DaranDash Canyon

DaranDash Canyon is one of the attractions of Marand in East Azerbaijan Province, located near the village of Haris (also called Horoutz). Also known as Govorchinliq Canyon, it is a thrilling destination for nature lovers and fans of adventurous travel. By cutting its way through hard rock, the Aq Chay River has carved this spectacular canyon in the heart of the beautiful landscape of Zonuz. As it passes, the river has split the rock open and created water-carved corridors, which have made this place famous. These corridors are also a refuge and shelter for pigeons and other birds. The walls of DaranDash Canyon stand between 2 and 10 metres apart, and the place feels like a legendary labyrinth. The canyon is up to 500 metres long, and seven impressive waterfalls double its beauty.

The spectacular DaranDash Canyon goes by several names. DaranDash and Daran Dash are among them; "dash" means stone in Turkic, and the name may come from the rocks and stones found here. It is sometimes also called Darandasht Canyon, although this name is less reliable. Govorchinliq, Gorchinik Darasi and Darreh Gorchinik are other names that locals use for DaranDash Canyon. Some people also pronounce it Govorchinlik. The name is closely connected with the pigeons and birds living in the corridors and among the rocks of the canyon; as you make your way through it, you will see them along the route.

The best time to visit the canyon is spring and summer, when nature is at its best and conditions are ideal for canyoning. Keep in mind that the Azerbaijan region has a cold climate, so avoid going to the canyon in the rainy seasons, or at least bring the necessary equipment. To canyon in DaranDash, you need adequate skills, the necessary canyoning techniques and good physical fitness, because you will face both a long walk and climbing and descending rock faces. To traverse DaranDash Canyon, bring descent equipment such as rope, a helmet and more.