Laza to Laza | 3 days Cross-Caucasus Trek
Overview
To proudly say, “I have crossed the Greater Caucasus Mountains,” this trekking route is a must. This journey from one side of the mountains to the other offers hiking enthusiasts stunning views, diverse terrain, and unique landscapes. The trek connects two Laza villages located on opposite sides of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The Laza village in Gusar lies at the foot of a rocky mountain - Shahdag. Meanwhile, the Laza village in Gabala is set amidst a mountain-forest landscape on the southern slopes of the Main Caucasus Range. Both villages are predominantly inhabited by the Lezgin people. Historically, these villages maintained economic and trade relations via mountain trails.
Laza village (Gusar) sits at an altitude of over 1,600 meters, nestled between the Shahdag and Gizilgaya plateaus in the Gusarchay River valley. This small village, home to about 30 houses, is inhabited by people from the Lezgi ethnic group. Laza is also famous for its surrounding waterfalls.
Khinalig village (Guba), located at 2,250 meters above sea level in the Gudiyalchay Valley, is surrounded by majestic peaks: Tufandag (4,191 m), Gizilqaya (3,750 m), and Khinalig (3,714 m). The villagers, who identify as Ketish, belong to the ancient Khinalig ethnic group, known for their unique culture and traditions.
Laza village (Gabala) is 8 km from the center of Gabala, located along the Demiraparan River at an altitude of 1,300–1,400 meters. This village has around 140–150 homes, and most residents are engaged in agriculture. Over time, people from the Laza village in Gusar moved to this area while grazing sheep in the lowlands during winter and eventually settled here permanently.
Duration: 3 days*
Difficulty level: Difficult**
Total hiking distance: 54 km
Total elevation gain: 3,800 m
Total elevation loss: 4,200 m
Maximum altitude: 3,230 m
* The best time for the trek - early July to end of August.
** No technical climbing or special equipment is needed.
Program
DAY 1
The hike begins at the Laza (Gusar) entrance of Shahdag National Park. The challenging part of the hike involves a steep climb to the pass, reaching approximately 3,200 m. After reaching the pass, the trail continues with a gentle ascent towards Khinalig. Starting on the northwestern slope of the Gizilgaya mountain range, the hike finishes on the southern slopes of the same range in Khinalig. From the first pass, we’ll enjoy stunning views of the towering peaks of the Greater Caucasus, including mountains over 4,000 m in altitude.
DAY 2
The adventure begins with a hike along the Gudiyalchay River, leading to our campsite. Many times we will cross the river which is not a deep river. Once we arrive, we’ll set up tents, prepare dinner, and enjoy some free time before settling in for the night.
DAY 3
An early start with breakfast and packing up the camp, followed by a hike to a 3,300 m mountain pass near Goturgol. After a short break, we’ll descend into the Demiraparanchay valley, stopping for lunch along the way. We’ll visit Muchug waterfall and continue hiking to Laza village, finishing near the bridge.
Accommodation and food:
On the first night, we'll stay at Zaur’s guesthouse in Khinalig village, with private rooms and sleeping on mattresses and blankets on the floor, as the locals do. The guesthouse has an outdoor toilet and bathroom. On the second night, we'll camp along the Khinalig-Laza trail, with all camping equipment provided for your comfort. On day one, we'll enjoy traditional Lezgi dishes at a guesthouse in Laza village, followed by dinner in Khinalig. On days two and three, meals will be prepared at the campsite, with ready-made food for the hikes. The trip concludes with dinner at a restaurant in Gabala.
Clothing / Equipment*:
hiking/trekking boots;
rainproof jacket;
hat and cap;
gloves;
sunglasses and sunscreen;
headlamp;
backpack (30-40 L).
*Recommended to have: water bottle (1.5 L), trekking poles, gaiters, dry fruits, and snacks for hiking.
* If any of you is vegan or vegetarian please inform us during the booking.
Transport:
Mitsubishi Pajero (4 seater comfortable car)
Mercedes Vito (7 seater comfortable micro-bus)
Mercedes Sprinter (18 seater comfortable bus)
Niva Lada in the mountains (4x4 car)
Tour Price
starting from
1320
USD*
* The price is for one person and may vary based on group size and transfers to/from the starting point. Get in touch with us to receive a personalized quote.
Included:
All-inclusive from hotel to hotel in Baku;
All transport services;
All food supply during the tour;
Accommodation in Khinalig and at camp;
Entrance tickets to Shahdagh National Park;
Permit papers from Shahdag Park and Border Military Services;
Snacks, tea breaks;
Domestic Travel Insurance;
English speaker guide and his/her expenses;
Company profit.
Excluded:
Alcoholic Beverages;
Anything that is not mentioned other side.
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