Hirkan & Qizil-Aghach Tour: Persian Leopards & Birds

Hirkan's forest, a mountain lake, and thousands of birds in one day

A full-day guided tour of Hirkan National Park and Qizil-Aghach State Reserve in Azerbaijan's southeast, with hotel pickup and an English-speaking guide. You hike through Hirkan's deciduous forest where Persian leopards, lynx and wolves live, stop at Lake Khanbulan for a picnic lunch, then travel to Qizil-Aghach to watch migratory birds that winter here after flying from Siberia and northern Europe. The tour runs 10 to 12 hours and suits all fitness levels.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Azerbaijan's National Reserves

• Visit Hirkan National Park forest
• Hike and picnic at Lake Khanbulan
• Discover wildlife at Qizil-Aghach Reserve
• Explore Shirvan National Park and birdwatch

The experience

Hirkan National Park sits in the Talysh Mountains in Azerbaijan's south, a mountainous reserve blanketed in deciduous forest. The park holds 1,300 plant species (29 found nowhere else in the world), and the animals that depend on them: Persian leopards (believed extinct until 2007), red foxes, wolves and lynx roam the highlands. Your guide leads you through the forest and its biodiversity before stopping at Lake Khanbulan, a wooded reservoir 4.7 kilometers long surrounded by the same Talish Mountains. The lake, built in 1976, sits in the lower foothills and is set up for a picnic lunch and a nature walk among the thick green woods.

The second half of the day moves to Qizil-Aghach State Reserve, established in 1929 to protect migratory and nesting birds. Thousands of birds winter here after traveling from Siberia, the Urals and northern Europe. A scale of migration that makes the reserve one of the country's most important wetlands. Beyond the birds, you'll spot wild boar, wolves, wild cats, badgers, sable and foxes. The water basin holds around 54 fish species. Shirvan National Park, encompassing over 54,000 hectares, is also part of the route and offers more bird-watching opportunities, with 14 species listed in Azerbaijan's Red Book.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with private transportation and an English-speaking guide for the full 10 to 12 hours. Bring your own lunch or arrange it separately. The tour does not include meals.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off.
• private transportation in a vehicle with your guide.
• an English-speaking professional guide for the full day.
• access to Hirkan National Park, Lake Khanbulan and Qizil-Aghach State Reserve.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (15 and older) · Child (4 to 14 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effort

Operated by Tours in azerbaijan

Is this one for you?The 10 to 12 hour commitment means you'll see three distinct ecosystems (mountain forest, a lakeside reserve and a major wetland) in one day, but it rules out combining this tour with other activities or a leisurely exploration of Lankaran town itself.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 14 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What animals will I actually see at Hirkan National Park?

Hirkan is home to Persian leopards, red foxes, wolves and lynx in the highlands, though sightings depend on timing and luck. The park's 1,300 plant species are guaranteed. The large mammals are not.

Why do so many birds come to Qizil-Aghach in winter?

Qizil-Aghach State Reserve provides critical wintering habitat for migratory birds traveling from Siberia, the Urals and northern Europe. The wetland's water basin and vegetation make it one of the most important stopover sites on their migration route.

How long is the hike at Lake Khanbulan?

Lake Khanbulan is set up for a relaxing nature hike and picnic lunch in the lower foothills, but the exact distance and duration depend on the guide's route and your group's pace.

Is this tour suitable if I'm not very fit?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. The hike at Lake Khanbulan and the walking at the reserves are moderate, not strenuous.

What should I bring for a 10 to 12 hour day in the reserves?

Bring water, sun protection, sturdy walking shoes and layers for changing weather in the mountains. Lunch is not included, so pack food or arrange it with the guide in advance.