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Mingachevir Lake

Central Azerbaijan  >  Azerbaijan

Mingachevir is an industrial town on the Kura river which expanded following WWII with the construction help of German prisoners of war.

Added* by Aytan Isayeva
Most recent update 20 April 2022

Description

For birdwatchers, there are a number of interesting areas near the city of Mingachevir, most notably a collection of wetlands, as well as the massive Mingachevir Lake. Moreover, if you drive along the main roads through the open landscape in the winter months, you are bound to see large flocks of birds. But the area is also interesting during spring and late autumn. Target species in winter: Little Bustard, Imperial Eagle, Saker Falcon, Dalmatian Pelican and Long-legged Buzzard. In summer: Long-legged Buzzard, Marbled Teal, Stone-curlew and Ferruginous Duck.

Details

Access

The paved road to the right leads directly to the entrance of Mingachevir through the villages. On this road, passing through the village of Hacıselli, you can stop for birds in the small ditch on the left. It is possible to go to the end of the dirt road and go from Havarli village to Mingachevir (suitable for jeep and off road observers).

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Lake , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , City/village

Conditions

Open landscape , High water possible

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

Spring , Winter , Autumn

Best time to visit

Spring , Winter

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot , Car

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

While Mingachevir is not currently a travelling hotspot, wandering around the city will interest admirers of Soviet architecture and the presence of the Kura, Azerbaijan’s largest river, creates a special atmosphere. Moreover, from Mingachevir you can easily reach both Ganja and Sheki, cities located some 70km away in opposing directions and offering a variety of historical and cultural sights, as well as good hotels and restaurants. Another option is Naftalan, some 50km south-west, which is home to Azerbaijan’s famous healing oil therapies offered at a number of resorts, ranging from basic to extreme luxury.

Links

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Map

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