Azerbaijani Chronicles: A 4-Day Expedition

Immerse yourself in a 4-day adventure through Azerbaijan, a land where the ancient and the modern harmoniously intertwine amidst the backdrop of the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains.

Trip Highlights:

1. Traverse the bustling streets of Baku, discovering its unique blend of modern architecture and ancient charm.
2. Explore the historical Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Discover the mystical Ateshgah Fire Temple and the Burning Mountain of Yanar Dag.
4. Wander through the ancient city of Sheki, adorned with beautiful medieval architecture.
5. Marvel at the majestic landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains in the Khinalug mountain village.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Baku Arrival and City Exploration

• Morning arrival in Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan.
• Embark on an afternoon city tour visiting the iconic Flame Towers, Maiden Tower, and Shirvanshahs’ Palace.
• Stroll along the Baku Boulevard by the Caspian Sea, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and vibrant urban scene.
• Evening at leisure to explore the local culinary scene or delve into the city’s lively nightlife.

Day 2: Gobustan, Ateshgah Fire Temple, and Yanar Dag

• Morning drive to Gobustan to explore ancient rock carvings at the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape.
• Continue to the Ateshgah Fire Temple, a sacred Zoroastrian site where natural gas fires have been burning for centuries.
• Witness the enigmatic flames of Yanar Dag, a naturally occurring fire that has been burning for thousands of years.
• Return to Baku for an evening at leisure.

Day 3: Sheki Adventure

• Morning departure to the quaint city of Sheki nestled amidst the Greater Caucasus mountains.
• Visit the Sheki Khan’s Palace, boasting stunning stained glass windows, and explore the ancient caravanserai.
• Wander through the local bazaar, sampling local sweets like Sheki halva.
• Return to Baku in the evening for a night at leisure.

Day 4: Khinalug Mountain Village

• Depart in the morning to the ancient mountain village of Khinalug, one of the highest, oldest, and most isolated mountain villages in the Caucasus.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and learn about the unique culture and traditions of the local people.
• Return to Baku in the late afternoon for last-minute souvenir shopping or leisure before your evening departure.

What’s Included:

1. Three nights’ accommodation in Baku.
2. Daily breakfast.
3. Transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
4. English-speaking guide for all sightseeing tours.
5. Entry fees to all mentioned attractions.

What’s Excluded:

1. Airfare to and from Azerbaijan.
2. Personal expenses like laundry, telephone, tips, etc.
3. Any meals other than breakfast.
4. Travel insurance.

Important Notes:

1. Check the latest visa requirements from the Azerbaijani consulate.
2. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
3. It’s advisable to have some local currency for small purchases as not all places accept credit cards.
4. Azerbaijani, Russian, and Turkish are widely spoken; however, a phrasebook or translation app might be helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best time to visit Azerbaijan?
   • Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit due to pleasant weather.
2. Is it safe to travel to Azerbaijan?
   • Azerbaijan is generally safe for tourists, but as always, exercise common safety precautions.
3. What kind of power outlets are used in Azerbaijan?
   • Azerbaijan uses Type C and F outlets, and the standard voltage is 220 V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz.
4. Is tap water safe to drink?
   • It’s advisable to drink bottled water in Azerbaijan.
5. What is the currency used in Azerbaijan?
   • The currency used in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). It’s advisable to have some cash for small purchases.