Exploring Azerbaijan: Safe For American Tourists?

Azerbaijan is considered a relatively safe destination for tourists, but it's important to exercise caution due to terrorism concerns and areas of armed conflict. The US State Department recommends that US citizens exercise increased caution when visiting Azerbaijan, especially near the border with Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which has recently seen hostilities. While violent crime is rare, tourists should be aware of scams and petty crimes such as pickpocketing, as well as the risk of drink and food spiking in bars and nightclubs. It's also important to respect local laws and customs, as Azerbaijan is mostly conservative, and be aware of potential health risks and inadequate medical facilities outside of Baku.

Terrorist threats and attacks

The US State Department currently recommends that US citizens exercise increased caution in Azerbaijan due to terrorism concerns and areas of armed conflict. Terrorist groups that continue to plot attacks pose a risk in Azerbaijan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas and attractions or other places frequented by foreigners. Possible targets include:

• Places of worship or religious holidays
• Hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• Markets and shopping malls
• Outdoor recreation events

Be aware while in places known to be possible targets, report suspicious activities or items to the police, check the media for new threats, take official warnings seriously, and follow the instructions of local authorities. If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Scams and theft

Azerbaijan is a relatively safe country for tourists, but it is important to remain vigilant, especially in public places that are frequented by foreigners, as these are common targets for terrorist attacks.

Another common scam involves thieves posing as police officers and demanding money. In this situation, you should ask to be taken to the nearest police station to pay the fine. Financial scams, particularly those related to internet dating, real estate, licensing, and travel, are also prevalent. There have been reports of increased credit and debit card fraud, so it is important to monitor your accounts and be cautious when using your card.

When it comes to accommodation, be cautious of cheap hotels that add on extra charges for things like breakfast. It is recommended to use hotels that cater to foreigners, as these are less likely to be involved in scams.

To avoid petty theft, such as pickpocketing, take extra care in outdoor markets and on public transportation, including the Baku Metro. Be vigilant when walking after dark, especially near hotels and in residential areas.

Additionally, it is important to be aware of digital identity theft and cyber-based threats. Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks or using shared computers, as your personal information and devices may be compromised.

LGBTQI+ safety

LGBTQI+ people in Azerbaijan face significant challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBTQI+ residents. While same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 2000, there are no laws banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Same-sex marriage is not recognised, and same-sex couples are not allowed to adopt children.

Azerbaijan is largely a secular country with one of the least practising Muslim-majority populations. However, homosexuality remains a taboo subject in Azerbaijani society, with LGBTQI+ individuals facing high rates of violence, harassment, and discrimination. LGBTQI+ people are regularly targeted and attacked by authorities and far-right groups, and isolated by wider society. There is a lack of knowledge about homosexuality, and coming out is rare, with individuals often leading double lives.

There have been reports of police abuses against LGBTQI+ people, particularly male prostitutes, and in 2017, more than 100 LGBTQI+ people were arrested, with detainees subject to beatings, interrogation, forced medical examinations, and blackmail. In 2019, the European Court of Human Rights called out Azerbaijan for raids in which over 80 LGBTQI+ people were detained and tortured by police.

In recent years, LGBTQI+ people have gained more visibility through social media and films, and there are a small number of LGBTQI+ organisations in the country. However, LGBTQI+ activists continue to face challenges, with violent attacks, unwarranted detentions, and discrimination remaining common.

Driving and road safety

Driving in Azerbaijan can be dangerous. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Roads and vehicles are often in poor condition.
• Drivers frequently ignore traffic regulations, signals, lane markings, pedestrians, and other drivers.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal, with a zero-tolerance policy in place.
• Driving hazards such as open manholes, debris, and potholes are common, even in Baku.
• Rural roads are often unpaved and lack lighting or road signs.
• Pedestrians often disregard vehicles, crosswalks, signs, and signals, so be extra cautious.
• If you are driving, always carry your passport, local registration documents, driver's license, vehicle registration documents, and proof of insurance.
• Foreigners residing in Azerbaijan for more than 30 days must obtain a local driver's license through ASAN Xidmet.
• Right-hand drive cars are illegal in Azerbaijan.
• If you plan to rent a car, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your local driver's license. Check with your insurance provider and car rental company about their specific requirements.
• It is recommended to use registered taxis or authorised limousines. Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you, or use an official taxi rank.
• When using a taxi, sit in the back seat rather than the front, and always use a taxi service app to avoid scams and ensure you pay the correct amount. Take a screenshot of the price before your ride, and be aware that no Bolt taxi will have change.
• Public transportation, especially buses, may be overcrowded and may not meet Western safety standards.
• The Baku metro system is inexpensive and has excellent security, with police units and bag checks at each station. However, signs are in Azerbaijani.

Medical care

The CDC and WHO recommend that travellers to Azerbaijan get vaccinated for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19.

Medical facilities in Azerbaijan are adequate in private hospitals in Baku. However, services in government hospitals and rural areas are often limited, with shortages of basic medical supplies. In the event of a serious illness or injury, you may need to be medically evacuated to Turkey or Western Europe, so ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common in Azerbaijan. These include typhoid, hepatitis and brucellosis. To avoid these, only drink boiled or bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked food and unpasteurised dairy products.

Ambulance services are widely available, but the training and availability of emergency responders may be below US standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travellers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept US health insurance, and US Medicare/Medicaid does not apply. Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas and consider obtaining supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription. Check with the Embassy of Azerbaijan or the State Customs Committee to ensure the medication is legal in Azerbaijan.

Frequently asked questions