A delightfully rewarding hike links Xınalıq to Laza in 10 to 12 hours. Two routes are possible, around the base of Mt Şahdağ or past the fire-vent and over a shoulder of dramatically crag-topped Qızılqaya. A local guide (around around Manat30 per day) is particularly important for the latter, as fog can descend suddenly even on an apparently clear day, totally hiding the path.

If you have luggage it's also a good idea to hire packhorses (around Manat20 to around Manat40). In Xınalıqi-Ketsh language dzhim onongondeh pshii i hadmé ishkeléh Laza guisu means 'where can I find a horse and guide to take me to Laza?'. Since a new army/customs post was built across the valley from Xınalıq, some travellers have reported soldiers preventing hikers from exploring the nearby valleys including the route to Laza. To avoid problems ask your guide to forewarn the military post before you set off.