A Full Day Khinalug Village and Guba Mountains Private Your
Active
11h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Full-day tour from Baku through Azerbaijan’s Guba region highlights Qachrash Forest, Khinalug Village and Red Village. Explore dense oak and beech forests with streams, waterfalls and abundant wildlife perfect for photography. Visit Khinalug, one of the highest and oldest inhabited villages in the Caucasus, with traditional crafts, museums and alpine landscapes. Experience Red Village, the unique Mountain Jewish settlement with historic architecture and rich cultural heritage. The 11-hour itinerary offers a full blend of natural beauty, history and authentic local experiences. Perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable journey through Azerbaijan’s mountains, villages and ecological treasures. Comprehensive guided sessions and cultural insights ensure a highly engaging and visually stunning experience.
Available options
A Full Day Khinalug Tour
Pickup included
What's included
All entry Admissions
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick up from any designated address or arranged meeting point within Baku. Following the initial meeting, the journey proceeds toward the Guba region of Azerbaijan. The first point of interest is Qachrash Forest, nearly three hours’ drive from Baku. Qachrash Forest, spanning over 500 hectares at the foot of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, represents a significant ecological zone characterized by mixed deciduous forest dominated by oaks, beeches and hornbeams. The forest sustains a diverse fauna, including cervids, wild boars and a variety of avian species, making it an important site for biodiversity observation and ecological study. Hydrological features include multiple streams and minor waterfalls, contributing to a microclimate conducive to seasonal flora proliferation. Visitors engage in observational walks for approximately 30 minutes, suitable for ecological photography, ornithological observation and short interpretive hikes.
2
The tour continues with an 80-minute transfer to Khinalug Village, recognized as one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in the Caucasus at 2,180 meters above sea level. This state historical-architectural and ethnographic reserve accommodates a population of about 2,000 residents and demonstrates continuous human occupation for over 5,000 years. The village exhibits unique sociolinguistic characteristics, including the Ketsh language, an isolate within the Northeast Caucasian family, and maintains a repertoire of traditional crafts such as weaving and carpet making. The surrounding landscape includes alpine meadows, medicinal flora, multiple springs, caves and three hydrologically interconnected lakes exhibiting equal water levels, a phenomenon of geomorphological interest. Guests are provided a 90-minute guided exploration of Khinalug, including visits to local museums and the Sakina Khanum Mosque, complemented by an authentic Azerbaijani culinary experience.
3
The final stop is Red Village located about 80 minutes from Khinalug and 15 km northeast of Quba. Founded in 1742, it is the world’s only all-Jewish village outside Israel and the United States, preserving the heritage of Azerbaijan’s Mountain Jewish community through its distinctive architecture and cultural traditions. Guests spend around 60 minutes with a private guide visiting the Mountain Jews Museum and nearby heritage sites. Afterward, the tour returns to Baku in approximately three hours, ending at the original pick-up point. The full itinerary lasts about 11 hours, including transfers, guided visits, and cultural exploration.
What's not included
Gratuities
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.7
3 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
General tour duration is 11 hours, but can take 12 hours in order to give you an unforgettable experience along the way.
As there are many sightseeings during this day and at least 7 hours total driving distances from Baku to Khinalug and back to Baku, guest should leave from Baku at 09:00 AM.
Qechresh forest is beautiful in all seasons. But in winter, it is not green as seen from the pictures.
This Guba-Khinalug Mountain Tour involves mountainous terrain, so travelers should wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.
Meeting point
Travelers who do not require pickup can mention this in the "Special Requirements" section while booking the tour. Our tour operator will contact the Lead traveler to confirm and discuss the details.
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
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per person
Price varies by option
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