Is Pakistan safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Safety in Pakistan depends heavily on where you go. Lahore, Islamabad and the Hunza Valley are visited by growing numbers of independent travellers, and Hunza is regarded as very safe. Some regions, especially parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa near the Afghan border and much of Balochistan, carry official warnings against travel because of terrorism and armed groups.
The real risks
Terrorism and regional insecurity
Attacks have occurred, mostly in the north-west and Balochistan but occasionally in major cities. Check your government's advice, which may affect your insurance, and avoid large gatherings and political rallies.
Road safety
Driving on mountain roads such as the Karakoram Highway is risky because of landslides, rockfalls and fast traffic. Use experienced local drivers and avoid travelling at night.
Police checkpoints
Common in the north; carry copies of your passport and visa, and sometimes a NOC (no-objection certificate) is required for restricted areas.
Street crime in cities
Phone and bag snatching happens in Karachi and Lahore; keep valuables out of sight.
Areas and times to take care
Islamabad, Lahore and the Gilgit-Baltistan region including Hunza and Skardu are the main areas visited. Parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the former tribal areas, Balochistan and areas near the Line of Control with India are under strict travel warnings. Karachi has higher street crime than other cities.
Getting around safely
Use Careem, inDrive or Uber in cities, and established coach companies between them. For the north, domestic flights to Gilgit and Skardu are spectacular but often cancelled; build in spare days. Hire drivers through reputable guesthouses or agencies.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women do travel in Pakistan, especially in Hunza, but attention can be intense in cities. Dress modestly with loose clothes and a scarf, sit in family or women's sections where available, use ride-hailing apps, and consider joining group tours or travelling with reputable local guides.
Health, water and heat
Do not drink tap water; use bottled or purified water. Air pollution in Lahore can be severe from November to January. Summer in the plains often exceeds 40°C. Altitude above 3,000 m in the north, such as at Khunjerab (about 4,693 m), can cause altitude sickness. Polio and other vaccine requirements may apply; consult a travel clinic.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Pakistan safe for tourists?
Lahore, Islamabad and the Hunza Valley are visited by growing numbers of travellers, and Hunza is regarded as very safe. Some regions are under strict warnings; check your government's advice.
Is the Karakoram Highway safe?
It is generally safe from crime, but landslides and road conditions are real risks. Use experienced drivers and avoid night travel.
Is Pakistan safe for women?
Many women travel there, especially to Hunza. Dress modestly, use ride-hailing apps, and consider a reputable guide in cities.