Additional Coverage:
- The 21 most dangerous countries for US tourists (businessinsider.com)
Traveling to exotic locales can be tempting, but safety should always be a top priority. The US State Department maintains a “do-not-travel” list, currently encompassing 21 countries deemed too dangerous for Americans.
Terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest are among the serious threats cited. This list can fluctuate, as it’s influenced by factors like a nation’s stability, US relations, and the ability of the US to provide assistance to its citizens abroad.
Even within relatively safe countries, specific regions may be flagged as high-risk.
Here’s a look at the 21 countries on the “do-not-travel” list as of March 2025:
Afghanistan: Decades of conflict have left Afghanistan unstable and dangerous. Terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest are rampant. The US Embassy in Kabul is closed, limiting the government’s ability to assist Americans in distress.
Belarus: While Belarus offers historical and natural attractions, its support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, coupled with internal unrest and the detention of US citizens, raises serious safety concerns. The US Embassy is suspended.
Burkina Faso: Terrorism and escalating violence have displaced millions within Burkina Faso. Kidnappings of Westerners are a real threat. Even US Embassy personnel face travel restrictions within the country.
Central African Republic (CAR): Crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping are major concerns in CAR. The US Embassy offers limited assistance. The State Department recommends extreme precautions, including leaving DNA samples with a doctor and establishing proof-of-life protocols.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Armed conflict, particularly in the east, makes the DRC extremely dangerous. Kidnappings are a serious threat. US government personnel are restricted from traveling in the country.
Haiti: Gang violence, kidnappings, and other crimes plague Haiti. A state of emergency is in effect, including a curfew and restrictions on movement.
Iran: The State Department strongly advises against travel to Iran due to the risk of arbitrary detention and imprisonment. The strained US-Iran relationship further complicates matters. There is no US Embassy in Iran.
Iraq: Terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest continue to pose significant threats in Iraq, particularly in northern border regions. The legacy of conflict and the presence of groups like ISIS contribute to the volatile security situation.
Lebanon: Terrorism and the spillover of regional conflicts contribute to the unstable security environment in Lebanon. The US Embassy itself has been targeted by gunfire.
Libya: Ongoing violence and the presence of armed groups make Libya dangerous. Attacks on hotels and airports have occurred. The US Embassy in Tripoli has been closed for years.
Mali: Terrorism and kidnappings, particularly targeting foreigners for ransom, are serious threats in Mali. Even US government personnel face strict security restrictions.
Myanmar (Burma): The 2021 coup and subsequent civil unrest, including military crackdowns and the use of landmines, make Myanmar unsafe for travel.
North Korea: Despite its recent reopening to Western tourists, North Korea remains extremely risky for US citizens. Arbitrary detention and imprisonment are significant concerns, and the US government has limited ability to assist.
Russia: The invasion of Ukraine and the potential for harassment or detention of US citizens make Russia unsafe. Drone attacks and explosions further increase the risk.
Somalia: Terrorism, kidnapping, and piracy are ongoing threats in Somalia. A recent suicide bombing highlights the dangerous security situation.
South Sudan: Renewed conflict, easy access to firearms, and difficulty assessing crime levels make South Sudan a high-risk destination. The US has withdrawn non-emergency personnel.
Sudan: Ongoing civil war, kidnappings, and the closure of Khartoum International Airport make Sudan dangerous. The US Embassy has been evacuated.
Syria: The lengthy civil war, terrorism, kidnapping, and unjust detention are among the dangers in Syria. Even after Assad’s resignation, violence continues to erupt.
Ukraine: The ongoing war with Russia, including the risk of missile and drone attacks, makes Ukraine unsafe for travel.
Venezuela: Economic and political instability, coupled with the risk of arbitrary detention and unpredictable law enforcement, make Venezuela dangerous. The US Embassy is closed.
Yemen: The ongoing civil war and the threat of kidnapping and detention make Yemen a no-go zone. The US Embassy is not currently operating.
These countries offer unique historical, cultural, and natural attractions, but the risks are simply too high at this time. The State Department urges Americans to heed these warnings and prioritize their safety.
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- The 21 most dangerous countries for US tourists (businessinsider.com)