Mystical Azerbaijan –Flames, Green Forests & Ancient Heritage (5N/6D) – 1 Country / 1 City

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your exploration of Baku with the Old City (Icherisheher), the historic heart of the capital. Surrounded by well-preserved fortress walls, this ancient quarter had a population of about 3,000 people in 2007. Notable landmarks include the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the Maiden Tower, which in December 2000 became the first site in Azerbaijan to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the Old City, proceed to the lively Nizami Street, known for shopping and bustling street life. This historic avenue traces back to Baku’s 1864 town-planning project, stretching 3,538 meters from Abdulla Shaig Street in the mountainous part of the city to the railroad bed on Sabit Orujov Street, near the monument of Shah Ismail Khatai in “Black City.” Next, visit Fountains Square, a public square in downtown Baku previously called Parapet. Named after the dozens of fountains constructed during Soviet times, it remains a popular gathering place, especially during evenings and weekends. Later, admire the modern architecture of the Heydar Aliyev Center (photo stop outside). Covering an area of 57,500 m², this building, designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, is famous for its flowing, curved style that avoids sharp angles. Named after Heydar Aliyev, the first secretary of Soviet Azerbaijan from 1969 to 1982 and president of the Azerbaijan Republic from October 1993 to October 2003, it is a true icon of contemporary Baku. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Baku.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing for Gabala, a scenic region in Azerbaijan known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Begin your excursion at the Tufandaq Winter-Summer Tourism Complex, where adventure awaits throughout the year. Enjoy cable car rides offering stunning views, try skiing on tracks of varying difficulty, or join ski lessons at the ski school. The complex also provides catering services with cafés and restaurants, entertainment centres for children, and hotel facilities for a comfortable stay. Next, visit Nohur Lake, nestled deeper in the mountains of Gabala. Although slightly off the main route to Sheki, the lake opens up a breathtaking panorama of tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for photos and relaxation. Continue to the Yeddi Gozel (Seven Beauties) Waterfalls, one of Gabala’s most popular natural attractions. Located 6 kilometers from Vandam village and 3 km from the main track over Puskan, the waterfalls cascade in seven steps. While only two small waterfalls are visible at the base, a climb up the stairs reveals the remaining five, offering a rewarding view for those ready for a short trek. The waterfalls are shaded by dense forest, keeping the area cool and serene. A restaurant and a tea house nearby provide an opportunity to rest and enjoy local refreshments. Return to Baku for an overnight stay, concluding a day filled with nature, adventure, and scenic beauty.

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for an Absheron Peninsula tour, exploring the unique cultural and natural highlights of the region. Visit the Ateshgah (Fire Worshippers Temple), a historic site used by both Hindus and Zoroastrians. The pentagonal complex, built during the 17th and 18th centuries, features a central tetra pillar-altar surrounded by cells for monks. The name “Atash” comes from the Persian word for fire, reflecting the temple’s role as a place of worship devoted to the eternal flame. Continue to the famous Yanardag (Fire Mountain), located 25 km north of Baku on the Absheron Peninsula. Known as the “Blazing Mountain,” natural gas flames continuously emerge from the hillside, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of fire dancing over rocks—a striking reminder of Azerbaijan’s nickname, the “Land of Fire.” Return to Baku for an overnight stay, ending a day full of cultural insight and natural wonders.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out for the Gobustan tour, a fascinating region renowned for its ancient rock art. Gobustan has been inhabited since the 8th millennium BC and features thousands of petroglyphs spread across 100 square kilometers, depicting hunting scenes, humans, ships, animals, and constellations. The oldest of these rock carvings date back to the 12th century BC. In 2007, UNESCO recognized the area as the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, adding it to the World Heritage list. Continue the exploration with a visit to the Mud Volcanoes, unique geological formations that provide a dramatic and otherworldly landscape, offering excellent photo opportunities. Return to Baku for an overnight stay, completing a day immersed in history, culture, and natural wonders.

Breakfast at the hotel Check-out from the hotel Transfer to the Airport