Azerbaijan is a remarkable destination with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a blend of modern and traditional culture. If you're planning to visit this unique country, it's essential to know how to stay safe, manage your budget, and make the most of your trip. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable, and well-planned trip to Azerbaijan.
Staying Safe in Azerbaijan: Essential Tips
Azerbaijan is known for its safety, especially for tourists. The government has enforced strict laws to protect visitors, making crime against tourists rare. Nevertheless, it's always wise to stay cautious and follow basic safety tips.
General Safety: Azerbaijan is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence in tourist areas. The country has harsh penalties for crimes against tourists, so travellers are well-protected. Tourist police are visible in most areas.
Personal Safety: Avoid leaving drinks unattended in bars and always stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Solo female travellers should feel safe but are advised not to walk alone after dark, particularly in unfamiliar areas.
Avoid Political Discussions: It’s important to steer clear of political conversations, particularly any criticism of the government. Engaging in such discussions could lead to trouble, so it's best to avoid the topic altogether.
Emergency Numbers: For police assistance, dial 102.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This covers you in case of illness, theft, injury, or travel cancellations, providing peace of mind. It’s a crucial part of every trip, and we always advise travellers to have it.
Other Safety Precautions: Make sure to keep copies of important travel documents like your passport and ID. Share your travel itinerary with a trusted person so they know your location during your trip.
Where to Stay in Azerbaijan: Accommodation Options
Azerbaijan has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Depending on your travel style, here’s a breakdown of the accommodation types available throughout the country:
Hostels: Prices range from 10-20 AZN per night for dorms, though prices are typically 15 AZN higher in Baku. Private rooms in hostels can cost between 40-80 AZN per night.
Popular Hostels: Hostel Ilgar (Sheki), Sahil Hostel (Baku), Travel Inn Hostel (Baku).
Budget Hotels: You can find budget-friendly hotels for 60-85 AZN per night, offering more privacy and comfort.
Airbnb: Private rooms on Airbnb start at 25 AZN per night, while entire apartments are available for around 80 AZN per night.
Camping: Wild camping is allowed outside of national parks, providing a free and adventurous accommodation option for nature lovers.
Azerbaijan’s Culinary Scene: Food and Drink Costs
Eating out in Azerbaijan is affordable, and the variety of food options caters to all types of travellers. Here’s what you can expect to pay for different dining options:
Street Food: 2-3.50 AZN – Ideal for quick, affordable meals on the go.
Traditional Restaurants: 7-12 AZN – Enjoy local Azerbaijani dishes in a sit-down setting.
Western Restaurants: 16-50 AZN – Higher-end establishments that cater to Western tastes.
Casual Take-Out: 7.50-11 AZN – A good option for fast, casual meals.
ast Food: 9 AZN – Expect to pay this for standard fast food meals like McDonald's.
Drinks:
Beer: 2-4 AZN
Glass of Wine: 6-8 AZN
Cappuccino/Latte: 4-5 AZN
Groceries: If you prefer to cook your own meals, weekly grocery costs range from 50-70 AZN, making it a budget-friendly alternative to eating out.
Budgeting for Your Trip: Daily Costs
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Backpacker Budget (85 AZN per day): This covers hostel dorm stays, street food, cooking some meals, visiting a few attractions, and using public transportation.
Mid-Range Budget (175 AZN per day): Stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more frequently, take guided tours, and visit more paid attractions. You’ll also be able to enjoy some drinks and take taxis for convenience.
Upscale Budget (375 AZN per day): For those seeking luxury, you can stay in hotels, dine out at high-end restaurants, hire a rental car, and enjoy all the tours and activities you desire without worrying about the cost.
Money-Saving Tips for Travelling in Azerbaijan
Travelling on a budget? Here are some smart ways to save money during your visit:
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water isn’t safe to drink, but using a bottle with a built-in filter (such as LifeStraw) ensures clean water while cutting down on plastic waste.
Take Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour in Baku to get a better sense of the city without spending much. Baku Free Tour is highly recommended.
Wild Camping: If you enjoy the outdoors, Azerbaijan offers ample opportunities for wild camping, which is free outside of national parks.
Cook Your Own Meals: If you stay in a hostel with a kitchen, cooking your own meals can save money, especially in areas where dining out is more expensive.
Stay with Locals: Use Couchsurfing to find free accommodation with local hosts who can offer insider tips and a more authentic experience.
Walk Everywhere: Most cities and towns are highly walkable, allowing you to explore at no extra cost.
Take Advantage of Free Spaces: Azerbaijan is home to beautiful free parks, hiking trails, and outdoor spaces that you can enjoy without spending anything.
Getting Around in Azerbaijan: Transport Options
Getting around Azerbaijan is easy with a variety of transportation options available:
Public Transportation: Baku has a metro system with rides costing 0.30 AZN. You’ll need a BakiKart (2 AZN) for access. Buses within the city cost around 0.20 AZN.
Taxis: Taxi fares start at around 1.89 AZN, with an additional 0.60 AZN for each kilometre travelled.
Intercity Buses: The most common form of intercity travel, minibuses (marshrutkas) operate on flexible schedules and are popular with locals. Expect to pay around 5 AZN for a trip from Baku to Quba (160 km).
Trains: Trains in Azerbaijan are slower but can be a budget-friendly option for longer distances. Night trains are an excellent way to save on accommodation, with fares as low as 9 AZN for a sleeping berth.
Car Rentals: Renting a car costs around 60 AZN per day for a multi-day rental. Be sure to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle.
Hitchhiking: Safe and common in rural areas, but be prepared to contribute to the cost of petrol.
When to Visit Azerbaijan: Best Seasons for Travel
The best time to visit Azerbaijan depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do:
Spring and Early Summer (April to June): Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). The landscape is vibrant, with flowers in full bloom.
July: A popular time for trekking, though temperatures can rise significantly, making some areas quite hot.
August: Temperatures soar up to 40°C (104°F), making it less comfortable for outdoor activities but ideal for beach getaways.
Winter (December to February): If you’re a fan of winter sports, this is the time for skiing in Azerbaijan's mountainous regions. The country also celebrates Christmas with markets and festivals, adding to the winter charm.
Final Thoughts
Azerbaijan offers travellers a rich mix of cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and historical sites. Whether you're planning a budget-friendly backpacking trip or a luxurious holiday, the country has something for everyone. With proper planning and a bit of local knowledge, your visit to Azerbaijan will be both memorable and affordable.
