From Baku: Stay with Locals on a Gabala and Sheki 2-Day Trip

Travelers looking to go beyond the usual sights of Azerbaijan will find this 2-day tour from Baku offers a truly authentic experience. It’s a chance to connect with local hosts, enjoy homemade meals, and explore some of the country’s most beautiful regions—Gabala, Sheki, Shamakhy, and Ismayilli—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we really love about this trip is how it emphasizes local hospitality, with overnight stays in homes rather than hotels, giving it a warm, genuine feel. We also appreciate the focus on traditional Azerbaijani cuisine, including a BBQ dinner that you get to prepare with your hosts. Plus, the chance to touch the stones of a historic caravanserai and visit the stunning Sheki Khans Palace makes this a well-rounded cultural journey.

However, a potential consideration is the price—at $1,642 per person, it’s on the higher end for a two-day trip. But if you’re after unique, immersive experiences and authentic local interactions, you might find it well worth the investment.

This tour suits travelers who love history, nature, and cultural exchanges. It’s ideal for those wanting a personalized, off-the-beaten-path adventure with plenty of opportunities to connect with local people and learn about Azerbaijan’s traditions firsthand.

• Authentic Local Stays: Spend nights with Azerbaijani families, not in standard hotels.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Sheki Khans Palace and historic sites, learning their stories from knowledgeable guides.
• Genuine Cuisine: Enjoy homemade breakfasts and a BBQ dinner you help prepare.
• All-in-One Route: Cover Shamakhy, Ismayilli, Gabala, and Sheki in just two days.
• Nature & Scenery: Experience the lush landscapes of Gabala, feeling like you’re in paradise.
• Personal Touch: Small group, friendly locals, and guides who act as your friends, making the experience warm and memorable.

Getting picked up from your Baku accommodation is seamless, thanks to included hotel transfers. From there, the tour kicks off with a focus on local hospitality—you’ll stay overnight in a local house, rather than a hotel, offering an intimate glimpse into Azerbaijani life. The hosts prepare meals, and you’ll get the chance to help in the kitchen—a highlight for many, as they get to share stories over a barbecue dinner.

Day 1: Discovering Shamakhy and Ismayilli
The journey starts with visits to Shamakhy, a city renowned for its medieval Islamic architecture and historical significance. Expect your guide to share insights into the city’s history, making the ruins and old mosques come alive. Then, you’ll head to Ismayilli, a charming village surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. Here, the scenery alone makes it worth the trip, and you’ll get to enjoy village views and fresh air that feel worlds away from Baku’s city life.

Day 2: Exploring Gabala and Sheki
The highlight of this day is Gabala, often described as Azerbaijan’s paradise for nature lovers. You’ll marvel at the green hills, forests, and scenic vistas, perfect for photographs and just soaking in the tranquility. The local guide will provide detailed information about the area, adding context to the natural beauty.

Later, the tour takes you to Sheki, home of the famous Sheki Khans Palace. This 18th-century monument is a must-see, with its intricate stained glass windows and historical significance. The Kervansaray stones will transport you back in time, showcasing what daily life was like centuries ago through the market and architecture.

Local Guide & Authentic Insights
A major strength of this experience is the knowledgeable guides—who, according to reviews, are friendly, well-informed, and genuinely passionate. One traveler praised the guide, Habil, for making the trip special with his pleasant demeanor and expertise. You’ll also learn about local customs, history, and daily life, making the trip both educational and personal.

Culinary Experiences & Hospitality
The meals are a big part of the charm. The breakfast at the local house offers a taste of Azerbaijani breakfast traditions, while the BBQ dinner is a highlight—you’ll help prepare it, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. Many guests noted how delicious the food was, with some mentioning that the dinner felt like a genuine celebration, not just a meal.

Transportation & Group Size
Expect comfortable, spacious vehicles moving through scenic routes, ensuring a smooth ride. The group size is small, fostering intimacy and allowing for personalized attention from guides. The itinerary pace is described as just right, with enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

At $1,642 per person, this tour isn’t exactly budget-friendly, but it offers a highly personalized, cultural, and authentic experience that’s hard to replicate on your own. The all-inclusive nature—including local guides, overnight stays with hosts, and meals—reduces the stress of planning and makes it a seamless journey.

Guests have commended the excellent value for money, especially given the customized nature of the experience, the warm hospitality, and the unique insight into Azerbaijani life. For travelers who prioritize meaningful cultural exchanges over luxury accommodations, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Azerbaijan’s soul.

The accommodations, staying in locals’ homes, give a homey, authentic feel that standard hotels can’t match. The local dinner experiences and opportunity to help prepare meals add to the feeling of being part of a community rather than just a tourist.

If you’re someone who loves exploring with a local guide, appreciates home-cooked meals, and wants to see Azerbaijan’s hidden gems, this trip is ideal. It suits travelers looking for a slow-paced, immersive experience that emphasizes authentic hospitality and cultural storytelling.

Those who enjoy nature will find Gabala’s landscape breathtaking, while history buffs will appreciate sites like Sheki Khans Palace and the ancient caravanserai stones. If you’re comfortable with small group travel and participating in local traditions, you’ll likely find this experience enriching and memorable.

This 2-day Azerbaijani adventure from Baku offers something different—authentic, personal, and deeply cultural. Staying with local families, enjoying traditional dishes, and exploring scenic towns gives you a genuine slice of life in Azerbaijan. The knowledgeable guides and warm hosts make it easy to feel welcomed and engaged.

While the cost is on the higher side, the value for authentic experiences and personal connections makes it worthwhile for those seeking meaningful travel. It’s a fantastic choice for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and foodies eager to see Azerbaijan through the eyes of its people.

If you’re after a truly memorable, hands-on journey that breaks away from typical sightseeing, this tour will leave you with stories worth sharing—and maybe a few new friends too.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and transportation during the trip is in spacious, comfortable vehicles.

How many nights will I stay with locals?
You will spend one overnight stay in a local house, offering an authentic experience of Azerbaijani hospitality.

Are meals included?
Breakfast at a local house and a BBQ dinner, which you help prepare, are included. Other meals and drinks are not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoor sites. Oversize luggage is not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for travelers under 95 years old. The tour involves walking and participation in activities like cooking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to adapt your travel plans.

This tour is a rich, layered experience that balances culture with scenic beauty. Perfect for those who want to go beyond the surface and connect genuinely with Azerbaijan’s traditions and landscapes.