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Azerbaijan

Overview of Azerbaijan

Mountainous Azerbaijan
Photo credit: Matthew Hadley
Known as the 'Land of Fire', Azerbaijan lies between Asia and Europe and is a delightful mesh of contrasts, where east meets west, and bold modern architecture stands along side the UNESCO old town.

Wellness tourists in particular will relish a chance to try the country's unique medicinal oil, Naftalan. Considered an effective treatment for arthritis, psoriasis and rheumatism, the remedy lures many to Naftalan town, which has special spas and treatment centres where patients sit up to their necks in baths of the rare substance. Visitors to Azerbaijan can also choose from more than 1,000 mineral springs located throughout the country.

The capital, Baku, is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in the Caucasus region, and is Azerbaijan's cultural, economic, political, and scientific centre. Situated on the Caspian Sea, it is about 5,500 years old. History lovers can see some wonderfully preserved relics, ancient mosques, cities, oases, fortresses and palaces. They can also visit the ancient fire-worshipper temple complex, Ateshgah, and walk the natural gas-fuelled Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain), which is one of many impressive eternal fires on the Absheron Peninsula. Travellers who'd prefer a luxury experience of high-end hotels and exclusive boutiques should head for the boulevards of downtown Baku.

The mountainous northern hinterland is a treat as well. These lofty peaks are dotted with beautiful lakes, and have a population of bears, wolves and leopards, along with nomadic shepherds.

map of Azerbaijan


Key Facts

Language:
Azerbaijani, or Azeri, is the official language. Turkish and Russian are widely spoken; few people speak English.
Passport/Visa:

A valid passport and a visa are required for travel to Azerbaijan. To obtain any type of visa, visitors must present a letter of invitation from a contact in Azerbaijan, such as an employer or educational institution. If neither option is possible, visitors should have a travel agency in Azerbaijan submit an invitation letter. E-visas can be obtained before departure and it is recommended that passports be valid for six months after departure from this or any holiday destination.

Currency:

The official currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN), which is divided into 100 qapik. Major hotels, supermarkets and restaurants in Baku usually accept credit cards, and Euros, British pounds and US dollars are easily exchanged. ATMs can be found in most major cities and towns.

Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round, two-pin attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are in use.

Travel to Azerbaijan

Climate in Azerbaijan

Nine out of the 11 existing climate zones are present in Azerbaijan, although most of the country is dry semi-arid steppe. Generally speaking, summers are hot and winters are mild and wet, with snow in the mountains. Average temperatures range from 41°F (5°C) in the mountainous regions to 81°F (27°C) in the lowlands in summer, and 14°F (-10°C) to 37°F (3°C) in winter. The best time to travel for warm and dry weather is between April and October, but mountainous areas are best visited in the summer months of July and August. Baku is very hot and humid in the summer. Late spring and early summer, between April and June, are the best time to visit Azerbaijan, as the weather is warm and the flowers are in bloom.

Health Notes when travelling to Azerbaijan

No vaccinations are required for entry to Azerbaijan, but travellers should ensure that all routine vaccinations are up to date. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended for all travellers. Most health facilities are state-owned and equipment and staff training often fall short of Western standards. Outside of the capital, medical care and supplies may be difficult to come by and serious medical problems will require air evacuation to another country; comprehensive medical insurance is advised.

Safety Notes when travelling to Azerbaijan

The crime rate is relatively low, but muggings do occur in central Baku, particularly at night. Political gatherings and demonstrations should be avoided as these have become violent in the past. Unlicensed taxis should be avoided. Corruption is widespread. The area around Nagorno-Karabakh has long been the subject of dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia and most foreign governments advise against travel to the region due to ongoing outbreaks of violence, despite the ceasefire.

Customs in Azerbaijan

Most of the country is Muslim and visitors should respect religious customs, particularly during the month of Ramadan, when eating, drinking, and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture.

Travellers should dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or religious shrines. More specifically, women should cover arms and legs, and men should not wear shorts, even in summer.

Although homosexuality is legal in Azerbaijan, public displays of affection will cause offence, especially outside the capital. Foreign nationals are routinely subject to police checks and it is advisable to carry identification at all times.

Duty Free in Azerbaijan

Travellers older than 18 may bring 600 cigarettes, 3 litres of alcohol, 10kg of food products and goods up to the value of US$1,500 without paying customs duty. Banned items include weapons, narcotics and material encouraging terrorism or violence. Permission must be granted by the government before cultural artefacts, such as antique carpets, are exported from the country.

Doing Business in Azerbaijan

Personal contact and relationship-building is critical in Azerbaijan, which means that meetings are more effective than long-distance communication. It is common to exchange business cards in meetings, and these should be in Russian or English and have an Azeri translation on the reverse.

The language of business is Azeri or Russian, and translators will be required for those who don't speak either language. Azeris tend to be polite and visitors should be aware that a 'yes' might actually mean 'no'.

Culturally, there is a strong emphasis on not causing 'loss of face' publically. Azeris should not be rushed into making a business decision. Gender roles are traditional and businesswomen might be met with scepticism.

Communication in Azerbaijan

The international dialling code for Azerbaijan is +994. Roaming charges are high and it is best to buy a local SIM card. WiFi is available is many hotels and cafes in Baku, but internet freedom is poor, and there are many infrastructural challenges such as low quality connections.

Tipping in Azerbaijan

Service charges are usually included in bills and tipping is not compulsory. However, taxi-drivers, waiters and hotel staff are commonly given some small change.

Passport/Visa Note

A valid passport and a visa are required for travel to Azerbaijan. To obtain any type of visa, visitors must present a letter of invitation from a contact in Azerbaijan, such as an employer or educational institution. If neither option is possible, visitors should have a travel agency in Azerbaijan submit an invitation letter. E-visas can be obtained before departure and it is recommended that passports be valid for six months after departure from this or any holiday destination.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans:

US nationals require a valid passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for Canadians:

Canadians require a valid passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for UK nationals:

UK nationals require a valid passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for Australians:

Australians require a valid passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals:

Irish nationals require a valid passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders:

New Zealand nationals require a valid passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for South Africans:

South Africans require a valid passport and a visa.

Tourist Offices

Official tourism website: http://www.azerbaijan.travel

Azerbaijan Embassies

In the United States:

Azerbaijan Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 337 3500.

In Canada:

Azerbaijan Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 288 0497.

In the United Kingdom:

Azerbaijan Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7938 3412.

In Australia:

Azerbaijan Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6290 5600.

In South Africa:

Azerbaijan Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 346 1018.

Foreign Embassies in Azerbaijan

American Embassy

United States Embassy, Baku: +994 12 488 3300.

Canadian Embassy

Canadian Embassy, Ankara, Turkey (also responsible for Azerbaijan): +90 312 409 2700.

British Embassy

British Embassy, Baku: +994 (12) 437 7878.

Australian Embassy

Australian Embassy, Ankara, Turkey (also responsible for Azerbaijan): +90 312 459 9500.

Irish Embassy

Irish Embassy, Ankara, Turkey (also responsible for Azerbaijan): +90 312 459 1000.

South African Embassy

South African Embassy, Ankara, Turkey (also responsible for Azerbaijan): +90 312 405 6861.

Travel Advisories

Health Information for Travelers to Azerbaijan

Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Vaccines and Medicines

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

 

  Find Out Why Protect Yourself

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

get_vaccinated hygiene

Most travelers

Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.

Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Azerbaijan, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

get_vaccinated eat_drink

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Malaria

Although the risk of malaria is low in Azerbaijan, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. Some travelers to certain areas who are at higher risk for complications from malaria (such as pregnant women) may need to take extra precautions, like antimalarial medicine. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Azerbaijan, see malaria in Azerbaijan.

antimalarial_meds avoid_insects
Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Azerbaijan, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
  • People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
  • People who are taking long trips or moving to Azerbaijan
  • Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
get_vaccinated animals hygiene

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Most travelers

Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Azerbaijan, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

antimalarial_meds avoid_insects
Malaria

Although the risk of malaria is low in Azerbaijan, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. Some travelers to certain areas who are at higher risk for complications from malaria (such as pregnant women) may need to take extra precautions, like antimalarial medicine. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Azerbaijan, see malaria in Azerbaijan.

get_vaccinated animals hygiene
Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Azerbaijan, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
  • People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
  • People who are taking long trips or moving to Azerbaijan
  • Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Key
  • Get vaccinated
  • Take antimalarial meds
  • Eat and drink safely
  • Prevent bug bites
  • Keep away from animals
  • Reduce your exposure to germs
  • Avoid sharing body fluids
  • Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment

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Stay Healthy and Safe

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Azerbaijan, so your behaviors are important.

 

Eat and drink safely

Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.

Eat
  • Food that is cooked and served hot
  • Hard-cooked eggs
  • Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
  • Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
  • Food served at room temperature
  • Food from street vendors
  • Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
  • Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
  • Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
  • Unpasteurized dairy products
  • ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
  • Bottled water that is sealed
  • Water that has been disinfected
  • Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Hot coffee or tea
  • Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
  • Tap or well water
  • Ice made with tap or well water
  • Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
  • Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine

Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.

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Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Azerbaijan. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?
  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
    • DEET
    • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
    • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
    • IR3535
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.

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Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Azerbaijan include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
    • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
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Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

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Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
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Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
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Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Azerbaijan’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

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Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Walking

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Azerbaijan may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Azerbaijan, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

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Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave
  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
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Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Azerbaijan for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

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Travel Health Notices

There are no notices currently in effect for Azerbaijan.

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After Your Trip

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.

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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Currency

The official currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN), which is divided into 100 qapik. Major hotels, supermarkets and restaurants in Baku usually accept credit cards, and Euros, British pounds and US dollars are easily exchanged. ATMs can be found in most major cities and towns.

Baku International Airport (GYD)
Heydar Aliyev International Airport
http://www.airport.az/

Location: Baku The airport is situated about 13 miles (21km) from Baku.

map of Baku International Airport

Time: GMT +4

Contacts: Tel: +994 (12) 497 27 27.

Transfer between terminals: It is possible to walk between terminals.

Getting to the city: Aero Express buses service the city centre and official taxis are available outside the airport building. Visitors should be aware of drivers within the arrivals hall who are unlicensed and charge more. Hotel courtesy cars can be arranged for a fee.

Car rental: Car rental companies are available.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport.

Facilities: Services include ATMs and currency exchange, shops and restaurants, business-class lounges, a prayer room, a spa and beauty lounge, a barber shop and sleeping pods.

Parking: Parking is available at the airport.

Overview of the Attractions in Azerbaijan

Public Holidays in Azerbaijan

  2020 2021
New Year's Day Mon. January 1 Mon. January 1
Women's Day Fri. March 8 Fri. March 8
Victory Over Facism Day Thu. May 9 Thu. May 9
Republic Day Tue. May 28 Tue. May 28
National Salvation Day Sat. June 15 Sat. June 15
Armed Forces Day Wed. June 26 Wed. June 26
Independence Day Fri. October 18 Fri. October 18
Flag Day Sat. November 9 Sat. November 9
Constitution Day Tue. November 12 Tue. November 12
Revival Day Sun. November 17 Sun. November 17
Solidarity Day Tue. December 31 Tue. December 31
Novruz Wed. March 20 Wed. March 20
Ramadan Fri. May 24 to Sun. May 26 Mon. May 13 to Tue. May 14

News about Azerbaijan

Why Azerbaijan is one of the world's newest, and most challenging, hiking destinations
In the heart of northeastern Azerbaijan, a cluster of centuries-old stone dwellings cling to a hilltop surrounded by some of the South Caucasus country's highest mountains. Steeped in history and legend, Khinalig is populated by a tiny ethnic group speaking their own language and tracing their
CNN
Wednesday October 26, 2022
CDC adds a new country to its 'high' risk category for travel, but Morocco leaves it
The CDC added one new destination on Monday to its "high" risk list for Covid-19. Azerbaijan, which borders the Caspian Sea between Iran and Russia, moved to Level 3, or "high" risk. Locations at Level 3 now account for more than 125 of the roughly 235 places monitored by
CNN
Tuesday August 30, 2022
Back Again: The World's Only Active Airline Airbus A340-500
The A340-500 is virtually extinct in scheduled airline use. In 2021, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) used one aircraft between Baku and Moscow and the Turkish resort of Bodrum before the type was grounded in early September. It marked the end of the A340-500 commercially
Simple Flying
Tuesday January 04, 2022
Unlocking Armenia, The Travel Insider's Destination To Visit In 2020
There are a few elements that need to come together for a destination to rise in collective travellers’ consciousness, and that build-up has been happening to Armenia. The success of neighbouring Georgia put the spotlight on the entire Caucasus region, an area that also spans Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia and considered the natural boundary between Europe and Asia.
Singapore Tatler
Wednesday March 04, 2020
UNESCO names 29 new World Heritage sites for 2019
From the ruins of ancient Babylon in Iraq to the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright to the Prosecco region of northeast Italy, UNESCO's World Heritage Committee added 29 new cultural and natural sites to its World Heritage List at its annual meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan. The United Nations' cultural body meets annually to
CNN
Wednesday July 10, 2019
Where's next on UNESCO's World Heritage list?
A bird-filled estuary along China's Yalu River, ancient Bagan temples peering out above treetops in Myanmar and an Alpine road in Austria popular with thrill seekers are among this year's nominations for the UNESCO World Heritage List. This week the committee responsible for the list begins 11 days of deliberations in Baku, Azerbaijan, to decide
CNN
Tuesday June 25, 2019
Land of Fire Opens Up to Visitors
Azerbaijan is the land of mountains and mud volcanoes, multiculturalism and mugham music. Straddling East and West, it blends dramatic landscapes with a people and culture that reflect its fascinating location at the crossroads of Turkey, Russia and Iran.
CNN
Monday April 23, 2018
There Are Several Reasons Why Georgia Should Be on Your Mind
Georgia has long been a collision of cultures, as it borders Russia and Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan, and is fairly close neighbors with Iran. Mesmerizing architecture, relaxing sulphur baths, and a growing food and wine scene
Vogue
Tuesday November 14, 2017
The 10 Things You Must Absolutely Do in Baku
Inspired by Eurovision to visit Baku? You're in luck. Travelling to Azerbaijan used to mean a convoluted and inconvenient visa process that turned off travellers and stifled tourism. But in January of this year the new “ASAN e-visa” system came online, allowing citizens of 81 countries, including the UK, Australia, and US, to quickly apply and receive the visa via email. Visitors who take advantage will find plenty of things to see: a cosmopolitan, affordable capital of good eats, incredible architecture – and, most importantly, friendly cats
The Independent
Thursday May 11, 2017
Baku: F1 comes home to the city of bling
Vrrrooomm! Motor racing is coming home. For when the sport that burns more oil and rubber than any other takes to the streets of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, for the first time tomorrow, it will be in a setting awash with black gold and the wealth it generates. The city centre, where the Formula One circuit will loop and screech, has more bling than Lewis Hamilton – towers! neon! bigger! higher! – while out in the suburbs there are endless oilfields of blue nodding donkeys with red, skull-like heads. Drill down through this surreal urban fabric and you find a layered story – one that remains largely untold in the West
Telegraph (London)
Thursday June 16, 2016
The cultural tourist: Baku
Oil boom gives the Azerbaijan capital Baku a Parisian facelift
The Australian
Monday June 08, 2015
Iran’s province of surprises
Iran’s East Azerbaijan is full of secrets, including 800-year-old rock-cut villages, ancient Armenian monasteries and the world’s largest covered market