ALTERNATIVE AZERBAIJAN TOUR: NAKHCIVAN & KARABAKH

The Alternative Azerbaijan Tour is specially designed for travellers seeking to explore the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan and the recently accessible territories of Karabakh.

Your journey begins in Nakhchivan City, the heart of this unique Azerbaijani exclave. Landlocked and geographically separated from the rest of Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan is surrounded by Armenia, Iran, and Turkey. Its rich history has been shaped by ancient Armenian kingdoms, Persian and Iranian dynasties, Imperial Russian rule, and Sovietisation. The region is also deeply connected to biblical traditions, including local legends linking it to Noah’s Ark.

During your time in Nakhchivan, you will explore the region’s remarkable heritage, including ancient Islamic mausoleums, historic mosques, soaring minarets, medieval architectural monuments, and Silk Road landmarks that reflect centuries of cultural exchange. You’ll also discover how the influence of the Soviets still reflects the architecture and way of life today.

The journey continues to Karabakh, a region at the centre of decades of conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Following the dissolution of the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh (Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh) in 2024, the region has entered a period of major reconstruction and redevelopment. This tour provides an opportunity to witness these changes first-hand while exploring the historical, cultural, and political complexities that have shaped the region.

This is a research-focused tour with a fixed itinerary designed around historical and cultural exploration. As access conditions and local circumstances continue to evolve, additional sites may be added and adjustments made where necessary.

Want to continue you adventure? Join our Soviet Caucasus Tour, the essential journey exploring forgotten soviet heritage across Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

Thursday 27th May – Nakhchivan

• At 09:00am, we will meet in Nakhchivan International Airport arrival hall for a pre-tour briefing. You’ll be introduced to your fellow travellers and your Privet Tours guide, who will walk you through the itinerary and plans for the days ahead.
• We recommend booking Azerbaijan Airlines flight J22009, departing Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku) at 6:30am, or flight J22001, departing at 7:00am, to ensure you arrive in time for the start of the tour. Flights are not included. Pre-tour accommodation in Nakhchivan and airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost.
• Meet your local guide and driver before exploring the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, home to ancient Islamic mausoleums, historic mosques, elegant minarets, remarkable medieval architecture, and a wealth of cultural and historical treasures.
• Enjoy lunch; we recommend dolma, a traditional Azerbaijani dish of seasoned meat, rice, and herbs wrapped in fresh or preserved grape leaves. Afterwards, continue your journey to discover Soviet-era mosaics and other forgotten relics from this period of history.
• Check into our centrally located hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up after a busy day exploring.
• Enjoy a welcome dinner accompanied by traditional tutovka (mulberry moonshine), followed by an overnight stay in Nakhchivan.

Friday 28th May – Nakhchivan – Julfa – Ordubad – Nakhchivan

• Breakfast at the hotel before we head out to explore the the Autonomous Republic.
• We begin our tour in the Julfa District with a visit to the Gulustan Mausoleum, a remarkable monument dating back to the 12th–13th centuries, before continuing to Alinja Fortress, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan”.
• We’ll continue to the Ordubad District, enjoying lunch at a local roadside restaurant before heading into the historic town of Ordubad.
• Ordubad, the second-largest city in the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, takes its name from a Turko-Persian origin meaning “army town.” Nestled among scenic mountain landscapes, this charming medieval city offers the opportunity to explore its rich Silk Road heritage, historic architecture, and centuries-old cultural traditions.
• Return to the hotel to freshen up before enjoying dinner. We recommend trying the traditional shashlik, paired with a chilled Xırdalan, Azerbaijan’s popular local beer.
• Overnight stay in Nakhchivan.

Saturday 29th May – Nakhchivan – Baku

• Early morning start with breakfast before we check out.
• We’ll head to Ashabi-Kahf, a natural cave revered as one of Nakhchivan’s most important sacred sites and deeply rooted in the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Traditionally associated with the Qur’anic story of the Companions of the Cave (often known as the Seven Sleepers), the shrine attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims each year.
• Transfer to Nakhchivan International Airport, we recommend booking the Azerbaijan Airlines flight J22004, departing at 18:45pm to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku). Flights are not included.
• On arrival in Baku, we’ll meet our driver and transfer to our centrally located hotel and check in.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Baku.

Sunday 30th May – Baku – Khankendi (Stepanakert)

• Early morning start with breakfast at the hotel.
• We’ll meet our guide, who will verify your permits for Nagorno-Karabakh against your passport details before we start our journey.
• The tour begins on the road with an overview of the conflict from the Azerbaijani perspective. Along the journey, you’ll pass through several checkpoints, as access to the region from Azerbaijan has gradually reopened following the dissolution of the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh.
• Upon arrival in Khankendi, we’ll enjoy lunch before exploring the city, which is undergoing extensive reconstruction and redevelopment. Along the way, we’ll examine the changing urban landscape and visit the remaining examples of Armenian and Soviet-era heritage that can still be seen today.
• We’ll retrace our route back to Baku, making scenic stops and short breaks along the way.
• After a long day, we’ll return to the hotel to freshen up before enjoying our farewell dinner.
• Overnight stay in Baku.

Monday 31st May – Baku

• A leisurely morning starts with breakfast: Tour concludes.
  • Airport transfers to Heydar Aliyev International Airport can be arranged.
  • A day tour of Baku can be arranged to coincide with our Soviet Caucasus Tour consisting of Armenia, Georgia & Azerbaijan.
  • Additional nights in Baku can be arranged on request.

Photographed by John Pavelka

Most visitors to Azerbaijan focus their time in the capital, Baku. This tour, however, explores destinations beyond the traditional tourist trail, with a particular emphasis on the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and the Karabakh region.

Much of the international media coverage of Azerbaijan has centred on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. As this tour takes a neutral and educational approach, we recommend a range of reading and viewing materials that present perspectives from both the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides, enabling travellers to develop a broader understanding of the region’s complex history.

We have also included recommended resources on the history, culture, and heritage of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic to provide valuable context before your journey.

Recommended Movies

• Faryad (1993, Directed by Ceyhun Mirzayev)
• Dolu (2012 Directed by Elkhan Jafarov)
• Nabat (2014 Directed by Elchin Musaoglu)
• Gate to Heaven (2019, Directed by Jivan Avetisyan)
• A Trip to Karabakh (2005, Directed by Levan Tutberidze)
• Should the Wind Drop (2020. Directed by Nora Martirosyan)

Recommended Documentaries

• Parts of a Circle: History of the Karabakh Conflict (2019 multiple directors)
• 45 Days: The Fight for a Nation (2021 Directed by Emile Ghessen)
• My Sweet Land (2024, Directed by Sareen Hairabedian)
• 1489 (2023, Directed by Shoghakat Vardanyan)

Recommended Books

• Black Garden – Thomas de Waal
• Ashes of Our Fathers: Inside the Fall of Nagorno-Karabakh – Gabriel Gavin

Recommended Podcasts

• Empire: World History – Episode 86: The Legacy of Nagorno-Karabakh
• University of Birmingham – The Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: The Uses and Misuses of History
• The Red Line – Episode 17: Nagorno-Karabakh (Armenia vs Azerbaijan)

Your guide, Ravi Mistry, has carefully designed this tour to showcase a different side of Azerbaijan, exploring regions that remain largely unknown to most international visitors. Following extensive on-the-ground research and the recent reopening of the Karabakh region to foreign tourism. This itinerary was developed to combine both the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and Karabakh into a single, comprehensive journey.

Ravi’s aim is for travellers to gain a deeper understanding of Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage, with a particular focus on these two unique regions, their historical ties to neighbouring countries, and the political, cultural, and geopolitical forces that continue to shape their past, present, and future.

Is the Azerbaijan Tour Right for You?

This tour is designed for curious and culturally engaged travellers with a strong interest in Soviet-era history, monumental architecture, and the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan. Throughout the journey, you will explore a diverse range of cities and small towns, historical landmarks, and religious sites of both the Christian and Islamic faiths, each offering insight into the country’s complex past, rich cultural identity, and contemporary geopolitical landscape.

The tour is led by an experienced international guide, supported by knowledgeable local guides throughout the journey, who provide historical context and engaging storytelling. Rather than simply visiting sites, travellers gain a deeper understanding of the political, social, and cultural forces that have shaped Azerbaijan, from the Islamic conquests and centuries of Persian, Ottoman, and Russian influence, through the Soviet era and independence, to the country’s modern geopolitical relationships. Particular attention is given to the unique status of the Nakhchivan exclave, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and the profound impact of Azerbaijan’s restoration of control over Karabakh on the region’s contemporary politics.

Participants should be in good physical health and comfortable with full days of sightseeing, as the experience is immersive and active rather than relaxed or resort-based.

What Are the Tour Logistics & Physical Requirements?

Walking is a regular and essential component of this tour. Each day includes guided walks through cities, historic districts, monuments, and post-conflict areas, often lasting two to three hours at a steady pace.

The itinerary includes two early starts, as well as several longer travel days, particularly when travelling between Baku and Khankendi. Roads are generally smooth and well maintained; however, travellers who are prone to motion sickness are advised to bring appropriate medication.

Please also be prepared for an early departure on the days we travel from Baku to the Nakhchivan exclave. Travellers are responsible for arranging and booking their own domestic flights.

What are the Entry Requirements for Azerbaijan?

All travellers must carry a valid passport to enter Azerbaijan. For most nationalities, passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and contain at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps and, where applicable, a full page visa sticker.

Entry requirements may change without notice. It is the responsibility of each traveller to check and comply with the latest passport, visa, and entry requirements before departure.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Azerbaijan (Nakhchivan & Karabakh)?

Azerbaijan offers a range of entry options depending on your nationality. For many travellers, an eVisa is available, while citizens of certain countries may qualify for visa-free entry by air or overland. We will be happy to provide guidance on the most appropriate entry requirements based on your nationality.

Your eVisa or visa-free entry for mainland Azerbaijan also covers travel to the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, so no separate visa is required.

Travel to the Karabakh region is subject to additional entry procedures. We will arrange all necessary permits and authorisations on your behalf.

Where Do I Arrive & Where Is the Meeting Point?

Group members will arrive at Nakhchivan International Airport (please refer to the itinerary for flight details) and meet their guide before the tour begins. Pre-tour accommodation and airport transfer options are available in Nakhchivan at an additional cost.

Travellers are responsible for arranging and booking their own domestic flights to and from Nakhchivan.

Can I get a SIM Card or use an eSIM in Azerbaijan?

Staying connected in Azerbaijan is easy and affordable. Physical SIM cards are available at mobile phone shops at Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Prices typically start from around €5. A passport may be required for registration.

Travellers who prefer not to change SIM cards can also use eSIM services such as Airalo or aloSIM. These services work reliably across Belarus and can be activated before arrival.

What Currency & Payments in Azerbaijan?

The currency used in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (₼).

ATMs are widely available at airports and throughout the cities included in the itinerary. Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, cafés, and most shops in urban areas. However, carrying a small amount of cash is useful for taxis, smaller establishments, bars, and local markets.

When exchanging foreign currency, banknotes should be clean and undamaged, as damaged or heavily worn notes may be refused by exchange offices and banks. Exchange rates at airports are often less favourable than those offered at banks or authorised exchange offices in the city.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring?

Azerbaijan is generally more affordable than Western Europe, although prices in Baku are typically higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. A budget of approximately €150–€250 for the duration of the tour is usually sufficient to cover meals, drinks, and personal expenses.

Meals at casual restaurants typically cost €10–€15, while drinks generally range from €2–€4. Tipping is not mandatory but is always appreciated when you receive good service.

Gratuities for local guides and drivers are also appreciated in recognition of their professionalism and the high standard of service they provide throughout the tour. In recent years, international tourism to Belarus has declined significantly, so tips are especially valued by those working in the tourism industry.

What is the Weather in Azerbaijan?

Early June in Azerbaijan brings warm summer conditions, although temperatures can vary considerably depending on altitude and location. Daytime temperatures are typically around 25°C, while evenings and nights can become noticeably cooler, particularly in mountainous areas.

Travellers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime conditions, along with a light jacket or fleece for cooler evenings. In higher-altitude areas such as Karabakh, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, so an additional warm layer is advisable. Comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain and extended walking is strongly recommended.

For female guests, a scarf is recommended for visiting religious sites.

What Is the Accommodation Like on This Tour?

Accommodation throughout the tour is comfortable and of a good standard. In Baku and Nakhchivan, we stay in modern, centrally located hotels that provide convenient access to the city’s main attractions.

Rooms are provided on a twin-share basis with two separate beds. Travellers who prefer a private room may request a single supplement for an additional fee, subject to availability.

Azerbaijani Cuisine & Dietary Requirements

Azerbaijani cuisine is an important and enjoyable part of the travel experience, offering a wonderful insight into the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Throughout the journey, your tour leader will be happy to recommend local restaurants and introduce you to regional specialities.

Travellers will have the opportunity to sample traditional Azerbaijani dishes such as dolma, badımcan dolması (stuffed aubergine), dushbara (small dumplings served in broth), Tabriz-style meatballs, and freshly prepared shashliks. Regional beverages also form part of the culinary experience, including tutovka (mulberry moonshine), pomegranate wine, and locally produced brandy.

If you have any dietary requirements, food allergies, or preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or religious dietary needs, please let us know in advance. We will do our best to accommodate these requirements, although options may be more limited in smaller towns and rural areas.

What Is the Group Tour Experience Like?

Approximately two weeks before departure, your tour leader will create a WhatsApp group for all participants. This allows travellers to introduce themselves, receive practical updates, and coordinate arrival logistics before the tour begins.

Group members typically come from a wide range of countries and age groups, creating a diverse and engaging travel atmosphere.

What Languages do they speak in the Azerbaijan?

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani. Russian remains widely spoken and understood, particularly among the older generation, reflecting the country’s Soviet-era heritage. English is increasingly understood among younger generations, especially in major cities, although it may be less commonly spoken in rural areas.

Is Azerbaijan a Safe Country to Visit?

Azerbaijan is widely regarded as a safe and welcoming destination with relatively low crime rates. Standard travel precautions should still be followed in Baku and Nakhchivan, including keeping valuables secure and remaining aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

The Karabakh region has only recently reopened to foreign visitors following more than three decades of conflict. As this is a sensitive and historically significant area, travellers are asked to remain with the group at all times and not wander away from designated areas, particularly during rest stops when travelling to and from Khankendi.

Your guides have extensive local knowledge and experience, and their instructions should always be followed, particularly when visiting lesser-known sites.

We recommend reviewing your government travel advice before booking this tour.

What are the Local Laws & Cultural in the Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan is a modern and rapidly developing country with laws and regulations that are generally straightforward for international visitors to follow, although there are some important local considerations.

Photography of military facilities, border areas, security installations, and certain government buildings is prohibited or restricted. Travellers should always ask for permission before photographing people, particularly at religious sites or in more traditional communities. When visiting mosques, churches, and other religious or cultural sites, modest dress and respectful behaviour are expected.

Drug laws in Azerbaijan are strict, and penalties for possession or trafficking can be severe. Alcohol is widely available and enjoyed socially; however, excessive public intoxication is discouraged and respectful behaviour is expected, particularly in more conservative areas.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for the Azerbaijan Tour?

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for participation in this tour. Your policy must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and trip interruption for the full duration of your stay.

Proof of insurance may be requested by your tour leader at the start of the tour.

A detailed pre-tour guide will be sent to you upon confirmation of your booking.