Gabala + Shamakhi tour (by Old City Tours)

Traveling around Azerbaijan, especially from Baku, offers a rewarding mix of history, nature, and mountain scenery. The Gabala + Shamakhi tour by Old City Tours promises a full-day adventure that packs in some of the most iconic sights and picturesque views the country has to offer. While it’s not perfect—some reviews mention organizational hiccups—the overall experience is engaging, especially if you’re keen to see Azerbaijan’s more tranquil and scenic side.

What excites us most about this tour is the chance to visit the oldest mosque in the Caucasus, ride a panoramic cable car, and relax by a waterfall that’s got more than a few levels. Plus, at just $59, it seems like a solid deal for a day filled with diverse sights. But, as with any group tour, it’s worth keeping in mind that the experience can vary depending on guides, weather, and timing.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Azerbaijan’s natural beauty and history without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. If you’re okay with a long day (roughly 12 hours) and some potential organizational quirks, you’ll likely find it offers good value and memorable moments.

• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup make starting easy and stress-free.
• Includes iconic sights such as Juma Mosque, Nohur Lake, and Yeddi Gozel Waterfall.
• Cable car ride provides breathtaking views, especially during clear weather.
• Guides are generally praised for knowledge and friendliness, although some reviews mention inconsistent communication.
• Price point offers good value for a full-day, multi-location trip.
• Some reviews highlight organizational issues, so flexibility may be needed.

The full-day Gabala + Shamakhi tour covers a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and mountain scenery, all within about 12 hours. We’ll break down each stop with what you might enjoy, along with some real traveler insights.

Starting Point: Old City Tours Baku

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Baku. This is a huge plus, especially if you’re staying in the city’s central area, as it saves you the hassle of arranging transport. The meeting point is at 25 Sabir St, and tours start promptly at 9:00 am. Expect a small group—most tours have around 12 travelers, which means a more personalized experience but also some last-minute additions during peak seasons.

Visiting the Juma Mosque in Shamakhi

Your first stop is the Juma Mosque, which is notable as the oldest mosque in Azerbaijan and the Caucasus region. It’s a compact but historically significant site. One traveler described it as “the oldest mosque of all Caucasus and Azerbaijan,” emphasizing its importance. The stop is short—about 20 minutes—but enough to appreciate the architecture and reflect on its enduring presence. It’s a chance to see a piece of local spiritual history and snap some photos.

Relaxing at Nohur Lake

Next, it’s a peaceful 20-minute drive to Nohur Lake, surrounded by lush forests. Here, the scenery is what makes it special—calm waters, trees, and the possibility of a quick walk along the shore. Some travelers noted their affection for this spot, describing it as “beautiful” and a lovely place to breathe in fresh mountain air. There’s no fee to enter, and the short stop allows for a quick picnic or photo session.

Taking in Mountain Views on Tufandag Cable Car

The highlight for many is the Tufandag Cable Car ride. This is not just a means of transportation but a chance to soak in some of Azerbaijan’s most impressive alpine vistas. The cable car is part of the Tufandag Mountain Resort, one of the longest teleferics in the world, with four cable cars linked in a sequence. Expect around two hours for this segment, which includes the ride up and back down.

The experience can vary depending on weather—clear days reveal stunning mountain panoramas, while fog or rain might limit the views. Several reviewers mention the cable car as “memorable,” and one described it as “breathtaking,” especially during summer when the lush landscape contrasts sharply with the rugged peaks. Remember, the admission fee for the cable car isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

Yeddi Gozel Waterfall

The tour’s final natural highlight is the Yeddi Gozel Waterfall, known for its seven levels—though only about three are visible on this trip. It’s a forest setting with a cool, refreshing atmosphere. Travelers find it “more a waterfall with three visible levels,” and it’s a nice, tranquil spot to stretch your legs. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick walk and some Instagram-worthy shots, even if you don’t see all seven levels.

End of the Day: Return to Baku

After a packed day, the tour concludes with the drop-off back at your hotel. Expect a relaxed but full schedule, with plenty of opportunities for photos, light walking, and learning from your guide.

Transportation and Timing

The tour operates with comfortable transport, typically a minivan like a Mercedes Sprinter. Reviews, however, highlight that the pick-up process can sometimes take longer than expected, with some travelers waiting over an hour. Once on the road, it’s roughly a 3-hour drive from Baku to Gabala, covering about 221 km. The long journey means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day outdoors.

Guides and Group Size

Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with some reviewers mentioning their guide, Gulshan, as “amazing” and “organized.” Other travelers, however, have noted inconsistency—some say guides didn’t communicate well, or spent too much time on their phones. Keep in mind that the tour is operated by a multilingual team, so there’s a good chance to get some interesting insights in your preferred language.

Value for Money

At $59, this tour offers a lot of value—covering multiple sites, transportation, and guides. The admission fee for the cable car is separate, but even including that, most find it reasonable. Reviewers appreciated the delicious food options (some mention good tapas and snacks), which added to the overall experience.

Weather and Clothing

Since the trip involves outdoor stops and a mountain cable car ride, dress comfortably and smart casual. Good walking shoes are recommended, especially at the waterfall and lake. Weather can be unpredictable—bring layers and rain protection if necessary.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While most travelers love the experience, some reviews mention organizational issues—delays, last-minute pickups, and uneven guide engagement. A few found the day somewhat exhausting or felt the schedule was poorly managed. It’s a good idea to stay flexible and go with the flow.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a balance of history and natural beauty without the stress of organizing logistics themselves. It suits those interested in Azerbaijan’s mountain scenery, historic sites, and waterfalls, with a modest budget. If you’re okay with a long day and some variability in guide quality, you’ll find the experience enriching and fun.

It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of the Gabala region, or those who love outdoor scenery and scenic cable car rides. Group travelers, families, and lovers of nature will all appreciate the diverse stops packed into one day.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, simplifying your start and end to the day.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes around 12 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at your hotel.

What’s the cost? The tour is priced at $59 per person, with the cable car ticket not included. Additional costs might be for meals or personal souvenirs.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but some reviewers mentioned enjoying good food options during the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear? Smart casual attire is recommended, with comfortable walking shoes and layers for variable mountain weather.

Can the tour be canceled? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility in case of weather issues or change of plans.

The Gabala + Shamakhi tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Azerbaijan’s scenic and historical highlights, all wrapped into a manageable day. It’s especially good for those who want an organized, guided experience that takes care of transportation and logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the views and discovering local sites.

While organizational hiccups can happen, the guides—when engaged—bring meaningful insights and a friendly vibe that enhance the journey. The combination of picturesque landscapes, cultural stops, and exciting cable car rides makes this a memorable day trip for most travelers.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, well-rounded introduction to Azerbaijan’s natural beauty and history—without the hassle of planning each detail—this tour is likely to be a worthwhile choice.

Note: For a more tailored experience or shorter options, consider checking other tours by Old City Tours in Baku.