20 Apr 2028 - 04 May 2028 (15 days)
USD6,100 SPACES AVAILABLE
Tour Leader: Lev Frid
Tour Leader: Local Leader
Tour Price (Per person): USD6,100 (GBP4,670 * EUR5,394 * AUD8,835)
Pricing notes : *Prices are estimated, and dates may change*
19 Apr 2029 - 03 May 2029 (15 days)
USD6,400 SPACES AVAILABLE
Tour Leader: Local Leader
Tour Leader: Quinton Paul Josop
Tour Price (Per person): USD6,400 (GBP4,900 * EUR5,659 * AUD9,270)
Pricing notes : *Prices are estimated, and dates may change*
Azerbaijan is a hidden gem for birdwatchers in the Western Palearctic. Located in the Caucasus region, it is a crossroads for a variety of birds from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This small country has recorded over 400 species, many of which are rare or difficult to find elsewhere. This is a land of major contrasts, with a mix of high-altitude mountain ranges, arid steppe, and desert. We’ll be birding across much of the country, from the Greater Caucasus Mountains running along almost all the country's northern border, to the Lesser Caucasus, Talish Mountains and the exclave, or autonomous republic of Nakhchivan.
Our route is designed to maximise opportunities for several Western Palearctic range-restricted species including Caspian Tit, Crimson-winged & Desert Finches, Red-tailed, Finsch's and Eastern Black-eared Wheatears, White-throated Robin, Armenian and Pallas's Gulls, Black Francolin, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Red-fronted Serin and Menetries’s Warbler. We will also seek three near-endemic species: Caspian Snowcock, Caucasian Snowcock and Caucasian Grouse. Other regional specialties we hope to encounter include Mountain Chiffchaff, Shikra and Radde's Accentor.
Caucasian & Caspian Snowcocks; Caucasian Grouse; See-see & Chukar Partridges; Red-tailed, Finsch's & Eastern Black-eared Wheatears; White-throated Robin; Caspian Tit; Caspian & Armenian Gulls; Desert, Trumpeter & Crimson-winged Finches; Western & Eastern Rock Nuthatches; Ménétries's Warbler; Mountain Chiffchaff; Radde's & Alpine Accentors; Grey-necked Bunting; Red-fronted Serin; Shikra; Black Francolin; Pygmy Cormorant; Pallid Harrier; Eastern Imperial Eagle; Blue-cheeked Bee-eater; Black-bellied Sandgrouse.
Goitered Gazelle; Red Fox; Golden Jackal; East Caucasian Tur; Brown Bear; Gray Wolf; Armenian Mouflon.
coastline, mudflats, forest, wetlands, broad-leaved forests, scrub, semi-desert, steppe
temperatures vary from average lows of 9°C (48°F) to a high of 20°C (68°F) on the coast to a low of close to freezing in the higher mountains.
10 with 1 Rockjumper Tour Leader & Local Leader
DIFFICULT: This is a high-intensity “mega” tour designed for passionate listers and serious birders who enjoy a fast-paced schedule. Due to its demanding nature, it’s not recommended for avid photographers, inexperienced birders, or anyone with mobility or health limitations.
Moderate. Suitable for reasonably active participants. Several strenuous mountain hikes are required for key target species and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, balance concerns or limited fitness. Several steep mountain walks required, some at high altitude. Some of these walks take place at elevations exceeding 2,500m (8,200ft). See detailed notes below.
Comfortable hotels in larger towns, homestays in smaller villages. Private facilities cannot be guaranteed in all remote birding locations.
Moderate. Many species provide good views in open habitats, though some key targets may require considerable effort, repeat visits, or may only be seen at distance.
Can be good. No dedicated hides. More challenging in dry/desert areas with bright light.
Mark did an excellent job on this tour. His number one concern was the health and safety of the clients since the age range varied by 20 years: high altitude being an unknown factor as a person ages. Of course he was brilliant in finding the birds & mammals. I am so glad I went: the mostly monochromatic but sought after birds were seen amidst the beauty of the Caucasuses-snow capped mountains, geologic formations that took the breath away and the wildflowers of red,,white yellow and shades of blue & purple. Truly an unforgettable tour.