northern route

from the lowest points to the highest peaks

This route leads from Azerbaijan’s buzzing capital along the Caspian Sea coast and into the heart of the Caucasus Mountains. Expect outdoor adventures such as hiking, kitesurfing and paragliding, culinary surprises and some of the best scenery anywhere in the Caucasus.

betweenmountains & sea

Visit some of Azerbaijan’s most picturesque places

Travelling from Baku to the northern regions of Azerbaijan, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy kicking back and relaxing in some of the most picturesque parts of Azerbaijan. Stretching from the lowest lying national capital in the world to the highest peak in the country, this unique route has something to be admired by everyone. You can take a tour to the Chirag-gala fortress and be hosted by the local people of Khinalig village, whose population is a completely unique ethnic group. And if you’re a fan of active tourism, enjoy kitesurfing during summer in Shuraabad or visit the state-of-the-art ski resort near the Shahdag National Park.

Climate

Climate

Rising from sea level to over 4,000-metre-high mountain peaks, the landscape of this route is extremely diverse. Expect hot summers and mild winters in low-lying semi-arid areas and cooler summers and cold snowy winters in the mountains. 

Natural resources

Natural resources

Much of this route is mountainous with large areas covered by forest, above which lie mountain meadows used by shepherds as summer pastures. There are several mineral springs as well as vast oil and gas resources and salt lakes around Baku.

Accessibility

Accessibility

The Baku-Rostov railway line runs through this route with stations in Shabran, Khachmaz, Khudat and Yalama. There's a highway from Baku to the Russian Border and daily buses from Baku's International Bus Station to each town and city. Taxis and shared cars are available.

Economy

Economy

The main industries and activities in this route include: production of canned fruits and vegetables, carpet weaving (especially in Guba and Gusar), wheat growing and dairy products, and oil and gas extraction in low-lying areas closer to Baku. 

where to goin the northern route

Baku
Baku

Baku

Discover Baku, a truly contemporary city criss-crossed by history. From the modern elegance of the Flame Towers to the medieval old city full of life. More

Khizi
Khizi

Khizi

Khizi region’s has unusually enticing landscapes, calm seas and marvelous mountains are waiting to be explored just a short distance from the capital city. More

Guba
Guba

Guba

Discover Guba, a great place to experience the Caucasus Mountains and its timeless villages full of history. Explore its culture and traditions. More

Gusar
Gusar

Gusar

Enjoy Gusar, the ¨northern gates¨ of the сountry with breathtaking Caucasus Mountain vistas from some of the country’s highest peaks. More

what to doin the northern route

Need a great gift? Buy some ‘jorab’ socks
Need a great gift? Buy some ‘jorab’ socks
Local designers

Need a great gift? Buy some ‘jorab’ socks

Visit the bazaar in Gusar to buy a symbolic product of the Lezgi people –... More

Hiking in the Candy Cane mountains
Hiking in the Candy Cane mountains
Family holidays

Hiking in the Candy Cane mountains

Walk along a rocky, fun and colorful road and understand why Mark Elliot decided to... More

Visit Baku's Carpet Museum
Visit Baku's Carpet Museum
Fun and learn

Visit Baku's Carpet Museum

Situated on Baku's Seaside Boulevard, the Carpet Museum is home to the world’s largest collection... More

Central Botanical Garden
Central Botanical Garden

Northen route

Show: Northern route
Northen route

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see other routesin Azerbaijan

Southern route
Southern route
southern route | gateway to the subtropics

Southern route

To truly experience Azerbaijan’s natural diversity, head south to Lankaran, Lerik and Astara to a land of hot springs, nature reserves and the majestic Talysh Mountains. The local cuisine is pretty great too – don't leave without trying dishes like fish lavangi or parcha-dosheme plov and enjoy endless cups of freshly grown Azerbaijani tea. More

Western route
Western route
western route | history & heritage

Western route

Naftalan’s healing oil is one of Azerbaijan’s great natural wonders but the western region is also packed with heart-stopping history and breathtaking landscapes. More

North-western route
North-western route
north-western route| spirit of the Silk Road

North-western route

You’ll be following in the footsteps of ancient travellers and merchants on this scenic route along the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. More

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