Source: Sasha Pshenkov
In addition to city sightseeing, Azerbaijan offers active recreation. Travelers can go swimming, skiing, or hiking. Some purposefully travel specifically for the thrill rather than a calm acquaintance with the cities. Whatever purpose you choose, checking whether you need an Azerbaijan visa is essential. If you need it, don’t worry - the country issues electronic visas, so getting one is easy.
So, what types of active entertainment does Azerbaijan offer?
Hiking Adventures
Once travelers have obtained their Azerbaijan visa, it’s time to explore Azerbaijan, with hiking being a popular activity. Located across six countries, the Caucasus Mountains are a beautiful testament to Mother Nature. Covering 60% of Azerbaijan’s landscape, mountainous regions are a massive draw for beginner and experienced hikers.
What are the most popular hiking trails in Azerbaijan?
Azerbaijan has a wide range of hiking trails to uncover. With a simple Azerbaijan visa and the appropriate trail gear, you can find yourself on one of Azerbaijan’s most popular hiking trails in no time.
- Galakhudat Trail: The Galakhudat hiking trail starts in the village of Khinalig. Hikers will experience the stunning scenery of Mount Gizil Gaya and the lush terrain of the Gudyalchay River valley, ending in one of Azerbaijan's highest villages, Galakhudat. On this 3-hour and 10-minute hike, visitors will cover a distance of 8.2 km at a maximum altitude of 2300 M. Due to clear signage and easily visible paths, this hike is great for all skill levels.
- Kuzen Trail: The Kuzen trail is an extremely popular hiking trail, starting in Laza, and ending in Kuzun. Hikers can experience fantastic views of the Gusarchay River valley, with stunning waterfalls being highlights of the trail. Although a shorter hike at just under 2 ½ hours, slippery conditions due to loose gravel and muddy trails (rainy season only) increase the difficulty. Hikers should confirm they have sturdy footwear and are physically fit enough to enjoy this moderate to hard-level hike
- Garanohur Lake Trail: For those looking for a challenge, the Garanohur Lake Trail, located in Shahdagh National Park, offers gorgeous mountain lakes and forest views. Hikers can expect wooded areas and several small river crossings with steep and rugged terrain. This 8.9 km hike takes at least 3 ½ to 4 hours to complete and is open year-round. If you plan to accept this challenge, confirm you have appropriate footwear and ample water supply. If lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a red deer or mountain goat along the way.
Rock Climbing
Not surprisingly, due to its mountainous terrain, Azerbaijan has become an attractive destination for rock climbing.
Where is the best rock climbing in Azerbaijan?
- Besh Barmag Mountain: Well-known by its nickname “Five Fingers Mountain”, Besh Barmag has become famous among rock climbers and mountaineers. Its unique rock formations and ample climbing opportunities make it an excellent location for outdoor rock climbing training, with tour companies offering excursions for various skill levels. Additionally, Besh Barmag Mountain has become a local legend, with citizens coming to pray to the mountain for strength and good fortune.
- Gobustan National Park: Gobustan National Park is home to at least 40 rock climbing routes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the ideal excursion for thrill seekers who also enjoy a bit of history. Climb the ancient volcanic rock formations, noticing inscriptions, drawings, and other ancient markings.. Amidst easier climbs to more challenging routes, Gobustan rock climbing provides a wide range of challenges for all skill levels.
Paragliding
Adrenaline junkies looking to take to the sky can enjoy a bird's eye view of Azerbaijan's stunning mountains, valleys, and rivers via paragliding. So grab your Azerbaijan eVisa and get ready to explore the skies.
Where can you paraglide in Azerbaijan?
- Shahdag Mountain Resort: Shahdag Mountain Resort has begun offering paragliding excursions, alongside their ski and snowboarding packages. Launching from the top of the ski slope, participants will glide through the air while being captivated by the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
- Gabala: Positioned in Northern Azerbaijan, the city of Gabala is known for its ancient ruins, mountain ski resorts, and natural wonders. This mountainous region has two main paragliding launching points, one at 1650m high and one another at an adrenaline-pumping 2250m. Once in the sky, participants will witness snow-capped mountains in the winter, lush green vegetation, and ancient landmarks in the warmer months.
Water Sports
With the Caspian Sea positioned along Azerbaijan’s eastern coastline, this tiny nation attracts a wide range of water sports lovers.
- Rafting: From the comfort of your hotel bed to the fast-moving rapids of the Gudyalchay, travelers seeking a thrilling adventure would be smart to explore a rafting excursion. From the Kura River to the Turyanchay River, rafting can be experienced at a variety of locations across Azerbaijan. Tour companies will weave rafters through rough waters while providing time to take in the gorgeous surroundings of lush forests and mountain terrain.
- Kayaking: For those wanting to take in the scenery, Kayaking provides the perfect opportunity. Paddle your way across the Caspian Sea, near Azerbaijan’s capital city Baku, or explore the wonders of Lake Goygol nearby. Embrace the unknown as you explore Azerbaijan’s natural wonders via tour or on your terms.
- Diving: Uncover a world of mystery with scuba diving in Azerbaijan. From shipwrecks to sunken villages, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. Located in the Caspian Sea, the coastlines of Azerbaijan’s small islands are home to a diverse range of sea life. Caspian seals, black sea turtles, and sea snakes are only a few of the creatures that are home to this region. For the brave, freediving is available for experienced divers, with tour guides' support.
Conclusion
Paragliding, hiking, rock climbing, and outdoor water sports are only a few of Azerbaijan's thrill-seeking activities. All experience levels are welcome from beginner to expert and can participate in these activities while on their Azerbaijan vacation.
Make your trip to Azerbaijan one to remember! So, which thrill-seeking activity are you going to try?
