With its long, scenic coastline, historic colonial landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and vibrant cultural landscape, Vietnam is fast becoming a popular Asian destination worldwide. According to Vietnam Tourism Authority data, in just the first half of 2024, the country welcomed 8.8 million foreign tourists, nearing its annual target of 18 million. This follows 2023’s 12.6 million arrivals, which was already a 3.5-fold increase from 2022!

Source: General Statistics Office, Vietnam 

However, in a world marked by shifting geopolitical landscapes and rising environmental hazards, it’s understandable that safety concerns can take a front seat when planning foreign travel. Moreover, Vietnam experienced one of the most devastating wars in human history, and while it happened long ago, it may still raise concerns for some.

So, is Vietnam safe today? The simple answer is yes, Vietnam is safe to travel. Before you prepare for your trip and apply for your Vietnam visa, this guide will help you understand every aspect of safety in Vietnam. From petty theft to environmental and health risks, we have provided data-driven insights and tips to help you better prepare for your travels.

1. Political Stability and Internal Security

Having experienced no major external or internal conflicts since 1975, Vietnam ranks 41st (among 163 countries) in the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI). 

Source: Global Peace Index (Vision of Humanity)

Political Unrest

Vietnam ranks in the bottom 25% of the world in terms of civil unrest, meaning large-scale protests or violent demonstrations are rare. According to GPI 2024, the country scored 2.5/5 for political instability and 1/5 for internal conflict, better compared to its neighboring countries like Cambodia (3/5 in both political instability and internal conflict), China (2.75 for political instability and 2/5 for internal conflict), and Thailand (3 out of 5 for internal conflict).

Terrorism Threat

According to the 2024 Global Terrorism Index, Vietnam has a 0% terrorism risk, making it one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia in terms of terrorist threats.

Note: While the country has ongoing land and border disputes with China and Cambodia, these issues are more handled by diplomacy than by violence. Internal conflicts, when they occur, are generally restricted to remote areas and do not impact tourism. Moreover, dedicated tourist police forces have been established in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh to assist foreign visitors. 

2. Crime Rate: Petty Thefts & Local Norms 

According to Numbeo’s Crime Index, the country overall has a 41.21 score, signaling a moderate level of crime. Moreover, violent crimes like murder, assault, and armed robbery are relatively rare, especially against tourists. 

Petty Theft

Since tourists are considered easy targets in any foreign country, pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common crimes targeting tourists in Vietnam. Such cases are reported mainly in Ho Chi Minh City, especially during the time of Vietnamese New Year celebrations. 

However, the Vietnamese government has made significant efforts to combat such petty crimes. For instance, the HCMC Police Department has put into operation a Command Information Center with a digital mapping system, which involves installing smart security cameras and an integrated database centre. These efforts have paid off, as reflected in the city's steadily improving safety index.

Tip: Preventive Measures

Although the country has a dedicated police and surveillance system to combat petty thefts, here are some measures that you can take from your end:

• Keep valuables, such as passports and electronics, secure in a hotel safe or locked in bags before leaving your room. You can carry a copy of your passport. 

• Avoid displaying expensive items like cameras or smartphones when out in busy areas. 

• Keep a firm grip on your bag, especially in crowded areas like Ho Chi Minh City. 

• When riding motorcycles, store bags in the seat compartment or hook them in the front to prevent snatching. 

• Always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid flaunting valuables, as this can make you an easy target.

Local Norms & Customs

Vietnam is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. According to the Safest Places to Travel study conducted by Berkshire Hathaway International Protection, Gen Z respondents ranked Vietnam 6th, and parents ranked it 5th, giving positive signals toward the country’s ease of travel. When it comes to safety, especially for women, solo travelers, and LGBTQ+ individuals, Vietnam is generally considered safe.

Source: Quora

However, it is important to note that Vietnam is still a conservative country in many ways, so it’s essential to respect local customs to avoid misunderstandings.

Source: Ministry of Tourism, Vietnam

3. Environmental Concerns

The country’s extensive coastline makes it highly susceptible to natural disasters, especially during the typhoon season, which typically spans from May to October. However, not all parts of the country are equally affected. The southern parts, including Ho Chi Minh City and non-coastal areas, often remain less impacted by these seasonal disasters.

Natural Disasters

According to the INFORM Global Risk Index 2025, Vietnam ranks 79th out of 191 countries in terms of disaster risk, placing it in the medium-risk category. That is simply because, although Vietnam is highly exposed to natural hazards (such as typhoons, floods, and landslides), the country demonstrates relatively low vulnerability and a strong ability to manage and cope with such events. The government's proactive disaster management systems and effective early warning strategies have significantly reduced potential damage in high-risk areas.

Air Quality

While Vietnam faces significant air quality challenges, with the country finding itself in the top 30 worst air worldwide, significant steps are being taken to address the issue. According to IQAir, the country's average Air Quality Index (AQI) in 2023 was 88, suggesting that while pollution levels can be noticeable, they are not extreme. 

In response, the Vietnamese government has implemented actions to achieve its ambitious targets of zero carbon emissions by 2050. Initiatives under the National Green Growth Strategy also aim to reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices. However, it’s still best to take preventive measures, especially if you have respiratory illnesses like asthma. Consider wearing a well-fitted mask on heavily polluted days and using air purifiers indoors to help filter out harmful particles. These steps can help protect your health while enjoying your time in Vietnam.

Tip: It is best to download the Vietnam government’s launched Envisoft app, which offers real-time AQI updates and preventive measures, and the Disaster Alert app, which provides near real-time updates about 18 different types of natural hazards worldwide. 

4. Health and Medical Facilities

According to the latest data available, from June 2023, 85% of Vietnam’s population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This number represents the country’s significant strides in healthcare. 

Health Risks

As of October 2024, there is no travel health notice effective for Vietnam. However, it is a visitor’s responsibility to still be aware of potential health risks. Travelers should be cautious of diseases like dengue fever, which is prevalent in tropical regions. While malaria has seen a significant decline, particularly in urban areas, remote regions may still pose a risk. 

Although food safety is a priority in Vietnam, as a tourist, you must take precautions. Eating freshly prepared food from reputable vendors and drinking bottled water can help mitigate health risks, ensuring you enjoy your trip.

Medical Facilities

Vietnam’s healthcare system ranks 44th out of 167 countries, according to the Health Index Score 2023 by Statista. The country’s public hospitals are categorized into three levels: the central level, which includes 47 major hospitals; the provincial level, with 419 hospitals; and the district level, offering localized care at 684 hospitals, reveals the WHO data. Moreover, for tourists, private international hospitals in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City provide world-class medical services tailored to one’s needs.

Tip: Having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. It provides crucial protection against unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations, allowing you to seek help without worrying about costs. 

5. Transportation Safety

Vietnam has a mixed experience when it comes to transportation. Although the country has good infrastructure to support air, train and road transportation, the country continues to have one of the highest rates of road traffic accidents in Southeast Asia.

Train & Air Travel

The country’s railway and air transport systems are generally considered safe. Trains, while not the fastest mode of travel, provide a safe and scenic way to explore the country, particularly for long-distance journeys between cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Air travel is also highly safe, with several reputable airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet offering efficient domestic flights between major destinations.

Road Safety

Despite progress, road safety remains a concern. In 2023, traffic accidents led to approximately 11,628 deaths, a decrease from the previous year’s 13,000 fatalities but still a significant number. The high rate of road accidents is attributed to various factors, including overcrowded roads, reckless driving, and unfamiliarity with traffic norms by foreigners renting motorbikes. To combat this problem, the government has responded by increasing penalties for traffic violations and making safety training mandatory for motorbike rentals, contributing to a slight reduction in accidents.

Tip: Consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab, which offers a safer and more convenient alternative to navigating Vietnam’s bustling roads. Additionally, two trusted government-recommended taxi companies, Mai Linh and Vinasun, operate well-maintained vehicles with sealed meters, also saving you from hefty fare prices. 

Conclusion: Yes, Vietnam is Safe to Visit. 

Despite occasional concerns such as petty crime and environmental hazards, Vietnam is overwhelmingly safe for international travelers. If you stay vigilant and take preventive measures, you can have a fantastic experience exploring this beautiful country. An important tip is to choose your travel dates wisely; avoid times when meteorological conditions could lead to typhoons or storms. Otherwise, the government’s proactive steps in reducing crime, improving healthcare, and mitigating environmental risks have made it a safer destination year on year.