Myanmar is generally safe for traveling. Anyway, the better your preparation, the more enjoyable you will get on tour. Please read our safe instruction carefully for maximum fun moments on your trip
Crime and fraud
Myanmar (Burma) is a generally a very safe country to travel in and crime targeting tourists is rare. Nonetheless, you should apply common sense as you would when travelling anywhere. Make sure your spending money is out of sight and near your body, and keep jewelry to a minimum. You may wish to use a money belt, especially if you are travelling on trains during your stay.
In major cities, we recommend travelling by taxi if you are out at night. Make sure you negotiate and agree to a price before you get in. It is always a good idea to carry a hotel address card with you to show your driver.
While on holiday to any places, including but not limited to Myanmar, always keep a copy of your essential documents i.e. Passport, airline tickets, credit cards and traveller’s cheques, separate from the originals in a safe place. Because, just in case of lost, it is much easier and quicker to solve the issue. Most hotels have room-safes or deposit boxes at reception where you can store valuables.
Medical care
As with travelling to other parts of Asia, you need to take precautions when visiting Myanmar. Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are endemic in Myanmar. You should talk to your doctor about prophylaxis, and ensure you bring clothing that covers your arms and legs as well as a good quality repellent. We strongly recommend you consult your doctor with regards to vaccinations and up-to-date health advice at least a month before you depart.
Medical facilities outside main cities are extremely limited. In the event that you require any surgical treatment, you will likely need to be evacuated to Bangkok or Singapore.
Money exchange
The official Burmese currency is the Kyat (MMK) and you should plan to use this in most parts of the country, although USD is also widely accepted. Exchange rates fluctuate so we recommend keeping USD and exchanging as you travel.
It is best to carry USD cash as your main source of money. There are very few ATMs, travelers cheques are not widely accepted, and your credit card may only be accepted in a limited number of larger hotels and businesses. In addition, commission rates can be quite high in some places. Check out our guide for money and currency in Myanmar!
Ensure that the USD notes you bring are new, clean and undamaged, otherwise they may not be accepted. It is a good idea to keep receipts for any purchases as you may be asked to supply them by Burmese customs officials on departure.
