Introduction to Azerbaijan

Quick Overview

This former Soviet republic in the Caucasus is located on the dividing line between Europe and Asia, facing the Caspian Sea.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: in the Caucasus, along the Caspian Sea and north of Iran.

• Latitude/longitude: 40°25' N, 49°50' E.

• Local time: Heure : 12798

• Capital: Baku.

• Nature of the state: presidential republic.

• Official language: Azerbaijani.

• Currency: manat.

• Population: 10,046,516 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 86,600 km².

• Density: 115 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Bazardüzü (4,466 m).

• Lowest point: Caspian Sea coast (-28 m).

• Coastline: 713 km.

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

Thanks to its Caspian Sea coastline and a dynamic capital, Azerbaijan has found its audience, though it remains largely regional for now, despite authorities' stated desire to open the sector more widely (if not democracy...).

In total, the country now welcomes around 2.5 million visitors per year (2.606 million in 2018), with a third coming from Russia, followed by Georgia, Turkey, Iran, Iraq, the UAE, and others. As for the French, barely over 5,000 visit annually (5,500 in 2016).

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner/somewhat experienced travelers.

• By air: France-Baku.

• Entry requirements: passport + visa.

• Currency to bring:

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Adventure ★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation/holidays ★★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 80/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $17,500 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +13% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 5% (2017)

• Population below poverty line: 4.9% (2015)

• Life expectancy: 73 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: 0 (2017)

• Population growth: +0.83% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 99.8% (2015)

• Urban population: 55.7% (2018)

• Press freedom: 163/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: authoritarian regime (149/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook