The city of Guba, which has ancient roots and is considered the northern gate of Azerbaijan, as well as the steep rocky Gusar located in its neighborhood, are magnificent pearls of nature that everyone is looking forward to seeing. The dense forests, ice-cool springs, and unique mountain villages of these places are a perfect destination for those who wish to get away from the hectic and noisy life of the city. The rich historical past, local architectural traditions with a special color, and colorful culture will particularly attract your attention during your journey. The climate of the northern regions is completely different; even under the scorching sun in spring and summer months, the cool breeze in the high valleys rests a person. With the arrival of autumn, the leaves of the trees are covered in yellow, red and brown shades, creating a giant painting.
As we advance from the foothills of the mountains, the roads lost in greenery will take us to the mysterious Laza village and the basin of rivers whose waters are crystal clear. Along the way, the ancient mountain ranges, the peaks shining from afar seem to enchant people's eyes. The delicious cuisine of the north, various kebabs made of mutton, fresh village cream, varieties of qutab and thyme tea brewed from mountain herbs refresh a person's palate. The famous Red Settlement, located on the banks of Gudyalchay, gives guests a real cultural difference with its unique Jewish architecture, narrow streets, specially patterned buildings and ancient brick houses. The history of these brick-built buildings goes back centuries and attracts tourists from all over the world here. Traces of a rich history are clearly felt in every stone and every street.
The most important place standing in the center of our trip is the international-level Shahdag Tourism Center, considered the source of pride of our country. Different types of activities are available here in every season of the year; in the winter months, it is possible to join a skiing adventure and walk on thick snow cover, while in warm weather, you have the chance to take light walks on the green slopes, as well as take the cable car to the top and watch the endless valleys. This trip, which will start from the morning hours and continue until the evening, will take you to a completely different world. Standing on the height of the slopes and looking into the distance, you will seem to be aware of all the secrets of nature. Shahdag valleys, canyons and rapid rivers will leave a deep mark in your memory and awaken the desire to return again and again. This journey is one of the best ways to further strengthen the bond between nature and humans.
Tour highlights
- Detailed walk along the historical Red Settlement and Gudyalchay shores
- Extraordinary nature landscapes in the magnificent Tengealti canyon
- Cable car ride and mountain air in the Shahdag Tourism Center
- Discovery of the mysterious Laza village and viewing the waterfalls pouring from the slopes
- A short break and historical information around the mystical Beshbarmag mountain on the way
Photos
Tour program
- 07:30
Departure from Baku and Beshbarmag Mountain Visit
We gather at the designated place around 07:30 in the morning and start moving towards the north. After about an hour of journey, we take a short break near Beshbarmag Mountain, which attracts attention with its mystical aura and carries special importance among the local population. Walking around this mountain, where travelers and caravans have inevitably stopped since ancient times, we get fresh air and forget the fatigue of the road, even if briefly. Then, gathering our full strength, we head to the next point of our trip.
- 10:00
Guba City and Red Settlement
Covering a distance of about 170 kilometers, we reach Guba city, which has an exquisite nature. Famous for its apple orchards, this city welcomes us with its tranquility. We walk in the territory of the historical Red Settlement, located on the bank of Gudyalchay, where the Jewish community lives compactly. Here, crossing the wooden suspension bridge, we observe colorful brick buildings, ancient synagogues and different architectural monuments. By closely acquainting ourselves with the daily lifestyle of the local residents and the specific features of the settlement, we gather a lot of information about the rich cultural heritage.
- 11:30
In the Bosom of Nature in Tengealti Canyon
We head in the direction of Tengealti Canyon, considered one of the most attractive points in the Guba territory, distinguished by its sharp turns and deep ravines. Valvalachay filtering rapidly between the high steep rocks and the surrounding dense forests, tall trees literally please the eye. Here, we can sit in a small place by the river to taste the delicious examples of local cuisine, listen to the sound of flowing water and enjoy the peace bestowed by nature. Taking photos in various corners of the canyon, we transfer this beauty to digital memory.
- 13:30
Shahdag Tourism Center and Laza Village
We enter Gusar district, an important stop of the route concerning a distance of about 190 kilometers. In the territory of the Shahdag Tourism Center, the country's leading winter sports destination that fully meets modern standards, we take the cable car line and watch the snow-covered or green landscape of the high peaks (cable car ticket is not included in the tour, it's extra). In the winter months, we watch professional and amateur skiers sliding on the snowy slopes or join this adventure ourselves. Next, we witness the natural beauty of the nearby ancient Laza Village and the rapid waterfalls flowing from its valleys. At the intersection of the mountains, surrounded by steep rocks, this village is reminiscent of a real fairyland.
- 17:30
Return and Arrival to Baku
After drawing the cool air of the mountains to our lungs to the fullest, walking in the oxygen-rich environment, and discovering the local pearls of nature sufficiently, we start moving from Gusar city towards the capital in the evening. We share the incredible impressions gathered during the trip with each other and look at the interesting photos taken. Arriving safely in Baku city around 21:30 in the evening, we complete this day rich in pleasant memories and part with the hope of meeting on the next trips.
Included in the price
- Round trip by comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional guide service
- Morning tea table and local sweet varieties
- Interesting briefing along the way and full excursion package
- Special photo session taken by a professional photographer
Not included
- Entrance tickets to museums, national parks and other paid areas
- Cable car, rental of ski equipment and other attractions at the Shahdag Tourism Center
- Lunch and dinner
- Personal expenses, souvenirs and purchase of local products
Useful tips
- It is strongly recommended to choose comfortable, warm, non-slip sole shoes to walk freely in high mountains in snowy and rainy weather.
- You can definitely take a small backpack with you and put a water bottle, spare socks, a warm vest or a scarf inside.
- Do not forget to clear the memory of your camera or mobile phone in advance to take pictures of natural landscapes, and take a powerbank with you.
Guba-Gusar-Shahdag tour: questions and answers
What is included in the payment for the Guba and Gusar tour?
Transport service, guiding, morning tea and photo session are included in the payment. The cable car line, ski equipment and food expenses are covered separately by the participants.
What is the starting point and departure time of the tour?
Our gathering takes place at 07:00 in the morning. Our full departure time from Baku to the north is exactly at 07:30.
How much do the cable car and ski services cost in Shahdag?
These prices vary according to the internal tariffs of the complex. Cable car tickets are presented on different lines and ski rental is calculated separately on the spot.
Is this tour suitable for children and family recreation?
Yes, it is quite a fun and interesting program for children. Especially the entertainment zones in Shahdag create ideal conditions for family recreation.
Request for Guba-Gusar-Shahdag tour
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