Gobustan National Park
Discover 40,000 years of human history through ancient rock art and unique geological wonders in Azerbaijan's UNESCO World Heritage site
About Gobustan National Park
Gobustan National Park, located 60 kilometers southwest of Baku, is one of Azerbaijan's most significant archaeological and geological sites. This UNESCO World Heritage site preserves over 6,000 rock engravings (petroglyphs) dating back 40,000 years, offering an extraordinary window into prehistoric human civilization.
UNESCO Heritage
Recognized for outstanding universal value preserving ancient human culture and geological phenomena.
40,000 Years
Continuous evidence of human habitation spanning from the Upper Paleolithic to medieval times.
Ancient Rock Art and Petroglyphs
Prehistoric Petroglyphs
Over 6,000 rock engravings depicting:
- Human Figures: Hunters, dancers, and daily life scenes
- Animals: Wild horses, bulls, gazelles, and extinct species
- Boats: Evidence of ancient Caspian Sea navigation
- Hunting Scenes: Detailed depictions of prehistoric hunting methods
- Ritual Ceremonies: Religious and cultural practices
Historical Periods
Rock art spanning multiple eras:
- Upper Paleolithic (40,000-10,000 years ago): Earliest human settlements
- Mesolithic (10,000-6,000 years ago): Hunter-gatherer societies
- Neolithic (6,000-4,000 years ago): Agricultural development
- Bronze Age (4,000-3,000 years ago): Metal working civilizations
- Medieval Period: Islamic inscriptions and symbols
Mud Volcanoes - Geological Wonders
Unique Geological Phenomena
Gobustan features remarkable mud volcanoes:
- Active Mud Volcanoes: Continuously bubbling and erupting
- Mineral-Rich Mud: Therapeutic properties for skin treatment
- Geological Formation: Result of underground gas and water pressure
- Landscape Diversity: Unique terrain formations
- Scientific Interest: Research site for geological studies
Gobustan Museum
Interactive Museum Experience
Start your visit at the modern Gobustan Museum featuring:
- Interactive Displays: Touch screens and multimedia presentations
- 3D Reconstructions: Virtual reality experiences of ancient life
- Archaeological Artifacts: Tools, pottery, and ancient objects
- Educational Programs: Guided tours and workshops
- Research Center: Ongoing archaeological studies
Flora and Fauna
Plant Life
- Semi-desert vegetation
- Drought-resistant plants
- Endemic species
- Seasonal wildflowers
Wildlife
- Gazelles and wild boars
- Various bird species
- Reptiles and insects
- Migratory birds
Visiting Gobustan National Park
Practical Information
Location & Access
- 60 km southwest of Baku
- 1-hour drive from capital
- Organized tours available
- Public transport options
Opening Hours
- Daily: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Museum: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
- Extended summer hours
Best Time to Visit
Seasonal Guide
- Spring (March-May): Mild weather, wildflowers blooming
- Autumn (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, clear skies
- Winter (December-February): Cool but manageable, fewer crowds
- Summer (June-August): Hot weather, early morning visits recommended
What to Bring
Essential items for your Gobustan visit:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Rocky terrain requires good footwear
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Water: Stay hydrated in the semi-desert climate
- Camera: Capture the ancient rock art and landscapes
- Light Jacket: Weather can change quickly
Nearby Attractions
Combine Your Visit
- Ateshgah Fire Temple: Historic Zoroastrian temple (30 minutes)
- Yanar Dag: Natural gas fire burning continuously (45 minutes)
- Bibi-Heybat Mosque: Important religious site (40 minutes)
- Baku Old City: UNESCO World Heritage Icherisheher (1 hour)
Photography Guidelines
Important rules for photographing petroglyphs:
- No Flash Photography: Protects ancient rock art
- Maintain Distance: Don't touch the petroglyphs
- Respect Barriers: Stay on designated paths
- Professional Photography: Special permits required
Conservation Efforts
Protecting Gobustan for future generations:
- UNESCO Protection: International heritage preservation
- Research Programs: Ongoing archaeological studies
- Visitor Education: Awareness about conservation
- Site Monitoring: Regular condition assessments
Plan Your Gobustan Adventure
Ready to explore 40,000 years of human history? Get your e-Visa now!
Visit Highlights
- 6,000+ ancient petroglyphs
- Interactive museum experience
- Active mud volcanoes
- 40,000 years of history
- UNESCO World Heritage site
Tour Options
Museum + main petroglyphs (4 hours)
Complete site + mud volcanoes (8 hours)
Gobustan + Ateshgah + Yanar Dag
Customized archaeological experience
Archaeological Periods
40,000-10,000 years ago
10,000-6,000 years ago
6,000-4,000 years ago
4,000-3,000 years ago
Visitor Tips
- Start with museum visit
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring sun protection
- Respect ancient art
- Book guided tours
Journey Through 40,000 Years of History
Experience the world's largest collection of rock art at Azerbaijan's premier archaeological site
Start Your Archaeological Journey