Baku: Khizi-Shahdag Tour with Resort Visit

Traveling through Azerbaijan offers surprises at every turn, and this Khizi-Shahdag day trip promises a blend of natural wonders, local legends, and mountain adventures. While the tour covers quite a bit in one day, it offers an authentic glimpse into Azerbaijan’s diverse landscapes, ideal for those who love a mixture of scenic beauty and cultural tales.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see a pink lake — one of only eight in the world — is a rare visual treat. Second, exploring the vibrantly colored Khizi Mountains offers fantastic photo opportunities. Lastly, the visit to the Shahdag Mountain Resort means you get a taste of Azerbaijan’s winter sports or summer activities, depending on the season.

However, a possible snag is the quality of the guiding and timing — one review mentions an early start and less-than-enthusiastic commentary, plus some dissatisfaction about missing lunch. For travelers who prefer detailed guides and a structured day, these are points to consider.

This tour appeals best to those seeking an inexpensive yet diverse day out from Baku, especially if you love nature, folklore, and mountain landscapes. It’s suitable for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a snapshot of Azerbaijan’s northern treasures without breaking the bank.

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Key Points

Unique Locations: Features the rare Pink Lake and colorful Khizi Mountains.
Cultural Insights: Visits sacred Besh Barmaq Mountain with local legends.
Local Flavor: Traditional Azerbaijani lunch included in Quba.
Seasonal Activities: Shahdag Resort offers winter sports or summer fun.
Practical Value: Affordable at $28 per person with transport and guides included.
Considerations: Guides’ commentary quality varies; lunch is not included in the price.

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What the Tour Includes and What to Expect

Starting from Baku, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Azerbaijan’s most captivating natural sights and cultural landmarks. The price of $28 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the transport, guides, and the chance to see multiple attractions. The tour runs in a comfortable vehicle, with options for multilingual guides, making it accessible for various travelers.

Looking for more options in Baku? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Pink Lake (Masazir Lake)

Your first stop is the Pink Lake, an extraordinary natural phenomenon. Known for its distinct hue, Masazir Lake is one of just eight pink lakes worldwide. Visiting here is a chance to snap some memorable photos and marvel at nature’s artistry. The lake’s unusual color is caused by algae and minerals, which make it a fascinating sight and a perfect start to your adventure.

Khizi Mountains

Next, you’ll journey north to the Khizi Mountains, renowned for their mineral-rich, vibrantly layered rock formations. The guide will walk you along rocky paths, sharing stories about the geological history and local legends linked to this area. Travelers have noted these mountains as “colorful and unique,” offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Azerbaijan’s diverse geology.

Besh Barmaq Mountain

The tour then takes you to Besh Barmaq, a sacred mountain shaped like the palm of a hand. Its folklore status gives it a spiritual air, and locals often visit for blessings. The mountain’s distinctive shape makes it a favorite for those interested in local stories and legends. Many visitors find it a place of quiet reverence, adding a mystical dimension to the trip.

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Lunch in Quba

Midway through, you’ll stop in Quba for a traditional Azerbaijani meal. The included lunch features local dishes like dushbere or chicken soup, choban salad, and the Lezgi specialty Tskan, a meat and vegetable pie. The meal is served with tea and drinks, providing a true taste of regional cuisine. While lunch is not included in the tour price, it costs around $15, which is reasonable given the quality and authenticity of the food.

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Gechresh Forest

After lunch, you’ll visit Gechresh Forest, about 12 km from Quba. This peaceful woodland, full of beech and pine trees, offers a welcome break from the bus rides. The natural springs and flora—like wild walnuts, cranberries, and hawthorns—make it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk and some nature photography. Reviewers mention the forest as a “serene environment,” perfect for those who want a quiet moment amid lush greenery.

Shahdag Mountain Resort

The final highlight is Shahdag Mountain Resort, Azerbaijan’s premier mountain destination. Depending on the season, you can try skiing, snowboarding, or tubing in winter, or hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking during warmer months. The resort’s facilities cater to all ages and skill levels, with cozy lodges offering a chance to unwind after a day of exploring.

One reviewer noted that weather at Shahdag can be unpredictable, mentioning that “it can be cloudy, rainy, and significantly cooler,” which makes packing appropriate clothing essential. The resort’s activities are optional and require additional payment, so budget accordingly if you plan to participate.

The Practicalities

The tour includes a professional guide in various languages, ensuring you get useful insights and local stories. The vehicle is comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with seat belts — a must for a day involving mountain roads. The tour starts at the backside of KFC/Pizza Hut in Baku and returns there at the end.

Duration: The full day typically lasts around 8 hours, with enough time at each location to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Group size can vary depending on the language, with the possibility of mixed-language groups if the numbers are low.

Cost Breakdown: At $28, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the range of sites covered. The optional activities and lunch are additional expenses but are reasonably priced, making this a flexible experience.

Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer highlighted some issues with the guide’s communication, noting that “most of the trip the guide is silent,” and that the commentary during stops was lacking. They also mentioned missing lunch, which was promised as part of the package, leading to disappointment.

On the flip side, another traveler said, “Abwechslungsreicher Ausflug” — meaning it’s a varied trip — and emphasized the importance of checking the weather at Shahdag before heading up, as it can be significantly cooler and cloudier there.

This feedback underscores that while the trip offers fantastic sights, guide quality and weather considerations can affect the overall experience. If you’re someone who enjoys engaging guides, you might want to prepare for less commentary. However, if you’re adaptable and love scenic drives, this tour still offers great value.

The Sum Up

This Khizi-Shahdag Day Trip from Baku is best suited for travelers who crave a mixture of striking landscapes, cultural stories, and mountain fun without a hefty price tag. It provides a well-organized way to see some of Azerbaijan’s most photogenic spots, from the elusive Pink Lake to the colorful Khizi Mountains and the legendary Besh Barmaq.

While guide quality may vary, the opportunity to explore diverse environments in one day makes this a worthwhile option for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy scenic road trips and authentic local experiences. The optional activities at Shahdag add flexibility, catering to both adventure seekers and those who prefer a relaxing day in nature.

For those who appreciate striking views, cultural legends, and a taste of mountain resort life, this tour delivers a lot of value. Just remember to pack weather-appropriate clothing, bring your camera for those unforgettable vistas, and keep expectations flexible regarding guide commentary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides a comfortable vehicle equipped with seat belts and air conditioning for the entire day.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, Russian, Japanese, Turkish, Portuguese, and Hindi, depending on your preference.

How much does lunch cost if I want to include it?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but costs approximately $15, offering a variety of traditional Azerbaijani dishes.

Can I participate in activities at Shahdag Mountain Resort?
Activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking are not included in the tour and require extra payment.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to enjoy the trip fully.

What if I want to cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activities. The mountain resort also offers family-friendly options.

Will I get to see the pink lake clearly?
Yes, the Pink Lake’s unique hue is quite noticeable and makes for fantastic photos. Be sure to visit early in the day for the best lighting.

This tour offers a solid introduction to Azerbaijan’s northern wonders. With a mix of natural beauty, local folklore, and mountain fun, it’s a memorable way to spend a day outside of Baku.