Security and Safety

The security situation in Tajikistan has improved dramatically in recent years. Even as late as 1999, people would lock themselves in at night and the streets were deserted. Now the centre of Dushanbe is alive at night with people relaxing in restaurants and cafes. Armed men on the streets seem to be a thing of the past and a feeling of normality has returned.

Tajikistan suffered greatly from the 1992-6 civil war, and it has taken some years to restore law and order. But the signs are encouraging that peace is here to stay. The risks to visitors are small, but of course you should minimise them by observing some basic precautions.

Government Travel Advisories

You should read your government's travel warnings and advisories before you plan your trip. Here are links to some of the advisories for Tajikistan:

• British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
• Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
• Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs & International Trade
• French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in French)
• German Federal Foreign Office (in German)
• Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Dutch)
• New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade
• US State Department

Insurance

It is essential that you have appropriate travel insurance. Tajikistan's medical facilities are quite basic, especially once you leave the capital. If you are injured during your trip a medical evacuation may be necessary, which can cost up to USD $100,000. Take out cover against this eventuality before you travel.

Security Precautions

When you arrive in Tajikistan, you should observe some basic precautions for a safe and enjoyable stay:

Foreign and Commonwealth Office Security Tips

Take local advice about your planned itinerary before travel. (You can use the information request form from the right panel to request specific advice from Travel Tajikistan).

There are some regions where it is still not advised to travel without a local guide. Specifically, you should avoid the mountainous region in central Tajikistan (Karategin Valley) and border regions. Some parts of the Tajik/Uzbek border are mined and are therefore very dangerous. The Afghan border is still under the control of the Russian 201st Motorized Rifle Division. The Russian troops are often unsympathetic to travellers and can cause problems for individuals or groups who are not accompanied by an experienced local guide.

The British Foreign & Commonwealth Office Know Before You Go website is full of useful practical information and checklists for planning any trip abroad.