Full-Day Guided Tour of Gobustan & Absheron in Baku

Are you planning to explore and experience the wondrous sights of Azerbaijan? From the illustrious city of Baku, here is a great way to get a wonderful guided tour of national and natural wonders during a full day’s excursion. There is something for everyone on the Gobustan and Absheron tour. Here’s a full guide on the activities, sights, and experiences available.

Why Might You Be Interested?

If you’re visiting this fascinating land, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to really explore its hidden secrets. From the renowned Gobustan Petroglyphs, a UNESCO world heritage site, to the eternally popular mud volcanoes of the Absheron Peninsula, there are a plethora of sights, sites and activities for your group to enjoy. Not only are there awesome breathtaking landscapes and natural phenomena on show, but with a knowledgeable guide in tow, you’ll also get to experience the ancient stories and cultures that shaped Azerbaijan.

What Do You Get?

Starting from Baku, you will travel 85 kilometers to the historic National Reserve of Gobustan. The main attraction at this site are the Gobustan Petroglyphs, wherein you can view over 4,000 carvings made by UNESCO-assigned stone carvers. You can take a leisurely walk along the edges of the hill and admire 1000-year-old artwork, depicting everyday life during that era.

Then there are the famed Cone Mud Volcanoes located in the Absheron Peninsula. These mud volcanoes have become the touristy attractions they’re known today since the 17th Century. More than 300 of these volcanoes can be seen during your tour, some even spouting smoke and sludgy mud. It’s said this mud has healing properties, so why not give it a try?

The tour ends with an exquisite local dinner in Baku, giving you an opportunity to savor some delectable Azerbaijani cuisine such as Qutab, sacred well-known dish made with dough and stuffing.

What Else Should You Know?

Duration:

The entire tour lasts for about 10-11 hours. It begins at 9:00 AM and returns at around 7:30 PM.

Group size:

Tours typically involve groups of up to 10 tourists in total

Price:

The cost per person is quoted as €45.

Languages:

These tours include guides who are familiar with German, English and Russian languages in addition to the native Azerbaijani.

Inclusions:

When organizing this exploration experience for your group, you need not worry about anything except the duration. The company will manage all transportation including pick up and drop of from your hotel in Baku. You’ll also be provided with snacks and materials required for your entire trip.

Bottom Line:

A visit to Baku cannot be complete without a journey to the majestic landscapes of Gobustan and Absheron Peninsula. The Full-Day Guided Tour of Gobustan and Absheron in Baku organized by GetYourGuide promises an exquisite day trip experience chock full of history, culture and natural wonders. From centuries old petroglyphs to active mud volcanoes, the tour has something for everyone making it into the perfect excursion for your next Azerbaijan trip. As such, make sure to consider booking this amazing exploration provided by GetYourGuide.

Insider’s Guide to Baku: Full-Day Guided Tour of Gobustan & Absheron

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is known for its rich history, modern architecture and scenic beauty. The Full-Day Guided Tour of Gobustan & Absheron in Baku allows visitors to explore the unique rock formations, mud volcanoes, and ancient petroglyphs in Gobustan, as well as the cultural and religious landmarks in Absheron.

Local Attractions

Baku is home to many historical and architectural landmarks, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Maiden Tower, and Flame Towers. Must-visit attractions on the Full-Day Guided Tour include the Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age, and the Yanar Dag, or Burning Mountain, a natural gas fire that has been burning for thousands of years.

Dining Spots

Azerbaijani cuisine is a blend of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian flavors, with dishes like pilaf, kebabs, and dolma being popular among locals and tourists alike. After a day of exploring, head to Firuze Restaurant, serving traditional Azerbaijani dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Don’t miss out on trying the national dish, plov, made with saffron-flavored rice, succulent meats, and vegetables. If you’re looking for something more upscale, head to Art Club Restaurant for a fusion of Azerbaijani and European flavors and a stunning view of the city.

Cultural Experiences

Baku is also known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The tour includes a visit to the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a Zoroastrian place of worship, and the Yanardag Fire Temple, where locals have been worshiping fire for thousands of years. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, it’s recommended to dress conservatively and remove your shoes before entering.

Local History

Baku has a fascinating history, with influences from Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and the Soviet Union. To learn more about the city’s past, visit the Azerbaijan National Museum of History, which features exhibits on Azerbaijan’s ancient history, medieval period, and modern era. The Full-Day Guided Tour includes a visit to the Gala State Historical-Ethnographic Reserve, a living museum showcasing the traditional way of life of Azerbaijanis over the centuries.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For off-the-beaten-path experiences, visit the Mud Volcanoes of Gobustan, which are unique geological formations with bubbling mud pools and bubbling mud pots. If you have some extra time, take a day trip to the medieval town of Sheki, known for its traditional architecture, wood-carved balconies, and the stunning Sheki Khan’s Palace. And if you’re a fan of modern art, visit the Yarat Contemporary Art Space, which features contemporary art from Azerbaijan, the Caucasus, and beyond.

In conclusion, the Full-Day Guided Tour of Gobustan & Absheron in Baku is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Azerbaijan. With so much to see and do, this insider’s guide should help you make the most of your trip to Baku.