Azerbaijan Legends of Nature

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Legends of Nature Protected Areas of the Southern Caucasus

AZERBAIJAN

Implemented by:


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Azerbaijan

Absheron

Aghgol

Altiaghaj

Absheron National Park

Aghgol National Park

Altiaghaj National Park

Small is Beautiful Azerbaijan’s smallest member of the National Park family is an ideal refuge for wetland birds and is also home to the world’s smallest seal. Page 10

White Feathered Aghgol - If there is any one area that can be called an international meeting place where birds have taken over, then it is this National Park. Find a lake and its shores dotted with herons, ibis, geese, ducks and flamingos. Page 12

Cool Springs and Charming Valleys - Altiaghaj National Park enchants its visitors with mild temperatures, fresh air, lush forests, magnificent views and charming waters. Page 14

Goygol

Hirkan

Samur-Yalama

Goygol National Park

Hirkan National Park

Samur-Yalama National Park

Picture-perfect Nature - A crystal clear lake which mirrors blue skies. Mountain tops above peaceful lush meadows and dense forests. Goygol, which means “blue lake”, is one of the most precious gems of Azerbaijan’s natural heritage. Page 16

Green Greetings from the Past - Hirkan National Park boasts forests which survived the Ice Age. Virtually untouched for millions of years, the vast woodlands have continued to flourish and proliferate in this protected hideaway. Page 18

Where Forests Meet the Sea - Situated along the coastline in the far north, Azerbaijan’s youngest National Park links the shores of the Caspian Sea with unique coastal forests and a cultural landscape. Page 20

Shahdagh

Shirvan

Zangazur

Shahdagh National Park

Shirvan National Park

Zangazur National Park

The King of Mountains The largest National Park of the Southern Caucasus captivates visitors with the magnificent mountain world of Mount Shadagh and fascinating cultural diversity which has survived in the remoteness of the mountain valleys. Page 22

Desert Beauties - Shirvan National Park is Europe’s only natural habitat of goitered gazelles. This warm and dry world of semi-deserts is the most important area for these graceful beauties and is home to an amazing and surprisingly colourful bird life. Page 24

A World Apart - Cut off from Azerbaijan’s mainland, Zangazur National Park is like an exotic island within Azerbaijan due to its special climate, rare animals and plants. Page 26


Azerbaijan

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Contents

Welcome to Azerbaijan and the fascinating Caucasus region, one of the richest reservoirs of plant and animal life on Earth. The “Caucasus ecoregion�, including Azerbaijan, is a biological melting pot of animal and plant species originating in Europe, Asia and Africa. It also presents unique Caucasian characteristics found nowhere else in the world. Currently, 10% of the area of Azerbaijan is protected by law, but this natural treasure remains threatened and much work lies ahead to conserve it. We need to extend and create areas of protection, establish habitat corridors and develop transboundary approaches to management. In Azerbaijan, the conservation and preservation of natural heritage is safeguarded by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources (MENR). Apart from matters related to nature protection such as conservation management, scientific research and environmental education, we also consider the development of sustainable tourism as an important issue, since it offers a promising potential for generating additional income while also enabling us to fulfil our responsibilities regarding the treasures of nature. But apart from appreciating our heritage from a national point of view, it is essential that we also see our role in contributing to a vital network of protected areas in order to care for the Caucasus ecoregion as a whole. In this context we would like to thank the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and KfW Development Bank, both of which have been actively engaged in this field for more than a decade. Finally, this publication has only been possible thanks to the involvement and efficient teamwork of dedicated individuals, agencies and organisations, all of whom deserve our thanks. This publication contains feedback gained from regional and local representatives of conservation and tourism bodies, protected areas and tour operators. Their contributions highlight the special qualities of protected areas and what they can offer to tourists willing to respect them. We are aware that the implementation of sustainable tourism is an ongoing journey with many tasks to be fulfilled and we will continue in this direction. Finally, both sustainable tourism and the promotion of the idea of conserving our precious natural environment are essential for both the people living in the areas and the protection of biodiversity. This brochure is designed to generate enthusiasm for the wonders nature has created in Azerbaijan and the Caucasus ecoregion as a whole and to raise awareness for their protection.

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan - MENR November 2015

Map ............................................ 4 Azerbaijan Treasures to Discover – Treasures to Protect . ............... 6 Absheron National Park.......................... 10 Aghgol National Park.......................... 12 Altiaghaj National Park.......................... 14 Goygol National Park.......................... 16 Hirkan National Park.......................... 18 Samur-Yalama National Park.......................... 20 Shahdagh National Park.......................... 22 Shirvan National Park.......................... 24 Zangazur National Park.......................... 26 Useful Contacts...................... 28 Imprint................................... 31


Azerbaijan

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Educational trails / theme trails

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Birdwatching Wildlife watching

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Guided tours Organized tours over several days

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Hiking Climbing / mountaineering Cycling / mountain biking Horse trekking Cross-country skiing, ski-touring Boating Swimming Nature accommodation

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Visitor centre Museum


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Azerbaijan

Treasures to Discover – Treasures to Protect Come and enjoy the fascinating world of the Caucasus ecoregion. Magnificent colours, wild contrasts, misty forests and wide open spaces will inspire you to listen to nature’s legends and stories. The ecoregion of the Caucasus has many stories to tell. Caucasian temperate forests show the greatest biological diversity of their kind worldwide. Vast primary forests untouched by human cultivation can still be found here and, in the case of the so-called colchic forest, some trees and shrubs can even be traced back to geological times long before human existence.

Virgin marvel: Lush forest, Samur-Yalama National Park, Azerbaijan.

The reason for the outstanding biodiversity of the Caucasus ecoregion lies in its extraordinary location. The whole region, which is about the size of the Iberian Peninsula, is situated be-tween the Black Sea and Caspian Sea and is thus at a fascinating cultural and biological crossroads covering parts of Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and Iran. Plant and animal species show a stunning mix of European, Asian and African influences and have furthermore developed unique Caucasian representatives such as the west and east Caucasian tur, Caucasian black grouse, Cau-

casian salamander and special varieties of rhododendron. Divided by the South Caucasus depression, the ecoregion comprises two main mountain chains - the Greater Caucasus in the north and the Lesser Caucasus mountains in the south, which also surround the volcanic Southern Highlands. Caucasian landscapes are characterized by high mountain sceneries and colourful alpine meadows, rivers and gorges, wetlands and lakes, steppes and semi-deserts. There is a rapid change of altitudes ranging from areas below sea-level to high-mountain peaks of more than 5,000 metres. This has resulted in an amazing mix of climatic conditions, further enhanced by the area‘s location between the two seas. Nine of eleven major climate zones worldwide are present in the Caucasus. So the Caucasus is home to Mount Mtirala, the rainiest place in Europe with an annual rainfall of 4.5 metres, and dry semideserts where gazelles and reptiles live.

Protected areas in the Caucasus (IUCN category) Birds` paradise: Little egrets, Aghgol National Park, Azerbaijan.

n Strict Nature Reserves / State Reserves (Ia) indicate that priority is given to scientific research. They are defined as areas of high ecological, scientific, and historical-cultural value endowed with special beauty and resources. The natural environment may develop without direct human intervention. Access is limited primarily to scientific research and some educational activities. However, visitors have been granted partial access in the last years. n National Parks (mostly II) are areas of special ecological, historical-cultural and aesthetic interest. They consist of natural and cultural landscapes and involve human activities along with nature protection issues. National parks require a zoning system with areas specially designated for strict protection, recreational and economic activities. n Natural Monuments (III) aim to conserve unique or typical natural objects of special scientific or historical-cultural value.

Bubbling wonders: Mud volcanoes, Shirvan National Park, Azerbaijan.

n Sanctuaries / State Reservations / Managed Nature Reserves (mostly IV) aim at conservation through management intervention. The focus is on special habitats and species for conservation and reproduction. Today’s sanctuaries often go back to ancient hunting reserves, which are now transformed under new objectives making them into landscape, botanical or zoological sanctuaries. n Protected Landscapes (V) indicate the protection and management of areas where the interaction of people and nature has produced a distinct character of aesthetic, ecological or cultural value. Maintaining the traditional interaction, conservation and recreation are major objectives of this protected area category.


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Some guidelines for visitors

Out of Africa! Europe’s only natural habitat of goitered gazelles, Shirvan National Park, Azerbaijan.

The natural patchwork has produced a diversity of plants and animals which is twice as great as that of neighbouring European and Asian regions. Scientific assessments have identified 6,500 different vascular plants, at least a quarter of which are unique to the region, while 400 species of bird, 150 species of mammal, 130 species of fish and more than 80 species of reptile have been listed.

the need for its protection are only starting to develop.

Hotspot for protection However, the ecological situation is far from ideal. Only about a quarter of the region remains in good natural condition. Many species are threatened and their habitats have shrunk. The Caucasian leopard still lives in the Caucasus but is endangered. The bezoar goat, Caucasian chamois, bearded vulture and golden eagle can still be spotted but are declining in numbers. Economic overuse, hunting and poaching are major threats to the natural resources. Moreover, financial resources are limited and awareness of the richness of the region and

Naturally cross-border Currently, 10% of the Caucasus ecoregion is under legislative protection of some kind. However, it still faces severe threats and there are many tasks to carry out in the future. The full range of biodiversity of the Caucasus is not protected at the moment. There is the need to enlarge and establish new areas for protection. Moreover, it will be essential to go beyond a national approach and further develop a vital network in order to support habitat corridors and effective transboundary management.

This is the reason why Conservation International has classified the Caucasus as one of the globe’s 25 most diverse and endangered “biodiversity hotspots” and why it is amongst the WWF “Global 200” regions, which are defined as the most biologically diverse.

n Stay on the marked and signposted trails. n Pay attention to trail markers. n Respect the guidelines and advice provided by your guide or the park administration. n Take your litter and cigarette ends home. Even when buried, they damage the landscape. n Admire the plants, but do not damage them. Leave plants, rocks and natural objects as you find them. n Be silent and leave animals in peace. n Only light fires in locations specifically designated for this purpose. n Enjoy the use of non-smoking shelters and respect non-smoking rules. n Leave shelters clean and take your rubbish home. n Take special care in fog. Always use proper walking boots, raingear and a hat. n Finally, enjoy the wonderful sounds of nature – do not make unnecessary noise.


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Azerbaijan

Looking for a better future: The Caucasian leopard.

The endangered Caucasian leopard is a flagship species of the Caucasus Ecoregion. It is the subject of major conservation efforts undertaken by WWF in cooperation with the governments of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia, the IUCN/ SSC Cat Specialist Group, NGOs and regional experts. National Action Plans for the leopard have been set up in order to create protected space for the predator and to protect it from poachers. More than a decade of conservation work is now showing promising results with recent leopard sightings in some protected areas like Zangazur National Park in Azerbaijan.

International support The past 10 years have seen a remarkable expansion of protected areas in the Caucasus ecoregion. A number of international programmes and initiatives have helped in assisting and financing protection issues and have fostered cross-border approaches. International bodies which actively engage in the Caucasus ecoregion include the governments of Germany, Norway, and of the United States, multilateral organisations such as the EU, the Global Environment Facility and UNEP, international NGOs such as WWF and IUCN as well as nature conservation trust funds such as CNF, private companies and scientific institutions. German Cooperation in the Caucasus Ecoregion The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) has a history of active cooperation with the environmental sector in the Southern Caucasus countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. The “Ecoregional Nature Protection Programme for the Southern Caucasus”, financed by the BMZ through KfW Development Bank, serves as a key instrument of this cooperation and focuses on the protection of biodiversity in the region. It aims at harmonizing protection objectives and instruments in a cross-border approach with sustainable socio-economic development and local participation as major guiding principles. The programme is supported by three main pillars:

(1) Investments in Protected Areas This pillar serves to support the protected areas in the Caucasus ecoregion through investments aimed at establishing and developing individual areas. The investments lead to improvements in management plans and infrastructure (including administrative headquarters, visitor centres and walking trails) and are also used for training measures directed at administrative staff. The investments additionally support socio-economic developments in local communities living near the protected areas. (2) The Caucasus Nature Fund - CNF To ensure the sustainability of direct investments in the protected areas, the Federal Republic of Germany also provides financial support to the “Caucasus Nature Fund” (CNF), thus addressing the problem caused by a lack of long-term financing for the operational costs of the protected areas. CNF is a conservation trust fund working in public-private partnership with the national governments. CNF’s aim is to stop the loss of biodiversity by providing long-term funding for protected areas in Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia, improving management practices, and promoting sustainable development. In addition to the support of the German government, CNF is widely supported by major conservation organisations including the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Conservation International and the Critical Ecosys-


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tem Partnership Fund. Find out how you can donate and help protect the magnificent natural world of the Caucasus: www.caucasusnaturefund.org (3) The Transboundary Joint Secretariat TJS The third pillar provides support to the “Transboundary Joint Secretariat”. It complements the cooperation between Germany and the Southern Caucasus countries, benefiting protected areas in the ecoregion through transboundary cooperation and harmonization of national policies. The TJS works to put important regional aspects and international knowledge on biodiversity on the national agendas. The World Wide Fund for Nature - WWF WWF focuses strategically on places and species which are particularly important for the conservation of the earth’s biodiversity. In the early 1990s, WWF started implementing nature conservation projects in the Caucasus. WWF has also been involved in eleborating the first „Ecoregional Conservation Plan for the Caucasus“. Based on detailed assessments by more than 140 experts of all six Caucasus countries, it defines threats and priorities for conservation. The plan is now ready in its second revised edition of 2012. With its long- and midterm targets and actions, it will help those involved in conservation to plan and coordinate their activities in the entire ecoregion.

Before your visit

Ecotourism in Azerbaijan’s National Parks provides the chance to combine nature conservation with economic benefits for the local population. Nevertheless, please be aware that protected areas are often situated in remote places with limited access and tourism infrastructure. Ecotourism in Azerbaijan is in the early stage of development. Accommodation will often be possible in simple guesthouses or in the private homes of hospitable locals, who will also be a perfect source of information about the area. Please note that there are strict regulations concerning access to National Parks in Azerbaijan. For those Parks which are open to visitors, access is only possible if you buy a ticket in advance. Tickets can be booked online at: http://e-xidmet.eco.gov.az//?lang=en. Permits and bank transfers can take serveral weeks so it is advisable to book well in advance of your visit. Please have your payment receipt and your identity card ready for display at the park entrance. During your visit inside the National Park you will be accompanied by a National Park guide. Check the website of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the respective National Parks to find out about current regulations and ecotourism opportunities. (see “Useful Contacts”, p. 28) http://www.eco.gov.az/en/milliparklar.php On the way to sustainable tourism Sustainable tourism has the potential to play a major role in the future protection of the Caucasus ecoregion. It can help the local economy to generate additional income while simultaneously providing support on protection issues. In order to fulfill this objective, it will be necessary to foster sustainable regional tourism development which reflects the needs of the area in cooperation with local stakeholders. On this basis, tourism can be guided in a sustainable, resulting in carefully planned visitor services, the well-being of the population and greater awareness of the natural and cultural heritage.

Nature close up. Camping in the remote Caucasian highlands.

Azerbaijan’s Green Treasures Azerbaijan is home to many of the natural treasures of the Caucasus ecoregion. Landscapes vary between high mountain ranges rising up to more than 4,000 metres, dense ancient forests, vast mountain steppes, wide river lowlands, dry semideserts, and a sandy coastline. Moreover, there are fascinating geological features such as famous mud volcanoes and lasting flames fed by underground gas fields. There are at least eight different climate types in Azerbaijan, which have shaped the country into a mosaic of landscapes and created an extraordinary high level of biological diversity. With more than 4,500 plant species, over 60 percent of the Caucasian flora species are present in Azerbaijan. 240 of all species are endemic or relic. The fauna comprises almost 400 species of birds and more than 110 different mammals. The history of protected areas in Azerbaijan dates back to the 1930s, when the first nature reserves of Goygol, Zagatala, and Gizilaghaj were established. A major revision of the environmental legislation in 1969 resulted in the foundation of another seven nature reserves, amongst them Shirvan, Aghgol and Altiaghaj, which became Azerbaijan’s first National Parks in 2003 and 2004. Since the beginning of the millennium, the protected areas have been almost doubled in size. Today Azerbaijan has nine National Parks, eleven State Nature Reserves and 24 Sanctuaries which cover 10.4 percent of the country. Moreover, Azerbaijan - the “Land of Fire” – has a rich cultural history, local life and traditions for visitors to discover. The Great Silk Road, which runs through the country, inspired Strabo, Marco Polo and Alexandre Dumas, and has left its traces in the settlements along the way. An exploration of the cultural heritage leads you to ancient rock paintings, fire temples, and fortifications. You will meet hospitable locals, sample local cuisine, encounter traditional crafts like carpet weaving and copper craft and come across rare languages which have survived in some of the remote corners of the Caucasus.


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Absheron

Absheron National Park Small is Beautiful - Azerbaijan’s smallest member of the National Park family is an ideal refuge for wetland birds and is also home to the world’s smallest seal. Situated on “land’s end” of the Absheron peninsula, the National Park is a popular place for ducks, gulls, terns and passerines to rest and breed. The narrow strip with its semi-deserts may seem bleak at first sight. But take a closer look and you will discover the very special flora of the salt marshes, spot the white blossoms of field bindweed in the sand and maybe even the tracks of foxes and jackals. Amphibians and reptiles such as the Caspian turtle, green toad, lake frog and water snake love Absheron’s sunny dry spots, its

shallow lagoons and the quiet peace of the peninsula’s tip. The Caspian seal migrates every year. The ice floes in the northern Caspian Sea are its breedings grounds in winter and the sand banks of the south serve as its summer home. Due to hunting, fishing and pollution, its population has declined to worrying numbers. It was mainly for the survival of this rare species that Absheron State Nature Reserve was established in 1969. This reserve was the predecessor of today’s National Park, founded 36 years later.


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In Touch with Nature With a bit of luck you can watch Caspian seals on the sand banks of “Seal Cape” from May to August. If you want to gain interesting insights into Absheron’s natural world, join a National Park guide for a hike to the observation tower to watch water birds and to find out more about wildlife and flora.

Location: East Azerbaijan, Absheron Region Size: 783 hectares Altitude: at sea level Year of establishment: 2005

Landscape: Sandy shores, shallow lagoons, salt marshes, wetlands, semi-deserts

Historical Places Ateshgah, the “temple of fire”, once known for its everlasting flame, lies in the settlement of Surakhany 30 kms from Baku. Legend has it that the temple goes back to times when followers of Zarathustra worshipped the God of light here. However, today’s temple was constructed during a much later era, namely the early 18th century. Due to extensive exploitation of the underground gas fields during Soviet times, the ongoing flame expired, but it is still relit today for tourism purposes. The 800-year old village of Gala is situated further eastwards on the route, in the middle of the peninsula. It was once an important stop on a trade route to Baku and was known for sheep breeding and salt extraction. When its wells ran dry in the 1920s and 1930s, the inhabitants emigrated to the neighbouring village, leaving behind a cultural heritage which includes mediaeval mosques, bath houses, water pipes and reservoirs, mausoleums and dwelling houses. Today, Gala is home to the “Gala State Historical-Ethnographic Reserve”, a 156 hectare open air museum with archaeological monuments of the Absheron, which were dismantled and rebuilt here. Moreover, the Absheron Bronze Age rock art impresses visitors. Craft traditions like pottery and carpet weaving are demonstrated in restored buildings. Join a guided tour for a real discovery.

Facts and Figures

Flora: Field bindweed, hawksbeard, wild carrot, ephedra, rush, sea-lavender, common reed, Indian plantain, tamarisk Fauna: Caspian seal, jackal, Mediterranean tortoise, water snake, white-tailed sea eagle, great black-headed gull Accommodation: Hotels, guestrooms/ apartments, Baku How to get there: 60-70 km from Baku, 40-50 mins by car, 70-80 mins by mini-bus/bus

Wildlife watching access to observation tower with National Park guide

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Be Part of it - Events Don’t miss novruz, the traditional holiday to welcome the arrival of spring and nature’s awakening. The programme in Gala Reserve ranges from mimes and traditional performances with athletes and rope-walkers, to satirical songs, dances and music.

Did you know ... that the Caspian Sea is a remnant of the former open Tethys Sea? When it lost its connection to the Arctic waterways 1.3 million years ago, it became the world’s biggest water body surrounded by a land mass. Thus isolated, the Caspian seal developed into a unique, very small variety of its kind with a maximum size of 1.50 m.

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Hiking accompanied by National Park guide Visitor centres visitor reception and small photo exhibition in the administration building Museum Gala State HistoricalEthnographic Reserve


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Aghgol

Aghgol National Park White Feathered Aghgol – If there is any one area that can be called an international meeting place where birds have taken over, then it is this National Park. Aghgol is one of the most important wintering and nesting areas worldwide for endangered water-marsh birds. The numbers recorded are remarkable. It is hard to imagine how the National Park can cope with monitoring if one considers that this involves figures of more than 100,000 wintering birds and more than 90 species that nest in this oasis. The lake and its shores are dotted with herons, ibis, flamingos, ducks and geese and it is because of this abundance of plumage that the place was called Aghgol, which means “white lake”. The colony of breeding waders comprises twelve different species,

including all existing varieties of herons. In winter, 3,000 white-headed ducks and more than 500 snow geese enjoy the peace of shallow lake waters. The surrounding reed belt and grasslands are home to the jungle cat. Another gem of the Park‘s ecosystem are the steppes and semi-deserts around the lake. Come in May or June, and find the plains covered with red poppies and yellow daisies. In summer you can observe thousands of bee-eaters and in winter 50,000 little bustards - 10 percent of the entire global population spend the winter in Aghgol.


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In Touch with Nature Visitors accompanied by a National Park guide can explore the park on five routes. The ten metre observation towers afford excellent views of the biotopes; binoculars and telescopes are provided. Moreover, birdwatchers can observe birds from the dam close to the park’s entrance or from the surrounding hills, but also during a walk along the channels or a boat trip on the lake.

Facts and Figures Location: Central Azerbaijan, Aghjabadi and Beylagan Regions Size: 17,924 hectares Altitude: -8 m to 4 m Year of establishment: 2003

Landscape: Wetlands, reed belts, semi-desert Flora: Common reed, holly-leaved water nymph, fennel pondweed, curly-leaved pondweed, mugwort, halostachys caspica, halocnemum strobilaceum, kalidium capsicum, petrosimonia branchiata

Be Part of it – Events The national holiday novruz is a pagan festival dating back at least three thousand years to celebrate the arrival of spring. Beginning on 20th March, it goes on for several days and ends with festive public dancing and entertainment including folk bands and contests of national sports. The celebrations start four weeks prior to the festival on every Tuesday when one of the four elements – water, fire, earth and wind – is highlighted. National dishes, especially pilaf, play a key role in the celebrations. Neighbours and friends visit each other and gifts are given, especially to the poor and elderly. Many sweets and desserts are served, including shakarbura, pakhlava, sweet bread, raisins, pistachios, and almonds. The tables are set with seven items symbolizing life and fertility, all of which begin with the letter “s”, such as: su (water), süd (milk), sǝmǝni (green wheat sprouts), sünbül (wheat spikes), siyənək balıgı (herring), or süzmə (filtrated yoghurt). In the evenings, people build bonfires in their yards, and light a candle for each family member.

Fauna: Various varieties of heron, ibis, duck, goose; flamingo, pelican, little bustard, coot, mallard, snipe; white-tailed sea eagle, collared racer, Mediterranean tortoise, European green toad, Syrian spadefoot, gazelle, jungle cat Accommodation: Small hotels in Agjabadi and Beylagan, guestrooms/ farm accommodation in the vicinity of the National Park How to get there: 374 km from Baku, 4:30-5 hrs by car Horse trekking riding along the lake Wildlife watching i

Guided tours

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Boating

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Did you know … that the jungle cat can swim and even dive to catch fish? However, the cat’s main hunting grounds are on land in the thick reed belts and grasslands, the perfect hiding place for stalking small rodents, birds and frogs. But a jump in the water is a handy way to disguise their scent and evade nasty hunters.

Hiking along the lake and channels

Visitor centre National Park administration building, Agjabadi city Museum fauna & flora, history & ethnography, Agjabadi city Nature accommodation small tents in specified places


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Altiaghaj

Altiaghaj National Park Cool Springs and Charming Valleys - Altiaghaj National Park enchants visitors with mild temperatures, fresh air, lush forests, magnificent views and charming waters. Altiaghaj National Park, on the south-eastern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, is a popular destination for Baku citizens. Soft hills and the green valleys of the Atachay and its tributaries characterize the Park. A walk along the charming river leads past various cool springs and through enchanting oak forests, one of the reasons why this area was protected as a State Nature Reserve and National Park in 2004.

A climb up to Dubrar Peak (2,205 m) provides a magnificent panoramic view of the Park with Khaltan, Mujug, Jimi and surrounding villages and the opportunity to sample the ice-cold water of Dubar spring. Most of the landscape is covered with diverse broadleaf forests and in autumn the visitor will be rewarded with stunning scenery in the brightest colours, especially in the areas of Yarimja and Khalaj.


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In Touch with Nature There are attractive walks into the mountains and along the river Atachay to Gizilgazma. The bright colours are radiant in autumn, but March to June is also a good time to visit. Then one can enjoy sweeping mountain meadows with flowering primroses, orchids and gladioli. Five waymarked routes have been established. Maps and tour guide services are available at the National Park entrance. Here you can get binoculars, compasses, bicycles and tents. Those who want to truly commune with nature, can spend the night in the midst of the park and listen to the howls of wolves. Inquire with the Park administration for further information about designated campsites and guestrooms in the National Park station. Altiaghaj village is part of the National Park and attracts visitors with its old houses, small shops, private accommodation and a hotel. A cable car takes visitors up the mountain to enjoy a lovely view and a coffee.

Historical Places The sacred mountain of Beshbarmag lies not far from Khizi. Its giant stone fingers projecting from the hilltop have always impressed travellers. It is likely that you will meet priests and pilgrims if you climb the steps up to its highest finger. There is a mosque at the foothill and a shrine to the prophet Khidir on top. In addition to its benign spirits, the summit will reward visitors with a fantastic panoramic view of the Caspian Sea and the mountain ranges of the Caucasus.

Facts and Figures

Location: North-east Azerbaijan, Khizi and Siyazan Regions Size: 11,035 hectares Altitude: 800 m – 2,200 m Year of establishment: State Nature Reserve 1990, National Park 2004 Landscape: Middle and high mountain landscapes, cool springs, alpine meadows, rivers Flora: Forests, Caucasian oak, European hornbeam, oriental beech, common ash, silver birch, hawthorn, blackberry, medlar, Christ’s thorn, dog rose Fauna: Brown bear, fox, marten, wolf, wood pigeon, quail, goatsucker, steppe eagle, partridge, ouzel, various species of diurnal birds of prey Accommodation: Guesthouses/ private accommodation in Khizi city, Altiaghaj, Khalaj, Yarimja, Gizilgazma, Bakhishli villages; hotels in Altiaghaj, Jannat baghi, Shefa bulagi, Gizilgazma How to get there: 110 km from Baku, 1:30 hrs by car, 1:40 hrs by mini-bus/bus

Educational / theme trails

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Birdwatching Wildlife watching Guided tours for school/student groups

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Organized tours over several days on environment, ethnography

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Hiking Cycling / mountain biking

Did you know … that the word “Altiaghaj” derives from the ancient measure aghaj, which is about seven kilometres? During the Middle Ages, the village of Altiaghaj was used as a resting point on a caravan route between Shamakhi and Guba. To indicate distances for the travellers, a tree was planted every seven kilometres. Altiaghaj still reflects the measure in its name, which indicates that it is six (alti) trees away from Shamakhi, a distance of 42 kilometres.

Horse trekking

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Visitor centre National Park administration building, 4 km from Khizi village Museum exhibition hall in the visitor centre Nature accommodation guestrooms at the National Park station, camping in designated places


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Goygol

Goygol National Park Picture-perfect Nature - A crystal clear lake which mirrors blue skies. Mountain tops above peaceful lush meadows and dense forests. Goygol, which means “blue lake”, is one of the most precious gems of Azerbaijan’s natural heritage. Protection started in 1925 when Goygol was established as Azerbaijan’s first State Nature Reserve. By 2008 it was designated as a National Park and had doubled its surface area. Goygol is part of the Lesser Caucasus. Deep valleys, long watersheds and slopes in all variations shape the landscape. Vultures soar above its rocky massifs, which reach heights of more than 3,000 metres. Botanists will love the abundant alpine and subalpine meadows

as well as the lush forests where more than 80 species of trees and shrubs can be found, among them the rare Caucasian pine. Medicinal plants like eglantine, violet and camomile are collected by locals on traditional holidays. You will enjoy the aromatic violet tea and jam, as well as local drinks produced in Goygol’s wine factory.


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In Touch with Nature Visitors can take walking tours on hiking trails to discover the fascinating landscape of mountain lakes and forests in the National Park. On top of newly developed ecotourism facilities, there are also cafés and restaurants where visitors can rest and enjoy a refreshment. Outside the National Park’s borders lies Mount Kapaz, which provides beautiful views and is an ideal place for a picnic. “Jannatmakan” recreation centre in Togana welcomes visitors with guestrooms. Small cafes serving delicious food can be found along the way to the centre.

Historical Places The Goygol area is also rich in cultural monuments. More than 30 registered monuments can be found in the villages around the Park, including Bronze Age graves and mediaeval arched stone bridges. Goygol city has a “German street” with a “Lutheran” church and houses all of which were built in the 19th century by German settlers from Swabia who specialized in wine growing. Viktor Klein was the last inhabitant with German roots. He died in 2007 and his house is to be converted into a museum.

Facts and Figures Location: West Azerbaijan, Goygol, Dashkasan and Goranboy Regions Size: 12,755 hectares Altitude: 1,100 m – 3,724 m Year of establishment: 2008 Landscape: Mountain forests, mountain meadows, lakes, rocky massifs, mountain lakes Flora: Oriental beech, oriental oak, Caucasian pine, Caucasian hornbeam, white birch, eglantine, Caucasian violet, dandelion, camomile, wood bluegrass Fauna: Caucasian red deer, roe deer, bezoar goat, brown bear, lynx, booted eagle, golden eagle, falcons, bearded vulture Accommodation: Private accommodation in Chaykand, Togana, Azgilli and Garabulag villages Accommodation options will soon be made available inside the National Park. Inquire at the Park administration to find out about current developments. How to get there: 390 km from Baku, 6 hrs by car, 7-8 hrs by mini-bus/bus, 10-11 hrs by train

Organized tours of several days in the surrounding areas

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Hiking in the surrounding areas Nature accommodation guestrooms at “Jannatmakan” recreation centre, Togana

Did you know … that lake Goygol and the other seven lakes of the National Park were created by a major earthquake in 1139? It shattered Mount Kapaz so powerfully that huge mountain blocks broke off its top, tumbled down and blocked the waters of Agsuchay river.


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Hirkan

Hirkan National Park Green Greetings from the Past - Hirkan National Park boasts forests which survived the Ice Age. Virtually untouched for millions of years, the vast woodlands have continued to flourish and proliferate in this protected hideaway. Due to the stunning diversity and uniqueness of its species, Hirkan is on the top list of broadleaf forests of the temperate zone in Europe and Asia. You will find trees which exist nowhere else in the world on a hiking tour: Look out for the special chestnut-leaved oak and the ironwood tree as well as for Hyrcanian figs and pears. Oriental beech trees and box trees predominate in the higher parts up to 1,000 metres.

There is no need to mention that this is also a paradise for wildlife. Attentive visitors can discover a wide range of bird species, find the horny quills of porcupines or occasionally even bear tracks. Moreover, the Caucasian leopard has found refuge in the Park’s undisturbed forests, one of the reasons why this protected area is of major importance.


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In Touch with Nature The National Park organizes a variety of excursions along various routes suited to visitors’ needs, available time, physical ability, age and interests. You can collect the information from the administration centre prior to your tour or choose to be accompanied by a guide. A pleasant hike from the southern entrance at Zungulash leads past chestnut-leaved oaks, iron trees and box trees to Istisu where you can relax and take a bath in the hot pools.

Facts and Figures

Location: South-east Azerbaijan, Lankaran and Astara Regions Size: 40,358 hectares Altitude: 21.4 m – 1,818 m Year of establishment: State Nature Reserve 1936, National Park 2004 Landscape: Forested lower plains, foothills and mountains Flora: Iron tree, chestnut-leaved oak, cottonwood, box tree, Hyrcanian broom, ilex, Hyrcanian pear, mimosa, Hyrcanian zelkova

Meet the People Lankaran is famous for its craft products like carpets, hats, baskets decorated with traditional patterns, and beautifully embroidered handwoven cloths. Some women offer craftwork tailored to the customer‘s wishes. The area is also well known for the longevity of its inhabitants. Here it is not extraordinary to live to 110 years old and beyond. Most of the people who live here are Talysh, one of Azerbaijan‘s largest ethnic groups, which has preserved its own language and traditions. Due to the region’s warm temperate climate, many fruits are cultivated in the lowlands and the area is famous for its cuisine. Try delicious dishes like lavangi - chicken stuffed with nuts, cherry plums and onions. A desert with feijoa, a fruit which is reminiscent of pineapple and strawberry, and a glass of aromatic local tea will round off your meal perfectly.

Did you know … that the iron tree really deserves its name because its wood is so heavy that it sinks in water? It finds ideal living conditions in Hirkan, can live to 200 years and can grow to a height of 25 metres. If its multiple branches touch each other or a neighbouring tree, they can grow together.

Fauna: Indian porcupine, wolf, fox, golden jackal, brown bear, badger, common otter, jungle cat, lynx, Caucasian leopard, roe deer Accommodation: Recreation centres with cottages on the border of the National Park and on the bank of Lankaran river along the Lerik highway; hotels in Lankaran and Astara How to get there: 286 km from Baku, 5 hrs by car, 5 hrs by mini-bus/bus, 9 hrs by train Educational / theme trails information boards i

Guided tours Organized tours of several days programmes with day trips

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Hiking Horse trekking

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Visitor centre National Park administration building, Burcali village; visitor centre, Zungulash park entrance Museum History and ethnography museums in Lankaran and Astara


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Samur-Yalama

Samur-Yalama National Park Where Forests Meet the Sea - Situated along the coastline in the far north, Azerbaijan’s youngest National Park links the shores of the Caspian Sea with unique coastal forests and a cultural landscape. The forest of Samur-Yalama is the only one in the country which reaches down to the seashore. The woodland is home to a wide mix of broad-leaf trees such as oak, hornbeam, alder, and poplar. As it is one of the few remaining relict coastal forests, it has sustained tree species like the long stem oak, which date far back into the geological past.

the forest scenery is interwoven with creeks, rivers and springs which have shaped beautiful ravines.

Forests make up most of the National Park, which is a true patchwork of natural and cultural landscapes. Besides the characteristic lowland forests you will find fields, gardens, hayfields and pastures. Further into the country,

Part of the patchwork is formed by Muqtedir, Nabran and Turist, Azerbaijan’s most popular seaside resorts, which are situated along the coastal strip and surrounded by Samur-Yalama’s beautiful forests.

Wetlands and marine areas provide important habitats and spawning grounds for endangered fish, which migrate from the coast up the rivers. Breeding areas for rare bird species have been designated as zones for special protection.


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In Touch with Nature Samur-Yalama is a very young National Park and its ecotourism facilities are still being developed. Plans include a visitor centre with exhibitions and modern media, an observation tower, trails through wetlands, forests and cultivated landscape. The agro-forestry trail will be designed for walking, cycling and horse carriages. Visitors can experience the village activities and learn about the management of orchards, pastures and hayfields, animal breeding or the local production of clay bricks and woven wooden fences.

Meet the People The area of Khachmaz is known as a “fruit paradise”. It is said that locals don’t need money because they have enough vegetables and fruit in their gardens. You will find seasonal fruit for sale along the Nabran-YalamaKhudat road, where locals sell their produce. Particularly, the big red Khachmaz cherries are famous for their sweet and juicy flavour. Moreover, you will find fruit juices and fruit vinegar as well as delicious mixtures of the two. A string with dried pears and walnuts called rasa symbolizes the beauty and wealth of a house and is given as a gift to guests.

Facts and Figures Location: North-east Azerbaijan, Guba-Khachmaz Region, Khachmaz District Size: 11,772 hectares Altitude: -15 to 65 m Year of establishment: 2012

Landscape: Plains with fields, gardens, pastures and hayfields; semi-deserts, seashore zones with interlinked beaches & forests, fresh water springs Flora: Oak, hornbeam, poplar and alder forests, long stem oak, chestnut-leaved oak, Caucasian hornbeam, white acacia Fauna: Oriental chub, brook trout, rudd, Merga’s stone loach, Greek tortoise, black stork, osprey, sparrow hawk, eastern hedgehog, golden jackal, fox, raccoon, wild boar Accommodation: High category hotels in the area of Khachmaz; hotels, guesthouses, camping, cottages in the area between Muqtedir, Nabran and Turist; guesthouses/private accommodation in villages How to get there: 180 km from Baku, 2:30 hrs by car, 3 hrs by mini-bus/bus All in development Educational / theme trails

g Did you know … that the riverbeds of Samur-Yalama National Park provide important spawning grounds for the endangered Caspian trout? From November to February mature trout which live in the brackish waters of the Caspian Sea migrate up the rivers to where they can find clear, cold mountain waters. During the subsequent period from October to January, they begin to spawn on the bottom of the riverbeds, where they protect their eggs with gravel. After incubating their eggs for about four weeks, the trout return to the sea. The Caspian trout is one of the largest in the world. In the area of Samur-Yalama it can grow to more than 90 cm.

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Birdwatching Guided tours Organized tours of several days

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Hiking Cycling Horse trekking

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Visitor centre in the National Park administration building, near Khudat Museum exhibition hall in visitor centre


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Shahdagh

Shahdagh National Park The King of Mountains - The largest National Park of the Southern Caucasus captivates visitors with the magnificent mountain world of Shahdagh - which means “the king of mountains” – and fascinating cultural diversity which has survived in the remoteness of the mountain valleys. Azerbaijan’s highest peaks – Mount Bazarduzu, Mount Shahdagh and Mount Tufandag - each of which is more than 4,000 metres high, are situated in Shahdagh National Park. Ecosystems change with altitudes from the lower plains and foothills, river valleys and gorges up to rocky peaks covered with snow and glaciers. Hikers will pass through lush forests with Iberian and oriental oak, oriental beech and Caucasian horn-

beam. In the higher zone, the scenery opens out onto a fantastic mountain panorama and endless alpine meadows with colourful wildflowers. With a bit of luck you can observe Caucasian chamois or hear the Caucasian snowcock whistle from a rock at dawn. As a local guide book puts it: “Once you are up here, you are a part of mountain life. Listen to your heart and your soul and look around you with your eyes wide open.”


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In Touch with Nature Shahadagh National Park is ideal for hiking, mountaineering and horse trekking. The route from Khinalig to Laza is known as one of the highlights of Azerbaijan’s nature experience. A tour to climb Mount Shahdagh takes two to four days on various routes and grades of difficulty. Tour guides are available and horses can be hired in Khinalig and Laza. Other access points to the National Park are Ismayilli, Gabala and Oguz. If you want to go hiking in the Shahdagh area you must be accompanied by a guide accredited by the National Park. Visitor numbers here are limited. Have a look at the National Park’s website and facebook site (in Azeri) for further guided ecotourism activities like animal observation, hiking, mountaineering and camping. Please take into account that entry to the National Park requires permission from the Ministry of Environment in Baku and, since it is located on the Russian border, from the office of the border army in Gusar as well. The administrative process takes about three weeks and the entrance fee must be transferred in advance. Inquire for current regulations at the National Park administration.

Facts and Figures Location: North-east Azerbaijan, Guba, Gusar, Ismayilly, Gabala, Oghuz and Shamakhy Regions Size: 130,500.5 hectares Altitude: 550 m – 4,466 m Year of establishment: 2006 Landscape: Forests, broad-leaved woods, high mountains, foothills, alpine meadows Flora: Iberian and eastern oak, eastern beech, Caucasian hornbeam, ash, yew, medlar, hawthorn, blackberry, eglantine Fauna: Caucasian snowcock, Caucasian black grouse, bearded vulture, golden eagle, brown bear, lynx, roe deer, red deer, Caucasian chamois, East Caucasian tur Accommodation: High category hotels in the areas of Gabala & Guba; hotels/ small hotels/guesthouses/ in the areas of Oguz, Gabala, Ismayilli, Lahij, Shamakhi, Guba & Gusar How to get there: 165 km from Baku, 2 hrs by car, 2:30 hrs by mini-bus/bus

Meet the People Educational / theme trails

Some ethnic groups have been able to maintain and develop their special traditions and languages in the remoteness of the mountains. If you stay in villages like Khinalig and Lahij, you will encounter the hospitality of local people. Enjoy the opportunity to listen to your hosts’ stories and learn more about Udis, Tats, Hapits, Khinaliglis, Mountain Jews, Lezgins and Turks. Lahij is the centre of the Tats and is known for its old craft tradition, especially for copper craft. Handmade copper vessels and plates decorated with traditional ornaments are still popular souvenirs.

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Birdwatching Wildlife watching

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Guided tours Organized tours over several days

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Hiking in Ismayilli, Gabala and Oguz Climbing / mountaineering Cycling / mountain biking in Ismayilli, Shamakhi and Guba Horse trekking Cross-country skiing, ski-touring in Guba and Gusar

Did you know … that the Caucasus snowcock lives on bare rocky grounds in high mountain regions close to the snowline? Its thick and dense plumage protects the bird from temperatures down to minus 40°. It is very shy and you can often hear its warning whistle before you can see it.

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Visitor centre tourist information centre, Piramsan village Museum at tourist information centre, old documents, Khinalig Nature accommodation guestrooms in National Park stations, camping


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Shirvan

Shirvan National Park Desert Beauties - Shirvan National Park is Europe’s only natural habitat of goitered gazelles. This warm and dry world of semi-deserts is the most important area for these graceful beauties and is home to amazing and surprisingly colourful bird life. You will find hundreds of gazelles grazing in the tranquility of the wide open plains. Wormwood, which is widespread in the semi-desert, is amongst their favourite food. Watch out for larks and curlews, whose shades of grey and brown are perfectly adapted to this habitat, and for the colourful dots formed by the black francolin and bluecheeked bee-eater. The coastline, lagoon and artificial bodies of water like Gizilgaz lake provide a

popular stop-over and nesting ground for wetland birds. Monitoring has shown that more than 230 species can be observed here, especially during winter. You will be left in no doubt as to why Gigilgaz is called “Flamingo Lake�. A really extraordinary combination of water and volcanic activities can be discovered at the three mud volcanoes in Shirvan National Park.


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In Touch with Nature The National Park organizes three different tours as day trips from Baku: “Gizilgaz lake”, “Bendovan” and “Ecotourism settlement”. The tours start at the entrance gates. Visitors have the opportunity to observe birds from the viewing tower and observation pier at Gizilgaz lake or at a coastal lagoon. They will see gazelles grazing in one of their main habitats and watch the bubbling mud volcano of Bendovan. Historical themes, Bendovan and Yulgur shrines, a visit to Gizilgum beach and a walk in the oleaster forest are also part of the trips.

Historical Places In 1968, archaeologists discovered a sunken city close to Shirvan’s coastline. At a depth of 50 to 150 metres, the muds of the Caspian Sea revealed bricks, tiles, stone blocks, stoves and pottery from “Bendovan” city, which probably existed in the 9th-13th centuries. There is evidence that pottery work was an important occupation. Glazed tiles, cups and plates are decorated with coloured ornamentation and animal drawings embedded in floral patterns. One of them depicts a leopard preying on a goat.

Facts and Figures Location: East Azerbaijan, Salyan and Neftchala Regions Size: 54,580 hectares Altitude: -26.1 m to 42.1 m Year of establishment: 2003 Landscape: Semi-desert, steppe, steppe lake, wetlands, sea coast Flora: Wormwood, glasswort, poa bulbosa, halocnemum strobilaceum, halostachus caspica, salicornietum europaea, artemisia fraqrans, artemisietum ephemeretum, plantain Fauna: Turtles, Levantine viper, flamingo, swans, ducks, geese, pelicans, lesser kestrel, black francolin, jungle cat, goitered gazelle Accommodation: Guesthouses/private accommodation in the settlements in the vicinity, Yenikand, Kursangi villages; motel 12 km from National Park entrance; hotel in Salyan city How to get there: 103 km from Baku, 1 hr by car; 1:10 hrs by mini-bus/bus; 2 hrs by train Educational / theme trails

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Birdwatching Wildlife watching

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Guided tours Organized tours over several days

Did you know

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Hiking Climbing / mountaineering

… that mud volcanoes are the “cool” members of the volcano family? Whereas their cousins spit hot glowing lava and rocks, mud volcanoes make do with cold slobbery mud of no more than minus 3°C to plus 2°C. The mud is formed by water and minerals in the depths of the earth. When underground gas experiences pressure, it tries to find its way out along cracks. On its way it takes the slobbery mixture up to the surface, where it produces mud cones and vents of all sizes. The gas sometimes ignites during the eruption and mud volcanoes can burn for months. This just goes to show that they are a true, even “cool” member of the family.

Cycling / mountain biking Horse trekking on prior permission from the National Park Boating Swimming

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Visitor centre by the entrance gate of the National Park Museum history and ethnography, Salyan city Nature accommodation ecotourism settlement (in development), camping in the park


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Zangazur

Zangazur National Park A World Apart - Cut off from Azerbaijan’s mainland, Zangazur National Park is like an exotic island due to its special climate, rare animals and plants. Wild rugged rocks, eroded rock formations and steep cliffs tower over the landscape. No wonder legend has it that Noah bumped right into three of them! The National Park is comprised of the high ridge of the Lesser Caucasus, which rises up to 3,900 metres, and a mountainous country which descends down to the Araz river at the Iranian border. The island-like location of Nakhichevan autonomous territory, with a mountain barrier in the west, creates a unique climate

and conditions for flora and fauna not found elsewhere in the country to flourish. Zangazur is a real paradise for birds. Here you can observe rare finch species, Caspian snowcocks, bearded vultures or levant sparrow hawks. Moreover, the remoteness of this protected area provides an ideal refuge for mouflon, bezoar goats, striped hyenae and lynx. Monitoring has even shown the presence of the Caucasian leopard, which is threatened by extinction.


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In Touch with Nature There are several hiking trails in the National Park. Hikers enjoy the cooler temperatures in summer and the sight of sweeping colourful meadows in flower in spring. Alinja fortess is situated on an impressive volcanic rock rising to 1,811 metres. It was the main stronghold during the struggle of the local people against Timur Lenk in the 14th century, and was bravely defended for 14 years. A hiking tour up the mountain and back to Khanaga takes you past ruins of walls, brick buildings and ditches. Beware of snakes in summer. It is best to go during early morning when temperatures are still low.

Historical Places The petroglyphs in the GamigayaGarangush upland are amongst the oldest archaeological remains in Azerbaijan’s culture. The drawings give hints that human activities up here at 3,000 metres go back more than 2,000 years. They depict goats, oxen, birds, deer, hunting scenes, signs and inscriptions, revealing that the rich mountain meadows were an important hunting ground. GamigayaGarangush summer pastures were inhabited by ancient Nakhichevani tribes from the Araz lowland and considered to be sacred.

Facts and Figures Location: South-west Azerbaijan, Nakhichevan Region Size: 42,797 hectares Altitude: up to 3,906 m Year of establishment: 2009 Landscape: Mountain forest, mountain meadows, rocky massifs, foothills and lower mountains with steppe Flora: Iris elegantissima, Himantoglossum formosum (orchid), Dorema glabrum Fauna: Levant sparrowhawk, bearded vulture, golden eagle, trumpeter finch, crimson-winged finch, Caspian snowcock, brown bear, common otter, lynx, Caucasian leopard, striped hyena, mouflon, bezoar goat Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses in Agbulag village, Nakhichevan city, Ordubad, Shahbuz How to get there: 670 km by plane from Baku to Nakhichevan city, 70 km from Nakhichevan city, 45 mins - 1 hr by car

Educational / theme trails

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Birdwatching Wildlife watching

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Guided tours Organized tours over several days

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Hiking Climbing / mountaineering Cycling / mountain biking

Did you know Horse trekking

‌ that the area of Ordubad is well known for its orchards and unique cuisine? Try the special flavour of lemons without any peel; taste large, delicious apricots, which go perfectly in the local pilaw and make wonderful fruit tea; enjoy Ordubad omelette made of butter, eggs and take home the famous Ordubad walnut jam as a souvenir.

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Visitor centre park administration buildings in Aghdara settlement, Boyahmad village, in Batabat forest close to Bichanak village Museum fauna & flora exhibitions in park administration buildings


Azerbaijan

State Agency – Protected Areas Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources - MENR Department of Protection of Biodiversity and Development of Especially Protected Nature Reserves B. Aghayev Street 100A, Baku, AZ 1073, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 492 73 69 Email: biomuxteliflik@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/eng Online tickets for National Park vists: http://e-xidmet.eco.gov.az//?lang=en State Agencies – Tourism Development Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Azerbaijan U. Hajibeyov Street 40, Government House, Baku, AZ 1000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 -493 43 98, -493 30 02, -492 05 92 Fax: +994 12 -493 56 05, -493 65 38, -492 43 15 Email: mct@mct.gov.az www.mct.gov.az Azerbaijan Tourist Information Centre, Head Office Neftchiler Avenue 65, Baku, AZ 1000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 492 39 84 Fax: +994 12 492 39 84 Email: info@azerbaijan.travel www.azerbaijan.travel/en/ Goldenrock Travel Agency F. Yusifov Street 57, AZ 1011 Baku, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 564 79 85, +994 51 850 88 44 Email: Arasov_rahman@mail.ru Email: info@tourismadjara.ge

n Absheron National Park Park Administration Zira settlement, Khazar Region, Baku, AZ 1120, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 511 46 67 Email: absheronmp@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/en/ab-milli%20parki/ Visitor information Baku Tourism Information Centre Baku, U. Hajibeyov Street 36, AZ 1101, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 498 12 44 Email: info@bakutourism.az n Aghgol National Park Park Administration Aghjabadi Region, AZ 344480, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 21 275 07 07 Email: aggolmp@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/en/aggol/ n Altiaghaj National Park Park Administration Khizi Region, Khalaj village, AZ 8000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 23 313 31 48 Email: altiagacmp@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/en/altiagac/ Visitor information Khizi Tourism Khizi city, AZ 8000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 23 313 53 45 Email: Turizm-m d niyy t@mail.ru e e

Useful contacts

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n Goygol National Park Park Administration Goygol Region, Togana village, AZ 2500, Azerbaijan Email: goygolmp@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/goy-gol/ Visitor Information Ganja Tourist Information Centre Sheykh Bahaddin Street 59, Ganja city, AZ 2000 Azerbaijan Phone: +994 22 52 33 83 Email: tic_ganja@box.az n Hirkan National Park Park Administration Burcali village, Lankaran, AZ 4200, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 25 257 60 46 Email: hirkan.qx@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/en/hirkan/


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Visitor information Lankaran Culture and Tourism Department P. T hm zov Street 14, Lankaran city, AZ 4200, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 25 255 43 21 e

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Lankaran Tourist Information Centre Lankaran city, Geyshaban village, AZ 4200, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 50 231 01 03; +994 50 595 00 77 Email: tic_lenkoran@box.az

n Shirvan National Park Park Administration see State Agency, Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources

n Samur-Yalama National Park

Visitor information Salyan National Park Yenikand village, Salyan, AZ 8000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 25 611 -90, -93; Fax: -91 Email: shirvanmp@gmail.com www.shirvan-national-park.az

Park Administration Khachmaz District, AZ 2700, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 23 322 35 01 Email: samuryalama.mp@gmail.com www.samur-yalama.az

Salyan City Tourism Centre H. Aliyev Street 107, Salyan, AZ 5200, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 25 551 07 Email: Salyan met@box.az www.salyan-ih.gov.az

Khachmaz Tourist Information Centre Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Street 1, Khachmaz city, AZ 2700, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 172 5 16 51 Email: tic_khachmaz@tourism.az

n Zangazur National Park

n Shahdagh National Park Park Administration Shabran Region, Piramsan village, AZ 1017, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 23 353 66 63 Email: Office.shd@gmail.com www.eco.gov.az/en/shahdag Visitor information Shabran Region, Piramsan village, AZ 1017, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 169 5 23 38 Email: shahdagpark@mail.az Shamakhi Tourist Information Centre N. Narimanov Street 80, Shemakha, Shamakhi city, AZ 5600, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 176 -5 10 22, -5 13 81 Email:shamakhi@tourism.az Ismailli Tourist Information Centre H. Aliyev Avenue 61, Ismailli, AZ 3100, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 20 285 17 20 Email: ismayillitim@gmail.com Guba Tourist Information Centre H. Aliyev Avenue 165, Guba city, AZ 4000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 169 5 36 18 Email: tic_guba@box.az Sheki Tourist Information Centre Complex Qala Divari, house of artists, 2nd floor, Sheki city, AZ 5500, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 44 277 13 40 Email:tic_sheki@tourism.az

Park Administration Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic N.Tusi Street, Nakhichevan, AZ 7000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 36 545 34 85 www.eco.gov.az/en/milliparklar-ordubad.php Visitor information Zangazur National Park Julfa Region, Boyahmad settlement, AZ 7200, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 36 543 35 42 www.eco.gov.az/en/milliparklar-ordubad.php Local tourism office of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism H. Aliyev Avenue 42, Nakhichevan city, AZ 7000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 36 545 02 52 Email: medeniyyet@nakhchivan.az www.medeniyyet.nakhchivan.az Nakhchivan Tourist Information Centre Tabriz Street 8, Nakhichevan city, AZ 7000, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 36 545 77 55 Email: turizm@nakhchivan.az


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Azerbaijan Useful contacts ORGANISATIONS BMZ – German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development Southern Caucasus Desk Dahlmannstr. 4, D-53113 Bonn, Germany www.bmz.de Caucasus Nature Fund - CNF 54 rue de Clichy, F-75009 Paris, France Phone: +33 1 4874 -3193 ; Fax: - 6252 Email: contact@caucasus-naturefund.org www.caucasus-naturefund.org Forum Anders Reisen e.V. Wippertstrasse 2, D-79100 Freiburg, Germany Phone: +49 761 4012 -6990, Fax: - 6999 Email: info@forumandersreisen.de www.forumandersreisen.de (German association of sustainable tourism tour operators) IUCN Caucasus Cooperation Centre 38, Gogebashvili Street, Tbilisi, GE 0179, Georgia Phone: +995 32 222 29 -72, -85 Email: caucasus@iucn.org www.iucn.org

KfW Development Bank Palmengartenstr. 5-9, D-60325 Frankfurt, Germany www.kfw.de Regional Environmental Centre for the Caucasus - RECC Azerbaijan Office B. Agayev Street 100a, Baku, AZ 1073, Azerbaijan Phone: +994 12 4924173 Fax: +994 12 418 02 66 www.rec-azerbaijan.az WWF Caucasus Programme Office, Azerbaijan K. M. Mushvig Street 2, block 501, Baku, AZ 1073, Azerbaijan Phone/Fax: +994 12 538 53 16 Email: office_az@wwfcaucasus.org www.wwf.panda.org/caucasus


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Imprint Edited by: The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan - MENR www.eco.gov.az/en/ Implemented and financed by: KfW Development Bank on behalf of the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Coordinated by: The Transboundary Joint Secretariat – TJS www.tjs-caucasus.org A consortium of: AHT GROUP AG – www.aht-group.com REC Caucasus – www.rec-caucasus.org Project Partners: The World Wide Fund for Nature – WWF The Caucasus Nature Fund – CNF Consulting and design: aixplan – www.aixplan.de w. design – info@w-design.biz Special thanks to: n The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the National Parks of Azerbaijan for their extensive contribution of text content and photographs. n Andreas Weitzel from KfW for his conceptual support. n Aurel Heidelberg and Elshad Askerov from WWF for their additional expertise, photographs and map data. n GFA Consulting Group for additional map data. Pictures & map: n Richard Bartz n Stephanie Gerber: map n Christian Gönner n Aurel Heidelberg n Shain Isayev n Ministry of Ecology and Natural Ressources of Azerbaijan n Zaur Mirzoyev n Rami Mizrachi n Hartmut Müller n Servi Nabuurs n Umar Semenov, Leopard Rehabilitation Centre,

Sochi National Park (RU)

November 2015



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