Guba, Azerbaijan
A guide to 120 km (4-7 days) of hiking on the Transcaucasian Trail
This guide will help you plan a self-supported hike along a 120 km section of the Transcaucasian Trail that passes through the Guba region of Azerbaijan, consisting of two stages. Below, you will find practical information and trail notes, plus links to interactive maps and downloadable GPS data to help navigate the route.
Quick Facts:
The Guba section of the Transcaucasian Trail (TCT) offers an unparalleled journey through Azerbaijan’s eastern Caucasian mountain landscapes, remote highland villages, and deep river valleys. Spanning approximately 120 kilometers, this route connects Afurja to Laza (Gabala) via Sohub, Budug, Grizdehne, Griz, and Khinalig, linking some of the most culturally rich and geographically diverse areas of the Greater Caucasus. Along the way, hikers will traverse historic shepherd paths, high-altitude pastures, rugged canyons, and ancient trade routes while experiencing the traditions of ethnic mountain communities that have thrived in these remote landscapes for centuries, some for millennia.
Trail conditions vary significantly across this section, from jeep tracks and well-defined paths to steep, eroded trails and river crossings that shift with the seasons. Many routes remain unmarked, requiring GPS navigation, particularly in exposed pastures and high ridgelines. The TCT trail crews have been working since 2023 to restore and improve the historic Grizdehne – Griz (Eh Yolu) trail, making it more accessible to hikers. However, some sections, such as those near Salavat Ashirimi and the Gudyalchay River Valley, can still be challenging due to erosion, high water levels, and rugged terrain.
Water sources are available along most stages, with natural springs and rivers near villages and seasonal pastures. However, in longer, exposed sections, water can be scarce, and hikers should carry enough to last between reliable sources. Seasonal changes, including rainfall, snowmelt, and grazing periods, can heavily impact the trail conditions, particularly in steep valleys and river crossings.
Trail markings vary across the region. Some sections, such as Griz to Khinalig, have been marked by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, while others rely on local shepherd trails and historical paths. Hikers should not rely solely on waymarks and should download GPS tracks in advance.
Guba city serves as the primary urban access point for this section of the TCT, offering opportunities to restock supplies, arrange transportation, and enjoy modern amenities. Access to trailheads varies from paved roads to rugged off-road tracks, sometimes requiring four-wheel drive to reach remote villages like Sohub and Budug.
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.
