Things To Do
in Qobustan
Qobustan sits to the south of Baku on the edge of the Lesser Caucasus, offering a dramatic mix of desert plains and ancient history. The town is best known for the Gobustan National Park and UNESCO-listed rock art that dates back thousands of years. Its landscape blends semi-arid scenery with basalt formations and a touch of the Caspian shoreline to the east.
Visitors use Qobustan as a gateway to ancient petroglyphs, dramatic mud volcanoes, and rugged natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Heydar Aliyev International Airport and travel to Qobustan. Check into your hotel and freshen up after your journey. Appreciate the scenic landscapes en route, filled with rolling hills and historical sites.
Visit the Qobustan National Park, where you can explore ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs that date back thousands of years. Engage with knowledgeable guides who will share insights about the history and significance of these archaeological treasures. Afterward, grab a traditional Azerbaijani lunch at a local restaurant.
As dusk approaches, take a leisurely walk around the park's scenic areas to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the surrounding mountains. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local dishes while marveling at the starry sky that blankets Qobustan. Reflect on your first day and plan for the adventures ahead.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading back to Qobustan National Park for an in-depth tour of the rock art sites. Spend the morning uncovering the stories told through the petroglyphs, learning about the ancient inhabitants' daily life. Take photographs and immerse yourself in the prehistoric history that surrounds you.
After lunch, visit the Qobustan Museum to gain further insights into the region's prehistoric culture and vibrant past. The museum houses artifacts and displays that enhance your understanding of the context behind the rock art. Engage with interactive exhibits that make learning enjoyable.
Return to your hotel to rest and freshen up. Later, indulge in an outdoor dinner under the stars, savoring meals cooked with local ingredients. Join in with locals for traditional music and dance, sharing stories and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or hostel (night) | $12-30 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient history with Gobustan petroglyphs
- Dramatic mud volcanoes and desert landscapes
- Quiet, authentic rural Azerbaijan experience
- Relatively low crowds outside Baku
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Qobustan
- Rural facilities may be basic compared to major cities
- Travel time from Baku can be long depending on road conditions
- Scattered English commonly spoken; language may be a barrier in villages
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Çox sağ olun" - Thank you very much
- "Lütfən" - Please
- "Necəsiz?" - How are you?
- "Haraya getmək istəyirsiniz?" - Where would you like to go?
- "Bağışlayın" - Excuse me / sorry
Places to Visit in Qobustan
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlooks where petroglyphs contrast with desert plains and basalt formations.
Easy trails leading to clusters of ancient carvings, best captured at sunrise or sunset.
Dramatic cones that vent steam, ideal for dramatic compositions against the desert light.
Golden-hour seascapes with reflective horizons along the eastern edge of town.
Food in Qobustan
Qobustan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dumplings filled with minced meat in a light broth, a comforting staple found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A tangy yogurt-based soup with herbs and nuts, refreshing and palate-cleansing.
A saffron-infused rice dish often served with meat or vegetables.
Thin stuffed flatbreads with herbs or cheese, ideal for a quick bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local bazaar offering fresh produce, herbs, bread, and snacks—great for a quick bite and photo opportunities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello with a handshake; address people by surname with appropriate titles where possible.
Ask permission before photographing individuals; be respectful in villages or religious sites.
Respectful attire in religious sites; shoulders and knees covered when visiting mosques or villages.
If offered tea or food, accept politely; small gifts or sweets are appreciated but not required.
Safety
Tipping in Qobustan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants; round up for smaller meals; tip guides and drivers as you see fit.
Cash in AZN is widely accepted in rural Qobustan; many places in Baku accept cards, but carry cash for remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming wildflowers; bring light layers and water.
Hot and dry; carry sun protection, hats, and plenty of water; cooler evenings in the plateaus.
Dry conditions and comfortable temperatures; ideal for hiking and photography.
Cool to cold with rare rain; some trails may be slippery; pack warm layers.
Qobustan at Night
Hiking in Qobustan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged but rewarding hikes among basalt formations and petroglyph sites.
Steeper mountain trails with scenic views and historic villages within reach for a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Qobustan by plane.
Main international gateway to Azerbaijan, located near Baku; about 60-90 minutes by road from Qobustan depending on traffic.
Second-largest airport in Azerbaijan, serves the western region; longer drive to Qobustan but useful if combining routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant group in Qobustan and the surrounding region.
Small, closely-knit villages with traditional Azerbaijani culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in towns and parks.
Traditional folk wrestling events and school sports remain a part of rural life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qobustan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Azerbaijani dishes include meat; look for dairy- and vegetable-rich options like dovga, fresh salads, vegetable plov, or cheese-filled pastries.