Welcome to Azerbaijan

Up and coming in world travel, Azerbaijan is classic, cosmopolitan and captivating. In Baku, you could get lost for hours in the UNESCO World Heritage Old City. In the desert, witness mud volcanoes and otherworldly fire phenomena.

In Gobustan, there is rock art at which to marvel – more than 6,000 petroglyphs depicting ancient ways of life. In Guba, gateway to the Caucasus Mountains, there are outdoor adventures for every taste. In Sheki, there is Silk Road history to soak up and fascinating architecture and food to enjoy. And in Nakhchivan, far off the beaten path, there are distinctive cultures, villages, cuisines and landscapes like nothing you’ve ever experienced.

Unique Facts

• Azerbaijan is called “The Land of Fire” for several reasons. One of which is that the first-known fireplace, dating back from 700,000 to 500,000 years ago, was discovered here in Azikh Cave.
• Azerbaijanis take their tea with a side of jam. This cooked, jammed fruit is more of a paste and one is meant to sip their tea with a piece of jam in their mouth.
• Baku is home to the largest flag in the world, weighing two tons and measuring the size of a football field.
• Pancakes are much revered in Azerbaijan. These stuffed delicacies – called kutabi – are strictly savory, so forget about maple syrup.
• The karabakh horses of Azerbaijan are world famous and the national animal. They’re endemic to the country and known for their speed, intelligence and endurance.

Language

Azerbaijan’s official language is Azerbaijani.

When To Go

The best time to go to Azerbaijan is April to June or September to October.

Airports

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Azerbaijan: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive the Hepatitis A vaccine. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Malaria and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Azerbaijani Manat

Getting Around

The older roadways are poorly constructed, maintained and lit. Many rural roads are unpaved. Driving in Baku is dangerous. Be aware of pedestrians.

In Baku, there is an inexpensive metro system. Use only marked taxis. In the rest of the country, public transportation is overcrowded and poorly maintained.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license and an international driving permit are required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Baku
111 Azadliq Prospecti
AZ1007 Baku, Azerbaijan
Telephone: +(994) (12) 488-3300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(994) (12) 488-3300
Fax: +(994) (12) 488-3695
ConsularBaku@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourist Information Center
Üzeyir Hacıbəyli küç 70
Tel: 012-4981244

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Fire: 101
Police: 102
Ambulance: 103

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Azerbaijan. The majority of crimes involve burglary, assault or petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Use cautions in areas that attract large crowds or that are very isolated. Financial scams are increasingly common.