Goygol National Park captivates nature lovers with its emerald forests and the dazzling blue of Göygöl. Here, unforgettable landscapes await you, where crystal-clear waters reflect the ancient volcanic mountains.
Among the captivating landscapes of Azerbaijan, there is a gem known as Göygöl National Park.
With its breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity, this natural wonder is recognized worldwide. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in untouched nature.
Formation
The enchanting nature of Göygöl has long attracted attention and led to discussions about establishing a reserve in the early 20th century. In 1925, the Göygöl State Nature Reserve, the first of its kind in Azerbaijan, was established. Later, based on public demand and recommendations, it was reorganized by the Azerbaijani SSR Council of Ministers' decision No. 475 on July 14, 1965. By Presidential Decree, Göygöl National Park was created. On April 1, 2008, the Göygöl State Nature Reserve was expanded to cover the regions of Khanlar (now Göygöl), Dashkasan, and Goranboy. After receiving National Park status, the area of the Göygöl State Nature Reserve, initially 6,739 hectares, was expanded to 12,755 hectares. In addition to Göygöl, the National Park includes 10 other lakes. Other lakes include Maralgöl, Ördəkgöl, Zəligöl, Ayıgöl, and Şamlı. The lakes were formed due to an earthquake in 1139, when part of the 3,066-meter-high Kəpəz Mountain collapsed and blocked the flow of the Agchay River, resulting in the formation of lakes.
Flora and Fauna
Göygöl National Park has a rich vegetation cover. Mountain-forest, mountain-steppe, subalpine, and alpine meadow plant ecosystems develop here. In the mountain forests at altitudes between 1,100 meters and 2,200 meters, there are up to 80 species of trees and shrubs. These include eastern beech (Fagus orientalis), eastern oak (Quercus macranthera), Caucasian hornbeam (Carpinus caucasica), birch (Betula pendula), European ash (Fraxinus excelsior), field maple (Acer campestre), linden (Tilia cordata), and coniferous forests consisting of Koch pine (Pinus kochiana), as well as shrubs such as wild rose, hawthorn, dogwood, and raspberry.
In the subalpine meadows, plant species include Caucasian violet (Viola caucasica), alpine sedge (Poa alpina), Steven's dandelion (Taraxacum stevenii), bellflower (Campanula sp.), chamomile (Anthemis sp.), rough fescue (Festuca rupicola), Nardus stricta, bulbous grass (Poa bulbosa), and others.
The park, with altitudes up to 2,000 meters, provides favorable conditions for the development of animal populations due to the combination of various plant communities and its geographical location. In the territory of Göygöl National Park, mammals such as the Caucasian red deer (Cervus elaphus), European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), brown bear (Ursus arctos), mountain goat (Capra aegagrus), badger (Meles meles), wildcat (Felis silvestris), lynx (Lynx lynx), stone marten (Martes foina), weasel (Mustela erminea), hedgehog (Erinaceus concolor), fox (Vulpes vulpes), Radde's shrew (Sorex raddei), small mole (Talpa levantis), and white-toothed shrew (Crocidura leucodon) can be found. As for birds, species such as quail (Coturnix coturnix), wood pigeon (Columba oenas), turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur), woodcock (Gallinago gallinago), black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus), bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), griffon vulture (Aegypius monachus), Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus), Eurasian eagle owl (Bubo bubo), long-eared owl (Asio otus), mute swan (Cygnus olor), black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus), wood lark (Lullula arborea), mistle thrush (Turdus viscivorus), and others are found in the park. The rare species, Caucasian red deer (Cervus elaphus), is protected within the park's boundaries.
Adventure Paradise
For adventure enthusiasts, Göygöl National Park offers numerous outdoor activities. Hikers can discover trails that pass through lush forests and winding valleys. Bird watchers will be amazed by the variety of bird species residing in the park. For those seeking tranquility, the peaceful surroundings of the park provide a perfect environment to relax and reflect.
Summary
As we complete our exploration of Göygöl National Park, we recall the endless beauty and miracles that await us within its borders. From its magnificent forests to its serene meadows, this nature reserve offers a glimpse into Azerbaijan's untouched nature.
The diversity of natural beauty and the richness of flora and fauna in Göygöl National Park create opportunities for ecotourism activities, as well as attracting a large number of local and foreign tourists to the area.
If you would like to join us on a trip to Göygöl National Park, you can join our Kəpəz Peak tour.
