Baku is a city that offers more than just its modern skyline and ancient Old City. It’s a gateway to remarkable landscapes, historical sites, and unique cultural experiences. What makes Baku particularly interesting for travelers are the diverse tours available—whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural insights, or culinary delights, there’s something for all. We’re especially fond of the tour exploring the Five Finger Mountains and Candy Cane Hills, which combines stunning natural scenery with a taste of adventure. Plus, the 2-day Azerbaijan tour with an optional crossing to Georgia offers a fantastic way to see more of the region’s history and landscapes in a short time.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what suits your style—whether it’s a quick day trip or a more immersive experience. To help you decide, here is a quick overview of the best tours in Baku, with links to detailed descriptions to match your interests.
1. Baku:Guba, Shahdag and Candy Cane Mountain Lunch included
Discover the natural beauty of the Five Finger Mountains and Candy Cane Mountains on a full-day trip from Guba. This tour is perfect if you want a more outdoorsy experience that mixes scenic views with fun activities. You’ll visit the Shahdag Mountain Resort, Azerbaijan’s premier spot for winter sports and summer fun, where you can take a cable car ride or, if you’ve chosen the rollercoaster option, feel some adrenaline while enjoying panoramic mountain vistas. The Candy Cane Hills are known for their striking, striped rock formations and vibrant colors, making for fantastic photos.
What’s particularly appealing about this tour is the combination of natural wonders and adventure. Rated 5/5 based on 9 reviews, travelers praise this experience for its value—only $33 per person—making it an excellent budget-friendly day out. The tour includes a lunch that lets you sample local cuisine, adding to the authenticity of the journey. This trip is well suited for outdoor lovers, families, and those looking to escape the city for a day.
Bottom Line: If you want a scenic, active day that showcases Azerbaijan’s striking mountain landscapes, this tour hits the mark.
2. A Culinary Journey Through History and Nature
For those interested in food and culture, the A Culinary Journey Through History and Nature offers a comprehensive 6-day immersion into Azerbaijan’s gastronomic traditions. This tour includes a welcome dinner, local fish specialties in Gobustan, and hands-on cooking classes where you learn to prepare authentic Azerbaijani dishes. While it costs $900 per person, the value lies in the depth of experience and the chance to truly connect with local culinary customs.
This tour is less about ticking sights and more about learning through taste and participation. It’s ideal for food lovers and curious travelers who want to understand Azerbaijani culture through its cuisine. Since reviews aren’t posted publicly, we rely on the detailed itinerary and the inclusion of wine tastings and cooking classes as a sign of a well-rounded, immersive experience. It’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule, an interest in cooking, and a love of local flavors.
Bottom Line: If food and cultural exchange top your list, this tour offers a rich, hands-on experience that’s hard to beat in scope and authenticity.
$900 per person
3. Baku: 2-Day Azerbaijan Tour with Option to Cross to Georgia
At number three, this 2-day tour offers a compact yet comprehensive look at Azerbaijan’s most notable sites, with the added option to transfer into Georgia. Priced at $170 per person, it’s a versatile choice if you’re short on time but want a taste of mountains, lakes, and historic towns. The itinerary includes a visit to the Shamakhi Juma Mosque and Diri Baba Mausoleum, showcasing Azerbaijan’s Islamic heritage, while the colorful streets of Lahij village and the serene Nohur Lake provide scenic breaks.
A highlight is the visit to Sheki’s Khan’s Palace and Caravanserai, where history and architecture blend seamlessly. The optional Georgian cross-border transfer makes this tour even more appealing for travelers wanting a broader regional experience. Rated 5/5 by one reviewer, this trip’s strength lies in its variety and cultural depth. The price reflects good value considering the multiple sites covered, and the small group size ensures an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, well-organized way to see Azerbaijan’s key sights and possibly extend their trip into Georgia.
$170 per person
4. Baku to Gabala: Nij Village Guided Tour, Udi Church Visit
For a deeper dive into Azerbaijan’s cultural fabric, this guided tour explores the Udi people’s heritage in Nij Village. At $202 per person, it offers a meaningful encounter with Udi traditions, including a visit to the ancient Udi Church and meeting local residents. The tour emphasizes cultural storytelling, giving you a chance to learn about customs that have persisted for centuries amid the dramatic scenery of the Caucasus Mountains.
The highlight is the opportunity to meet locals, hear their stories, and explore traditional Udi crafts, making it an excellent choice for those interested in ethnography and rural life. The scenic views of the Nij River and surrounding mountains add to the appeal. The tour’s strength is its authentic focus—less on major landmarks and more on meaningful cultural interactions. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences and are comfortable with moderate walking and interaction.
Bottom Line: For those curious about indigenous cultures and traditions, this tour offers a rare chance to connect with Azerbaijan’s Udi community.
$202 per person
5. Tufan-Dag Skiing & Cable Cars Adventure Tour in Azerbaijan
If winter sports or mountain scenery excite you, this Skiing & Cable Cars Tour from Baku is a highlight. For $198 per person, you’ll head to Mount Tufan-Dag, where the slopes cater to all skill levels. The tour begins with a ride on the cable cars, offering sweeping views of the Caucasus Mountains—a picture-perfect moment that’s well worth the trip.
The actual skiing experience suits both beginners and intermediate skiers, with plenty of runs to choose from. The mountain environment provides a refreshing contrast to the city, making this perfect for winter travelers or those wanting a day outdoors in a different setting. The tour is highly rated for its scenery and the thrill of skiing amid dramatic mountain slopes. The combination of an adrenaline-pumping activity and scenic vistas makes this an excellent choice for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: For a day of active fun in the mountains with spectacular views, this tour balances sport and scenery efficiently.
$198 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re after outdoor adventure and stunning mountain scenery, the Guba and Candy Cane Mountains tour is a perfect budget-friendly choice. For a culinary-focused experience, the 6-day food tour offers immersive local flavors. Want a quick cultural overview? The 2-day Azerbaijan trip with Georgia extension provides a well-rounded snapshot.
Travelers interested in ethnic cultures should consider the Udi Village tour for its authentic perspective, while adventure lovers and winter sports fans will find the Tufan-Dag skiing tour ideal. Remember to book early, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Baku’s diverse landscapes and heritage make it a fantastic destination for a variety of tours. Whether you want to conquer mountain peaks, explore rich towns, indulge in local cuisine, or learn about indigenous cultures, there’s an option for you. For outdoor lovers, the Guba and Candy Cane Mountains tour offers a memorable day in nature. For those seeking cultural depth, the 2-day Azerbaijan tour and Udi Village experience are excellent picks. And if you’re in the mood for winter sports, the Tufan-Dag ski adventure combines thrill with breathtaking scenery.
Whatever your interests, planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these unique experiences in Azerbaijan’s most intriguing regions. Book early, pack your curiosity, and get ready for a memorable journey through Baku’s varied landscapes and cultural tapestry.