Tiny Villages in Hirkan | 3 days Homestay Hike
Overview
Get ready for an unforgettable three-day adventure as we take you deep into the hidden heart of Hirkan National Park. Discover tiny, remote villages - so secluded they don't even appear on maps - set within the stunning habitat range of majestic leopards. This is your chance to explore a world few have ever seen!
Leading the way is Babakhan, the legendary "Leopard Man" of Siyov, featured in In Search of a Leopard | Mission Critical. With his incredible stories of close encounters with leopards, bears and the rich history of these lands, Babakhan will bring the wilderness alive as no one else can.
Rugab, Dilmadi, and Siyov villages - these hidden gems are located deep within the breathtaking Hirkan National Park, surrounded by the lush forests of Astara. The villages are home to the Talysh people, who have lived here for centuries. These villages are truly off the beaten path, with no roads leading to them, and the nearest car road is 6-9 km away. There's no gas, and mobile service is only available on certain hills, making it an ideal place to disconnect from the world.
The houses, built into the slopes with wood and earth, are amazing, considering the effort required in such challenging conditions. The Talysh people's rich history is seen in their stories of bears and tigers, ancient trees, and mysterious old cemeteries around the villages. Visiting there feels like stepping back in time to a world full of mystery and tradition.
Sim (or Sym) village is one of the charming villages we will visit on the trip. The Talysh people live here, and the name of the village means “the village in the steep rocks” in their language. Sim is famous for its beautiful white houses made from mud and wood, which blend perfectly with the natural surroundings. The village is also known for the stunning waterfalls nearby, adding to its peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.
Duration: 3 days
Difficulty level: Moderate
Total hiking distance: 27 km
Total elevation gain: 2,200 m
Total elevation loss: 1,500 m
Program
DAY 1
Explore the stunning natural beauty and culture of the Hirkan National Park region. We’ll depart from Baku in the morning, with breaks along the way. Arrive in Astara, and continue by off-road vehicles to Bandasar village for lunch. Afterward, embark on a scenic hike to Rugab, Dilmadi, and Siyov villages, passing by an ancient cemetery near Dilmadi (10 km). Arrive in Siyov village by evening, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and overnight accommodations in a village house.
DAY 2
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before hiking to Sim village (7 km), with breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Upon arrival in Sim, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local house. In the afternoon, set off on a hike to the nearby Sim waterfalls (2 km total). Return to the village, where you'll have free time to relax before dinner. End the day with an overnight stay in a comfortable guesthouse in Sim.
DAY 3
After breakfast, we will hike to Navi village (5 km), passing through scenic landscapes. Once in Navi, enjoy a traditional lunch at a local family house. In the afternoon, embark on a downhill hike to Digo village (3 km). Upon arrival in Digo, we’ll drive to Khanbulan Lake for a relaxing walk around the area. End the day with a delicious dinner at Khan Lankaran restaurant before returning to Baku in the evening, bringing home unforgettable memories of this incredible journey.
Accommodation and food:
Our stays will be in guesthouses in Siyov and Sim villages. In Siyov, we will sleep on mattresses and blankets on the floor, while in Sim, there are proper beds. The toilet is outside, in the traditional style, and both villages have bathrooms with showers. Since Siyov village lacks some modern amenities (electricity, gas, and roads), we recommend being prepared for more basic living conditions. However, the house in Siyov is warm, and there will be hot water and electricity (from solar power). We will have local Talysh meals in village houses.
Clothing / Equipment*:
waterproof hiking/trekking shoes;
insulated jackets;
water bottle (1.5 L) ;
backpack (30-40 L).
* Recommended to have: trekking poles, gaiters, headlight, 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
1120
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;
All accommodation;
Entrance tickets to Hirkan National Park;
Snacks, tea breaks;
English speaker guide and his/her expenses;
Company profit.
Excluded:
Alcoholic Beverages;
Anything that is not mentioned other side.
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