Griz is one of the snowiest villages in Azerbaijan. The Griz people are considered one of the most ancient ethnic groups in Azerbaijan and speak the unique Griz language. In the summer, you can visit the small but bustling Gurgur waterfall near the village. In winter, the waterfall freezes and acquires a different beauty.
Download the map
DISTANCE - 9.3 KM ELEVATION GAIN - 820 M ELEVATION LOSS - 1000 M |
MAX. ALTITUDE - 2225 M MIN. ALTITUDE - 1920 M DURATION - 4 H 10 MIN |
Although the route is partly tiring, the trails are clearly visible everywhere and the entire route is marked. Follow the signs and walk along the dirt road. At the exit of the village you will take the path to the Kokosh gorge, 400m ahead of the cemetery on the right. Continue along the rocky terrain that descends steeply into a ravine. After walking for 1.3km, crossing a small river and walking a little through the ravine, you will reach a viewpoint over the canyon on a small hill. About 2.5km ahead (near the Gurgur waterfall) you will cross a more turbulent river and 2.8km later reach the village of Griz.
Nearby trails
You can connect this trail with the Khinalig-Galakhudat and Griz-Grizdahna trails.
Seasonality
It is important to have appropriate outdoor clothing as this is a moderately difficult hike. You have to be especially careful on snowy days in winter because the descent to Kokosh gorge is quite steep. If you want to enjoy green nature this route is ideal for May-July, and in December-February to see snowy mountains. It is recommended to check the weather forecast before your trip as foggy, rainy or snowy weather will make the trail significantly more difficult. In windy weather, the descent to Kokosh gorge might be dangerous.
In May and September, during the migration of flocks of sheep, you might encounter shepherd dogs guarding the sheep as they graze in the Kokosh gorge. Be careful when passing here and call the shepherd from a distance for help.
Food and accommodation
There are no restaurants or cafes in Galakhudat or Griz villages. However, there are guest houses in both villages that offer food and accommodation. You can find the location of guest houses, hotels and other accommodation facilities on the map.
Water
You can fill up your water bottles in the yards of local villagers before leaving the village. There are springs in two places along the route. After descending to the Kokosh gorge and walking along a dirt track you cross a small river with clean and drinkable water, except during rain or snowmelt. It is recommended to take 1.5-2 litres of water, depending on the temperature. The second source of drinking water is the river into which the Griz waterfall flows, except during rain or snowmelt.
Transportation
You can reach Galakhudat in an off-roach vehicle. Taxis (Niva or UAZ jeeps) can take you there from the centre of Guba city for 50 AZN. If you intend to return to Guba from Galakhudat on the same day, you can ask the driver to wait for you and take you back for no extra payment. If you intend to return to Guba from Griz, you can ask the same driver to collect you and take you back for an extra 30 AZN.
Permissions and Special Protected Areas
No prior permission is required to hike along this route. The trail does not pass through a special protected natural area or border protection zone.
Galakhudat – Griz trail
bookan adventure
Choose from a wide range of places to stay and tours to enjoy for the ultimate Azerbaijan travel experience.
other experiencesin Guba
The moreish flavours of Jewish cuisine
Perhaps you have sampled the flavours of Jewish cuisine at least once before. If not,... More
Gurgur Waterfall dazzles in all four seasons
Whether you visit in summer or winter, it makes no difference here, where the captivating... More
The Arched Bridge conveys a feat of construction
In the heart of Guba stands the remarkable Arched Bridge, an outstanding marvel of 19th-century... More
A testament to tolerance by Red Village’s Mountain Jews
In the heart of Guba, lies the remarkable Red Village, a beautiful Mountain Jewish settlement... More
Shadows of Guba's sorrows light a path to prevention
The Guba Genocide Memorial Complex is one of the main sites to visit to commemorate... More
Contemporary healing in traditional Guba
Nestled in the lap of the Great Caucasus Mountains, boasting untouched natural beauty, Guba is... More
Khinalig’s knitted woollen socks will warm more than your feet
Do not be put off by the snowy, frosty mountain scenery of Khinalig - woollen... More
Birdwatching along the Nabran coastline
This unique strip of Caspian coastline is known for the proximity between pristine forest and... More
Hiking along the Grizdehne – Griz trail
Walking along this route, you can enjoy passing through the low mountain forests of the... More
Hiking along the Griz – Grizdehne trail
Walking along this route, you can enjoy amazing views of the steep cliffs of the... More
Hiking along the Griz – Galakhudat trail
Walking along this trail, you can enjoy views of the wide Gudyalchay river valley with... More
Hiking along the Galakhudat – Khinalig trail
Walking along this route, you can enjoy views of the steep cliffs of Mount Gizilgaya,... More
Hiking along the Khinalig – Galakhudat trail
Walking along this route, you can enjoy views of the steep cliffs of Mount Gizilgaya,... More
Birdwatching in the Caucasus Mountains
The stunningly set mountain villages of Khinalig and Laza are great places for birders to... More
Fishing at Chanlibel lake
The nature of Guba and the hospitality of its local people have turned this region... More
Play golf in the beautiful countryside of Guba
If you are a golf and nature fan, you should visit Guba’s National Golf Club... More
famous Guba treats cuisine masterclasses
Learn to prepare the most delicious and traditional sweets from Guba, such as pakhlava and... More
Take carpet weaving masterclasses in Guba
Carpets in Guba are traditionally woven in winter and considered some of the finest in... More
Visit the first Museum of Mountain Jews
Red Settlement is a truly unique place to visit. Characterized by its red-tiled roofs, this... More
soaring Khinalig conqueror of the Caucasus
Welcome to Khinalig, one of the mountain villages located in the highlands of Azerbaijan. Here... More