Zagatala State Reserve: A Natural Caucasus Treasure
Discover Azerbaijan's natural beauty at Zagatala State Reserve: a haven for diverse flora and fauna in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, offering hiking, wildlife, and serene landscapes.
Zagatala State Reserve, nestled in the Balakan region of Azerbaijan, is a haven of biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Established in 1929, this protected area spans the southern foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, offering a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine rivers, immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature. The reserve is home to over 900 plant species, including ancient trees like rhododendron and yew, and diverse wildlife such as the Caucasian red deer, lynx, and golden eagle. Hiking trails wind through the reserve, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or an adventurous escapade, Zagatala State Reserve promises an unforgettable experience steeped in the beauty of the Caucasus.
A brief summary to Zagatala State Reserve
- QHP5+RCH, Balakan, AZ
Local tips
- Visit during spring or autumn for the best weather and vibrant scenery, avoiding the extremes of summer heat and winter cold.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be uneven and challenging, and bring layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
- Bring binoculars for bird-watching and cameras to capture the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
- Respect the natural surroundings by following designated paths, avoiding littering, and minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
- Check with the reserve administration for any permits or regulations before entering, and consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and enriching experience.
Getting There
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the center of Balakan, the most direct way to reach Zagatala State Reserve is by taxi. Taxis are readily available in Balakan's central areas. A taxi ride to the reserve entrance, located approximately 10 km away, typically costs between 5-10 AZN. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey to ensure a fair price. The ride takes around 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
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Public Transport
From Balakan city center, local buses or minibuses (marshrutka) provide an economical option to reach areas near Zagatala State Reserve. Look for transport heading towards the QHP5+RCH area. The fare is approximately 0.50-1 AZN. The bus will drop you at a location from where you may need to walk the final kilometer to the reserve entrance. Confirm the exact drop-off point with the driver to minimize the walking distance. Be prepared for a short walk to the entrance of the reserve.
Discover more about Zagatala State Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Machis Tsikhe / Machi Castle
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Zagatala Castle Walls
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Zaqatala Qala kəhrizi
18.4 km
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Qaladuzu Wall
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Zaqatala şəhəri
18.6 km
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Dağlı, Zaqatala, Azerbaijan
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Alazan Ayricay Vadisi
41.3 km
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Javakhishvili Wine Cellar
47.7 km
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Wine Yard N1
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Khirsa St. Stephan Monastery
51.8 km
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Vashlovani protected areas administration
52.3 km
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Signagi Glamping
55.3 km
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Abramichi Guest House
55.7 km
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Castle Fortress Restaurant
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Sighnaghi Estate - სიღნაღის მამული
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Unmissable attractions to see
Zingo Şəlaləsi
13.0 km
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Car Kəndi
16.8 km
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Qazangül
17.1 km
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Zaqatala Qala qapısı
18.4 km
Step back in time at Zaqatala Qala Qapısı, a historic gateway showcasing Azerbaijani heritage and the region's strategic past within a formidable fortress.
Zaqatalanın Qarabağ uğrunda canından keçən Şəhidlərinin tablosu
21.3 km
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Black Grouse Waterfall
23.2 km
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Lagodekhi's Managed Reserve
23.6 km
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Anarın yeri
26.2 km
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Qambarhan
26.9 km
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Ninoskhevi Waterfall
27.1 km
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Ğuzay.
27.1 km
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Qanslar şəlaləsi
30.7 km
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Castle of Khornabuji
48.4 km
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Ilisu State Reserve
50.1 km
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Eagle Gorge Natural Monument
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Essential places to dine
Shelale Restorant
12.0 km
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Süfrə Restoran
18.6 km
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Elite palace
18.6 km
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Cinar Restaurant
18.6 km
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Ağ Saray
18.7 km
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CHEF Doner & Shaurma
18.9 km
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Ətirşah Restaurant
19.0 km
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Şam
19.1 km
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"Serin" Restoran
19.7 km
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Buzxana Kafe
20.3 km
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Cokeli restourant
20.4 km
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Su səsi
20.9 km
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Evim Restauran&Hotel
22.3 km
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Calğalıq Restaurant
22.8 km
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Şərq Vadisi Restoran
24.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
İlkGün
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Zaqatala Hədiyyə mağazası
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Zaqatala
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სიღნაღი სოფელი ჯუგაანი
52.0 km
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მარკეტი
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იოლი
55.4 km
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2 ნაბიჯი
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Magniti • მაგნიტი
55.5 km
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Market VALERIA
55.8 km
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משפחה מארחת
55.9 km
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Giorgi Souvenirs Shop
55.9 km
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Cafe view
55.9 km
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კაფე სილამაზის ხედი Cafe beauty view
56.0 km
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Nino's Cafe in Sighnaghi
56.0 km
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Spar
56.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Latte
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Carbon Shisha
18.9 km
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Cayxana_001
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101 Şərab evi/Wine House
50.9 km
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Natro's Garage
52.4 km
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Terrace Beauty View
55.9 km
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Mari's wine cellar
56.0 km
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Amo Signagi / ამო სიღნაღი
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Winery 1895
62.8 km
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Qvemot
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Gurjaani
63.3 km
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Shalvovichis Griali
70.9 km
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Sheki Park
80.4 km
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SHEKİ HOTEL
80.6 km
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Nuxa Restaurant
80.9 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tala restoran
19.7 km
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Lost Ridge Horse Ranch ( Former Living Roots )
55.9 km
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Salam Aleykum
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Issam Hotel & Spa
82.7 km
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Alco Test Telavi
90.7 km
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Tavsatekhi Bar & Games/ თავსატეხი
91.0 km
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Owl Bar
91.1 km
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Deer Club Telavi
91.4 km
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