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Yangon Safety Guide

Is Yangon Safe?

Learn how locals scam tourists in Yangon and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Yangon crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Yangon, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
         
Nighttime Safety:
         
Comfort Rating

In terms of safety, you'll find Yangon quite secure during the day. Still, take a moment to review our guide on common tourist traps. The security situation deteriorates after sunset. If you must go out, use reliable transportation and stick to main streets.

 
Robberies and Theft:
Armed Robberies: low
Assaults: low
 
Corruption: high
Drug Issues: moderate
Beggars: low
 
Vandalism: low
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: moderate


Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For

Taxi Meter Trick (Medium Risk) - Some unofficial taxis at Yangon's airport and major hotels may claim their meters are broken and insist on charging a flat fee, often much higher than usual fares. Always use official taxi counters and insist on a working meter, or opt for ride-hailing apps like Grab for transparency.

Currency Exchange Scam (High Risk) - In markets such as Bogyoke Aung San Market, some money changers may offer poor exchange rates while pretending to give you larger denomination bills than they really do. Only exchange money at authorized currency exchange offices and verify the amounts carefully before leaving the counter.

Fake Tour Guides (Medium Risk) - Near popular tourist attractions like Shwedagon Pagoda, individuals may approach you, falsely claiming to be official guides and offering overpriced tours or services. Always verify guides through your hotel or tour companies and ask for proper identification.

Overcharging Restaurants (Medium Risk) - In areas like downtown Yangon, some restaurants might not list prices on the menu or charge additional fees for items you didn’t order. Always ask for a menu with clear prices, and check your bill against what you ordered before paying.

Fake Souvenirs (Low Risk) - In local markets, vendors may sell counterfeit items labeled as authentic local crafts or traditional products. Be wary of unusually low prices for items that seem too good to be true; look for quality craftsmanship and receipts from reputable sellers.

Street Game Cons (Medium Risk) - In busy areas like Kandawgyi Lake, you might encounter individuals inviting you to play 'games' that appear harmless, which often result in you losing money to a staged outcome. Politely refuse to engage in any street gambling and move on.

Transport Price Manipulation (Medium Risk) - In bus stations or at Domestic airports like Mingaladon, drivers sometimes quote inflated prices or mislead tourists about destinations. Confirm fares and routes ahead of time through official sources to avoid being overcharged.


Scam Types and General Tips

Complete Guide to Scam Types


Tourist Reviews

All photos and texts belong to their authors
@laxeye
« In Myanmar, chewing betel is quite popular – it's a common mild narcotic found throughout Asia, from India to New Guinea. Betel leaf (which is a close relative of black pepper) is smeared with lime, filled with crushed areca nut and various spices that greatly enhance the flavor, and then all of it is wrapped up. Once prepared, you just chew it thoroughly and enjoy! The saliva turns a rich red color, but don’t worry, it's not blood. Locals chew betel frequently, and vendors selling this treat can be seen in busy areas, as shown in the photo. 😊 »
laxeye ©


Yangon Travel Guide