Warnings & Dangers in Myanmar
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
The laws of Myanmar are strict for those who encroach on the peace of tourists. Therefore, the country is safe enough for travel. However, it’s impossible to completely relax: in Myanmar, there are many beggars and pickpockets. Minor thefts can be a problem here.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transportation may not be safe in Myanmar. Due to the poor roads and not precise schedules, you may not be at the right point on time. Taxis are reliable; be sure to use licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
There are really many pickpockets in the country. Their goal is foreign tourists. Therefore, travelers need to be especially careful when traveling around Myanmar. You can not leave personal belongings unattended, and you always need to monitor your pockets, especially in crowded places.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Myanmar is exposed to a range of natural hazards, including cyclones, earthquakes, floods, landslides, tsunamis, and volcanoes. These hazards are accompanied by high economic and social costs, with a significant impact on the poor and most vulnerable.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
Armed severe robberies and attacks in Myanmar are very rare. The country applies strict laws to such violators. Therefore, tourists are unlikely to encounter such problems here.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
In Myanmar, there is no high risk of terrorism. However, as usual, one should be careful and avoid religious and political rallies. You should be especially cautious when traveling near the border with China, Thailand, and Laos.
SCAMS RISK : HIGH
Fraud in Myanmar happens quite often. Usually, it is associated with an attempt by locals to deceive a foreign tourist, to inflate the cost of services or souvenirs. If you use a taxi without a meter, the driver may require double or even triple payment from you. Agree on the price of the trip in advance. Carefully recount the change - you may not receive the necessary bills.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women can travel freely in Myanmar. Follow the usual precautions and behave as you would in your own country. Do not walk late at night alone and do not wear too much jewelry or open clothing.
How Safe Is Myanmar for Tourists?
Myanmar has an average level of security.
The crime index ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are related to the theft of goods, robberies, issues with drug trafficking, and a high level of bribery.
However, Myanmar is considered a safe country in the developing world for tourists to visit, mainly because of a strict Buddhist culture, but partly because of harsh government penalties for those who harass foreigners.
Although pickpockets, as you know, happen and grow in frequency, there is practically no chance that you will be the target of attacks, even in less visited areas.
However, you should not relax; there are always scammers ready to steal your wallet, especially in tourist places.
Therefore, be prepared not to weaken your attention and always monitor your things.
Do not leave bags and backpacks unattended.
In the event of an incident, you can always contact the police.
Most police stations will have at least one staff member who can translate from English.
Begging has become a significant problem in major tourist areas.
Children and “mothers” carrying children are often those who ask, as they are more effective in seeking pity.
Note that most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or only for easy money, as tourists are usually considered wealthy.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Myanmar?
Any foreign national who wishes to enter Myanmar must obtain a visa unless they are a citizen of one of the eligible visa-exempt countries. All visitors to Myanmar must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months.
Which Currency Is Used in Myanmar?
The kyat is the currency of Myanmar. It is often abbreviated as “K” (singular or plural) or “Ks” (plural), which is placed before or after the numerical value, depending on author preference. The unit of currency in Myanmar is divided into 100 Pyas.
How's the Weather like in Myanmar?
The best time to visit most of Myanmar is from November to February when temperatures are relatively manageable. From March to May, the country becomes very hot, particularly the dry zone of the central plains where Bagan and Mandalay often see temperatures in excess of 40°C.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Myanmar?
Myanmar has 25 operating airports with commercial flights. Yangon International Airport is the primary and busiest international airport in Myanmar. The airport is located in Megalodon, 15 kilometers north of central Yangon.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Myanmar?
Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos, and Thailand. Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the country’s largest city, is home to bustling markets, numerous parks and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains Buddhist relics and dates to the 6th century.
Is the Water in Myanmar Safe to Drink?
The percentage of people cover by safe drinking water and sanitation facilities are still very low in the country compared to global status. Tap water isn’t drinkable in Myanmar.
Is Uber Safe in Myanmar?
There is no Uber taxi in Namibia. However, you can use any other taxi service in this country or travel by car.
