Not all tap water is safe to drink, especially when you’re traveling abroad. Water quality varies widely from place to place, and some systems struggle to keep water clean enough for direct consumption. Drinking untreated tap water in certain areas can lead to stomach issues and other health problems that can quickly ruin a trip. This is why it's important to know these 13 places where tap water is unsafe.
Knowing which locations have risky tap water helps you make better decisions without overthinking it. This isn’t about being paranoid; it’s about staying healthy and enjoying your time without interruptions. Staying hydrated matters, but so does drinking water that won’t cause problems. Making simple swaps can keep you feeling great and ready for whatever your travels bring.
Mexico
Water from the tap in Mexico often contains harmful microorganisms due to aging infrastructure and inadequate sanitation systems. Many locals avoid drinking it directly to prevent illnesses such as traveler’s diarrhea, cholera, and other waterborne diseases. Contamination can occur from sewage leaks or agricultural runoff entering the water supply. Visitors should drink bottled water sealed by reputable brands or use water purification methods like boiling or filtration devices. Avoid using tap water for brushing teeth or making ice to reduce the risk of ingesting harmful microorganisms. Staying cautious about water sources is important for health.
India
Drinking untreated tap water in India can expose individuals to dangerous pathogens, as sanitation and water treatment systems are often insufficient. Contamination with fecal matter, industrial waste, and chemicals is common, leading to diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, and dysentery. Water treatment facilities may not always function effectively, especially in rural or densely populated areas. Tourists and residents alike are advised to consume bottled water or water that has been properly boiled or filtered. Using untreated tap water for drinking or cooking can result in serious health problems. Taking precautions with water consumption is critical to avoid sickness.
Egypt
The tap water in Egypt is frequently contaminated due to pollution in the Nile River and inadequate sewage treatment facilities. Egypt’s main water source can carry bacteria, viruses, and parasites, including coliform bacteria and heavy metals. Drinking untreated tap water can cause gastrointestinal infections and other illnesses. Visitors should rely on bottled water or use effective purification methods before consumption. Even brushing teeth with tap water is discouraged. Being mindful of water quality is necessary to protect against waterborne diseases and maintain good health while in the country.
Thailand
Many areas in Thailand have tap water that contains contaminants from industrial waste and insufficient filtration processes. Pathogens like bacteria and parasites can cause stomach infections and diarrhea. Although some urban areas have improved water treatment, the risk remains high in many regions. Tourists should stick to bottled water or use reliable filtration methods. Avoid consuming ice made from tap water unless it is from a trusted source. Taking care with water consumption helps prevent illness during travel or stays in Thailand.
Vietnam
Tap water in Vietnam is often unsafe due to contamination from sewage leaks and agricultural runoff, which introduce bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Drinking untreated tap water can lead to infections such as diarrhea and hepatitis. Many locals boil water before use, but travelers should prefer bottled water or use portable water filters. Using tap water for brushing teeth or preparing food is risky unless it has been properly treated. Paying attention to water quality is important to avoid health issues while in the country.
Indonesia
In Indonesia, tap water is commonly contaminated due to inadequate treatment and aging distribution systems. The presence of bacteria, viruses, and parasites in the water supply can lead to illnesses such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever. Many regions lack proper sanitation infrastructure, increasing the risk of contamination from sewage and industrial waste. Visitors should avoid drinking tap water and instead use bottled water or purified water for drinking and cooking. It is also advisable to avoid ice made from tap water unless it comes from a reliable source. Taking these precautions helps protect health during stays in Indonesia.
Philippines
Want to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later when you're planning your trip!
Tap water in the Philippines is often unreliable for drinking because it may contain harmful microorganisms and chemical pollutants. Factors such as old pipelines, inadequate water treatment, and contamination from nearby sewage systems contribute to poor water quality. Consuming untreated tap water can cause gastrointestinal problems and other infections. Both locals and travelers are encouraged to use bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered. Even using tap water for brushing teeth or preparing food is risky if it has not been treated properly. Being cautious with water intake is important to avoid illness.
Nepal
The quality of tap water in Nepal is frequently compromised by contamination from human waste and environmental pollutants. Waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid are common due to the presence of bacteria and parasites in untreated water. Many rural and urban areas face challenges with water, sanitation, and treatment infrastructure. Visitors should rely on bottled or boiled water for drinking and food preparation. Using untreated tap water can result in serious health issues. Proper water treatment and careful selection of water sources are essential for maintaining good health while in Nepal.
Cambodia
In Cambodia, tap water is often unsafe because it contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites from insufficient treatment and pollution. Sewage and agricultural runoff frequently contaminate local water supplies, increasing the risk of infections such as diarrhea and hepatitis. Many residents and visitors prefer bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered to avoid illness. Using tap water for brushing teeth or cooking is not recommended unless it has undergone proper purification. Taking precautions with water consumption is necessary to prevent health problems during travel or residence in Cambodia.
Morocco
Tap water in Morocco is often contaminated due to outdated infrastructure and pollution from urban and agricultural sources. The water may contain bacteria, parasites, and chemical residues that can cause stomach illnesses and infections. Many locals avoid drinking it directly and rely on bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered. Visitors should also be cautious about using tap water for brushing teeth or preparing food. Choosing safe drinking water options is important to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases while staying in Morocco.
Turkey
Although tap water in Turkey is treated with chlorine, it is generally not recommended for drinking because it may still contain microorganisms and chemical contaminants. The water distribution system can sometimes introduce impurities, and water quality varies by region. Travelers and residents are advised to use bottled water or water that has been filtered or boiled. Avoiding tap water for drinking and food preparation can help prevent gastrointestinal illnesses and other health issues during visits to Turkey.
Kenya
In Kenya, tap water quality is often compromised by contamination from sewage, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff. This leads to the presence of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Many areas lack adequate water treatment facilities, making untreated tap water unsafe for consumption. It is advisable to drink bottled water or water that has been properly boiled or filtered. Using untreated tap water for drinking or cooking should be avoided to maintain good health.
Peru
Tap water in Peru is frequently contaminated by microorganisms and pollutants due to insufficient treatment and aging infrastructure. Drinking untreated water can result in gastrointestinal infections, including diarrhea and hepatitis. Many locals and travelers prefer bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered before use. Even using tap water for brushing teeth or preparing food carries risks unless the water has been treated properly. Being cautious about water sources is essential to avoid illness while visiting or living in Peru.
Drink Safe, Roam Free
Drinking tap water isn’t always a safe bet, especially in certain places around the world. Being aware of where it’s better to avoid it helps you stay healthy and avoid unnecessary discomfort. Taking a few simple steps like choosing bottled or filtered water can make a big difference in how you feel during your trip.
It’s not about making things complicated or worrying too much; it’s about making smart choices that keep you feeling good. When you know where to be careful, you can focus on enjoying your travels without the hassle of getting sick. Staying hydrated is important, but drinking safe water is just as important. Keep this in mind, and you’ll be set for a smoother, more comfortable experience wherever you go.
