Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Regional Forums > Northern and Central Asia
Azerbaijan - any experience with paying the bond vs 72hr rule? Azerbaijan - any experience with paying the bond vs 72hr rule?
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
Northern and Central Asia Topics specific to Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Mongolia, China, Japan and Korea
Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 2 Apr 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Switzerland
Posts: 15
Question Azerbaijan - any experience with paying the bond vs 72hr rule?
Hi all,

I'm currently planning a trip towards either Azerbaijan or Kyrgyzstan. What shall define whether it's one or the other is whether or not I am able to get all visas in time / be bothered to try to figure out how to ship the bike back from Bishkek or not... (I hope to leave in the next two weeks and I'm as yet visa-less... I didn't get to choose the timing!)

So question: if I decide to stick around in Azerbaijan for the Eurovision it would be nice to be able to go from Georgia > Baku and then back to Georgia again without having to worry about overstaying my 72 hours. Has anyone got any experience of doing this? From some of the other posts I gather it is possible to pay a bond - any idea on how the amount is calculated and whether it is actually refunded? Alternatively, I also read some reports that some customs officers "allow" extended visas for the bikes (past the 72 hours) - has anyone here had such luck?

Any advice appreciated!
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 2 Apr 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: I S T
Posts: 655
Hi Crash,

I live in Baku - Azerbaijan but not riding my bike here as I am a Turkish (foreigner too) and so not have any experience with 72 hrs limit.

I also heard/read about it, but only heard.

It is not easy to receive definit information from policemen or other places. When you face this problem in the border in or out you will experience all and we will learn better after your sharing.

Will try to ask someone about this but not easy...
__________________
"where the traveller goes, nobody knows ! "
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 4 Apr 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Switzerland
Posts: 15
Hi Samy

Thanks - it does indeed seem like a difficult topic - when I went to the embassy for my visa the person there seemed adamant that my bike would be allowed into the country as long as my visa was valid which doesn't fit with any of the reports here!

I suppose it shall be interesting to find out when I get to the border!
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 4 Apr 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: I S T
Posts: 655
Please share your experiences when you are back... Hope you keep your bike in as long as your visa allows...
__________________
"where the traveller goes, nobody knows ! "
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 6 Apr 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Nottingham UK
Posts: 227
When I was there three years ago I made a particularly persistant effort arguing over the three day thing. This was at the Red bridge border crossing with Georgia.

I used the tactic of just lurking around refusing to leave untill they agreed a longer time limit. I also claimed the embassy in London had told me it was possible, and that a friend had passed through a few days previously without a time limit. After about an hour and a half the guy took me off to an office building to see the big boss. I seem to remember a phone call or two taking place, but the end result being I wasn't getting more than three days for the bike and if I didn't like that I should go back into Georgia. I never tried offering a bribe mind you.

I can't remember how much the bond was.

In Azerbaijan corruption is very open, and paying bribes (if that's even the correct word) is common and normal. You will probably have to endure a long argument if you want even the three day permission without paying 10 or 20 dollars for it. All the locals passing through payed whilst I was there. Tip: When you fill in the customs declaration, you have to fill in the amount of money you're carrying. Put 0, And if queried claim you rely on your credit card.
__________________
UK to Mongolia 2009, on a DR350
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 9 Apr 2012
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Timisoara
Posts: 77
Hi Samy,

I plan to cross Azerbaijan on my way to Mongolia and Siberia and be in Baku around 12-15 of May. I will stay at some friends for as long as it takes to get the ferry either to Turkmenbashi Port (if I get a visa) or to Aktau in Kazakhstan.
Do you know anything regarding the schedule of the ferry?

Afterward I will post an update here, but as far as I know no one bended the 72 hour rule.

Maybe we can have a in Baku.

Best regards,
Adrian

Quote:
Originally Posted by Samy View Post
Hi Crash,

I live in Baku - Azerbaijan but not riding my bike here as I am a Turkish (foreigner too) and so not have any experience with 72 hrs limit.

I also heard/read about it, but only heard.

It is not easy to receive definit information from policemen or other places. When you face this problem in the border in or out you will experience all and we will learn better after your sharing.

Will try to ask someone about this but not easy...
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 9 Apr 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: I S T
Posts: 655
.::Baku Sea Port::.

Hi Adrian Hope this helps.

Please e-mail me before your arrival. aspalta@hotmail.com

See you
__________________
"where the traveller goes, nobody knows ! "
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 9 Apr 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Switzerland
Posts: 15
Adrian + Samy - looks like we'll be there around the same time... I'll drop you both a pm when I know when I'm in town!


Quote:
Originally Posted by asilindean View Post
Hi Samy,

I plan to cross Azerbaijan on my way to Mongolia and Siberia and be in Baku around 12-15 of May. I will stay at some friends for as long as it takes to get the ferry either to Turkmenbashi Port (if I get a visa) or to Aktau in Kazakhstan.
Do you know anything regarding the schedule of the ferry?

Afterward I will post an update here, but as far as I know no one bended the 72 hour rule.

Maybe we can have a in Baku.

Best regards,
Adrian
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 12 Feb 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Europe currently
Posts: 213
Hey all,
I'm currently trying to find more information on the 3 day rule. Right now I am in Georgia for the next few months before I continue into Azerbaijan in the start of May.

I have not gotten my Uzbek visa yet and I was planning on doing that in Azerbaijan as there is an embassy there... and not in Georgia. But with only 3 days this is not a possibility.

What is the bond and where can I find info about it? Does this allow me to stay longer? Thanks!
Noah
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 13 Feb 2013
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Robertson, NSW
Posts: 63
Noah, how did you go with all of it? I have not heard of this three day thing until just now, I am going to Azerbaijan from Georgia in late April this year.
Any info greatly appreciated

Tom
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 15 Feb 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Switzerland
Posts: 15
I wrote detailed info on how this worked out for me in the end on another thread - might be worth checking out..

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...a-border-64960
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 30 Apr 2013
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: London
Posts: 68
Hi All,

I'm in Tbilisi now. I'm heading to Baku on the 2nd of May and then planning to get the ferry on the 5th to Turkmenbashi. While I didn't plan it to be 3 days, I'll see if I have any issues and let you know.

Jon
Big O's Adventures | 2013 – The Year of Adventure
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 30 Apr 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Europe currently
Posts: 213
Quote:
Originally Posted by BigO View Post
Hi All,

I'm in Tbilisi now. I'm heading to Baku on the 2nd of May and then planning to get the ferry on the 5th to Turkmenbashi. While I didn't plan it to be 3 days, I'll see if I have any issues and let you know.

Jon
Big O's Adventures | 2013 – The Year of Adventure
I'm in Tbilisi right now also. I'm leaving tomorrow for Baku. I'll be taking the boat to Aktau soon after. They don't have a schedule so I might be taking a chance but my AZ visa finishes on the 7th so I can't wait around. Maybe I'll see you in Baku. cheers. Noah
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 2 May 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Europe currently
Posts: 213
Watch out for the Azerbaijani police.

I got pulled over 3 times yesterday. If you go the speed limit, old trucks, vans, and EVERYTHING will pass you. If you go with the flow of traffic they will photo you and pull you over at the next check point.

They kept saying i needed to pay $500 each time I was pulled over. I argued with them for hours and paid way less. Its still ridiculous. anyway, watch the changing speed signs. I didn't see half of them, and the traffic doesn't slow but you must... or you will get pulled over.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 5 May 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Europe currently
Posts: 213
Azerbaijan Traffic Penalties
I wish I would have printed this page. It shows the traffic violations and $$ penalty associated with it.

http://www.dyp.gov.az/?/az/content/
Reply With Quote
Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-15
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 06:12.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top