Tourism in Azerbaijan - Guba

The tourism industry in Azerbaijan is one of the priorities in the development of the non-oil sector. Today, the country, where East and West merge in a fascinating way, attracts an increasing number of tourists every year. Moreover, the geography of tourist interests is expanding, and visitors are increasingly eager to explore not only the capital, the beautiful Baku, but also the regions where breathtaking natural landscapes have been preserved. Azerbaijan’s nature is truly remarkable, featuring nine out of the eleven existing climate zones. It is perhaps the only country where you can find dense forests, rugged mountains, spectacular waterfalls, mineral springs, rapid rivers, and even mud volcanoes—all in one place. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan’s resort infrastructure continues to expand and modernize, catering to the most demanding guests. So, even if you venture to the most remote corners of the country, rest assured that you will always have a comfortable place to return to and relax in style.

But let’s take it step by step. You can start your journey through Azerbaijan in any direction, and in every region, you will experience not only the beauty of nature but also the renowned hospitality and traditions of the local people. This time, we will take you to the northeastern part of Azerbaijan, home to the Guba-Khachmaz region. First of all, if you began your trip in Baku (as most visitors do), Guba’s close proximity will be a major advantage. The journey takes just two to three hours.

Secondly, you will immediately witness the full splendor and richness of the country’s nature. The change in landscape from the relatively flat Absheron Peninsula to Guba’s picturesque scenery will amaze you instantly.

Guba – The Pearl of Azerbaijani Tourism: A Visitor’s Guide

Guba is located in the northeastern part of the Greater Caucasus, on the slopes of Mount Shahdag, at an altitude of over 600 meters above sea level, near the Gudyalchay River. The region is home to several popular tourist attractions, including Chirag Gala Fortress, the highland village of Khinalig (whose residents form a distinct ethnographic group), the lush Gachrash Forest, Afurja Waterfall, the turbulent Velvelichay River in the Tengealtin Gorge, and the historic Arched Bridge.

Guba is also famous for its apple orchards, which have become its symbol. More than 40 varieties of apples grow here! The city itself is considered one of the most beautiful in Azerbaijan. It was founded as early as the 4th century, and by the late 17th century, it had become a major trade center. In 1735, Guba transformed into a magnificent city and later became the capital of the Guba Khanate. Many grand buildings from that era have been preserved to this day. However, it is not just the city but also the surrounding villages that attract many tourists.

One of Guba’s landmarks is Nizami Park, the city’s oldest park, reportedly built by German prisoners in 1946. The garden is lush with greenery, and its shaded paths are lined with beautiful fountains. Surrounding the monument to the great Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi are bas-reliefs depicting scenes from his works.

From the park, a staircase adorned with sculptures leads down to the historic Arched Bridge over the Gudyalchay River. Built in 1894 under the rule of Alexander III, the bridge was designed to strengthen Russia’s military presence in the Caucasus. Its fourteen spans stretch 275 meters in length and 8 meters in width, made of fired brick. This type of bridge is unique in Azerbaijan and is now an architectural monument.

Crossing the Arched Bridge leads to the settlement of Red Settlement (Krasnaya Sloboda), home to the Mountain Jews. This village is home to 13 synagogues, two of which are still active today. Currently, approximately 4,000–5,000 Jews reside in the Red Settlement.

Another must-visit attraction is the Chukhur Hammam bathhouse, where Alexandre Dumas and later his great-grandson once bathed. Until 1985, the bathhouse was used for its original purpose and was a favorite retreat for the locals. Today, this gem of Eastern architecture stands as a historical monument with a tragic past, as it was used during the Guba Genocide of 1918.

We also recommend visiting the Juma Mosque, the first Friday mosque in Azerbaijan, built in 1802 with the support of Gazi Ismail Efendi. It served as a religious center until 1924 before being shut down and later destroyed in 1933 during Soviet rule. In the 1990s, after Azerbaijan gained independence, a new 50-meter-high minaret was built with the support of the Turkish Directorate of Religious Affairs.

For a luxurious stay, visit the Quba Palace Hotel, a five-star resort located just 7 km from Guba’s city center. The hotel features stunning lakes, a National Golf Club, an entertainment park, fine dining, and spa treatments—all in a picturesque setting surrounded by mountains and forests.