Description
In the hillsides north of Batabat Lake Radde's Accentor has been seen a number of times. The road up here from the city of Nakhchivan passes through forests with Balkanfluesnapper and Østsanger, underarten nitidus in early summer.
Details
Access
When to visit: Late spring and early summer is the time to come for most target species. Late autumn and winter is the time for wintering birds along the Araz river and reservoir.
Go with a guide: Please note that it is currently not really possible to do a birdwatching trip independently in Nakhchivan, because many of the best sites are in border areas.
Terrain and Habitat
Lake , Grassland , Moors/heathland , City/village , Scattered trees and bushesConditions
Hilly , Open landscape , WetCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring , Autumn , WinterRoute
Paved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Nakhchivan is a fascinating region steeped in history, culture and natural splendour. Sights not to miss include the 12th-century Mausoleum of Momine Khatun, Nakhchivan Khan’s Palace, the mountain setting of Batabat Lake and mysterious Mt Ilandag. Make sure you also hike up the over 1,500 steps to Alinja Castle, ‘Azerbaijan’s Machu Picchu’, and visit the Duzdag salt cave sanatorium. Fascinatingly, local legend says that Noah settled here after the Great Flood and his tomb is located in Nakhchivan city. The region is also renowned for its hospitable locals.
Sleeping
Nakhchivan city is the best base for birdwatchers as it has several good hotels (including Tabriz, Hotel Grand, Duzdag and Saat Meydani) and all sites are easily accessible from here.


