Review by Kirill Deryabin

I’ll share my experience of renting a car in Azerbaijan in these challenging times of sanctions and payment complexities. I travel quite frequently and prefer to explore countries with a rental car to avoid dependency on tour groups and limited time at attractions.

Many cautioned against renting a car in Baku due to driving peculiarities and various scams both in rental agencies and on the roads. However, I’m not easily deterred, so after some internet research, I found Karavan Rent A Car in Baku.

Initially, I contacted the company via WhatsApp but continued my search as I initially thought the rental was a bit pricey. Closer to the trip, unable to find any alternatives, I returned to Karavan Rent A Car in Baku.

I must say, car rental isn’t cheap; it was even more expensive than renting a car in Cuba. However, considering a segment above economy, the prices weren’t exorbitant. Thus, I decided to rent a Kia Rio X-Line (price for 4 days + airport pickup/drop-off was 420 manat/$250).

They require a 30% advance payment, which was a bit inconvenient, but necessary due to some of our compatriots and others who book with multiple agencies without bothering to cancel on time. I instantly transferred the money via card number (MTS Bank provides such a service) and calmly awaited the trip.

At the airport, I was met by Andrey (who also handled the car return). I paid the deposit and the remaining rental amount in dollars (at the bank rate, and they returned the change in dollars at the end of the rental).

We recorded a video inspection noting any damages (scratches and dents), even marking scratches on plastic hubcaps, which surprised me; I thought the inspection would be strict. Andrey briefed me on nuances (avoid off-road driving, don’t exceed 130 km/h), and most importantly, advised to call them if any issues arise with the police to avoid scams.

In the end, we drove around 800 km, explored off-the-beaten-path places, and enjoyed our time in Azerbaijan. Upon returning the car, we paid 10 manat for the car wash (as warned initially). Andrey inspected the car, returned the deposit and change, shook hands, and wished me a pleasant flight.

The company is excellent, they treat customers with care, not just for profit. I was pleased to find several bottles of water, chewing gum, and napkins in the car. Most importantly, they provided 1 manat for parking payment upon leaving the airport (so you don’t need to exchange money and can do it easily in the city).

Thanks to Karavan Rent A Car in Baku and especially to Andrey.