Is Medan safe for solo female travelers?

Medan, presents a moderate safety level for solo female travelers. It's crucial to exert standard safety precautions such as avoiding isolated places at night and being wary of one's belongings. Although crime is not particularly high, incidents like petty theft and scams may occur. Close attention should be paid to traffic when on the road due to somewhat chaotic road conditions. It's recommended to dress conservatively to respect local customs, especially in rural areas and places of worship. Ensure to have a reliable contact in the city, such as a trusted hotel or tour guide, as communication can prove challenging due to language barriers. A safe and enjoyable travel experience can indeed be achieved with sensible planning and mindfulness.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Medan?

Safety at night:Unsafe

While Medan holds a lot of cultural influence, it may not be entirely safe to travel alone at night. Like any major city, certain areas could be risky. There have been reports of petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and occasional scams. It would be best to use common sense, avoid dimly-lit areas, avoid displaying conspicuous valuables, and use trustworthy transportation like registered taxis when moving around at night.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Medan is moderately safe. There are a number of options such as buses, trains, and taxis. While the vehicles are generally in good condition and the drivers are skilful, some safety concerns include occasional overcrowding during peak hours and lack of strict enforcement of safety rules. A few reports of pickpocketing have been mentioned in crowded areas or busy hours. Keep a close eye on your belongings and try to avoid peak hours if possible. It's also recommended to use trusted taxi companies or book via an app for extra security.

Street harassment:Low

Medan, as with many parts of Indonesia, is generally a welcoming city towards solo female travelers. Street harassment isn't a prominent issue, though as a foreigner you may attract some attention. It's important to note that this attention is rarely malicious or threatening. Local people are typically curious and eager to interact with foreigners. As always, maintaining situational awareness, dressing conservatively, and respectful interactions will go a long way in making your trip a positive experience.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Medan has a relatively moderate level of petty crime. Pick-pocketing and purse-snatching are some common issues, especially in crowded areas or on public transportation. Be vigilant about your belongings and try to keep valuables out of sight. However, most locals are friendly and willing to help if you need guidance.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Medan is generally not recommended to drink directly from the faucet as it might contain bacteria or viruses which can cause traveler's diarrhea or other illnesses. Preferably, stick to bottled water or ensure the tap water is treated or boiled.

Is Medan safe to travel?

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Is Medan safe right now?

Before your visit to Medan, it's essential to check travel advisories for Indonesia, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

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United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises to exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters. Certain areas carry an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 24, 2023

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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Indonesia, owing to political and social tensions, as well as the prevailing threat of terrorism throughout the country. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 25, 2024

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