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Shirvan National Park: A Haven for Gazelles and Birdwatchers

Discover Azerbaijan's natural beauty at Shirvan National Park: home to diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the iconic goitered gazelle.

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Escape to Shirvan National Park, a sprawling sanctuary in southeastern Azerbaijan, where you can witness the remarkable comeback of the goitered gazelle and explore diverse ecosystems teeming with birdlife. Established in 2003, this park offers a unique blend of semi-desert landscapes, wetlands, and a chance to connect with nature.

A brief summary to Shirvan National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or autumn for mild weather and vibrant landscapes.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking on the park's trails.
  • Consider a guided tour for insights into the park's ecosystems and conservation efforts.
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Getting There

  • Bus and Taxi

    To reach Shirvan National Park from Baku, take a bus from Baku International Bus Station to the town of Shirvan. From there, hire a taxi to the park entrance. The bus journey to Shirvan takes approximately 2-3 hours. A taxi from Shirvan to the park will take around 30-45 minutes. Bus fare to Shirvan is approximately 5-8 AZN. Expect to pay around 15-20 AZN for the taxi ride to the park entrance.

  • Driving

    If driving from Baku, head south on the Baku-Astara highway. The journey is approximately 145 km and takes around 2 hours. Follow the signs to Shirvan National Park, turning right at the State Traffic Police post. Note that there may be limited parking available at the park entrance. Fuel costs for the round trip would be approximately 15-20 AZN.

Unlock the Best of Shirvan National Park

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Discover more about Shirvan National Park

Shirvan National Park, established in 2003, is a protected area located in the Shirvan region of Azerbaijan. Spanning over 54,000 hectares, the park was created from the Shirvan State Reserve, which was founded in 1969, and neighboring areas. The park's primary focus is the preservation and growth of the goitered gazelle population, along with waterfowl birds and the unique plant life of the Shirvan Lowland. The park's landscape features semi-desert terrain, salt marshes, and seasonal wetlands, creating a diverse ecosystem. Desert vegetation dominates, with plants like Halocnemum, Halostachys, and Salicornia thriving in the salty soils. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the goitered gazelle, wild boars, jackals, jungle cats, and various reptile species. Shirvan National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 270 species recorded. Its location on the Caspian Sea bird migration route makes it a crucial breeding, resting, and wintering ground for numerous species. Visitors can spot flamingos, white-tailed eagles, steppe eagles, and a variety of ducks and waders. The best times for birdwatching are November to February for wintering flocks and April to June for breeding species. Visitors can explore the park through well-marked hiking trails and guided tours. The park offers a chance to escape the city and reconnect with nature, observe wildlife, and appreciate the beauty of Azerbaijan's natural heritage.

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