Absheron National Park is an ecotourism treasure of the Caspian Coast of Azerbaijan
Absheron National Park is one of the peculiar places in Azerbaijan. The southeastern tip of the Absheron Peninsula is close to the Caspian Sea. The total area of the park is 783 hectares, which equals 7.83 km². It was created with the purpose of saving nature and animals from destruction. This park is a very good place that would please people who love nature and like the diversity of flora and fauna.
History of Absheron National Park
It was initiated in 1969 as the Absheron State Nature Preserve, with the most important tasks of protection of gazelles and Caspian seals. In the course of time, the park was not properly maintained. However, in 2005, it was reinstituted as a national park for the purposes of nature conservation and to allow people to visit for environmental enlightenment.
Plants and Animals in the Park
Absheron National Park belongs to different kinds of flora and fauna. Its landscape is mainly dry and sandy with some wetlands along the sea.
Birds: More than 50 species of birds are inhabiting the Park. Bird watchers can find gulls, terns, ducks, and birds of prey. Many birds stop at this place while migrating along the Caspian Sea.
Mammals: Foxes, jackals, and gazelles are some of the mammals that live here in the park. It was established to save gazelles and Caspian seals; nowadays, you can rarely find them in the park.
Reptiles: The park has many different species of snakes that augment animal diversity.
Plants: There are 25 species of plants in the park that provide uniqueness to the area.
Protecting Nature
The main goal of Absheron National Park is to keep its plants and animals safe. The park also wants to help people learn about nature and enjoy it without harming it.
How to Get to the Absheron National Park
Visiting the park might be a bit hard because of a lack of signs and buses there. It is better to rent a car or go with a tour group. Guides will be able to help you find your way and talk to people, as not that many park people speak English.
To get to the park, follow the Airport Road past the airport onto the Mardakan Highway; turn right after 5.5 kilometers, go another 18 kilometers through Zica village via a dirt road, which leads directly to the park.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Absheron National Park is less famous, but it also is a nice place for a day’s outing. It offers clean beaches, a sight of nature away from the bustling city of Baku. On the same day, one can visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple and Yanar Dag.
It is also pretty close to Baku, being 60 km away, and easily accessible. It is a quiet place to rest and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Birdwatching in Absheron National Park
If you enjoy bird-watching, the park is well worth a visit. You can spot the following birds:
Horned Grebe
Short-eared Owl
Great Cormorant
Great Egret
Grey Heron
Mallard
Green-winged Teal
Mute Swan
Purple Heron
Best Time to Visit
It is best to see birds in the period from mid-April to mid-May at which time many kinds of birds migrate. It is good in November, too, because the weather becomes calm. You might be able to see winter birds from mid-January to the end of February, too.
Where to Stay
Because the park is near Baku, you can stay in town and visit the park on a day trip. In Baku, you have a great choice of places to stay, from very low-budget guesthouses to the highest class of hotel, so you will find one without any problem that will fit your needs.
Conclusion
Absheron National Park does not have huge dimensions, yet it gives all the opportunity of seeing the flora and fauna life of Azerbaijan and is a kind of peaceful center for nature science study and pleasure. Ready to explore Azerbaijan with your family? Apply for Azerbaijan visa now and discover a world of fun and adventure waiting for you.
FAQs
What is Absheron National Park?
It is a protection area in Azerbaijan, which includes an area of 783 hectares (7.83 km²); many kinds of flora and fauna are represented here.
Where is the park located?
It is located on the southeastern tip of the Absheron Peninsula, not far from the Caspian Sea, about 60 km from Baku.
What kind of animals can I see in the park?
You can see birds like gulls and terns, mammals like foxes and jackals, and different kinds of snakes.
How do I get to the park?
Without much in the way of signs or public transportation, the best options are to either rent a car or to join a tour.
When is the best time for bird-watching?
The best times are mid-April to mid-May and November.