Is Uzbekistan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Uzbekistan is generally safe for solo female travelers. The country's people are known for their warm hospitality, and violent crime is relatively low. However, like every tripping spot, it requires precautions. It's advised to be respectful of local customs and avoid alone adventurous activities after dark. Always share your itineraries with someone trustworthy. No place is entirely without risks, but with precautions in place, the journey can be remarkably safe and rewarding.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Safe

Uzbekistan is generally a safe country, especially for solo female travelers. Most locals are hospitable towards foreigners and the crime rate is relatively low. Walking alone at night is usually safe in major cities such as Tashkent, Samarkand, or Bukhara where streets are well-lit and regularly patrolled. However, it's always best to stay vigilant about your surroundings, avoid less crowded or poorly lit areas, and follow local customs and dress modestly.

Public transportation:Safe

Uzbekistan's public transportation, especially in cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, is pretty reliable and considered safe. Buses, trams, and metro are often available. However, it gets crowded during peak hours. Also, be aware that information such as maps or schedules is usually in Uzbek or Russian. Since not many people speak English, you should learn a few essential local phrases.

Street harassment:Low

Uzbekistan is known for its hospitable and respectful culture. Street harassment is relatively rare, making it a comfortable choice for solo female travelers. Nonetheless, appropriate dressing and avoiding late-night walks alone in unfamiliar places are recommended. Cautiousness is suggested, as in any other place in the world.

Petty crimes:Low

Uzbekistan generally maintains a low rate of petty crimes. However, it's still good to take normal precautions that one would in any other country. Keep your belongings safe and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets or public transport.

Tap water:Unsafe

While Uzbekistan's major cities may have water treatment facilities, the tap water safety is generally inconsistent and not recommended for consumption. Different bacteria and heavy metals may be present, which could lead to health problems. It is suggested to consume bottled water, or if tap water is the only available source, boiling before use is highly advised.

Is Uzbekistan safe to travel?

4.3 /5

Based on 13 experiences

Solo travel experience

Uzbekistan is one of the most extraordinary places I have ever visited, and I felt safe as a solo female traveler. I visited Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand and I genuinely fell in love with each of these places, as well as the food.

Posted: December 26, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I traveled to Samarkand and Tashkent and it was an amazing trip. We were four ladies on this expedition and we felt very safe. I love the food, architecture and people. We didn't speak Russian or Uzbek, but we managed. Uzbekistan is amazing and very cheap.

Posted: August 1, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I visited this place alone for 10 days. I felt completely safe, taking normal precautions. There was no whistling or pushy sellers. I hired a couple of guides who were wonderful in Tashkent and in Bukhara. I used trains, shared taxis, etc. The people of Uzbekistan were very kind. Be very careful with the food. Much is delicious, but I got terribly sick. Do not drink the local water and I do not recommend eating anything fresh unless you have a guarantee that it has been washed in filtered water. Bukhara and Samarkand are simply wonderful.

Posted: May 22, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I was in Uzbekistan last year. I visited Bukhara, Samarkand, Khiva, and stayed in a yurt. I reached all these cities by train, which I booked myself in the country. I spent there 2 weeks and felt very safe.

Posted: April 30, 2023
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Group travel experience

I joined a group tour, which included major places such as Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. We also stayed in a yurt in Aya Kala. Tashkent is a charming city with quite a lot of attractions to see. I felt safe there and I didn't have any problems. The Islamic architecture was amazing.

Posted: April 30, 2023
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Group travel experience

Uzbekistan is fantastic! I went there for business but managed to find some time for sightseeing. The people are very friendly and I felt very safe walking around alone. People do not pressure you to buy anything, which I really like. The underground subway in Tashkent was one of my favorite places, as well as the old buildings along the Silk Road. In terms of dress, it is a Muslim country, but it does not require you to constantly cover your body, as other countries might. However, I would still recommend covering your shoulders and avoiding short skirts etc. When I was not working, I wore jeans and a T-shirt.

Posted: November 19, 2022
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Is Uzbekistan safe right now?

Before your visit to Uzbekistan, it's essential to check travel advisories for Uzbekistan, 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 AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States government advises exercising normal precautions in Uzbekistan. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: June 23, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian Government advises taking normal security precautions in Uzbekistan. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 23, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in Uzbekistan. This is due to the threats of terrorism, violent crime, and the risk of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 29, 2023

Is Uzbekistan worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 13 experiences

Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Uzbekistan and I have mixed feelings. The level of harassment I experienced there was something I had not experienced before. The infrastructure is also not the best, which means that street lights were often turned off and I walked alone in the darkness. If you don't speak Russian, I wouldn't suggest travelling alone (unless with a tour or in summer, when the days are longer). Samarkand and Bukhara were somewhat disappointing to me (despite the beauty of the buildings). As for getting around - it is a very well-connected country with fast trains running across the country and a metro in Tashkent.

Posted: December 24, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 3/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Uzbekistan with my mother. Very beautiful city. We went and shopped at the Chorsu bazaar. The Chorsu bazaar serves excellent pilaf and kebabs. I bought traditional souvenirs and a scarf. I saw beautiful mosques. And visited Magic City

Posted: November 8, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Uzbekistan

Meet local women in Uzbekistan who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
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Stay with locals in Uzbekistan

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Tashkent

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Tashkent

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Upcoming visitors to Uzbekistan

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Lizzy

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My name is Lizzy, I’m dreaming to see the world. I love to try new things and dive into local culture. I enjoy nature, architecture and local cuisine. Although I’m rather introverted and like my alonetime, I love making new friendships. I‘m down to share our experiences and have a good time.

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Erin

Erin

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Hey, I'm Erin and I'm interested in backpacking, art, camping, culture, events & social, food & cuisine, hiking, nature, rafting, solo travel, surfing and trekking

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Safety in Uzbekistan