News: The Mountains Are Calling! Opening of the 2025/2026 Ski Season in Shahdag and Tufandag
The Mountains Are Calling! Opening of the 2025/2026 Ski Season in Shahdag and Tufandag
Start Date: From December 15
Locations: Gusar (Shahdag), Gabala (Tufandag)
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Winter in Azerbaijan is not just windy Baku, but also the blindingly white peaks of the Greater Caucasus. If you’ve been waiting for the moment to get your snowboard out or put on your skis, the time has come.
It is officially announced: from December 15, the country’s main ski resorts — Shahdag and Tufandag — open their slopes to guests. Snow cannons have already prepared the perfect cover, lifts have passed inspection, and hotels are ready for the influx of tourists.
Where to go? Choosing a resort
1. Shahdag Mountain Resort — The King of Winter
Located in the Gusar region (about 210 km from Baku), Shahdag is rightfully considered the most modern and large-scale resort in the country.
- For whom: Both for beginners and pros. Here you will find the longest and widest tracks.
- Infrastructure: More than 15 cable cars, luxurious SPA hotels, a ski school, and zones for children.
- Season highlight: Night skiing under artificial lighting and the Alpine Coaster attraction.
2. Tufandag Mountain Resort — Scenic Gabala
Located in Gabala (about 220 km from Baku). This resort is famous for its incredible landscapes.
- For whom: For families with children and lovers of calm skiing.
- Infrastructure: The cable car takes you straight from the city to the peaks. The tracks here are slightly more difficult and narrower than in Shahdag, but the views compensate for everything.
- Season highlight: The highest swing in the region on top of the mountain — the perfect place for Instagram photos.
How to get there? Why personal transport is a necessity
The road from Baku to both resorts takes 3.5 – 4 hours. And here the tourist faces a choice.
Option A: Bus or Group Transfer
Cheap, but… You are tied to a schedule. Luggage is limited. Carrying your skis or boots in a cramped luggage compartment is not a pleasure. And what if you want to stop on the way to buy hot qutabs or take a picture of a snowy forest? The bus won’t stop for you.
Option B: Taxi
More comfortable, but the round-trip price can exceed the hotel budget. Plus, finding a taxi with ski racks or a large trunk is difficult.
Option C: Car Rental (Choice of Experienced Travelers)
This is freedom. You leave when you want. You take as many things as you need. You build the route yourself, visiting picturesque places along the way.
Your safety in the mountains is a priority for Karavan Rent A Car
A winter road to the mountains requires preparation. Driving on summer tires on the serpentine road to Shahdag is a risk you cannot take.
Karavan Rent A Car in Baku has prepared its fleet for the season opening 100%.
Why people choose us for a trip to the mountains:
- Powerful 4×4 SUVs: We have a huge selection of crossovers and Jeeps (Toyota Prado, Land Cruiser, Kia Sorento) that easily cope with snowy climbs.
- Winter tires — Free of Charge: We do not save on safety. All cars heading to the mountains are equipped with high-quality winter tires.
- Spaciousness: Our cars have enough room for the whole family, suitcases, and even snowboards.
- Snow Chains: Upon request, we equip the car with chains for the most extreme sections.
Special Offer for the Season Opening ⛷️
In honor of the season start on December 15, we recommend booking SUVs in advance. Demand for Jeeps on weekends is huge.
Don’t wait for the bus in the cold. Turn on the heater, play your favorite music, and set off to conquer the peaks in comfort.
👉 Choose an SUV for a trip to Shahdag
📞 Book via WhatsApp
Karavan Rent A Car in Baku — Your confidence at any altitude!
