Bhutan is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world. Crime against visitors is extremely rare and Bhutanese hospitality is genuine. The main things to plan for are altitude, health facilities and insurance.
Altitude and acclimatisation
Much of Bhutan sits above 2,000 metres, and many passes and trek camps are considerably higher. Most travellers feel nothing worse than mild breathlessness, but it is wise to take your first days gently, stay well hydrated, go easy on alcohol early on, and tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell. Our itineraries are paced to allow gradual acclimatisation.
Medical care and insurance
Basic hospitals and clinics serve Thimphu, Paro and the district towns, and healthcare is free for Bhutanese. However, facilities for serious conditions are limited, and complex cases are typically evacuated to Bangkok or India. For this reason, comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical treatment and evacuation is essential. Bring an adequate supply of any personal medication, along with a small kit for colds, stomach upsets and altitude, as specific brands can be hard to find locally.