Travel - Internal
Note
Internal travel to several regions close to the Armenian border is restricted; travellers must obtain special permission from the Ministry of the Interior to visit these areas. Visitors should not attempt to enter or leave via land borders with Russia (ie Dagestan), as these are closed to foreign visitors. If holding valid visa, it is possible to cross Iranian border to Astara. Visas are not issued at the land border with Georgia. Travel to Nagorno-Karabakh, and the occupied area (this area is part of a debate between Azerbaijan and Armenia) around it, is strongly advised against; official advice should be sought before departure. Political tension has been mounting since the October 2003 elections, which has resulted in an escalation of serious street violence - although not directed towards foreigners and, recently, beginning to subside in quantity. Police are conducting document checks at night, mainly after 2300. It is best to cooperate if approached. However, be aware that there have been incidents of foreigners being approached by people feigning to be police officers for the intention of thieving money and documentation.
Road
Azerbaijan’s road network totals around 57,770km (34,346 miles). Nowadays most roads are in better condition (but still pretty poor) and 4-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for journeys into the mountains, eg west of Kuba. Traffic drives on the right. Visitors should note that many local drivers do not adhere to traffic regulations and that cars are badly maintained. Roads are badly lit. There is zero tolerance on alcohol consumption while driving. Car hire: Car hire facilities are available through Avis and Hertz in Baku. Documentation: An International Driving Permit is required or license issued by an EU country.
Urban
Taxi fares should always be negotiated before starting a journey, and visitors should be aware that rates proposed initially are likely to be unreasonably high. There is an underground system totalling 28km (17.5 miles) but most visitors use taxis or private cars. Baku Metro is poorly maintained and the system is often inadequately safe and overcrowded. Buses run from central Baku to the suburbs but they tend to be overcrowded.
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