Arrival in Baku & Panoramic Evening Introduction

Heydar Aliyev International Airport - Arriving at Heydar Aliyev International Airport introduces visitors to Azerbaijan’s unique blend of precision, hospitality, and subtle grandeur. Guests are welcomed into a capital that harmonizes modern ambition with a deep respect for history. After a smooth transfer and check-in at a premium hotel, the late afternoon provides a sophisticated introduction to Baku’s visual and emotional landscape.

Dagustu Park (Upland Park) - The evening begins with a drive to Highland Park, offering the city’s most breathtaking views. From this elevated spot, the Flame Towers stand like sculpted flames, symbolizing national identity and architectural innovation. The site presents the city in a tableau of light, water, and stone, while Martyrs’ Lane and the Eternal Flame Monument highlight Azerbaijan’s resilience. This first evening is carefully planned to balance atmosphere with insight, ensuring elite travelers immediately connect with Baku’s intellectual and aesthetic essence. The entire experience, including airport transfer and guided evening exploration, lasts about 4 hours with insights from a professional guide.

Baku’s Historical Heartbeat & Architectural Wonders

Icherisheher Historical-Architectural Reserve - The second day immerses travelers in Baku’s architectural and cultural evolution, where ancient fortresses stand alongside bold modernism. The morning begins within the protective walls of Icherisheher, Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City. This historic core offers more than preserved buildings; it provides insight into a civilization shaped by conquest, commerce, and cultural exchange. Cobblestone paths lead the journey through key landmarks: the enigmatic Maiden Tower, the refined artistry of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and sacred spaces such as the Juma Mosque and Muhammad Mosque, each holding centuries of spiritual resonance. The narrative deepens through intimate visits to the Miniature Book Museum, housing one of the world’s most unusual private collections, and artisan workshops where traditional crafts thrive in the hands of master makers.

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center - Transitioning from past to present, the tour leads to the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, an audacious structure by Zaha Hadid that defies architectural norms with its flowing curves and futuristic design. The space captures Azerbaijan’s drive for reinvention without forsaking identity, a hallmark of global capitals with a confident voice.

Baku Boulevard - The afternoon slows into a scenic walk along Baku Boulevard, where the Carpet Museum’s avant-garde exterior mirrors the intricacy of the textiles inside. Moments of calm arrive at Little Venice, a canal-side retreat designed for elegance and ease.

Nizami Street / Tarqovi - The day concludes in the dynamic quarters of Nizami Street and Fountain Square, where upscale boutiques, galleries, and cafes create the city’s modern rhythm. The total experience, including guided visits and driving distances, spans approximately 6 to 8 hours and is fully accompanied by a professional guide.

Gobustan’s Stone Stories & Flames of Antiquity

Gobustan Rock Art - This day takes travelers beyond the capital into Azerbaijan’s geological and spiritual roots - a journey where ancient human expression meets the raw forces of nature. The first destination is Gobustan, a UNESCO-listed archaeological reserve where more than 6,000 rock engravings date back over 40,000 years. The carvings are not decorative; they are deliberate records of belief, ritual, and survival. Every etched figure, whether in motion or stance, reflects the primal instinct to document and define life in its earliest form.

Gobustan Mud Volcano - A short distance away lies a natural phenomenon found in few places on Earth called the Mud Volcanoes of Gobustan. These dynamic, cratered mounds bubble with mineral-rich mud, echoing the volatile yet creative power of the land beneath. It is an immersive, almost lunar encounter with Earth in flux.

Bibi-Heybat Mosque - From geology to spirituality, the itinerary shifts to Bibiheybat Mosque, a revered reconstruction of a 13th-century shrine destroyed during Soviet times. Beside it stands one of the world’s first industrial oil wells, grounding Azerbaijan’s early role in global energy history.

Ateshgah - Fire Temple - The exploration intensifies at the Ateshgah-Fire Temple, where natural gas vents once ignited flames that drew Zoroastrian, Hindu, and Sikh pilgrims from across Asia. The site remains charged with symbolic energy, a rare convergence of faiths fueled by the earth itself.

Yanardag State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve - The final stop, Yanardag-Burning Mountain, is pure spectacle: a hillside fire that has burned continuously for centuries, undisturbed by weather or time. The total experience, including guided commentary and travel between all sites, spans approximately 8 to 10 hours.

Timeless Shamakhi – Of Poets, Shrines & Silent Lakes

Diri Baba Mausoleum - The journey turns inland toward the highlands of Shamakhi, a city steeped in intellectual heritage and spiritual depth - once a seat of poets, philosophers, and rulers of the Shirvan dynasty. Elevated yet grounded in history, this leg of the itinerary reveals the intersection of devotion, dynasty, and natural stillness. The day begins at the Diribaba Mausoleum, carved into a cliffside and suspended between myth and medieval engineering. The stonework speaks of timeless craftsmanship, and the site’s serenity reflects its once-sacred function as a place of retreat.

Juma Mosque - Nearby, the Juma Mosque, among the oldest in the Caucasus, holds not only architectural significance but also deep historical continuity, a structure that has endured invasions, reconstructions, and centuries of cultural shifts.

Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum - In the hills overlooking the region, the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum offers a rare glimpse into royal burial traditions. Its domes, weathered yet proud, stand as silent witnesses to the legacies of Shamakhi’s noble past.

Alpaca Azerbaijan - The tone of the day then shifts to rural elegance. A visit to a local Alpaca Farm introduces guests to highland life with a focus on ethical animal care and sustainable practices. It’s a textured experience - immersive, tactile, and connected to the rhythms of the land.

Abqora Restaurant & Wine Club - Then, at the Abgora Wine House, tradition is uncorked. Guests engage with Azerbaijani viniculture through tastings that emphasize local grape varieties and time-honored techniques still alive in this mountainous region.

Silent Lake Shamakhy - The day concludes at Silent Lake, where reflections on the water mirror the silence of the surrounding forest. It is a pause in motion - an intentional ending to a day defined by altitude, legacy, and the sensory pleasures of rural Azerbaijan. The total experience, including all guided visits and transfers, spans approximately 6 to 8 hours.

Into Lahij’s Living Heritage – From Stars to Crafts

Shamakhy Astrophysical Observatory - The fifth day charts a path through the intellectual and artisanal layers of Azerbaijan’s heartland, beginning with a visit to the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. Located high in the Caucasus foothills, this scientific outpost once served as a regional epicenter for space observation. Here, travelers engage not only with state-of-the-art telescopes but with the legacy of a region where stars were once essential to navigation, agriculture, and spiritual alignment.

Lahic - As the elevation rises, so does the intimacy of experience. The journey continues into the Ismayilli region, arriving in Lahij (Lahic) - a mountain village preserved with near-museum precision. Narrow cobblestone lanes wind through copper workshops, where each hammer strike echoes centuries of tradition. Lahij is more than a village; it is a sanctuary for craftsmanship, where generational artisans continue to shape metal, wood, and leather into cultural artifacts of enduring beauty and value.

Zarnava - The physical setting itself is no less remarkable. The village is carved into steep terrain, surrounded by alpine vistas and scented with wild herbs carried on clean mountain air. A walk across the Zarnava Suspension Bridge reveals sweeping views of canyons and valleys far below, a perspective that reminds travelers of the raw scale and drama of this landscape.

Gebele - Later, the road descends gently into the serene expanse of Gabala, where forests, lakes, and snow-capped peaks shape the horizon. The day closes in calm contrast to its exploratory start - a transition from hands-on heritage to nature-wrapped tranquility. The total experience, including guided visits and overland transfers, spans approximately 6 to 8 hours.

Alpine Beauty, Albanian Echoes - Gabala & Sheki

Tufandag Mountain Resort - The day opens amid the soaring peaks of the Tufandag Mountain Resort, where guests ascend via cable car to unrivaled panoramas of rugged alpine terrain. The crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas set a commanding tone, inviting a profound connection to Azerbaijan’s natural grandeur. Seasonal alpine activities provide both invigorating adventure and tranquil reflection.

Yeddi Gozel Waterfall - From the heights, the journey descends to the serene Nohur Lake, a pristine body of water framed by towering pines and mirror-like stillness - a sanctuary of quiet and elemental beauty. Nearby, the cascading Yeddi Gozel (“Seven Beauties”) waterfall offers a dynamic display of nature’s artistry, each drop a note in a symphony of water and stone.

Bio Garden - The journey then leads to Sheki, a historic jewel on the Silk Road, where guests stroll through the lush Bio Garden, an emblem of the region’s natural fertility and diversity.

Sheki Karvansaray - The storied Sheki Caravanserai reveals layered tales of merchant travelers and cultural exchange, its halls resonant with echoes of a bygone era of connectivity and commerce. Before nightfall, a sensory indulgence in Sheki’s renowned sweets, especially the delicate, handcrafted halva, provides a perfect cultural and culinary crescendo. This final moment of the day is both a celebration of local craftsmanship and a sweet farewell to the region’s timeless charm. The total tour duration, including expert-guided explorations and scenic transfers, spans approximately 8 to 10 hours.

Palatial Elegance & Artisan Spirit of Sheki

Sheki Khan’s Palace - The day opens with a visit to the Sheki Khan’s Palace, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. Its vibrant stained-glass windows (shebeke) and intricate frescoes embody the height of royal sophistication and artistic brilliance. This palace is a testament to Sheki’s historic prominence and refined cultural heritage.

Abad Ceramics And Applied Art Center - Next, exploration continues at the ABAD Ceramic Arts Centre, where traditional pottery-making thrives, revealing centuries-old techniques kept alive by skilled artisans.

Shebeke Workshop - A hands-on experience unfolds at the Craftsmen’s House, where guests witness master artisans creating delicate shebeke works, a craft renowned for its complexity and beauty. This glimpse into Sheki’s living artistic traditions highlights a continuous lineage of cultural expression.

Silk, Faith & Local Traditions – Deeper into Sheki

Church of Kish - The morning begins with a visit to the Kish Albanian Church, an extraordinary monument regarded as one of the earliest Christian sanctuaries in the Caucasus region. This site, with its centuries-old stone walls and serene surroundings, offers travelers a powerful connection to the spiritual roots that shaped the cultural landscape here.

Sheki - Next, explore the Shekihanovs’ House, a perfectly preserved noble residence dating back to the 19th century. This mansion exemplifies the grandeur and sophistication of Sheki’s aristocratic past, featuring intricately carved wooden balconies, traditional frescoes, and elegantly furnished rooms.

Khan Mosque - A visit to the Khan Mosque follows, a serene place of worship that showcases traditional Islamic architecture with ornate woodwork and stained glass. This mosque stands as a symbol of the city’s religious life and spiritual continuity, inviting quiet contemplation amid its historic walls.

Nature, Castles & Temples – Qakh & Ilisu Wonders

Farewell to the Highlands - Return Journey to Baku

Shamakhi - After breakfast and hotel check-out, the return to Baku marks not just the end of a journey but the culmination of a deeply immersive cultural experience. As the scenic drive winds through the majestic Greater Caucasus back toward the capital, this final leg offers time to reflect on the unforgettable contrasts of Azerbaijan - from the stone-carved legacies of Gobustan to the glittering skyline of modern Baku, from the serene silence of Sheki’s mountain villages to the echoing chants of ancient temples in Qakh. On the road, enjoy passing views of terraced vineyards, forested slopes, and timeless hamlets tucked into the hillsides. Stop for scenic photos or a last taste of regional delicacies if time allows - perhaps a final cup of Azerbaijani black tea sweetened with local jam.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport - As you re-enter the energetic pulse of Baku, the city’s cosmopolitan lights welcome you once again. Whether continuing on to the airport or spending one last night in the capital, this day closes a journey rich in discovery, history, and heartfelt encounters. You leave not only with souvenirs but with the stories, flavors, and friendships that define the very best of Azerbaijan. Total transfer duration with stops on the way and with on-road explanation by guide will take about 6 hours.

• Comfortable transportation
• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel
• 24/7 in situ and remote assistance
• English speaking tour guide
• Accommodation - 4 nights in Sheki at 4* Hotel on DBL room basis (if All Inclusive option selected)
• Accommodation - 3 nights in Baku at 4* Hotel on DBL room basis (if All Inclusive option selected)
• Accommodation - 1 night in Shamakhi at 4* Hotel on DBL room basis (if All Inclusive option selected)
• Accommodation - 1 night in Gabala at 4* Hotel on DBL room basis (if All Inclusive option selected)
• Daily buffet breakfast at the hotels on DBL room basis (if All Inclusive option selected)
• 9 dinners with mix of buffet and local restaurants (if All Inclusive option selected)
• Entrance fee to Carpet Museum (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Kish Church (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Fazil Necropoli (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Maiden Tower (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Cable Car Ride (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Bio Garden Sheki (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Dir Baba Mausoleum (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Sheki Museum (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Nohurlake (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Yanardag Mountain (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Abgora Wine House (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Shekihanovs’ House (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Mud Volcanoes (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee Az Abrau Museum (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Sheki Khan Palace (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to H. Aliyev Center (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Art Gallery (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Lahic Village Museum (if the Included Entry Tickets option selected)
• Entrance fee to Sumug-gala Castle (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Gobustan Museum (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Zarnava Bridge (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Ateshgah Temple (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Alpaca Farm (if the “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• Entrance fee to Shirvanshah Palace (if “Included Entry Tickets” or “All Inclusive” option selected)
• A bottle of water per person per day

• Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Discover the best of Azerbaijan on this exclusive 10-day adventure, blending Baku’s contemporary skyline with its UNESCO-listed Old City, alongside the ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan, fire temples, and enduring mountain villages. Experience the alpine charm of Gabala, the regal allure of Sheki, and the spiritual sites of Qakh and Lahij, all with expert guidance and premium access. From historic caravanserais and artisan workshops to serene lakes and sacred locations, each day unveils a fresh layer of culture, nature, and tradition.

• Travelers are asked to read Inclusions section carefully as we offer 3 price options here according to the services. First is guide and driver, second is guide, driver and entrance fees and the third is All Inclusive.
• “Excluded Entry Tickets” option include: Pick-up from your hotel; and drop-off back to your hotel; English speaking tour guide, Comfortable transportation; 24/7 in situ and remote assistance and a bottle of water per person per day

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.