Rock climbing in Azerbaijan: where the crags are and how to start

Rock climbing is not as widespread in Azerbaijan as hiking, but the terrain exists and the number of prepared routes has grown considerably over the last decade. The best news is that all the main areas are within an hour of Baku.

The main areas

Bibiheybət (Mayak). Limestone cliffs inside Baku, facing the sea. The most-used area in the country: short routes, an existing bolt system, twenty minutes from the city. Ideal for an evening session, because you can get there after a working day.

Nardaran. North of the Absheron peninsula; longer and more varied routes. Wind plays a role here — pay attention to direction.

Beşbarmaq mountain. On the Baku–Quba road, a rock massif known for its shrine. The climbing routes are set away from the pilgrimage section. In terms of scenery this is the most striking area in the country — the Caspian on one side, plains on the other.

The area around Kühül cave. A smaller crag inside Baku, but technically interesting.

The Qobustan rocks. Most of the area is a protected monument where climbing is prohibited. On the free massifs nearby there are bouldering spots — being careful about the rules matters here.

The difference between climbing types

• Bouldering. No rope, 3–5 metres high, a crash pad below. The cheapest and simplest way in.
• Sport climbing. Bolts are pre-fixed to the rock and the climber clips the rope into them. Most prepared routes in Azerbaijan are like this.
• Top-rope. The rope is anchored from above. The safest format — the standard for beginners.
• Trad (traditional). Protection is placed by the climber. It requires experience and is little used in the country.

Where to start

The answer is short: in a gym. There are climbing walls in Baku, and two or three months of training there is cheaper, safer and faster progress than going straight to rock. What you learn in a gym:

• Tying in (the figure-eight knot) and the partner check.
• Belaying — the technique of protecting the rope. This is a more important skill than climbing itself.
• Accepting falls. The main obstacle for beginners is not strength but fear.

Making your first outing to real rock with someone experienced is the rule — knowledge of the area, route choice and setting up the equipment are entirely separate subjects.

Equipment

Personal items you need to start: climbing shoes, a harness, a helmet and a chalk bag. Rope, carabiners and belay devices are usually shared within the group.

An important warning: do not buy second-hand helmets, ropes or carabiners. You do not know their history — a rope that has taken one hard fall or spent years in the sun can look perfectly sound.

Season

The climbing season on the Absheron is long: October–May is ideal, while in summer heat and sun make the crags unpleasant (early morning and evening aside). In winter the main obstacle is wind off the sea.

For a general introduction to mountain activities: The types of mountaineering.