the cable car goes up to a height of 1600-1900 meters. It is divided into 2 levels, each having 2 stations. You will be required to switch the cable car at the first level to reach the top. All the stations have viewpoints and cafes where you can relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the Caucasus. 

From Gabala city we drive to Shaki city. We drive direct to legendary Markhal 5* hotel to check in.

Marxal Resort & Spa Complex is located in an enigmatic nook surrounded by mountains in Sheki city, at the altitude of 1080 m. above the sea level. The geographical position of the hotel makes it one of a kind and outstanding. The hotel is located at a distance of 6 km. from Sheki city center, 14 km. from Sheki Railway Station, 105 km. from Qabala Airport and 324 km. from Baku International Airport. Sheki is one of the most ancient cities of Azerbaijan and is a reserve of historical monuments.

After an hour of rest, we go to lunch.

Note: Two-storied Spa Complex:

Swimming pool • Dry sauna • Steam room • Turkish hammam • Fitness hall • Massage rooms • Massage rooms for couples • Amber Room • Sand Room • Salt Room • Beauty salon •
Will wait you on return from tour

Last surprise of this day is historical very unusual ancient Albanian (Caucasian Albania / Azerbaijan) village.

Kish village, which is located 5 kilometers from the town of Sheki in the same area, is proud of its main attraction - the ancient Christian church of the XII century. Item Kish is a must tourist travel - because the village is beautiful with its splendid nature, traditions and rich past.

Since 2003, the Christian church is a museum. According to Georgian letapіstsu, in the tenth century the population of the village took the Georgian Orthodox Church and built this church dedicated to the Holy Virgin. Archaeological excavations carried out at the site of the church, revealed the existence of cult area under the altar of the church, which belongs to the year 3000 BC, although the church was built in the XII century. Some historians believe that until the XIX century in the village dominated by the Udi language, that is, in the village were people who have long considered themselves Udyna.

Dinner will be serviced in Markhal Resort. Overnight. See you tomorrow.

Day 5

After healthy breakfast, we check out from resort and drive to famous Shaki city.

We enjoy Shaki Khan’s Sarai and one of the biggest Caravansarai in all of Caucasian region. Walking through central streets, trying local chocolate and sweets.

Lunch will be served in Abrau Durso Winery in combine with wine degustation.

Then we return to Baku city. Arrival: evening time. Check in. Rest and dinner in local restaurant.

Day 6.

Day of Drop Off.

Firtsly we check out from hotel. Walking to Old City with World Heritages, narrow street, tea degustations and shopping.

Then we drive to Seaside. You are welcome to enjoy the time by swimming, taking sunbath.

Drop off starts after lunch.

I beleive you are already enjoying by reading your future Next Trip.

See you in Azerbaijan