A Full Day Through Northern Azerbaijan's Mountains

Swap the city for snow-capped peaks, candy-striped hills and cool mountain forests on our Shahdag, Guba & Khizi day tour from Baku. In one unforgettable day you'll see a surreal pink lake, photograph the famous Candy Cane Mountains, breathe the pine air of Gechresh Forest, and ride high into the Greater Caucasus at the Shahdag Mountain Resort. Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly guide who shares the region's stories in English, Russian or Turkish.

Masazir Pink Lake

Just outside Baku we make our first stop at the astonishing Masazir Lake, a salt lake that shimmers in shades of rose and pink thanks to the algae and minerals in its water. It's one of the most surreal and photogenic spots in Azerbaijan — the perfect way to start the day.

Beshmarmag Mountain

As we head north we pass the sacred Beshmarmag ("Five Finger") Mountain, rising dramatically beside the highway. We take in this striking landmark and its legends from the road — a great photo opportunity against the open countryside.

Khizi's Candy Cane Mountains

Next comes one of the highlights: the Candy Cane Mountains of the Khizi region. These extraordinary hills are streaked with natural red-and-white bands, like giant candy canes folded into the earth. It's a landscape unlike anywhere else and a photographer's dream.

Gechresh Forest & Lunch

We continue into the cool, green Gechresh Forest, a beloved mountain retreat of pine and fresh air. Here we stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty Azerbaijani cuisine surrounded by nature (lunch is paid separately, so you can order exactly what you like).

Shahdag Mountain Resort

Our final stop is the spectacular Shahdag Mountain Resort, set high in the Greater Caucasus and ringed by some of the country's tallest peaks — breathtaking in every season. Here you can ride the cable car for panoramic mountain views or try the exhilarating alpine coaster (resort activities are optional and not included in the tour price) before we begin the scenic drive back to Baku.

What's Included

  • Comfortable vehicle: Modern, air-conditioned transport for the full day.
  • Professional guide: Live commentary in English, Russian and Turkish.
  • All driving & sightseeing stops: Masazir Lake, Beshmarmag, the Candy Cane Mountains, Gechresh Forest and Shahdag Resort.

Not Included

  • Lunch at the restaurant in Gechresh Forest — pay on the day.
  • Shahdag activities such as the cable car and alpine coaster — optional, paid at the resort.

Good to Know

  • Duration: Approximately 12 hours (full day).
  • Departure point: Azerbaijan Avenue 1, Baku.
  • Bring: A jacket — it's cooler in the mountains — plus comfortable shoes and your camera.
  • Great for: Nature lovers, families, photographers, and anyone wanting to escape the city for a day.