Is Myanmar Safe?

Theft and petty crime are a problem, especially in larger cities in Yangon, but you can take common sense approaches to avoid becoming a victim. Most thefts occur when visitors leave valuables unattended. There are scams, but those are also relatively easy to avoid.

You can eat fruits and vegetables, although you should avoid uncooked produce and prepared salads. Err on the side of caution and eat only cooked vegetables. It’s usually safe to eat fruit you wash with bottled water and peel yourself.

Make sure you have your embassy information with you. Your embassy can help you if you’re the victim of a crime or in the event of a medical emergency. If you need to report a crime, the number for Myanmar police is 199. You’re most likely to encounter a natural disaster in Myanmar during either Cyclone season and rainy season. The rainy season lasts from June until early October. There are two monsoons — the first lasts from April until May, and the second lasts from October to November. Monitor the Myanmar Department of Meteorology to assess the local threat level. NGOs and the UN introduced an inter-agency evacuation plan in 2013.

In a medical emergency, you will most likely need to visit a hospital in a neighboring country. Traveler’s insurance ensures that you can pay for medical evacuations.

Myanmar has only very basic medical care and the country is notoriously understaffed with doctors and medical professionals. Most people visit clinics or monasteries when they need medical attention. Sometimes even basic medical care is not available. Travel insurance is advisable in case you need to be flown to another country to receive medical treatment.

There are mosquitoes in Myanmar, and there is some risk of contracting malaria. Make sure to pack strong bug spray and consult with your doctor (or a travel health clinic) about how to prevent malaria.

You may need to take a antimalarials before your trip, depending on where you plant to travel. Many travelers choose to take antimalarials as a precaution. Malaria is more likely at lower altitudes. Bagan is one of the areas where malaria is more likely.

It’s not always to find medicine in Myanmar. Bring any medicine you need or regularly take with you. It’s also a good idea to bring anti-diarrhea medicine with you. Pharmacies in Myanmar frequently have shortages, so be prepared.

It’s fairly safe to swim at beaches in Myanmar, as long as it’s not monsoon season. Be careful not to step on sharp rocks or coral reef — bring water shoes if you plan to swim somewhere with a rocky bottom.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Make sure to only drink bottled water. Hot green tea is typically served in restaurants, which is safe for visitors to drink. Do not eat fresh salads, as the vegetables may have been washed with tap water.