Shamakhi And Gabala Tour: Unveiling the Rich Diversity of Azerbaijani Culture and History

Experience the captivating diversity of Azerbaijan’s culture and history on the Shamakhi-Gabala tour. Explore ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in delicious local delicacies.

Duration: 13 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Baku - Morning in Baku.

The guests are met by a guide around the country – a representative of the tour operator Azerbaijan Travel International and everyone sets off on a comfortable bus, first passing through the whole city. There are 250 kilometers ahead, and guests will have several halts, stops with excursions and lunch.

  • Khirdalan - 09:45

The first stop is not far from the city of Khirdalan, the south-easternmost city in Europe, next to Baku. Stop at the supermarket, where guests can make the necessary purchases, stock up on water, perform water procedures. Or try fresh traditional Azerbaijani pastries in a bakery with a diverse selection.
In a quarter of an hour– we are on the road again, on the road that is laid through the desert of the Gobustan region, again to the North Caucasian ridge, to its Asian part.

  • Juma Mosque - 10:45

Shamakhi city is the ancient capital of the medieval state of Shirvan. In this city, one of the centers of Azerbaijani poetry and viticulture, guests will have an excursion to the Juma Mosque. Guests will find themselves in the walls of a grandiose architectural structure made according to ancient antiseismic technology. A visit to the first Muslim temple in the Caucasus, built in 743, will introduce tourists to the history of Islam in Azerbaijan and the history of the mosque itself. After that, they will go further along the road that stretches like a ribbon along the Mugan mountain Pass, classic for the Greater Caucasus, and leads to the northwest of Azerbaijan to Ismayilli.

  • Ismailly - 12:45

On the official border between the Shamakhi and Ismayilli districts of Azerbaijan, there is the next halt. Every region of the country is famous for some fruits that our generous land gives. Ismayilli is famous for its honey, and a stop at the Honey House will give travelers the opportunity to taste local natural varieties.

  • Goychay - 13:30

Lunch in the mesmerizing Goychay forest. An hour break in a car transfer in a cozy restaurant will bring the main gastronomic notes to the Baku-Gabala tour. A three-course meal will end with a tea party, and fresh air saturated with oxygen will have a beneficial effect on digestion.
Well-fed and with pleasant impressions from the first half of the tour, the guests go on. The culmination of the journey awaits them.

  • Tufandag Mountain Resort - 15:30
    The city of Gabala is the capital of the Gabala district. The city, which was in ancient times the capital of Caucasian Albania, and today is known as a ski resort, will welcome tourists on the territory of the most famous hotel in the region “Tufandag”. Ski trails are located here and cable car cables are stretched over them, from which magnificent views of the mountains and the central part of the city open. The highest point of this exciting attraction is the peak of the Sleeping Beauty Mountain (Yatmysh Gezel), located at an altitude of about two thousand meters above the level of the world ocean.
  • Qabala - 17:00

The tour operator Azerbaijan Travel International is not limited to a trip by cable car in the city of Gabala. The next stop is a tea party in the House of Sweets, where our guests drink tea with all kinds of dessert dishes, tasting of which is included in the price of the tour.

  • Seven Beauties Waterfall - Set the scene: nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Great Caucasus Mountains, enveloped in abundant forests that stretch as far as the eye can see, and peaceful atmosphere that anyone could feel in a place like this, shielded from prying eyes here lies the “Seven Beauties,” a cascade of waterfalls where each view is more breathtaking than the last, offering a series of mesmerizing sceneries. The name “Seven Beauties” didn’t appear out of thin air, there are exactly seven waterfalls, each distinguished by its unique height and slope steepness. Situated in the Vandam area near the city of Gabala, You can not only admire this enchanting waterfall complex, but also get close to the dense wall of water. Visitors have the chance to approach these natural wonders closely, allowing them to feel the gentle water droplets on their skin and immerse themselves in the soothing serenity that envelops the surroundings.
  • Nohur Gol - 17:30

Lake Nohur. A worthy end to the journey offered by the Baku-Gabala tour package is a stop on the shore of a colorful mountain lake. To characterize the acquaintance with him, one word is enough – pacification. Riding a catamaran on its mirrored surface or walking along its wooded shore will encourage any sad person to rethink existence and come to the conclusion that the world is really beautiful.
Half an hour later - on the way back by semi-express with a short rest in the city of Shamakhi.

  • Baku - 18:00 - 21:00

Returning to Baku, which has already become like a native, to which you return as to your home, realizing that you have fallen in love with Azerbaijan and there is no end to this love.

What's Included
  • Professional guide
  • Lunch included
  • TripAdvisor Experiences brokerage fee covered
  • All local taxes included
  • Air-conditioned minivan transport
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels)
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Additional Information

Azerbaijan Travel International is delighted to offer our esteemed guests the Shamakhi-Gabala tour.

Our Baku-Gabala tour is an incredible journey that showcases cities, regions and climatic zones as they transform across different parts of the globe. Immerse yourself in the diverse richness of Azerbaijan’s natural landscape by spending a day on this tour. This experience also brings you closer to the cultural heritage and historical roots of Azerbaijan as you traverse lands with a glorious past.

Indeed, the specifics lie in the journey itself. From the wonder that unfolded a millennium ago in Qobustan, the unique architectural techniques of the ancient Shamakhi mosque, the panoramic view of Gabala seen from above, to the distinctive flavor of the Sheki halva, and so much more. All these intricate details and experiences await those who choose to indulge in the Baku-Gabala tour as a delightful treat for themselves and their loved ones.

  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
  • Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Infant meals not included
Location
Gala Gapisi
Cavadxan
Please, wait outside of Double Gates (Qosha Qala Qapisi)
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.8
(721 Ratings)
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Yuliyar285
Aug 27, 2024
Very good experience - We recently went on a tour of the Shamakh-Gabala route, and this trip was one of the most memorable thanks to our guide Ashraf. In Shamakh we were impressed by the local architecture and nature, and Ashraf spoke in detail about each historical site, focusing on interesting facts and legends. On the way to Gabala, he also drew our attention to picturesque views and local sights. Gabala was particularly impressed, we had enough free time to enjoy nature and take wonderful photos. Ashraf was always polite, attentive to our needs and answered all our questions. On the way back, we sang songs from our youth. It was a lot of fun. Thanks to care and enthusiasm, the visit took place at the highest level. We recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see the beauty of Azerbaijan and learn about its rich history. Ashraf is a great Guide who will make your journey unforgettable!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
870andreyf
Aug 26, 2024
Shamakh-Gabal tour. - It went perfectly. Caucasian scenery is fascinating, national food in a local restaurant (included in the price of the tour) is delicious. We're lucky to have a guide: During the Trips, Ruslan told us in detail about the local sights as well as the traditions of the Azerbaijani people, helped to take successful photos and answered all our questions (concerning Trips and just everyday: how to get to where, where it is more profitable to buy, etc.). Generally recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Discover63627850345
Aug 25, 2024
Speechless experience no words can describe. - Our recent tour of Azerbaijan was absolutely fantastic, and we highly recommend it! Gabala, in particular, was a standout with its breathtaking natural scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Our guide, Mr. Nazir, was exceptional—his deep knowledge of the region and enthusiasm for its history and culture made the experience truly unforgettable. We also enjoyed a wonderful Old City tour with Mr. Hyder, whose detailed explanations and engaging stories brought the area's rich heritage to life. Both guides exceeded our expectations, ensuring we had a remarkable time. A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Nazir and Mr. Hyder for their outstanding service. If you're planning a trip to Azerbaijan, we strongly endorse the Azerbaijan Travel Agency for their professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction. We eagerly look forward to our next visit!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Hassanau3552jd
Aug 24, 2024
For the second time, best tour ever - Super super super amazing, actually I’ve been in a previous tour with the same company that’s why we booked again Super informative and hosts (Driver , tour guides) the places and activities plan on trip. Timing and the transportation, every single detail is well worth it . They will never leave you without knowing what to do, where you are at and where is the next destination with full information and side details about each place Giving you the chance to shop or enjoy taking photos and videos. A/C equipped bus and well maintained Super hosts Great plan Many attractions in each tour Definitely recommended, just a small wish that would be great option Offering stay and sleep over on Shahgad & Gabele tours as they are very beautiful and one day isn’t enough to go through the full nature experience. Like an option depending on guest’s request or made by a company for one or two days, that would be a great opportunity for new tourists visiting Azerbijan Special thanks to Nazperi(Our Guide on both tours), Definitely she was one of the main reasons why we came and liked the country 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ginopaolop2024
Aug 21, 2024
We had an amazing experience during the tour - I must say that the places we went, the whole tour and our amazing tour guide Solmaz from Azerbaijan Travel International is a big thumbs up for us. Firstly the places are amazing, the views and the whole experience. Solmaz our tour guide who is very accommodating and helpful. So much information during our tour. Very happy to come back again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
777ayana
Aug 19, 2024
Trip to Gabala with miss solmaz - The trip was amazing and our travel guide miss solmaz was very welcoming, joyful and was very attentive and informative through out the entire journey
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joydeep
Aug 18, 2024
Welcoming journey to the Azerbaijan village and mountain - The tour was long, but very well organized. The guide Usala was very kind and friendly. The lunch location, food, welcoming nature of people everything were fabulous. We visited a great waterfall and lake but the star attraction was definitely cable car ride Lift 5 and 6. Tha car was comfortable and the driver needs special mention as he managed such a long drive without any incident.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sherpa58824965134
Aug 17, 2024
Good - Naaz was excellent as a guide and took personal care of us also ...she knows her job and ever smiling girl . May God bless her she works very hard to make people happy and satisfied
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Passport62948403994
Aug 21, 2024
Tour to Shamskhi & Gabala - The tour overall was ok, I felt the tour was rushed as it was my second time visiting that region & the first to my family. We barely had time for anything to enjoy even for lunch. I liked the fact that the order was taken while we were on the way, arriving there it was ready, the food portions were inconsistent from one person to the other. The food was fresh, liked the kebab but it was a small piece, could have been more than one or bigger in size. The chicken pieces were boney and overly grilled, not edible actually although one of our family members ordered chicken meal. The staff of the restaurant were in a hurry to clean the table & clear the dishes that I didn't have the time to finish neither my watermelon nor my tea! Our guide was Solmaz, she was good & informative about the country, the region, traditions & culture. She was patient with us as my mum on a wheelchair so she couldn't join on many of the stops. The driver also was patient & helpful with us. On the way back he might have missed or lost the way so the drive back was really long & a very bumpy ride. He was on his mobile too & one of the guides were talking to him while he was driving, I thought that was annoying as he had to pass through us every now & then to reach to the driver. The vehicle was ok not as luxurious as expected though it was clean & air conditioned as promised. For the cable car, it was mentioned that tickets are included yet I would suggest to be more Frank & precise to mention that one side ticket is included as it has two sides for the cable car & we get to know that only there & then. As my mum couldn't do the cable car & I stayed back with her, supposedly our tickets were included in the package, I believe we should have been refunded or use our amount for our family members to do the other line of the cable car. The tour can be improved definitely in many ways & as a recommendation from my end is to be clear about what to expect in terms of food, tickets & other details too.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Steve_b
Aug 23, 2024
Cable car very good but long day without wow factor I was hoping for from Baku tours - Would advise you that 4 of 7 waterfalls were closed due to safety reasons and have been for over a couple of months dinner was not very good with 3 pieces of meat and rice vegetarian option was horrible all though offered alternative meal we were on a time restraint. Other members of your party were constantly late getting back from visiting.we visited honey mill manager was welcoming but staff lacked customer service ignored my question to try products which is advertised and even when rep asked for me he ignored her rep apologised and said she would pass on his behaviour.girl rep very informative during your but after last stop both rep sat in front of bus not communicating with passengers.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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