Are there any specific regions in Uzbekistan that tourists should avoid?

Many people think Uzbekistan is one of the safest places to visit in Central Asia. The U.S. Department of State even says it is a Level 1 country, which means it is very safe for travelers. Uzbekistan is a great place to go because it has a low crime rate and friendly people. In cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, there are special police units that help keep tourists safe.

Uzbekistan is also politically stable, which helps keep the country safe. The government makes sure that laws are followed, so public places are safe for everyone. There are not many protests or political problems, and when they do happen, they are usually handled well.

However, you should be extra careful when traveling near the borders because these areas can be unpredictable. It is not safe to travel within 5 kilometers of the Afghan border due to possible terrorist threats. The Uzbek military watches these areas closely. Things can change quickly when it comes to safety, and there might be hidden dangers like old landmines in unmarked areas. So, it's really important to stay away from places that don't have clear markings.

If you need to cross the border, only do it at official checkpoints. This is especially important in the western Fergana Valley, where Uzbekistan meets Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.