Is Pakistan safe to visit? Advice, scams and health

Pakistan is not a single safety picture. Government advisories split the country by region, and the regions most tourists visit — Islamabad, Lahore and Gilgit-Baltistan (Hunza, Skardu) — are generally considered safer than the rest. Travel there is possible with an e-visa, a local operator, and written confirmation from your insurer that you're covered. Balochistan, most of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Line of Control remain off the map for most travellers.

The practical rule: plan your trip around the areas where tourism is established and where government advice is less restrictive. Islamabad, the capital, is a low-key, spread-out city with wide roads and a visible security presence around government buildings. Lahore, the cultural heart, is busy but well-trodden by tourists. Gilgit-Baltistan — Hunza, Skardu, the Karakoram Highway — is the main draw for trekkers and is generally considered safe, though roads can be rough and weather can close passes.

The areas to avoid are Balochistan (except Quetta for some travellers, and even then with caution), most of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa outside the main tourist towns, and the Line of Control with India. These are the regions where government advisories are most restrictive and where the security situation can change quickly.

The most common scams in Pakistan are the same as anywhere: overcharging for taxis, guides or souvenirs, and fake 'official' fees. In tourist areas, touts may offer to 'help' with tickets or directions and then demand payment. Use official taxi apps or agree on the fare before getting in, and buy tickets only from official counters.

For personal safety, dress modestly, especially outside the big cities, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Keep your passport and valuables in a hotel safe, and carry a photocopy. In an emergency, call 15 for police, 1122 for rescue, or 115 for the Edhi ambulance (check by province).

Before you go, check that your travel insurance covers Pakistan. Many policies exclude it or require a written confirmation that you're covered. Get that in writing before you book, and carry it with you.

Health care in Pakistan is basic outside the major cities. In Islamabad and Lahore, private hospitals are adequate for most needs, but for serious illness or injury you may need to be evacuated to Dubai or Bangkok — which is why insurance that covers evacuation is essential. Drink bottled or filtered water, and be cautious with street food in the first days. See a doctor for any fever, especially if you've been in rural areas, as malaria and dengue are present in some regions.

Government advisories for Pakistan are region-specific and change frequently. The US State Department, UK Foreign Office, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland all publish detailed breakdowns by province and district. The pattern is consistent: most of the country is 'exercise increased caution', while Balochistan, most of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Line of Control are 'avoid all travel'.

Before you book, read the advisory for your own country — not a summary — and check again a week before you fly. Advisories can change with little notice. For a fuller explanation of how to read them, see our guide to government travel advisories.

This page was last checked in September 2026. Government advisories change frequently; always check the latest from your own government before booking.