Faroe Islands

Recommended Vaccinations For Faroe Islands

For Most Travellers

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

For Some Travellers

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.

Rabies Vaccine

Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).

Recommended Medications For Faroe Islands

There are no recommendations for Faroe Islands at this time.

Diseases To Be Aware of for Faroe Islands

For Most Travellers

Hepatitis B

There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.

Hepatitis A

There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.

For Some Travellers

Measles

A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.

Tuberculosis

Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with an infected person.

Hanta Virus

There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.

Rabies

Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.

Safety & Security in Faroe Islands

Personal Safety

The Faroe Islands maintain one of the lowest crime rates globally. Violent crime is exceptionally rare, with no reported violent crimes against tourists. Petty crime like pickpocketing and theft remains uncommon, though you should remain aware in Torshavn, the capital and most populated area. The biggest safety risk comes from the natural environment rather than crime. Weather conditions shift rapidly, with fog, wind, and rain capable of creating hazardous situations during outdoor activities. Cliffs and steep terrain pose risks to the unwary. Tourist deaths have occurred from falls while taking photos near cliff edges. Always check weather forecasts before hiking, inform someone of your plans, and stay on marked trails. Remote areas can delay rescue operations, so travel with appropriate gear and ensure your insurance covers emergency evacuations. The landscape deserves respect and careful attention, particularly when venturing into isolated areas.

Extreme Violence

Violent crime is virtually nonexistent in the Faroe Islands. The overall crime rate has decreased significantly over recent years, with the total number of reported criminal offenses dropping from 1,100 cases in 2007 to 532 in 2020. Of the crimes that do occur, violent crimes make up approximately 12.8% of the total, and these are predominantly minor incidents. There has never been a reported violent crime against tourists. The local prison holds only 12 inmates, operating primarily as a detention center for non-violent offenders. Many locals leave their homes and cars unlocked due to the absence of crime. Physical attacks and hate crimes are rare regardless of background. The islands maintain a reputation as perhaps the safest destination globally for personal security.

Political Unrest

The Faroe Islands operate as a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and maintain political stability. The population is evenly split between those favoring full independence and those preferring to remain part of Denmark, but this creates no social unrest. The political system functions through parliamentary democracy with multiple parties represented in the Logting (parliament). Political debate centers on the independence question and traditional socio-economic issues, but protests and demonstrations are rare and peaceful when they occur. The islands have no history of political violence or civil disorder. The most controversial local issue involves traditional whale hunting (grindadrap), which generates international criticism and occasional protests from environmental groups, but these remain peaceful and don’t pose safety concerns for visitors. Relations with Denmark and other Nordic countries are stable. Business travelers and tourists will find the political environment calm and predictable.

Areas To Avoid

No specific areas pose crime-related dangers to visitors. The low crime rate extends uniformly across all islands and settlements, from the capital Torshavn to the smallest villages. The only areas requiring caution are those presenting natural hazards rather than security threats. Remote hiking routes can become dangerous when weather deteriorates. Cliffs along coastlines are unstable and slippery, particularly near popular viewpoints. Some villages like Tjornuvik and Muli don’t allow access to camping cars due to narrow roads. Hunting season runs from November 2 to December 31 (except Sundays), when hikers should avoid mountain trails without landowner permission. Most hiking routes cross private farmland, and some areas may be temporarily restricted. The main risks throughout the islands come from unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and the isolation of certain areas, which can complicate rescue efforts if needed.