Can I Still Safely Travel in Myanmar?

Myanmar has enjoyed several years of unprecedented growth when it comes to welcoming visitors but that doesn’t mean violence and struggles among various ethnic groups doesn’t persist. 

At the moment, unrest has erupted in the Rhakine state along the country’s western border. While reports are conflicting, the country has come under criticism by human rights organizations for its treatment of the Rohingya people, many of whom are trying to flee to Bangladesh to avoid persecution. 

For its part, the government of Myanmar, headed by Aung San Suu Kyi, puts the responsibility of the plight of the Rohingya people at the hands of “terrorists.” 

Despite human rights organizations asserting that what is happening in the country currently amounts to “ethnic cleansing” and “genocide,” Myanmar remains steadfast that the country is safe for visitors. 

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Those wanting to experience the country’s safer areas can definitely do so. 

A map posted by the UK Foreign Office shows where the country’s safe zones are located and most of the prominent tourist attractions fall within these boundaries. Myanmar’s tourism arm encourages visitors to check the map before the travel to the country.

Using an experienced tour operator when visiting Myanmar should alleviate most worries for those concerned about a visit at this time.

Green zones, which are safe to travel in, include Yangon—home to the Shwedagon Pagoda—as well as Bagan, which is known for its sprawling expanse of temples and stupas and magical sunrises and sunsets.

Myanmar Tourism Marketing is calling for visitors to support all of the country’s people. The organization said the following in a statement: 

“We continue to believe that tourism is a good way to connect people and to bring development and peace all over Myanmar for everybody from any race or religion and we do call to tourists all over the world to continue visiting Myanmar. Especially now it's important to make conscious decisions and choose to support everybody in the country. Please do visit Myanmar in a sustainable way to support people from all communities.”

READ MORE: Riding Myanmar’s Leisurely Trains is a Travel Treat

The Myanmar Tourism Marketing organization points to the country’s diverse options when it comes to tourism, including nature, culture and adventure pursuits. 

Myanmar is still fairly remote, and mass tourism is pretty new to the region. Although the country shares a border with many well-developed tourist destinations, it lacks the same broad infrastructure. Before traveling to Myanmar, it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance and to carry some amount of cash.

Debit and credit cards are increasingly accepted in the country, but many times do not work.