Looking for a road trip that leads straight into ancient, misty forests? Hirkan National Park is your perfect escape. Tucked near Lankaran in southern Azerbaijan, this UNESCO-listed park offers rare trees, quiet trails, and crisp mountain air. Also, renting a car in Azerbaijan makes it easier to explore tea fields or pull over for forest views. Keep reading to know what makes this drive and destination worthwhile.
The best places to rent a car in Azerbaijan are Baku and Lankaran. Baku offers a wider selection of vehicles and rental companies. However, if you’re already in southern Azerbaijan, renting directly from Lankaran is faster and more convenient when driving from Lankaran to Hirkan.
For this route, choose a compact SUV or mid-sized car. The road to the Hirkan National Park is mostly paved, but some forest paths near the entrance can be narrow or uneven. Avoid large sedans or low-clearance vehicles, especially if you plan to explore deeper into the wooded areas.
You’ll need your passport, a valid driver’s license, and in most cases, an International Driving Permit (IDP). Double-check IDP requirements with your rental agency, especially if your license isn’t in English. Also, bring a credit card for the deposit and review local driving laws before hitting the road.
There’s more to Hirkan National Park than trees and fresh air. This protected area is packed with unique spots and outdoor activities. Here’s are some of the activities and highlights to experience inside the Hirkan National Park:
The Khanbulan Lake Trail in Hirkan National Park is a 6-mile loop trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. It starts and ends within the park and includes an elevation gain of around 222 meters. This moderately challenging route takes you through lush forests filled with rare trees, including the Persian ironwood. This species survived the Ice Age and now grows only in parts of southern Azerbaijan and Iran.
One of the highlights is the view of Khanbulan Lake itself. This large reservoir was built in 1976 and stretches approximately 5 kilometers long and over 2 kilometers wide. The lake sits surrounded by the Talysh Mountains, and its calm surface reflects the forested hillsides. As you walk, you’ll see thick canopies. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to hike, as the light is soft and the weather is cooler.
The iron tree, known scientifically as Parrotia persica, is one of the rarest plant species found in the Hirkan National Park. This ancient tree dates back to the Tertiary period and has survived major climate shifts that wiped out many other species. Today, it only grows in select regions of Azerbaijan and northern Iran.
Parrotia persica is easy to recognize by its smooth bark that peels in colorful patches and its dense, twisting branches. In autumn, its leaves turn deep red and orange, adding vibrant color to the forest. The tree is prized for its tough wood and is often called a "living fossil." Seeing it in the wild is a highlight for anyone interested in rare flora and the park’s rich ecological heritage.
The Forest Museum at Hirkan Reserve, located in southeastern Azerbaijan near Lankaran, offers a closer look at one of the country's most biodiverse regions. It’s a small but well-organized museum where you can learn about the rare plants and animals in Hirkan National Park. These include ancient tree species like the Persian ironwood (Parrotia persica) and the chestnut-leaved oak, which have been growing here since prehistoric times.
The displays also introduce you to animals that call this area home, including the Persian leopard, lynx, and several rare birds listed in Azerbaijan’s “Red Book.” It’s a quiet, informative stop, perfect if you’re curious about the forest but want to understand it before hitting the trails. The museum adds context to what you’ll see outside, especially if you’re exploring the park for the first time.
The Vilesh River, called Vileshchay, flows through the Masalli District in southeastern Azerbaijan. It starts in the Talysh Mountains and runs about 115 kilometers before reaching the Caspian Sea. The river passes near several villages and small towns, including Masalli city, where it is used for local irrigation and farming.
One of the most popular picnic spots is near Vilash Reservoir, just outside Masalli. This area has paved access, benches, and shade from surrounding trees. People often visit in spring and early summer when water levels are stable and the weather is mild. About 13 kilometers from Masalli city, along the banks of the Vilash River, you can find the Istisu Thermal Spring. This natural spring has temperatures exceeding 60°C and is rich in minerals such as hydrogen sulfide, sodium chloride, magnesium, hydrocarbonate, and iodine.
The lower parts of Hirkan National Park, especially near the edges of Lankaran and Astara regions, are home to various bird species. The mix of forest and wetland habitats makes it a great spot for birdwatching. You might see species like the Eurasian nuthatch, green woodpecker, or the rare Caspian tit. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit because they match bird migration seasons. Bring binoculars and a camera. Some spots give clear views of treetops and open areas where birds often gather.
Around Khanbulan Lake in Hirkan National Park, visitors can enjoy horseback riding along scenic trails. This activity offers a unique way to explore the park's diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows. Local guides often provide horses and lead tours suitable for beginners and experienced riders. Check with local tour operators in Lankaran for availability and booking information.
Camping in the Talysh Mountains within Hirkan National Park is a great experience in one of Azerbaijan's most biodiverse regions. The park has designated camping areas where you can set up tents amidst ancient forests and diverse wildlife. These sites are accessible via marked trails and have basic amenities like public toilets and fresh water. Before camping, check with local authorities or tour operators for necessary permits and guidelines.
Hirkan National Park features several waterfalls, with Sym Waterfall and Shi Waterfall being notable highlights. Sym Waterfall, located in Sim village within the Talysh Mountains, stands approximately 30 meters high. The journey to the waterfall involves a 1.5 km hike through dense forests and moss-covered rocks. Visitors often enjoy picnicking near the waterfall and sampling local Astara tea prepared in traditional samovars.
Shi Waterfall, also known as Siyochir or Shi Chır, is near Avyarud village. Reaching this waterfall requires a drive from Astara and a 1.5 to 2-hour hike through forests and ravines. The trail is moderately challenging, but the serene environment and the sight of the waterfall make the effort worthwhile.
Located within the Lankaran Lowland, the Moscow Forest is a unique remnant of the Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests. This area has lush, subtropical vegetation and is one of the few remaining lowland forests in the region. Visitors can explore the diverse plant life, including endemic species that have survived since the Tertiary period.
Around Hirkan National Park, villages like Sim and Zungulash offer a glimpse into the preserved traditions of the Talysh people. These communities maintain their language, crafts, and food customs that date back generations. One of the most vibrant times to visit is during Novruz, celebrated in March, when locals mark the Persian New Year with folk dances, music, and traditional dishes like shekerbura. Villagers also light bonfires and jump over flames, symbolizing renewal and the start of spring.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to explore the Hirkan National Park. These months offer cooler temperatures, making forest hikes more enjoyable. The humidity is lower, and the sky is often clear, which is ideal for taking photos or birdwatching. These seasons also align with migratory bird activity, attracting bird lovers from nearby cities and abroad.
In spring, fresh leaves cover the trees, and rare plants such as the Persian ironwood bloom. Birds begin nesting, and the air is filled with natural sounds. The trails are dry and easier to walk on. In autumn, the leaves turn deep red, orange, and gold. The forest floor becomes a colorful path, perfect for photography. This is also when animals are more active before winter begins.
Summers are hot and humid, especially in low areas near Lankaran. Afternoon walks can be tiring, and some trails become overgrown. Winter can be cold and rainy. Snow sometimes blocks higher trails. Still, some lower trails remain open. If you visit in off-season months, bring proper hiking shoes and warm clothes, and check trail conditions before you go.
A road trip to Hiran National Park offers more than scenic drives. It’s a journey through rare forests, hidden waterfalls, and centuries-old culture. From hiking trails to spotting unique trees and tasting local tea, the park invites you to explore at your own pace. To make the most of your trip, book your rental car with Finalrentals in advance, especially during spring and summer when travel demand is higher.
