Travellers to Azerbaijan can conveniently stay connected across the country by purchasing affordable, tourist-targeted SIM cards from major providers like Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar. These SIM cards offer data, calls, and texts, can be easily obtained in Baku airports and shops, and provide strong nationwide coverage and value for visitors. 

Choosing the optimal SIM package based on usage needs and validity period ensures a positive telecom experience in Azerbaijan.

Obtaining SIM Card in Azerbaijan

Buying a SIM card in Azerbaijan was a straightforward process. You could purchase a local SIM card from various mobile network operators, including Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar. 

Here's a general overview of the process:

• Providers: There are several telecom providers in Azerbaijan such as Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile. They offer various packages for calls, data, and texts.

• Documentation: When purchasing a SIM card, you'll need your passport for identification purposes.

• Shops and Outlets: SIM cards are available at the provider's official stores, authorised dealers, and sometimes even at the airport. You can easily find these shops in major cities like Baku.

• Registration: Upon purchasing the SIM card, the seller will register it for you. This registration requires your passport information.

• Types of SIM Cards: You can choose between prepaid or postpaid SIM cards, depending on your usage and preferences. Prepaid cards are more commonly used by travellers.

• Package Selection: Providers offer various packages with different data, call, and text allowances. Pick a package that suits your needs best.

• Activation: The seller usually activates the SIM card for you after purchase. Sometimes, it might require a specific code or activation process.

Azercell

Azercell is the leading mobile operator in Azerbaijan and one of the largest taxpayers in the non-oil sector. The company offers a wide range of mobile services, including voice, data, internet, and messaging. Azercell has a network coverage of over 99% of the population and is constantly innovating to provide its customers with the latest technology.

Azercell Network Coverage in Azerbaijan

Azercell, the leading mobile network operator in Azerbaijan, boasts impressive coverage across the country, reaching over 88% of the population and 80% of the territory. This makes it your reliable companion to stay connected during your travels:

Bakcell

Bakcell is the first mobile operator and leading mobile internet provider in Azerbaijan. With over 8000 base stations across the country, Bakcell provides quality 2G, 3G and 4G mobile services and covers more than 99% of the population. Bakcell offers a wide range of products from mobile voice and data services to various combinations of mobile internet packages to ensure convenient and seamless connectivity for its 3 million subscribers.

Prepaid Data Packages

Prepaid data packages allow mobile users to pay upfront for mobile internet access with data usage limits and validity periods. Choosing the optimal prepaid data package based on one's usage can optimise connectivity budget.

Postpaid Data Packages

Postpaid data packages allow mobile users to pay for data usage at the end of each billing cycle instead of pre-purchasing data allotments. Choosing postpaid plans that match expected monthly usage provides flexibility while avoiding overage fees caused by exceeding data limits.

Package Name	Data Allowance
Smart 10	10 GB
Smart 20	20 GB
Smart 40	40 GB

Bakcell Network Coverage in Azerbaijan

Whether you're exploring bustling cities or venturing into remote areas, Bakcell's wide network ensures you stay connected wherever you go in Azerbaijan.

Nar Mobile

Nar Mobile, also known as Azerfon, is a mobile network operator in Azerbaijan, offering a comprehensive range of services to individuals and businesses. With over 2 million subscribers.

Prepaid Data Packages

Nar Mobile offers a variety of affordable and flexible prepaid data packages to meet the needs of diverse customers in Azerbaijan. Customers can choose from multiple data package options with differing allotments of high-speed data, validity periods, and prices to conveniently stay connected while on the go.

Package Name	Data Allowance (2023)	Data Allowance (Possible 2024)	Validity Period (Days)
Gündəlik 1 GB	1 GB	1.5 GB	1
Həftəlik 5 GB	5 GB	7.5 GB	7
Aylıq 10 GB	10 GB	15 GB	30
Aylıq 20 GB	20 GB	25 GB	30
Aylıq 40 GB	40 GB	50 GB	30
Aylıq 80 GB	80 GB	100 GB	30

Postpaid Data Packages

Nar Mobile provides postpaid data packages that bundle together monthly data allotments with voice minutes and text messages for continuous mobile access. Customers can choose from postpaid plans that match their expected monthly data and calling usage needs while taking advantage of bundled services from Azerbaijan's leading mobile operator.

Package Name	Data Allowance (2023)	Data Allowance (Possible 2024)
Smart 10	10 GB	12.5 GB
Smart 20	20 GB	25 GB
Smart 40	40 GB	50 GB

Nar Mobile Network Coverage in Azerbaijan

Nar's 4G network is now available to customers in populated areas of the Shusha, Zangilan, Jabrayil, Gubadli, Kalbajar, and Lachin regions, where network infrastructure improvements are currently underway.

Airalo

Airolo is a global eSIM service provider that offers connectivity across over 200 countries worldwide including Azerbaijan. Travellers in Azerbaijan can purchase an Airalo eSIM to connect quickly and locally on their trip without changing physical SIM cards. 

Airalo eSIMs provide affordable data-only plans, easy online activation, and compatibility with most unlocked devices making them a preferred connectivity option for international roaming.

Here's how Airalo works:

• Download the Airalo app: The app allows you to browse data plans, purchase your chosen plan, and download it directly to your eSIM-compatible device.

• Scan the QR code: Upon landing at your destination, scan the provided QR code through the Air Alo app to activate your eSIM.

• Connect to the network: Once activated, your device will automatically connect to the local mobile network, allowing you to start using your data plan immediately.

Package Name	Data Allowance	Validity Period
Regional eSIMs
Azerbaijan Tourist 7-Day	5 GB	7 days
Azerbaijan Tourist 15-Day	10 GB	15 days
Azerbaijan Tourist 30-Day	20 GB	30 days
Global eSIMs
Global Tourist 7-Day	1 GB	7 days
Global Tourist 15-Day	3 GB	15 days
Global Tourist 30-Day	5 GB	30 days
Global Unlimited 7-Day	Unlimited data	7 days
Global Unlimited 15-Day	Unlimited data	15 days
Global Unlimited 30-Day	Unlimited data	30 days

Constructing an Organised Trip Itinerary

Ensure a smooth and budget-friendly travel experience with these essential tips:

• Visa and Documentation

Check visa requirements and obtain necessary documents for entry into Azerbaijan.

Get required vaccinations and medications. Carry necessary prescriptions and medical documents.

• Finances and Budgeting

Use Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Exchange money or use ATMs in Azerbaijan,and Plan a daily budget covering accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

• Essentials to Pack

 Pack according to the season – lightweight clothes for summers and warmer clothing for winters. Camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and a hat,and important 

Documents like Passport, visas, travel insurance, and copies of important documents.

FAQS

What are the best SIM cards for tourists visiting Azerbaijan?

Popular options for tourists in Azerbaijan include SIM cards from providers like Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile. These providers offer various packages with data, call, and text allowances suitable for tourists.

Where can I buy a SIM card in Azerbaijan?

You can purchase SIM cards from official stores of telecom providers, authorised dealers, and sometimes at the airport. Major cities like Baku have numerous outlets where you can buy SIM cards easily.

 What documents do I need to buy a SIM card as a tourist?

Typically, you'll need your passport for identification and registration purposes when buying a SIM card in Azerbaijan.

 Which provider offers the best coverage for tourists across Azerbaijan?

Coverage can vary depending on location, but generally, Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile offer good network coverage in most parts of Azerbaijan, especially in urban areas.

What are the common types of prepaid packages available for tourists?

Prepaid packages often include options for data-centric plans with varying data allowances for different durations (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly).