Is Yangon Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Yangon is largely a safe city for solo female travelers. Simple street smarts are typically enough to keep you safe. Locals are generally friendly and willing to help tourists. However, it is not uncommon to experience beggars and vendors who are quite persistent. It's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially during the night and in less crowded areas. While violent crime is rare, opportunistic theft can occur. It's also important to dress modestly, respect the local culture to avoid unwanted attention. Overall, exercise some care and common sense, especially if travelling alone.

Safety rating

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How safe is Yangon?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

While Myanmar, and particularly Yangon, has undergone significant changes in regards to safety and openness to tourism, walking alone at night is something that requires a degree of caution. Although the city is generally safer when compared to other Southeast Asian capitals, there is still a possibility of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or scamming. Always stay in well-lit areas, avoid less crowded places at night and make sure to always keep your belongings secured. '
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Yangon includes buses, taxis, trishaws, and trains. Public buses are the most common choice for locals, but they can be crowded, and the routes are typically hard for foreigners to navigate. Taxis are more comfortable and easier to use, but make sure to negotiate the fare before the trip or ensure the meter is used. Trishaws offer an interesting local experience but are not practical for long distances. The circular train gives insight into local life but is quite basic with no air-conditioning. Overall, Yangon's public transportation is moderately safe. You should just be aware of the surrounding environment, take care of your personal belongings and try to avoid non-essential travel during late-night hours.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Yangon stands as one of the safest cities in Asia for solo female travelers. The locals show an incredible respect towards women. Situations of street harassment are relatively rare, largely owing to the societal norms and cultural respect. Nonetheless, it's always good to be aware of your surroundings. As respectful as locals can be, issues can arise anywhere. An understanding of the local customs and traditions will certainly help you navigate the city's streets more confidently.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Yangon is considered relatively safe for travelers. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching are not rampant, although, like any major city, these instances can occur. However, the locals are usually friendly and helpful. Always stay vigilant of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Tap water:

Tap water:Very unsafe

Drinking tap water in Yangon is not recommended at all for travelers. The water supply in this region may not be properly sanitized and can contain harmful microorganisms. These contaminants might lead to serious health problems like diarrhea or typhoid. Therefore, it is suggested to stick to bottled water or water purified through reliable filters to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Is Yangon safe to travel?

Is Yangon safe right now?

Before your visit to Yangon, it's essential to check travel advisories for Myanmar, 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.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The United States government advises against any travel to Burma owing to civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary local law enforcement. Reconsider any voyage related to Burma due to limited or inadequate health care and emergency medical resources and areas infested with land mines and unexploded ordnances. Urging to exercise heightened caution due to potential wrongful detentions. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 22, 2024
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Canadian Government advises avoiding all travel to Myanmar due to the risk of politically motivated violence and civil unrest. If you are in Myanmar, there is a risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, potentially leading to arrest and detention. It is recommended that you depart immediately, if possible to do so safely. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Australian Government advises against traveling to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation, civil unrest, and potential armed conflict. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 12, 2024

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Hay , always love to travel . Love to explore the culture in any place where I travel

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I’m passionate in meeting new people and interacting with different cultures. I’ll be studying in the UK next year and I hope to network and travel a lot more.

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Safety in Myanmar