AZE.US
Visitors to the Ramramay Waterfall in Azerbaijan’s Ilisu National Park must now pay an entrance fee of 2 manats ($1.18) per person.
The waterfall, which is more than 76 meters (249 feet) high, is located within the park’s tourism and recreation zone. The area also features natural hot springs, another waterfall known for its moss-covered landscape, and several historical monuments.
Under the national park’s new tourism concept, four routes have been designated during the initial phase: Hamam Dara, Jinli Gala, Ulubash and Ramramay Waterfall.
The new fee has received mixed reactions from visitors. Some said the charge could be justified if the money is used to improve safety and maintain the area. Others argued that even a modest entrance fee could make family trips more expensive, particularly for large families and low-income residents.
Azerbaijan’s Biodiversity Protection Service said the ticketing system applies to national parks across the country. Parking costs 0.50 manats ($0.29) per hour or 5 manats ($2.94) for the entire day.
According to the agency, the revenue will be used to protect natural areas and biodiversity, develop ecotourism infrastructure and maintain tourist routes.
AZE.US