Things to Do in Yanar Dag

A hillside northeast of Baku has burned continuously for over 65 years, creating one of Azerbaijan's most impressive natural displays. Yanar Dag sits about 25 kilometers from the capital, where natural gas seeping through rock ignites into persistent flames that dance across the slope. The fire never stops. This creates an otherworldly atmosphere that's particularly striking after dark when flames illuminate the surrounding landscape. You can see everything in about an hour, but most people combine it with other Absheron Peninsula geological sites. The current flames started in the 1950s when a shepherd accidentally ignited the gas seepage—despite local folklore connecting it to ancient Zoroastrian fire-worship traditions. The flames persist through all weather conditions. Worth seeing.

Since Yanar Dag is a day-trip destination, most dining happens back in Baku with everything from traditional Azerbaijani plov and kebabs to international food. Some tour operators include traditional meals in their Absheron Peninsula packages, often featuring local specialties like saj bread cooked on traditional griddles. Simple but authentic. The small town of Qala has a few local restaurants serving Azerbaijani dishes if you're driving independently. Pack water and snacks—facilities near Yanar Dag are quite limited.

Visit any time of year since the flames burn continuously, but timing within the day matters more than season. Late afternoon and evening visits offer the most dramatic experience as flames become more visible against darker sky. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide the most comfortable weather. Summer can be quite hot during midday. Winter visits work well and offer good flame visibility, though you'll want warm clothing since the site is exposed to wind. Avoid heavy rain or strong winds when smoke can obscure the view.