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Shirvan National Park
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Shirvan National Park was established in 2003 on the base of the Shirvan State Reserve to protect the Goitred Gazelle, known locally as the Jeyran. Located in the Salyan and Neftchala districts, the park covers 54,373 hectares of semi-desert landscape along the Caspian Sea coast. This protected area is one of the few places in the Caucasus where a large population of gazelles still thrives in their natural habitat. The park also features a diverse range of landscapes, including saline soil plains, wetlands, and several mud volcanoes, which are characteristic of the Azerbaijani coastline. It serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds, including flamingos, swans, and various species of ducks that winter in its shallow lagoons. The park's management focuses on the reintroduction of gazelles to other parts of their historical range.
- Location: Azerbaijan
- Nearby: Salyan (18 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 21 | 26 | 29 | 28 | 24 | 18 | 12 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 28 | 30 | 34 | 31 | 25 | 15 | 7 | 12 | 40 | 54 | 49 | 30 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Visitors typically travel south from Baku along the main coastal highway to reach the park entrance. The main gate and visitor center are easily accessible by standard cars, providing a straightforward arrival process.
Best season
The cooler months of spring and autumn are good for wildlife viewing and avoiding the oppressive heat. Summer days are intensely hot and dry, which makes exploring the semi-arid landscape quite uncomfortable for most tourists.
Terrain & paths
The park features a mostly flat, open landscape characterized by dusty trails, mud volcanoes, and coastal wetlands. Navigating the designated dirt tracks is generally straightforward, but they can become impassable after heavy rains.
What to bring
Binoculars and a telephoto lens are indispensable for spotting the shy goitered gazelles from a distance. Sun hats, strong sunscreen, and plenty of bottled water are critical due to the persistent sun exposure and lack of trees.
Parking
Secure parking is consistently available at the official visitor center, where entry permits are normally processed. You will likely leave your vehicle there before joining a scheduled tour or hiring an authorized local driver.
Safety
Visitors must stay on established routes to protect the fragile ecosystem and avoid getting stuck in soft sand. Be mindful of summer heat exhaustion, and maintain a respectful distance from any wildlife encountered.
Time needed
Most visitors dedicate a half-day to the park, which allows sufficient time for a guided wildlife drive and observing the mud volcanoes. Avian enthusiasts might spend slightly longer exploring the coastal areas for migratory birds.
Geography
Facts
- Established on July 5, 2003, on 54,373 hectares of land.
- Main goal is the conservation of the Goitred Gazelle (Jeyran).
- Home to over 6,000 gazelles as of recent surveys.
- Includes the Bandovan Mud Volcano within its territory.
- Located about 100 kilometers south of the capital, Baku.
- Provides a vital habitat for over 200 species of birds.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Shirvan National Park (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What animals can be observed in Shirvan National Park?
The park is famous for its rare goitered gazelles and numerous water birds.
Is a car required for the visit?
Yes, due to the size and infrastructure, a private vehicle is recommended.
Are there guided tours in the national park?
Yes, park guides offer tours for wildlife observation.
How much time should one plan for the park?
For a good overview, one should plan at least half a day.
Is the park suitable for children?
Yes, seeing the animals is an exciting experience for children.
Shirvan National Park: where is it located?
Shirvan National Park is located in Azerbaijan.
Shirvan National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Shirvan National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Shirvan National Park was established in 2003 on the base of the Shirvan State Reserve to protect the Goitred Gazelle, known locally as the Jeyran.
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