Kosovo

Responsiveness of police service to criminal reports varies.

Although there is general hospitality towards tourists in Kosovo, travellers are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and to avoid petty crime and theft. Always be alert in your surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.

Road travel outside of urban areas can be unsafe due to poor road conditions, continual road repair, unpredictable weather changes, and lack of driver caution.

Although all roads and tracks have been cleared of landmines, unmaintained and rarely-travelled roads, especially those in the bordering regions, may not be cleared. Avoid these unfrequented areas.

If choosing to participate in outdoor adventure activities, always do so with a group and a professional guide. Ensure travel and medical insurance is purchased before departing and ensure your insurance policy covers outdoor adventure activities, including medical evacuation.

Due to Kosovo’s location in an active earthquake zone, seismic activity is not uncommon. Forest fires are common due to the hot, dry summer climate.

Travellers should note that regular power outages occur in Kosovo.

LGBTI travellers are advised that although same-sex relations are not illegal in Kosovo, the conservative nature of the country may result in a lack of tolerance.

Avoid travelling to the northern regions of Kosovo, bordering Serbia, which includes North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, Zvecan, due to the high risk of political instability and violence.

Avoid entering or exiting Kosovo via Serbia as the security at the border is unpredictable due to the hostility existing between these two nations.

Political tension remains in Kosovo. Protests are common and may turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. Gatherings frequently occur in Gjakova and the capital city of Pristina. Unofficial roadblocks by protestors could also endanger travellers.