Baku Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Baku.
Healthcare System
Azerbaijan has a mixed healthcare system with both public and private facilities. Public healthcare is available but private clinics and hospitals are strongly recommended for international visitors due to better standards, modern equipment, and English-speaking staff.
Hospitals
Recommended hospitals for tourists include the International Hospital of Azerbaijan, Medclub Hospital, Central Clinical Hospital, and European Medical Center. These private facilities have English-speaking doctors, modern equipment, and accept international insurance. Payment is typically required upfront before treatment.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (aptek) are abundant throughout Baku and generally well-stocked with common medications. Many medications available by prescription-only in Western countries can be purchased over-the-counter. Pharmacists are usually knowledgeable but may not speak English. Bring prescriptions for any regular medications, preferably with generic names.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is not legally required but is strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, as serious conditions may require transport to Turkey or Europe for treatment. Private hospitals will require proof of insurance or upfront payment.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications as specific brands may not be available
- Carry a copy of prescriptions with both brand and generic names
- Tap water is not recommended for drinking; stick to bottled water
- Private clinics may require cash payment upfront, even with insurance; keep receipts for reimbursement
- Medical evacuation insurance is particularly important as specialized care may require travel abroad
- Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended; ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and markets. The risk is lower than in many European capitals but still present.
Traffic in Baku can be chaotic with aggressive driving, frequent lane changes, and limited adherence to traffic rules. Pedestrian crossings are not always respected by drivers.
Unlicensed taxis and some official taxis may overcharge foreign tourists, particularly at the airport and tourist sites. Meters may be 'broken' or drivers may refuse to use them.
Political demonstrations are rare but can occur. They may be dispersed quickly by authorities. Foreign nationals should avoid any political gatherings.
Areas near the Armenian border and the Nagorno-Karabakh region are dangerous due to ongoing territorial disputes, landmines, and military presence. These areas are strictly off-limits.
Isolated incidents of drink spiking have been reported in bars and nightclubs, sometimes followed by robbery or assault.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some restaurants targeting tourists may add unauthorized items to bills, charge for bread or appetizers that were presented as complimentary, or apply inflated prices not matching the menu. This particularly affects restaurants in prime tourist locations.
Unofficial money changers or some exchange offices may offer attractive rates but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists, provide counterfeit notes, or switch agreed amounts. Some may also offer to exchange at 'special rates' on the street.
Individuals posing as police officers may approach tourists claiming to check identification or investigate counterfeit money, then request to see wallets or demand payment of 'fines' on the spot.
Some budget accommodations may claim damages to rooms that didn't occur or inflate the cost of minor issues to keep security deposits. Alternatively, they may claim credit card payment systems are down and request cash.
Some shops, particularly carpet sellers, may use high-pressure tactics, claim items are 'antique' when they're not, or significantly inflate prices for tourists. They may offer tea and hospitality to create obligation to purchase.
Some nightclubs may lure tourists in with promises of free entry or cheap drinks, then present exorbitant bills at the end of the night. Attractive individuals may invite tourists to specific venues where they receive commission on inflated bills.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Personal Security
- Register with your embassy upon arrival for longer stays
- Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas
- Be discreet about travel plans and accommodation details with strangers
- Keep emergency contact numbers saved in your phone
- Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in crowded places
- Don't display large amounts of cash or expensive items
Transportation Safety
- Use official taxi apps (Bolt, Uber) or hotel-arranged transportation
- The metro is safe, modern, and efficient for getting around
- Avoid unmarked taxis and those without meters
- If renting a car, ensure you have proper insurance and international driving permit
- Be extremely cautious as a pedestrian; drivers may not yield
- Avoid intercity travel at night due to poor road lighting and driving standards
- Use seatbelts at all times, even in taxis
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques (women should cover heads, everyone should cover shoulders and knees)
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially women
- Avoid public displays of affection beyond hand-holding
- Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional restaurants
- Respect religious practices, especially during Ramadan
- Don't photograph military installations, government buildings, or security personnel
- Learn a few basic Azerbaijani phrases; locals appreciate the effort
Food and Water Safety
- Drink only bottled water; avoid tap water and ice made from tap water
- Choose busy, popular restaurants where food turnover is high
- Ensure meat is thoroughly cooked
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Be cautious with street food; choose vendors with high turnover
- Peel fruits and vegetables or wash with bottled water
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during business hours
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Carry a mix of payment methods (cash, cards)
- The local currency is Azerbaijani Manat (AZN); carry small denominations
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Keep a small amount of cash separate for emergencies
- Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants but cash is needed for markets and smaller establishments
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication (widely available)
- Download offline maps before traveling to areas with limited connectivity
- Have your hotel address written in Azerbaijani
- Learn basic Russian or Azerbaijani phrases; English is limited outside tourist areas
- Keep your embassy contact information readily available
- WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Baku
Accommodation Safety
- Book accommodations through reputable platforms with verified reviews
- Check that rooms have working locks and use door chains/latches
- Keep valuables in room safes when available
- Know the location of emergency exits
- Verify hotel staff identity before allowing entry to your room
- Don't leave valuables visible in your room
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Baku is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The city is more liberal and cosmopolitan than many other parts of Azerbaijan. Harassment is less common than in some neighboring countries, though women may experience occasional stares or comments, particularly in more traditional neighborhoods. Taking standard precautions will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
- Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas; avoid revealing clothing to minimize unwanted attention
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than hailing cabs on the street, especially at night
- Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas; stay in well-populated zones
- Be assertive but polite if dealing with unwanted attention; most locals will respect boundaries
- Consider wearing a wedding ring to deter some unwanted advances
- Sit in women-only sections of buses if available and you feel more comfortable
- Join group tours for day trips outside Baku if traveling solo
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Be cautious in nightclubs and bars; some venues may have hostesses and aren't suitable for solo female travelers
- Conservative dress is required in mosques; carry a scarf for head covering
- Female-only accommodation options are available if preferred
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Azerbaijan (decriminalized in 2000), but there are no anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex marriage and civil unions are not recognized. The legal framework provides minimal protection for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Exercise discretion; avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Do not openly discuss LGBTQ+ topics or identity with strangers
- Be aware that there is no visible LGBTQ+ community or gay-friendly venues in Baku
- Book accommodations carefully; consider international hotel chains that may be more understanding
- Keep a low profile and be mindful of local cultural sensitivities
- Avoid LGBTQ+ activism or wearing pride symbols in public
- Be cautious on dating apps; there have been reports of entrapment and blackmail
- Consider traveling as 'friends' if in a same-sex relationship
- Research your embassy's support services for LGBTQ+ travelers before arrival
- Do not expect support from local authorities if facing discrimination
- Some international venues and expat communities may be more accepting but still exercise caution
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Baku. While the city is generally safe, medical care at international-standard facilities is expensive and requires upfront payment. Medical evacuation to Turkey or Europe for serious conditions can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, insurance provides protection against trip cancellations, lost belongings, and other unforeseen circumstances. Given the regional political situation and potential for sudden changes, comprehensive coverage provides important peace of mind.
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