Skiing in Azerbaijan: Shahdag & Tufandag Resort Guide
A complete guide to skiing in Azerbaijan. Compare Shahdag and Tufandag ski resorts, lift pass prices, equipment rental, and accommodation.
Skiing in Azerbaijan: Shahdag & Tufandag Resort Guide
Yes, you can ski in Azerbaijan! The Caucasus Mountains offer two world-class ski resorts at a fraction of European prices.
The Two Resorts ⛷️
1. Shahdag Mountain Resort 🏔️
Location: Near Qusar (North Azerbaijan), 3.5 hours from Baku.
Elevation: 1,640m - 2,640m
Slopes: 17 km of pistes
Difficulty: 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, 30% advanced
Season: December - March
Why Choose Shahdag:
- Larger and more developed.
- Better for families and beginners.
- More accommodation options (5-star hotels on-site).
2. Tufandag Mountain Resort 🏔️
Location: Near Gabala (Central Azerbaijan), 3 hours from Baku.
Elevation: 1,920m - 3,195m
Slopes: 10 km of pistes
Difficulty: 20% beginner, 50% intermediate, 30% advanced
Season: December - March
Why Choose Tufandag:
- Higher altitude = better snow.
- Stunning cable car ride (longest in the Caucasus).
- Less crowded than Shahdag.
Lift Pass Prices (2024/2025 Season) 🎫
| Resort | 1 Day | 3 Days | 5 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shahdag | 40-50 AZN | 110-130 AZN | 170-200 AZN |
| Tufandag | 35-45 AZN | 100-120 AZN | 150-180 AZN |
Children (under 12): ~50% discount.
Equipment Rental 🎿
Both resorts offer full rental services.
- Skis + Boots + Poles: 30-40 AZN/day
- Snowboard + Boots: 30-40 AZN/day
- Helmet: 5-10 AZN/day
Tip: Bring your own gear if you have it. Rental quality can be hit-or-miss.
Ski Lessons 🏂
- Group Lesson (2 hours): 40-60 AZN
- Private Lesson (1 hour): 50-80 AZN
Languages: Azerbaijani, Russian, English (limited).
Accommodation 🏨
Shahdag:
- Pik Palace Hotel (5-star): 200-400 AZN/night
- Park Chalet (4-star): 150-250 AZN/night
Tufandag:
- Tufandag Hotel (4-star): 120-200 AZN/night
- Gabala City (30 min away): Budget hotels from 50 AZN/night
How to Get There 🚗
- From Baku: Rent a car or book a transfer.
- Shahdag Transfer: ~150-200 AZN one-way (private car).
- Tufandag Transfer: ~120-150 AZN one-way.
No Public Transport: You need a car or pre-booked transfer.
Best Time to Visit ❄️
- Peak Season: January - February (best snow, most crowded).
- Budget Season: December or March (cheaper, less snow).
Summary
- Best for Families: Shahdag.
- Best for Scenery: Tufandag.
- Best Value: Both are incredibly cheap compared to Europe!
Hit the slopes! 🎿