Bhutan is widely regarded as one of the safest countries to travel in, with low crime rates and a welcoming population. The main health considerations relate to altitude and remote travel.
Altitude awareness
Many parts of Bhutan sit above 2,000m, with mountain passes exceeding 4,000-5,000m on trekking routes. Symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, fatigue) can occur even at moderate elevations.
- Acclimatise gradually — our itineraries build in rest days for higher treks like the Druk Path and Snowman Trek
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol on the first day at altitude
- Speak to your doctor about altitude sickness medication before high-altitude treks
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory for entry, but routine vaccinations (MMR, tetanus, hepatitis A/B, typhoid) are commonly recommended by travel clinics. Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 4-6 weeks before departure.
Medical facilities
Thimphu and Paro have hospitals with reasonable facilities for common ailments, but serious medical emergencies — particularly in remote trekking areas — may require evacuation to Thailand or India. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended, and mandatory for our trekking packages.
Food and water safety
- Drink bottled or filtered/boiled water
- Hotel and lodge food is generally prepared to good hygiene standards; on treks, our cooking crew follows strict hygiene practices
- Bhutanese cuisine can be very spicy (chillies, ema datshi) — ask your guide if you'd prefer milder options
Safety and security
- Bhutan has very low rates of violent crime and theft
- Roads in mountainous areas can be narrow and winding — our drivers are experienced on these routes, but motion sickness remedies are worth packing
- Mobile network coverage is good in towns but limited or absent on remote trekking routes
Emergency contacts
Your IVH Bhutan guide carries emergency contact numbers for local hospitals, police, and our office at all times. We also recommend registering your trip with your home country's embassy or consulate where applicable.