What places are safe or unsafe in Yangon?
The U.S. Embassy does not provide security recommendations on specific locations in Yangon, but we do track and assess events such as explosions, targeted attacks, protests, and criminal acts. Most attacks in Yangon continue to be small in scale, result in limited to no injuries or property damage, and primarily target regime-affiliated locations and individuals. Roadblocks and security operations are a particular concern, and security forces may respond disproportionally to incidents. The primary threat to citizens remains a “wrong place at the wrong time” incident. American Citizen Services releases alerts as appropriate when significant events occur that may affect US citizens in country.
Prior to travel in or out of Yangon, we strongly encourage all to monitor social media and independent news outlets that cover Myanmar. When traveling, be wary of roadside checkpoints, be aware of your surroundings, and be vigilant of any activity that appears out of the ordinary.
We also recommend that you review your personal security plans and keep a low profile. Anticipate possible communication outages and have a plan in the event telecommunications become limited or unavailable. Advise family and associates of this possibility in advance. Always keep some form of communication with you, keep your electronic devices charged, and monitor local events.
The current Level 4 Travel Advisory is the highest level issued by the Department of State and advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Myanmar, including to Yangon, or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. As a result of these conditions, if you experience an emergency, the U.S. Embassy will do all we can to help you, but please be aware that because of our constrained staffing and the nature of the military regime, the Embassy has a limited ability to provide assistance.
