Name: Baku: Gobustan Mud Volcanoes and Ancient Dancers Full Day Tour From Baku
Price: 26800 AED

This 6-hour tour promises a deep dive into Azerbaijan's rich history and unique geological landscape, with convenient pick-up directly from your hotel in Baku.

Places to See:

Gobustan National Historical-Artistic Preserve (Open Air, Rock Paintings & Petroglyphs): Have you ever seen where civilization has started? Seek no more, because Gobustan Historical-Artistic Preserve is exactly what you need! Included in the UNESCO heritage list, being one of the cradles of human civilization, Gobustan is located barely one hour drive from Baku. It boasts an astonishing collection of over 6,000 ancient petroglyphs depicting the ways of life dating back as far as 40,000 years. This open-air museum provides a profound glimpse into prehistoric human activity and artistic expression.
Gobustan State Historical-Artistic Museum (Indoor, Innovative Technologies): To complement your outdoor experience, the Gobustan State Historical-Artistic Museum offers an immersive journey into prehistoric times. Innovative technology will help you get closer to the past using its touch screens provided with special multimedia programs, educational and entertaining games, interactive displays, 3D video, and more. This modern indoor facility enhances your understanding of the incredible findings at the preserve.
Mud Volcanoes: Not far from Gobustan, you'll discover a second miracle that will amaze you no less than the prehistoric drawings on the rocks – the incredible Mud Volcanoes. NASA geologists have concluded that they are similar in structure to the hills on the planet Mars, adding to their mystique. Azerbaijan impressively ranks first in terms of the number of mud volcanoes, with 350 out of 800 worldwide located here. Witnessing these natural formations, one of which is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest in the world, is a truly unique experience.
Bibi Heybat Mosque: On the way back to Baku, you will stop next to one of the most popular and historically significant mosques in the city. Built in the 13th century by Shirvanshah Farrukhzad II Ibn Ahsitan II, the Bibi Heybat Mosque was tragically destroyed by the Bolsheviks in 1936 and meticulously restored later in the end of the 20th century. It includes the shrine of Ukeyma Khanum (a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad) and today stands as a vital spiritual center for the Muslims of the region and one of the major monuments of Islamic architecture in Azerbaijan.

Key Features:

Historical Significance: Delve into one of humanity's earliest civilizations at the UNESCO-listed Gobustan.
Unique Natural Phenomenon: Witness the surreal landscape of Azerbaijan's famous mud volcanoes.
Cultural Insight: Gain appreciation for Islamic heritage and architecture at the revered Bibi Heybat Mosque.
Interactive Learning: The Gobustan Museum utilizes modern technology for an engaging and educational experience.
Convenience: Enjoy hassle-free pick-up and drop-off directly from your Baku hotel.

What's included

Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off from Baku Hotels.
Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation (often with modern Euro 5 standard vehicles, Wi-Fi, and complimentary bottled water on board).
Professional English-speaking Guide/Driver providing insights and assistance throughout the tour.
Bottled water provided in the vehicle.

What's not included

Entrance Fees: Please note that entrance fees to the Gobustan Museum, Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape (the open-air preserve), and the fee for the special off-road vehicle often required to reach the Mud Volcanoes are generally NOT included in the tour price and must be paid separately on-site. It is crucial to confirm this detail with your specific tour operator as "all-inclusive" packages may vary.
9 USD - Gobustan (compulsory) 9 USD - combo ticket for Ateshgah and Yanardag (compulsory*)
9 USD -Gobustan Mud Volcanoes Tourism Complex (compulsory*)
Food and Drinks: Meals (lunch, dinner) and any additional beverages are usually not included unless explicitly stated as part of a premium package.
Personal Expenses: Costs for souvenirs, additional snacks, or any other personal purchases are not covered.
Gratuities: Tips for your guide/driver are not included and are left to the discretion of the traveler.
Any other activities, attractions, or services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

What do I need to bring

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Absolutely essential for navigating the outdoor sites, which may have uneven or muddy terrain.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing:
Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are highly recommended, especially during sunny days, as shade can be limited at the outdoor locations.
Layers: Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day and between indoor and outdoor sites.
Extra Shoes (in rainy weather): If there's a chance of rain, an additional pair of shoes or shoe covers for the mud volcanoes area is highly advisable.
Modest Clothing (for Mosque Visit):
For Women: A headscarf and clothing that covers both shoulders and knees.
For Men: Clothing that covers knees and shoulders.

Attention

Pace: The tour involves walking at both the Gobustan Preserve (open-air) and around the Mud Volcanoes. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
Weather Considerations: As significant portions of the tour are outdoors, please be mindful of the weather conditions in Baku. Dress accordingly for sun, wind, or potential rain. The area around the mud volcanoes can be dusty in dry weather or muddy after rainfall. In cases of heavy rain, the unpaved road to some mud volcanoes might become challenging, and the tour might visit an alternative, more accessible mud volcano complex.
Mosque Etiquette: When visiting the Bibi Heybat Mosque, modest dress is required. This typically means covering shoulders and knees. Women will be required to cover their heads (scarves are sometimes provided at the mosque, but it's advisable to bring your own).
Photography: Photography is generally permitted, but always be respectful of the sites and any posted restrictions, particularly inside the mosque.