Gobustan Mud Volcanoes: A Geological Wonder

The Gobustan Mud Volcanoes present a bizarre, almost extraterrestrial landscape. Located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Baku, these mud volcanoes are a testament to Azerbaijan's unique geological activity. It's estimated that nearly half of the world's mud volcanoes are located in Azerbaijan.Unlike conventional volcanoes that spew hot lava, mud volcanoes erupt with thick, cold mud, creating a landscape of bubbling pools and conical mounds. These formations vary in size, with some resembling small molehills and others reaching several hundred meters in height. The mud is associated with underground hydrocarbon and petrochemical stores, with gas trying to escape to the surface. Some gas leaks are constantly on fire, shooting small perpetual flames into the air.Visiting the Gobustan Mud Volcanoes offers a unique opportunity to witness this geological phenomenon up close. The experience is often described as stepping onto another planet, with the otherworldly scenery providing a stark contrast to the bustling city of Baku. While at the Mud Volcanoes Tourism Complex, visitors are not allowed to go out of the main road and to touch mud volcanoes. However, many visitors still prefer to go to the 'real nature' where they can visit and touch bigger mud volcanoes.