Is Uzbekistan safe for tourists?

The short answer is yes: Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries you can travel in, and it consistently surprises first-time visitors with how relaxed and welcoming it feels. Violent crime against tourists is very rare, and the warmth of ordinary people towards foreign guests is one of the highlights of any trip.

Crime and personal safety

Petty crime is uncommon, even in busy bazaars and on public transport. Sensible precautions — keeping an eye on your belongings in crowds and using hotel safes for valuables — are all that is really needed. Cities are well-lit and it is normal to see families out walking late into the evening.

Women travellers

Uzbekistan is a comfortable and rewarding destination for women, including those travelling solo. Local culture is conservative but courteous; modest dress is appreciated at religious sites but not required elsewhere. Many of our guests are women travelling alone or in pairs, and they consistently report feeling at ease.

Health and practicalities

Tap water is best avoided in favour of bottled water, and the usual care with street food applies, though the food scene is generally clean and the cuisine is a genuine pleasure. Pharmacies are well stocked, and the cities have good private clinics. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every trip, as you would anywhere.

Getting around with confidence

On a tour with us you are met at the airport, accompanied by licensed local guides, and supported by a 24/7 line for anything that comes up. Our team has worked in this country since 2009 and knows it intimately. The result is that the only thing most guests worry about is fitting everything in — not whether they are safe.