Göygöl National Park

Göygöl National Park is a protected forest area located on the northern slopes of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, covering approximately 12,755 hectares of woodland. The terrain sits at around 1,969 meters elevation and consists mainly of dense mountain forests with varied tree species.

The area was established as a state reserve in 1925 with initial protection of 6,739 hectares, then was designated as a national park in April 2008. This reclassification expanded the protection status and improved the management of the forest ecosystem.

The park is a significant destination for birdwatchers, where visitors encounter rare species like bearded vultures and Eurasian eagle-owls in their natural settings. Local communities have long valued these forests for their connection to the land and traditional practices.

Visitors need to obtain authorization and arrange electronic visas beforehand, as the park is located in a restricted zone with specific entry requirements. It is advisable to organize transportation in advance and check with local authorities about current access conditions.

The forest hosts around 420 plant species, including 20 varieties found nowhere else, such as Chestnut-Leaved Oak and Caucasian Ash trees. These rare tree types make the park a valuable site for plant researchers and nature enthusiasts.