Gabala-Oghuz, Azerbaijan
A guide to 73km (3-7 days) of hiking on the Transcaucasian Trail
This guide will help you plan a multi-day, unsupported thru-hike on a 72.8 km section of the Transcaucasian Trail, traversing the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus in northwestern Azerbaijan. The route moves through a varied landscape of forested ridgelines, alpine pastures, and deeply cut river valleys, linking remote mountain terrain with scattered highland settlements in the Gabala and Oghuz regions. Here you’ll find practical information and trail notes, along with links to maps and GPS data to support navigation.
Note: This section is still in progress. One additional stage is expected to be added.
Quick Facts:
This section follows the southern face of the Greater Caucasus, where the terrain is shaped by steep valleys, fast-flowing rivers, and a mix of dense forest and open pasture. The route passes through areas that feel distinctly remote, with long stretches between settlements and limited infrastructure. While villages such as Gamarvan and Abrikh offer possible access points, much of the route can be completed entirely in backcountry mode for those prepared to carry supplies and remain self-sufficient.
The hiking is consistently demanding. Although it does not require technical climbing equipment, the terrain includes steep gradients, loose rock, narrow traverses, and sections where footing is unstable. Route-finding is a central challenge throughout, as there is no signage or established marking system. Navigation relies entirely on GPS tracks, maps, and the ability to interpret terrain in real time.
This is not a beginner-friendly section. It is best suited to experienced hikers comfortable with multi-day backcountry travel, variable weather, and limited external support. In more isolated sections, assistance may be hours or days away, and hikers should plan accordingly.
Despite these challenges, the route offers a strong sense of continuity through landscape and culture. Pastoral activity remains central to life in these mountains, and hikers will encounter seasonal grazing areas, shepherd camps, and traces of older pathways connecting valleys. The combination of physical difficulty and geographic isolation makes this one of the more committing segments of the trail.
Notes on Access & Permits
All routes in this section require permits issued by the State Border Service (DSX). This applies to all stages, as the trail runs through restricted zones near the international border. Permits should be arranged in advance, and hikers should be prepared for checks along the route.
Important Disclaimer
The TCTA strives to provide accurate, current information as to trail conditions and the trail route. However, actual trail conditions may be different, and such information may not be accurate or complete. Trail users are urged to consider all the information available from other sources and to heed local advice when available. Trail users are ultimately responsible for all decisions as to the trail routes, trail conditions, weather, and safety.
In addition to the hazards posed by steep terrain and mountain weather, hikers should be prepared for difficult route-finding and challenging trail conditions, the possibility of washed-out bridges and dangerous river crossings in high water, aggressive dogs guarding sheep and cattle, giant hogweed, and frequent summer thunderstorms with extremely intensive periods of lightning. Access to emergency medical care and search and rescue is not always available.
