Classic Azerbaijan

Discover Baku’s fascinating contrasts on a privately guided exploration of UNESCO-listed Icherisheher (the Old City). Wander through atmospheric alleyways to the magnificent Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the iconic Maiden Tower before ascending by funicular to Martyrs’ Lane for panoramic views across the Caspian Sea and Baku’s striking skyline. This evening, enjoy dinner at the rooftop restaurant of the Hilton Baku, overlooking the spectacularly illuminated Flame Towers.

Travel south to UNESCO-listed Gobustan National Park, home to one of the world’s most important collections of prehistoric rock engravings, some dating back over 40,000 years. Continue to the nearby mud volcanoes, where Azerbaijan’s remarkable geological activity creates an otherworldly landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. Returning to Baku, pause to visit the elegant Bibi-Heybat Mosque, one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites.

Begin the morning browsing the colourful stalls of Yashil Bazar before visiting the spectacular Heydar Aliyev Centre, Zaha Hadid’s architectural masterpiece. Later, journey across the Absheron Peninsula to explore the ancient Ateshgah Fire Temple before witnessing the naturally burning flames of Yanar Dag, whose perpetual fire has inspired Azerbaijan’s enduring nickname, the “Land of Fire”.

Leaving the Caspian coast behind, travel west towards the forested landscapes of the Lesser Caucasus. Pause beside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Goygol for a leisurely lakeside walk before continuing to the historic city of Ganja.

Explore Ganja this morning, visiting the remarkable Bottle House, decorated with nearly 50,000 glass bottles, and the elegant seventeenth-century Shah Abbas Mosque, one of Azerbaijan’s finest Safavid monuments. This afternoon, continue to the charming Silk Road town of Sheki.

Begin with a visit to the ancient Albanian Church in the picturesque village of Kish, then take part in an interactive culinary masterclass to learn to prepare one of Azerbaijan’s most celebrated dishes: traditional pilau. Following lunch, explore the magnificent Palace of the Sheki Khans, famed for its intricate shebeke stained-glass windows, and conclude the day by sampling Sheki’s famous handmade halva.

Set off early today on a journey through the spectacular landscapes of the Greater Caucasus to Quba. Subject to weather and road conditions, you’ll either travel through the scenic mountain region around Lahij and Ismayilli or take the route via Shamakhi, where there may be time to visit the beautifully restored Juma Mosque. Arrive in Quba in the late afternoon.

Today’s journey ventures into one of Azerbaijan’s most fascinating regions. Begin your day with a visit to Krasnaya Sloboda (Red Village), home to one of the world’s oldest surviving Mountain Jewish communities. Then, continue into the Greater Caucasus to the remote village of Khinaliq, renowned for its distinctive culture, traditions and centuries-old way of life. Discover its ancient shrines and unique traditions before enjoying a scenic walk from Khinaliq to the neighbouring mountain village of Galakhudat (Distance: 8.5 kms | Duration: 3 hours; weather permitting). On arrival in Galakhudat, meet your vehicle for the return journey to Quba.

Return towards Baku, stopping to explore the extraordinary Candy Cane Mountains, where vividly striped red and white rock formations create one of Azerbaijan’s most photogenic landscapes. There is an opportunity for a gentle walk among the colourful hills before continuing to the capital.

Your Classic Azerbaijan holiday concludes today. A private transfer will take you to Heydar Aliyev International Airport in good time for your onward flight.