hiking along the Griz – Galakhudat trail

Walking along this trail, you can enjoy views of the wide Gudyalchay river valley with deep canyons and birds of prey flying overhead - in short, breathtaking scenery of the Caucasus Mountains.

Hiking alongthe Griz – Galakhudat trail

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Griz – Galakhudat trail

Griz is one of the snowiest villages in Azerbaijan. The Griz people speak their own unique language and are considered one of the most ancient ethnic groups in Azerbaijan. In the summer, you can visit the small but bustling Gurgur waterfall located near the village. In winter, this waterfall freezes and acquires a different beauty.

DISTANCE - 9.3 KM

ELEVATION GAIN - 1000 M

ELEVATION LOSS - 820 M

MAX. ALTITUDE - 2225 M

MIN. ALTITUDE - 1920 M

DURATION - 4 H 20 MIN

Although the route is relatively tiring, the trails are clearly visible everywhere and the entire route is fully marked. Follow the signs, walk for 1.6km towards the exit of the village and you will see a beautiful view of the canyon. Cross the bridge 1.2km ahead (Gurgur waterfall is nearby) and continue along the edge of the canyon for 2.5km to Kokosh gorge. From here, after a small descent and going a little further into the ravine, you cross the river and then cover a distance of 1.3km. Galakhudat village will be visible from the side of the road and you will soon reach the village entrance by following the signs.

Seasonality

It is important to have appropriate outdoor clothing as this is a moderately difficult hike. If you intend only to hike to the waterfall there is no need for special hiking equipment (except waterproof shoes in winter). If you want to enjoy green nature this route is ideal in 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 can make the trail significantly more difficult. In windy weather, the descent to Kokosh gorge might be risky.

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 here and call the shepherd from a distance to help you pass safely.

Nearby trails

You can connect this hike with the Galakhudat-Khinalig and Grizdahna-Griz trails.

Food and accommodation

There are no restaurants or cafes in Griz or Galakhudat villages. However, there are guest houses in the villages offering food and accommodation. You can find the location of guest houses, hotels and other accommodation facilities on the map.

Water

You can ask the villagers for water before leaving the village. There are springs in two places along the route. It is recommended to take 1.5-2 litres of water depending on the temperature. The first source of drinking water is the small river you cross after descending into the Kokosh gorge. The second is the water of another small river in the Kokosh gorge about 7km from the start, however this water is not drinkable during rain or snowmelt.

Transportation

Local taxis (only Niva and UAZ jeeps) can take you to Griz village from the centre of Guba city for 60 AZN. If you intend to return to Guba from Griz, 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 Galakhudat, you ask the same driver to collect you and take you back for about an extra 20 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.

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