Guba & Khinalig & Candy Mountains (Private or Group)

Travelers looking for a mix of jaw-dropping scenery, cultural insights, and a chance to escape the busy city life of Baku will find this tour to be quite the adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews, itinerary, and features paint a vivid picture of an experience that’s well worth considering.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning mountain vistas like the Candy Cane Mountains and Khinalig’s ancient village appeal to anyone craving nature and history. Second, the knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s stories to life add depth and authenticity. Third, the value for money at just under $70 per person, including all entrance fees and a local meal, offers a lot of bang for your buck.

A possible downside? The full-day drive involves a lot of time in the car, which may feel long for some, especially if you prefer more time at each stop. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic road trips and are excited by mountain landscapes, history, and a taste of local Azerbaijani culture. It’s ideal for those willing to embrace a day of travel for unforgettable views.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: At $69.99, this tour covers transport, entrance fees, a guide, and lunch, offering good value.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive more pleasant.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Leyla, Nurlan, and Torghul are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling.
• Stunning Landscapes: From the Candy Cane Mountains to mountain villages, the scenery is a highlight.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting the Red Village with its Jewish community and Khinalig’s ancient traditions adds depth.
• Long Day, Longer Drive: Expect approximately 8 hours in total, with a significant portion spent on the road.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Baku’s Old City

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from central hotels in Baku, excluding those within the Old City. The meeting point at the Double Gates ensures a straightforward start. The early morning pickup sets the tone for a full day ahead.

Stop 1: Qala Qaps Restoran

A quick 15-minute stop at Qala Qaps offers a chance to stretch legs and take in the local ambiance before heading north. It’s a practical spot for a quick refresh, and the entrance fee is included, so no surprises here.

Stop 2: Besh Barmag Mountain

Just over an hour from Baku, Besh Barmag is a mountain shrouded in legends. The name means “Five-finger Mountain,” and its shape is striking. According to local folklore, the prophet Khidr drank from a spring at its summit, gaining immortality—adding a mystical touch to the scenery. Reviewers love this stop for the vivid views and the sense of mystery it evokes, and it’s entirely free to visit.

Stop 3: Candy Cane Mountains (Guba’s Red Valleys)

The stretch between the highway and the mountain village of Altiaghaj features some of the most dramatic scenery. British travel writer Mark Elliott famously dubbed this area the “Candy Cane Mountains” for their swirling, vividly colored shale formations—reds, oranges, pinks, and chalk tones creating what looks like a giant, natural candy store.

Travelers mention that the road here is a beautiful but winding ascent, making it an exciting drive with plenty of photo opportunities. The landscape is a canvas of swirling colors that seem almost surreal, often highlighted as the overall highlight of the day.

Stop 4: Guba’s Red Village (Qirmizi Qesebe)

Next, the tour ventures into Guba, known for its natural beauty and diverse communities. The Red Village is especially noteworthy for its Jewish community, with about 4-5 thousand residents who maintain their customs and language for over 4,000 years. Visitors find this stop inspiring, and the village’s 13 synagogues (two operational) showcase its peaceful coexistence of different religions, making it a powerful symbol of cultural harmony.

Stop 5: Gudyalchayli Canyon

Further exploring the region, the Gudyalchayli canyons offer steep ascents and descents through lush forests and dramatic rock faces. The scenery here is peaceful and picturesque, with review descriptions emphasizing the charming views and the unique geological formations. The road is through narrow, steep walls, making for some impressive photographs.

Stop 6: Qechresh Village

Qechresh is a large village famed for its natural springs and abundant flora. This stop provides a refreshing break among forested surroundings and is noted for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Travelers enjoy the chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air and appreciate the local plants.

The Highlight: Khinalig Village

The trek to Khinalig, situated at an altitude of 2,100–2,200 meters, is the main event. The road to Khinalig is partly off-road, especially in winter or heavy rain, requiring a Soviet-style off-road vehicle. Visitors describe the journey as challenging yet rewarding, with some reviewers mentioning the skill of the driver as a highlight.

Khinalig is one of the world’s oldest inhabited villages, with an ancient Albanian heritage and its own language preserved for over 4,000 years. The village’s traditional customs, peculiar architecture, and panoramic views make it a must-see. Over 2,000 residents still call it home, and the sense of stepping back in time is palpable. Expect about two hours here to explore and absorb the authentic mountain life.

Return Journey: Guba-Khachmaz Region

The day wraps up with the return trip to Baku, with the total journey around 8 hours. Reviewers frequently mention that the drive, while long, is filled with stunning views, making the time pass quickly. The guide’s storytelling and local insights add an engaging touch to the trip.

Transport and Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the long hours in the car manageable. The group size is limited to 17 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience without feeling crowded. The buses are equipped for comfort and safety, especially for the off-road section leading to Khinalig.

Guides and Expertise

Guides like Leyla, Nurlan, and Torghul receive high praise for their friendliness, humor, and deep knowledge of the region. Reviewers often mention that their guides go beyond facts, sharing stories and local anecdotes that make the journey richer. For example, Leyla’s positive attitude and engaging storytelling made her a standout, according to multiple reviews.

Meals and Entrance Fees

A highlight of the tour is the included lunch, served at a local house-museum. Reviewers loved the Azerbaijani national dishes, describing the meal as a memorable part of the day. All entrance fees are covered, making it straightforward for travelers—no hidden costs.

What Our Reviewers Say

• Guide proficiency and friendliness are consistently praised, with Leyla, Torghul, and Nurlan standing out.
• The scenery, particularly the Candy Cane Mountains and Khinalig, are described as “breathtaking” or “surreal,” making the long drive worthwhile.
• Many travelers highlight the value for money, given that all meals and entrance fees are included.
• Some mention that the tour is quite packed with driving, and a few wish for more time at each stop, especially Khinalig.
• The off-road section to Khinalig is a highlight for adventure lovers, even if it’s a bit challenging.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is a great pick for adventurous travelers who don’t mind spending a good part of their day on the road in exchange for unforgettable scenery. It’s perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to see one of the oldest inhabited villages in the world. If you enjoy lively guides and a well-organized itinerary that hits all the highlights, this tour fits the bill.

However, those favoring more relaxed schedules or spontaneous exploration might find it a bit rushed, as the itinerary packs many stops into one day. It’s best suited for group travelers or solo adventurers comfortable with long drives and eager to experience the mountain magic of Azerbaijan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be aware that the drive to Khinalig can be bumpy and challenging in winter or heavy rain.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day, with pickup from central hotels in Baku.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance tickets for stops like Besh Barmag, the Red Village, and Khinalig are included in the price.

What’s the lunch like?
Lunch features Azerbaijani national dishes served at a local house-museum, highly praised by previous travelers.

How long is the total trip?
The total duration is approximately 12 hours, with around 8 hours spent in transit and stops.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits group size to 17 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a group tour with a set itinerary, but private options may be available upon request.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking around villages, a camera, and some cash for personal expenses. A jacket is recommended in case of weather changes.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, in poor weather, especially winter or heavy rain, the trip to Khinalig might be adjusted or canceled for safety.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward via the provider’s platform, with most travelers booking about 26 days in advance.

To sum it up, this tour offers a detailed, authentic look at some of Azerbaijan’s most beautiful mountain regions. With expert guides, stunning scenery, and all-inclusive pricing, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a full-day mountain adventure. Just be ready for a long day of driving, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views, cultural insights, and the chance to stand among the mountains that have witnessed centuries of history.