Embark on an unforgettable journey through Azerbaijan’s most captivating birdwatching destinations. Over three exciting days, you’ll explore the country’s stunning southern regions, from dramatic semi-deserts to lush forests and expansive wetlands. With each stop offering unique habitats and diverse avian species, this tour promises exhilarating birding experiences that will leave you inspired.
Tour plan:
Day 1: Stepping into the Wild at Shirvan National Park
We begin with a scenic drive 120 km south of Baku to the renowned Shirvan National Park—a breathtaking expanse of semi-desert landscapes where over 290 bird species thrive. Keep your binoculars ready for highlights like the endangered Goitered Gazelle and spectacular birdlife such as the Purple Heron, Marbled Teal, and White-tailed Lapwing. The surrounding steppes teem with Black Francolins, Blue-cheeked Bee-eaters, European Rollers, and various warblers. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Mahmudchala Lake, just a short drive away, to seek out additional waders and the elusive White-headed Duck. As the sun sets, we’ll relax at our hotel in Lankaran.
Day 2: Mountain Marvels and Forest Jewels
After breakfast, we journey to the charming village of Mastail in the Talysh Mountains. Here, the serene forests shelter the elusive Caspian Tit, one of our primary targets. Other treasures include the Semi-collared Flycatcher and the graceful Black Stork. Enjoy a delightful homemade lunch hosted by a local family, immersing yourself in Azerbaijani hospitality. In the afternoon, we’ll explore nearby woodlands, where you may catch a glimpse of the majestic Shikra (spotted only from May to July). As dusk falls, we return to our hotel, filled with memories of the mountain’s magic.
Day 3: Wetlands, Waders, and Ancient Wonders
Our final day takes us to the awe-inspiring Gizilagaj National Park, a sanctuary for wetland birds. Marvel at vast flocks of waders, terns, and gulls as they dance across coastal lagoons. Keep an eye out for special sightings like the Terek Sandpiper and Caspian Stonechat. A lucky few may even spot the rare Buff-bellied Pipit. After a delicious lunch, we head toward Baku, with a cultural stop at the famed Gobustan Rock Art Preserve. Here, birding highlights include the Western Rock Nuthatch, Common Rock Sparrow, Finsch’s Wheatear, and Chukar. The tour concludes with your return to your hotel in Baku.
Key bird species
Black Francolin, Grey-headed Swamphen, White-tailed Lapwing, Caspian tit, Shikra (only in May-July), Semi-collared Flycatcher, Terek Sandpiper, Finsch’s Wheatear.
eBird links of the main birding sites:
Shirvan NP – https://ebird.org/hotspot/L3223119
Lerik – https://ebird.org/hotspot/L7140552
Kizilagach – https://ebird.org/hotspot/L7102348
Gobustan – https://ebird.org/hotspot/L6038692
Transport
- Mitsubishi Pajero (4 seater comfortable car)
- Mercedes Vito (7 seater comfortable micro-bus)
- Mercedes Sprinter (18 seater comfortable bus)
- Uaz 4×4 – in the mountains
Food
On the first day, lunch will be provided at Shirvan National Park, and dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant. On the second day, we will have breakfast at the hotel, lunch at a guesthouse in Mastail village, and dinner at a restaurant in Lankaran. On the final day, breakfast will again be at the hotel, and a packed lunch will be provided from the hotel restaurant.
Please let us know if you are vegan or vegetarian when making your booking.
Tour price
Starting from 1250 USD
* The price is for one person and may vary based on group size and transfers to/from the starting point. Contact us for a personalized quote!
Price includes
- All inclusive from hotel to hotel in Baku
- Transport services
- 2 nights at the hotel in Lankaran
- All food during the tour
Entrance tickets to the parks and Gobustan Museum - Birding equipment (binoculars, scope and books) if needed
- Snacks, tea breaks
- English speaking bird guide
- Company profit
Price doesn’t include
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Anything that is not mentioned above
To book this trip or ask questions contact us via form below.
Birding Azerbaijan 