Caucasus Hiking — Khinalug to Laza Trek
2-day mountain trek from the highest village in the Caucasus to the Laza valley
About this trek
This 2-day trek is the finest hiking experience in Azerbaijan, taking you from Khinalug — the highest continuously inhabited village in the Caucasus at 2,350m, with a 5,000-year history — across spectacular mountain terrain to the Laza valley below.
Day 1 begins with a 4WD drive up to Khinalug through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. Explore the village and stay overnight in a local family guesthouse. Day 2: the 14 km descent trek through alpine meadows, past ancient watchtowers, and alongside rushing mountain streams to Laza, where your vehicle waits.
Questions to settle before a hike
Ask for the exact route, distance, elevation gain, surface, expected walking time and turnaround point. “Easy” and “moderate” are subjective; share age, recent activity and any knee, balance or breathing limitation before the guide confirms suitability. Weather, river levels, snow and road access can change a mountain plan on the day.
Confirm guide service, transport, food, water, equipment and the cancellation or alternative-route policy in writing. Use layered clothing and suitable footwear, and do not separate from the agreed route. Compare broader nature tours or request a dated route.