In November 2024, I traveled solo to Baku, Azerbaijan, for the United Nations Climate Conference. While my experience may have been influenced by the influx of tourists during the event, and the fact that the whole city was aware of it. You can still get general sense of safety in a location as a solo traveler. So, Is Baku, Azerbaijan safe for solo female travelers? Generally yes and I would recommend it for solo females.
Before heading to Azerbaijan, I did some research to ensure the country would be safe for me as a solo female traveler. While I never felt my life was in serious danger. There were two moments related to transportation (I heard taxi/Bolt/Uber drivers were a common problem here) that caused a level of discomfort I hadn’t experienced in other countries I’ve traveled to. Of course these instances could happen to a foreigner in any country, but these were my experiences.
Just like any destination, be aware of cultural norms, local customs, and trust your instincts. Azerbaijan is a largely Muslim country, although it is more secular in practice. Be mindful and dress modestly, especially if visiting any religious sites.
Transportation in Baku
In Baku, I found the city to be quite safe and welcoming. However, there were a couple of moments involving transportation that caught me off guard.
The first was a situation with a local taxi driver. After taking a UN-provided bus to a stop not too far from my hostel, I was instructed to take a taxi the rest of the way. The driver, only accepted Azerbaijani cash, so I withdraw money from an ATM to pay the fare. When I did so and paid him the agreed amount, he unexpectedly became hostile and yelling at me, demanding more money. I only managed to diffuse the situation when a police officer happened to walk by. While I didn’t feel physically threatened, it was a stressful and uncomfortable experience, especially when it was clear that he was trying to take advantage of me as a foreigner.
Tip: Consider using Uber or Bolt from the airport to avoid potential issues with local taxis. These services ensure you pay the correct amount, and you’ll have a digital record of the transaction.
This contradicts my first tip as the second instance occurred when I was returning to the airport in an Uber. I joined a friend I made and her coworkers in an Uber, which seemed like a safe option. But during the ride, the driver suddenly turned on the light and began recording us from the front seat. My friend’s coworker immediately stopped him, but it still left me feeling uneasy, especially since I had never encountered something like this before in my travels.
Tip: Whenever possible, try to share a ride with others and use the premium version. Don’t hesitate to speak up if anything feels off. Consider getting on the phone with someone during your ride for added peace of mind and security.
So, did those instances make me want to say Azerbaijan is an unsafe country? No. Azerbaijan is a beautiful country with welcoming people, but as a solo female traveler, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings, particularly when it comes to transportation. With the right precautions, you can enjoy your trip while staying safe.
This is a great site that has information to plan your travel, outfits, and activities.
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