Safety & Security

Safety & Security

Traveling to Sri Lanka in 2026 is a wonderful choice for Safety & Security. The people are very kind, and the island is beautiful. To make sure you have a great trip, you just need to follow a few simple rules for your Safety & Security while exploring the country.

Here is a very simple Safety & Security guide to help you stay safe.

1. General Safety

Sri Lanka is a stable and peaceful country today. The old war ended many years ago, so you can travel almost anywhere. However, it is always smart to be careful.

• Stay in Busy Places: When you are in a new town, try to stay in areas where there are other people and plenty of lights.
• Avoid Crowds: If you see a large group of people shouting or protesting, do not go near them. It is better to go back to your hotel and stay away from the noise.
• Check the News: It is a good idea to check a local news website or ask your hotel staff if there is anything you should know about the area that day.

2. Road and Traffic Safety

This is very important: the biggest Safety & Security risk in Sri Lanka is traffic. Roads can be busy, and drivers often move fast.

• Crossing the Street: Drivers often do not stop for people walking. Even if you see a crosswalk, look both ways very carefully. Do not step out until the cars have fully stopped.
• Taking the Bus: Public buses are cheap, but they drive very fast and make quick turns. If you feel scared on a bus, it is okay to get off and take a “Tuk-Tuk” (a small three-wheeled taxi) instead.
• Using Taxi Apps: For the best Safety & Security, download the PickMe app or Uber. These apps are great because they show the price before you get in and track your ride on a map.

3. Beach and Water Safety

Sri Lanka has amazing beaches, but water safety is a major part of Safety & Security.

• Strong Pull: Even if the waves look small, the water can pull you away from the sand very quickly. This is called a “rip current.”
• No Lifeguards: Most beaches lack lifeguards. Always look for safety flags. If you see a Red Flag, it means “Danger”—do not go in the water.
• Ask Before You Swim: Before you jump into the ocean, ask a local person or your hotel, “Is it safe to swim here?” Never swim alone or after you have been drinking alcohol.

4. Safety in the North and East

The North and East parts of the island are very pretty, but they were part of the war a long time ago.

• Stick to the Road: In very quiet or rural areas in the North, there might still be old bombs (landmines) hidden in the dirt. For your Safety & Security, always stay on the paved roads.
• No Off-Path Hiking: Do not go walking into thick bushes or forests in these areas by yourself. Always stay where other people are walking.

5. Your Personal Belongings

Violent crime is very rare, but “petty theft” (like someone taking your phone) can happen if you aren’t careful.

• Watch Your Bag: In busy places like markets or bus stations, hold your bag in front of your body. Do not leave your phone sitting on a table in a cafe.
• Women’s Safety: If you are a woman traveling alone, try not to walk in dark or empty streets late at night. It is always better to use a PickMe taxi to go from the restaurant to your hotel.
• Ignore Scams: Politely refuse strangers offering “help” or claiming places are closed—this protects your Safety & Security.

Quick Checklist for Safety & Security

• Emergency Number: Save 119 in your phone. This is the number for the Police.
• Tourist Police: You can also call 1912. This is a special helpline just for tourists.
• Charge Your Phone: Always keep your phone battery full so you can use Google Maps.
• Keep Copies: Take a photo of your Sri Lanka ETA (Visa) and your passport and keep them on your phone.

By following these simple steps, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful tea hills and amazing food of Sri Lanka while staying perfectly safe.