Snowy slopes, a stunning mountain range, and an overall wintery vibe make Azerbaijan an excellent winter holiday destination. But to escape here and enjoy this country's outstanding offers, travelers must secure it if they need to get an Azerbaijan visa.

During the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can range from -10ºC  to +3ºC, so don’t forget to bundle up and pack plenty of warm layers, gloves, a wool scarf, and an insulated coat. Most travelers wanting to experience this season to the fullest will partake in outdoor winter sports activities, such as skiing, snow tubing, parachuting, and more.  

Does it snow in Azerbaijan?

Yes! Azerbaijan is famous for its winter weather, winter sports activities, ski hills, gorgeous snow-capped mountains, and winter festivities. 

Baku in December: Weather Overview

Due to Baku’s location along the Caspian Sea, visitors can expect milder temperatures ranging from 4°C to 11°C. This means Azerbaijan snowfall is unlikely in Baku, although occasional rainfall throughout the month is common. Rainfall progressively decreases as the month progresses, starting with an average of 1.7 cm to 5 cm and ending the month with an average of 1 cm to 3 cm. 

Does it Snow in Baku?

Ready for a Baku winter? If snowfall is to occur in December, it is more likely towards the end of the month and at night, when the temperature drops. Even so, don’t expect snowfall to last, so take photos while you can. 

In part due to weather conditions, December is typically a low tourist season for Baku, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a great time to visit. Lower crowds, winter festivals, such as the "Cold Hands, Warm Hearts" Christmas market, and the International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis celebration are great ways to experience this vibrant nation. 

If you want to ensure a snowy visit, visit Baku in February, when snowfall is more common. 

Read also: Ultimate Azerbaijan Itinerary for 7 Days: Explore Baku and Beyond

Winter Weather Across Azerbaijan

As Azerbaijan’s landscape is varied, visitors can expect a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions during the Azerbaijan snow season. In comparison to Baku’s milder winter temperatures, travelers visiting Azerbaijan’s Caucasus mountain range are more likely to experience heavy snowfall. Especially when visiting the popular Tufandag Mountain Resort and Shahdag Summer Winter Resort. So keep in mind that snow in Azerbaijan is not always a sure thing!

At Tufandag Mountain Resort, from December to March, weekly snowfall ranges from 4 cm to 9 cm. Providing fresh powder for avid skiers and snowboarders alike. For guests not into outdoor sporting activities, the resort does offer a cable car ride that provides exceptional views of the snowy mountain range and Gabala Valley. 

Shahdag Summer Winter Resort is known for having an even higher rate of winter snowfall, with an average of 12 cm to 18 cm expected weekly. As the first ski resort in Azerbaijan, Shahdag Resort’s 14 ski slopes are a great option for beginner to advanced skiers. 

A third option for a mountainous winter escape is a visit to Quba. Located on the North Eastern slopes of Shahdag mountain, winter temperatures average -1—7°C, so make sure to bundle up. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Afurdzhi Falls, winter markets and festivals, and snow-covered mountain views. 

The Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan for Snow

If you are an avid snow lover and don’t want to miss out on a snow escape, then it is best to carefully plan your travel dates accordingly. Focus on planning your trip during Azerbaijan's most snowy months, December, January, and February. Additionally, choose locations that are more likely to experience snowfall, such as the Caucasus Mountains. Although a visit to Baku is a must for any Azerbaijan vacation, it is important to keep in mind that due to Baku’s milder temperatures, a winter wonderland may not occur. So, if Baku snow is paramount, make sure to add a mountain escape to your Azerbaijan itinerary or a visit to Baku in January or February when snow is more likely.   

When does it snow in Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan is most likely to experience snowy conditions in January and February. Yet, snowfall does occur, although not as often, in December. The best Azerbaijan snow places are the Shahdag and Tufandag mountains, respectively. 

Azerbaijan Winter Attractions and Activities

One of Azerbaijan’s biggest tourism draws is its winter sports activities and ski resorts. Tourists from around the world and domestic travelers come to experience the Caucasus mountain range, with most visiting the Shahdag Ski or Tufandag Mountain Resorts. Ski Slopes, hiking trails, and cozy mountain cabin views are key features of these winter escapes. 

Travelers looking for a more relaxing experience can explore one of the mountain's luxurious spas, featuring key amenities, such as heated pools, Turkish baths, saunas, wellness centers, and traditional cuisine. Shahdag Ski Resort in particular is popular for its 3,000 squ. Meter Ovdan Spa, offers specialized services, including massages, facial treatments, and yoga classes.  

For those wishing to escape the crowds, a scenic winter walk along a mountain trail or a cozy cup of local tea at a cafe can do just the trick.   

Winter Festivals and Events in Azerbaijan

• Cold Hands, Warm Hearts Festival: When visiting Baku in winter, you can’t miss the Christmas & New Year Festival. This festive and warm celebration is beloved by locals and lifts their spirits during these cool winter months. Shopkeepers selling clothing, books, handicrafts, spices, and more fill the fountain square while twinkling lights and Christmas decor light the way for visitors. Passersby can enjoy traditional sweets with a cup of tea at one of the many local cafes and enjoy the ambiance. Although Christmas is not a traditional holiday celebrated in Azerbaijan, it has become a fun way for locals to light their spirits during the cooler months. 
• World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day: This annual public holiday is celebrated to commemorate Azerbaijan’s solidarity and unity as a nation after the teardown of the border fence between Azerbaijan and Iran in December 1989. Due to the importance of the day, you may not notice the closure of local businesses and government offices.
• New Year Village: From November 27 - to January 15, Baku Port Mall celebrates the coming New Year with festive decorations, entertainment, delicious treats, photo ops, and more. Capture the festivity by posing with the “Grinch”, explore the mall's seasonal discounts, or try one of the holiday appetizers available for a limited time. 
• Local Traditions: Azerbaijan is well known for its strong tea culture. So, escape the cold by seeking refuge in a nearby tea house or local establishment. Enjoy a warm cup of locally harvested tea, a hot cup of piti (lamb stew), or a steaming dushbara (traditional dumplings served in hot broth). Afterward, you can relax in a local bathhouse or hammam. The warm waters will keep the cold at bay while you enjoy the calm spa-like environment. 

Azerbaijani Cuisine to Try in Winter

Azerbaijans' influence by East and Western traditions and cuisine is apparent in their cuisine. The fusion of spices, flavors, and nods to traditional Turkish, Iranian, and Eastern European dishes is apparent. With some of their most popular dishes being piti, dolma, and plov. 

Cooked in a ceramic pot, Piti is a combination of lamb, spices, chickpeas, chestnuts, and fat. This hot dish is frequently served in winter alongside salad, pickles, and lavash bread. 

Derived from the Ottoman Empire, dolma is a dish consisting of grape leaves stuffed with rice, minced meat, spices, and vegetables, which are then placed in a pot and steamed. Similarly to Turkey, dolma is served with yogurt and bread. 

Rice is a common food staple among most nations, with Azerbaijan not being the exception. Dining tables often feature a dish called plov, which consists of basmati rice, meat (commonly chicken or lamb), saffron, dried apricots, butter, chestnuts, onion, and seasoning. Restaurants serve variations, but most keep to this traditional recipe.  

Azerbaijan's traditional tea houses are popular among locals and visitors. Experience local tradition with a visit, especially during the colder winter months. 

Tips for Traveling to Azerbaijan in Winter

For travelers planning an Azerbaijan winter vacation, it is important to consider and plan your trip according to the weather conditions and your preferred activities. 

What to pack for an Azerbaijan winter holiday?

• Winter clothing, such as an insulated coat, gloves, scarves, hat, long pants, and sweaters, is ideal for an Azerbaijan winter vacation. If you plan to visit for Baku snow season, plan to pack a water-resistant jacket and/or umbrella in case of rainy days. 
• If you are planning a ski holiday and will be bringing your gear, then don’t forget your ski boots, skis, goggles, insulated pants, and jacket. 
• Don’t forget that the sun reflects off the snow, which can cause wicked sunburns. If you plan on participating in any outdoor winter activities, make sure to pack sunscreen just in case. 
• Religious sites, such as mosques, typically require modest attire. If you plan to visit, be respectful. Bring a headscarf (for women) and wear modest clothing that covers your chest, arms, and knees (both men and women). 

What is the best transportation for winter in Azerbaijan?

For drivers who feel comfortable on winter roadways and potentially poor road conditions, a private car or car rental may be an option. But for most travelers, during winter months it is best to rely on local drivers and transportation networks. Azerbaijan Railways is a safe and reliable transport option, offering rides to most major cities. Railroads are notoriously safer than Azerbaijan roadways, making a train ride an excellent solution for your transportation needs. 

What are the winter accommodation options in Azerbaijan?

Similar to the rest of the year, Azerbaijan offers a variety of hotels, Airbnbs, and resorts for travelers to rest and recoup during their stay. For those planning to visit the mountains both Tufandag Mountain Resort and Shahdag Summer Winter Resort are excellent accommodation options. Having been rated highly by visitors for their amenities, easy access to the slopes, and gorgeous mountain views. 

Is there any special gear I need to bring for Azerbaijan Snow Months?

In icy conditions, some travelers may prefer to wear shoe spikes when walking on winter trails or around the ski hills. They are designed to strap to the wearer's shoes, providing metal spikes on the bottom of the feet, increasing grip, and reducing slips and falls. 

If you plan to spend a large amount of time outside, you may benefit from insulated or thermal clothing, such as long johns. Layered under your regular clothing, this additional layer is great at keeping you warm for longer. 

Conclusion

In December, Azerbaijan is a winter wonderland in the mountains, yet December for a Baku Azerbaijan winter is typically milder. This is why it is important to plan your winter trip to Azerbaijan based not only on season but destination, weather conditions, activities, and desired festivities. 

Now that you know what to expect on your upcoming Azerbaijan cold weather holiday, it is time to plan for your arrival. If you need permission to visit this country, apply for an Azerbaijan e-visa now through our secure online portal. 

Want to ensure a smooth application process? Contact us at service@azerbaijanevisaonline.com for more details.