Baku to Gobustan and Absheron: A Day of Ancient Wonders

Explore Gobustan's ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes, then visit Absheron's fire temples and the blazing Yanar Dag for a day of unique cultural and natural wonders, all just outside Baku.
Baku to Gobustan, Absheron, and Oil Platforms: A Day of Discovery

Your day begins with a visit to Bibiheybet Mosque, one of Baku’s most iconic landmarks. Located near the Caspian Sea, this mosque is known for its blue domes and stunning panoramic views. Built in the 13th century and reconstructed in the 1990s, Bibiheybet is a symbol of Azerbaijan’s Islamic heritage. As you explore the mosque, your guide will share its fascinating history and cultural significance.

Next, you’ll head to Gobustan National Park, just 60 kilometers from Baku. Here, you’ll explore the Gobustan Rock Art, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The petroglyphs found here date back 5,000 to 40,000 years and depict scenes of hunting, rituals, and animals. Walking through the park, you’ll experience the ancient history of this region while admiring the unique, otherworldly landscape of Gobustan.

Afterward, you’ll visit Gobustan’s mud volcanoes, a geological wonder. Azerbaijan is home to nearly half of the world’s mud volcanoes, and Gobustan’s are among the most famous. These active volcanoes bubble with thick mud and release sulfuric gases, creating a surreal atmosphere. The natural beauty and eerie environment of the mud volcanoes make for a memorable experience.

From Gobustan, you’ll journey to the Absheron Peninsula to visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple. Built over natural gas reserves, the temple is a significant site for Zoroastrian fire worship. You’ll learn about the ancient religion and its connection to fire, while admiring the unique architecture that blends Persian, Indian, and Caucasian styles. The eternal flame that still burns today adds to the temple’s mystical atmosphere.

Next, you’ll visit Yanar Dag, or the “Burning Mountain,” a natural gas fire that has been continuously burning for decades. The flames emerge from the earth’s surface due to natural gas leaks, creating a mesmerizing sight. This natural phenomenon is even more striking at sunset, with the flames casting a warm glow across the hillside.

The final stop of your day will be an exciting visit to the world’s first offshore oil platform, located in the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijan was a pioneer in offshore oil production, and these early oil rigs were the beginning of modern offshore drilling. You’ll learn about the history of Azerbaijan’s oil industry and how these platforms revolutionized the global energy market. The visit offers a fascinating look at the technological innovations that started in Azerbaijan, shaping the future of the global oil industry.

By the end of the day, you’ll return to Baku, filled with memories of Azerbaijan’s rich history, geological wonders, and groundbreaking industrial achievements. From ancient rock art and fire temples to the world’s first offshore oil platforms, this trip offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and industrial history, all in one unforgettable day.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.