From Baku: Shamakhi and Alpaca Farm Day Trip

If you’re looking to add a touch of history and some cute animal moments to your Azerbaijan itinerary, the Shamakhi and Alpaca Farm day trip offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration and gentle farm life. While officially priced at $149 per person, this tour is a thoughtful way to escape the buzz of Baku and enjoy a more tranquil, authentic experience.

What we love about this trip is how it combines learning about a city with over 4,000 years of history, meeting charming alpacas in a peaceful setting, and enjoying a scenic drive through the Azerbaijani countryside. Plus, the guided visits to key sites like the Juma Mosque and Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum make the historical parts both accessible and engaging. The chance to interact with the alpacas and take photos adds a memorable, personal touch that makes the trip special.

One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward. The overall focus is on sightseeing and animal interaction, making it best suited for those who want a relaxed, informative day without too much physical activity. This experience is ideal for travelers interested in history, animal lovers, or anyone seeking a calm day outside the city.

Contents show

Key Points

Historical richness: Explore Shamakhi, a city with over 4,000 years of history.
Animal encounters: Meet and interact with adorable alpacas on a peaceful farm.
Guided sightseeing: Visit notable sites such as the Juma Mosque and the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum.
Comfortable transport: Enjoy a scenic, comfortable drive from Baku.
Flexible booking: Reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
No lunch included: Plan ahead if you want to eat during or after the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This day trip begins with a hotel pickup in Baku, where a friendly guide from Alpaca Way Tours will greet you. The journey to Shamakhi is roughly a 2-hour drive, taking you across Azerbaijan’s lush landscape and giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery before arriving at the historic city. The transport is comfortable, ensuring a relaxed start to your day.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Baku

Exploring Shamakhi’s Historic Wonders

Once you arrive, the guided tour begins with an overview of Shamakhi’s long history as an important city of the Shirvan Empire. You’ll visit the Juma Mosque, a significant religious site, and learn about the city’s centuries-old traditions. The Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum provides an atmospheric glimpse into regional architecture, while the Shamakhi Fortress offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Throughout these visits, your guide will share insights, stories, and historical facts that are accessible and engaging, even if you’re not typically a history buff. The group size tends to be small, which allows for more personalized attention and questions.

Visiting the Alpaca Farm

After the cultural exploration, it’s time for some lighthearted animal interaction at the Alpaca Farm. Entry is included in the tour, and you’ll spend time with these gentle creatures, learning about their origins and care. Guests often mention how calm and friendly the alpacas are, making it a perfect photo opportunity. As one visitor noted, “Meeting the alpacas was such a relaxing and joyful experience.”

You’ll be encouraged to take photos, pet the animals, and enjoy the tranquil farm atmosphere. The interaction is designed to be gentle and enjoyable, with a certificate of visit provided at the end, adding a nice keepsake.

Return Journey and Flexibility

The drive back to Baku offers a chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy more scenic views. The entire trip typically lasts around 8 hours, including travel and exploration time. Since lunch isn’t included, you might find it convenient to pack some snacks or plan for a meal after you return.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transport and Logistics

The tour features comfortable transportation, making the journey smooth and easy. Pickup is arranged directly from your hotel in Baku, which helps eliminate stress and adds convenience. The small group format enhances the experience, often leading to more meaningful interactions and easier navigation of sites.

The guided visits are well-paced, allowing enough time at each site without feeling rushed. The overall length of the trip is suitable for a day-long escape, especially if you enjoy a mix of history, nature, and animal encounters.

There's plenty more to explore in Baku

Pricing and Value

At $149 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive experience that combines cultural education and farm fun. The cost includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided visits, entry to the alpaca farm, and a certificate of visit – factors that add significant value for a day trip.

Compared to other Azerbaijan excursions, this one offers a more relaxed vibe with less physical exertion but plenty of memorable moments, especially if you love animals or history. The option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip makes it easier to plan with confidence.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting to learn more about Shamakhi’s long past, animal lovers eager to meet alpacas, and families or couples searching for a peaceful day outside the city. It’s also suitable for solo travelers looking for a manageable, well-organized experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

However, if you’re after a full-day culinary experience or prefer more adventurous activities, you might find this tour on the calmer side. It’s ideal for those who enjoy gentle strolls, scenic drives, and meaningful animal interactions without the need for strenuous physical exertion.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the farm visit with alpacas is gentle and engaging, making it a good option for families with children. Just ensure kids are comfortable around animals.

How long is the drive from Baku to Shamakhi?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours each way, allowing enough time to enjoy the scenery and settle in before exploring.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended. Remember to dress appropriately for outdoor site visits.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own snacks or have a meal after returning to Baku.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour available in other languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, and Turkish, catering to diverse travelers.

What is the group size like?
The tour generally runs with small groups, which enhances personal interaction and flexibility.

Will I receive any souvenirs?
Yes, a certificate of visit from the Alpaca Farm is included as a keepsake of your experience.

Final Thoughts

The From Baku: Shamakhi and Alpaca Farm Day Trip strikes a great balance between cultural insight and relaxing animal encounters. Its value lies in the thoughtfully curated visits, friendly guides, and the chance to experience Azerbaijan beyond the capital. Whether you’re into history, animals, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this tour offers a delightful way to spend your day.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who prefer a slower pace, enjoy learning about local heritage, and want a memorable photo with adorable alpacas. For those craving a supportive, well-organized day with added authentic touchpoints, this trip is worth considering.

Note: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring your camera, and pack sunscreen for the outdoor parts of this adventure. Prepare for a lovely mix of sightseeing, farm fun, and scenic driving that captures the best of Azerbaijan’s cultural and natural charms.