Azerbaijan boasts a remarkable array of geographical features, showcasing an impressive tapestry of landscapes that range from lush wetlands to towering mountains, arid deserts to fertile valleys. At the heart of the country lies a vast valley, intricately woven around the Kura River. This expansive valley is flanked to the north by the majestic Greater Caucasus Mountains and to the south by the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, eventually opening up to the eastern shores of the Caspian Sea.
The pinnacle of Azerbaijan’s topography is Bazarduzu Dagi, which rises to an impressive height of 4,467 meters (14,656 feet), while the lowest point in the country is situated at -28 meters (-92 feet) in the Caspian Sea. This unique geographical positioning gives Azerbaijan a diverse climate and a rich variety of ecosystems.
The Caspian Sea, often referred to as a sea, is technically the largest lake in the world, home to a plethora of fish species and bordered by vital wetlands that support numerous bird populations. Millions of years ago, the Caspian Sea was part of a larger aquatic system connected to other seas, including the Mediterranean. However, tectonic shifts severed these connections around 5 million years ago. Today, the Caspian Sea is nourished by several major rivers, most notably the Kura, which flows through Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. While these rivers continuously supply water to the lake, the only means for water to exit is through evaporation. This evaporation process leaves behind salts and minerals, contributing to the salinity of the Caspian Sea, although it is not as salty as the world’s oceans. Additionally, the Caspian Sea lies below sea level, marking Azerbaijan’s lowest elevation at 28 meters (92 feet) beneath the surface.
Along its shores, the Caspian Sea features inviting beaches and resorts that draw visitors, especially during the summer months, as people flock to its waters to swim and escape the heat. The sea is also rich in natural resources, particularly oil, and is notable for being the site of the world’s first offshore oil wells, established near the capital city of Baku.
Traveling westward from the Caspian Sea, the Kura River offers the most accessible route. Originating in the mountainous regions of Turkey, the river flows through Georgia, receiving tributaries from rivers in Armenia—without actually entering Armenian territory—before traversing Azerbaijan and eventually emptying into the Caspian Sea. A significant dam near Mingachevir creates the Mingachevir Reservoir, which is the largest lake in Azerbaijan. The land surrounding the Kura River is predominantly irrigated and fertile, supporting agriculture, although large semi-desert areas also exist in the flatter regions of the country.
Azerbaijan’s geography is significantly characterized by its mountainous terrain. The Greater Caucasus Mountains dominate the northern landscape, while the Lesser Caucasus Mountains grace the southern part of the country, creating a diverse range of mountain environments. These mountains are part of an extensive range that stretches from Europe to Asia, with the watershed of the Caucasus Mountains serving as the official boundary between the two continents. The region experiences substantial snowfall and rainfall, which are crucial for replenishing the drinking water supply. The lower slopes are adorned with rich deciduous forests, featuring a variety of trees such as oak, maple, and ash, while the higher elevations transition to pine forests, glaciers, and open alpine areas.