The Marshall Islands is a pristine Pacific paradise of 29 coral atolls and 1,156 islands, offering world-class diving among WWII wrecks, untouched white-sand beaches, and authentic Micronesian culture. From the bustling capital of Majuro to the remote tranquility of Arno Atoll, this remote nation delivers an unforgettable tropical escape.
The Marshall Islands is generally a safe destination with low violent crime rates. The primary risks are petty theft in urban Majuro, natural hazards (typhoons, ocean conditions, intense sun), and very limited emergency medical infrastructure requiring comprehensive travel insurance.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions in urban Majuro; be aware of typhoon season (August-November); ensure comprehensive medical evacuation insurance is in place as advanced medical care requires costly airlift to Guam or Hawaii.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions in the Marshall Islands. Some areas have increased risk. Be aware of natural disaster risks including typhoons and flooding from rising sea levels.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Secure valuables in hotel rooms and vehicles to prevent petty theft
Monitor weather forecasts during typhoon season (July-November)
Proof of measles vaccination required for visitors 6 months to 62 years
Drink bottled water as tap water safety varies by location
Respect local customs and traditional land ownership
Register with your country's embassy or consulate before traveling; the US Embassy is in Majuro at the US Embassy compound - other nations' citizens should contact the nearest regional mission
Take out comprehensive travel insurance including emergency medical evacuation coverage; advanced medical care requires airlift to Guam or Hawaii and can cost $50,000-$150,000 without coverage
Be aware of ocean hazards including rip currents, jellyfish, sea urchins, and reef cuts; wear water shoes when walking on reefs and rinse any coral cuts thoroughly with fresh water immediately
Avoid swimming alone in remote lagoon areas or on ocean-facing reefs; always inform your hotel of planned water activities and your expected return time
Petty theft occasionally occurs in urban Majuro; keep valuables out of sight in rental cars, use hotel safes, and avoid displaying expensive electronics or jewelry in busy market areas
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Unlicensed or opportunistic drivers may quote excessive fares to tourists unfamiliar with standard rates. Airport taxis occasionally attempt to charge tourists significantly above the standard $10-15 fare to downtown.
How to avoid: Confirm the fare before getting in and know standard rates: airport to downtown $10-15, cross-island $8-12, Laura Beach $10-15.
Boat tour price inflation
Some informal boat operators at the waterfront may quote significantly higher prices than the standard rates for day trips to Eneko Island or Arno Atoll, especially to first-time visitors.
How to avoid: Book boat trips through hotel tour desks or Marshall Islands Visitor Authority to get standard rates; Eneko Island transfer should be $25-40/person, Arno Atoll $30-50/person.
Craft quality misrepresentation
Some souvenir stalls sell mass-produced imports passed off as locally handmade Marshallese crafts. Machine-made mats and fake stick charts are occasionally sold as authentic handmade items.
How to avoid: Buy crafts from the Alele Museum Gift Shop for guaranteed authenticity; when at markets, watch for handmade characteristics and ask the vendor to explain the making process.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Measles vaccination REQUIRED for visitors 6 months to 62 years (must show proof or medical contraindication). Routine vaccinations recommended (MMR, tetanus, hepatitis A & B). Consult doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.
- Water
- Tap water safety varies by location. Bottled water recommended for drinking. Hotels generally provide safe filtered water. Avoid ice in drinks unless confirmed from safe water source.
- Food
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Generally very safe for solo travelers. Marshallese people are friendly and helpful. Solo travel in central Majuro is comfortable day and night; stick to well-lit roads after dark and take taxis for longer distances. Register with your embassy and carry comprehensive medical evacuation insurance.
Female travellers
Safe for female solo travelers with standard precautions. Modest dress is appreciated in villages and towns. The community-oriented nature of Marshallese society means unusual or threatening situations are rare. Avoid walking long distances alone after midnight in Majuro.
Families
Very family-friendly destination. Calm lagoon beaches are safe for children, locals are warm toward families with children, and the slow pace suits family travel well. Ensure children have required measles vaccinations before travel. Pack comprehensive first aid supplies.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are not criminalized in the Marshall Islands, but the deeply Christian and conservative society means public displays of affection may draw negative attention. LGBTQ travelers should exercise discretion particularly outside Majuro hotels. No specific incidents of targeted harassment reported but local attitudes are generally conservative.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 911
- Medical
- 911
- Embassy
- Tourist Police