Ismailli State Reserve, Natural reserve in the Major Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan.
The Ismailli State Reserve sits on the southern slopes of the Major Caucasus range at about 1,500 meters elevation. Its forests contain beech, hornbeam, and oak trees arranged in dense, layered growth.
The protected area was established in 1981 covering an initial size of about 57 square kilometers. It was later expanded to help preserve this mountainous woodland landscape more effectively.
The forests here contain rare oak species that are protected in Azerbaijan's Red Book, showing how important this place is for nature conservation. Visitors can see these special trees growing in their natural setting.
Access is managed by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, so it is good to check conditions before visiting. The mountainous location means sturdy footwear and preparation for changing weather are essential.
Brown bears, lynxes, and the rare Caucasian deer live here alongside more than 100 bird species in this mountainous forest. This variety makes the place an important refuge for North Caucasian wildlife.
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