From Baku to Khizi: A Road Trip to Rainbow Mountains

Landing in a new country always brings a rush of excitement — but landing in Azerbaijan and heading straight for a road trip makes it even better.

We arrived in Baku early in the morning, collected our rental car from the airport, and without stepping into the city, pointed our wheels toward Khizi. Sometimes the best way to begin a journey is to dive straight into nature — and that’s exactly what we did.

Hitting the Road: Baku to Khizi

The drive from Baku to the Khizi region takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on stops. As we left the modern skyline behind, the scenery began to change. Wide highways slowly gave way to open landscapes, rolling hills, and endless skies.

Driving in Azerbaijan felt smooth and relaxed. The roads were well maintained, traffic was light once outside Baku, and the journey itself became part of the experience. There’s something special about road trips in a new country — the anticipation builds with every passing kilometer. Wide highways and towering skyscrapers slowly gave way to open landscapes,rolling hills and endless skies.

Discovering the Rainbow Mountains of Khizi

Our destination was the famous Rainbow Mountains, also known as the Candy Cane Mountains, located in the Khizi District.

The first glimpse of the hills is subtle. At a distance, they appear like ordinary rocky formations. But as you get closer, the colors begin to reveal themselves — soft pinks, rusty reds, deep oranges, muted yellows, and streaks of white running across the slopes in natural stripes.

The patterns are created by mineral deposits and oxidation over thousands of years. Iron compounds give the reddish hues, while other minerals create the lighter shades. It’s fascinating how geology can paint landscapes more beautifully than any artist.

Walking around the hills felt surreal. The terrain is raw and untouched — no commercial setups, no heavy crowds, just vast expanse of open land. The wind carries a cool freshness, and the quiet allows you to fully absorb the uniqueness of the place.

What makes the Rainbow Mountains Special?

What makes the Rainbow Mountains truly special is their naturally layered colors, formed over millions of years through mineral deposits and geological processes, creating striking patterns of red, orange, yellow, pink, and white across rolling hills. Unlike many popular tourist destinations, these mountains remain largely untouched and free from commercialization, allowing visitors to experience raw, peaceful nature in its purest form. Located close to Baku yet far from city noise, they offer a rare combination of easy accessibility and serene isolation, making them perfect for travelers who seek both visual beauty and quiet reflection in one unforgettable landscape.

A Peaceful Pause at Taxtrakorpu Reservoir

On our way back, we made a scenic pit stop at the Taxtrakorpu Reservoir.

After the textured, colorful terrain of Khizi, the reservoir offered contrast — still water, open skies, and gentle hills surrounding the lake. The calm surface reflected the landscape, creating a soothing atmosphere.

We didn’t rush this stop. It was the kind of place where you sit quietly, feel the breeze, and simply exist without an agenda. No noise, no chaos — just nature at its most peaceful.

Sometimes, the unplanned stops become the most memorable ones.

Why Starting the Trip This Way Was Perfect

Most travelers explore Baku city first — its architecture, seaside promenade, and cultural landmarks. But beginning with a road trip gave us a different introduction to Azerbaijan.

It showed us:

• The country’s natural diversity• The openness of its landscapes• The ease of self-driving• The contrast between modern city life and untouched terrain

By the time we returned, we felt grounded — not rushed, not overwhelmed — just ready for the rest of the journey.

Practical Tips for Doing This Day Trip

If you’re planning the same route, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Renting a car is the most convenient option• Carry water and snacks, as facilities are limited near the mountains• Wear comfortable walking shoes — the terrain is uneven• Visit during daylight for the best view of colors• Check weather conditions before heading out

The beauty of this trip lies in its simplicity.

Ending Day One with Gratitude

By the end of the day, we had already experienced a side of Azerbaijan that many don’t expect — colorful geological wonders, silent hills, and serene water views.

Landing in Baku and driving straight to Khizi set the tone for our entire adventure. It reminded us that sometimes the best travel decisions are the spontaneous ones.

Day one wasn’t about ticking attractions off a list.It was about starting the journey with curiosity, color, and calm.

And honestly, we couldn’t have asked for a better beginning.