The U.S. State Department warns Americans not to travel to more than 20 countries worldwide. From civil unrest to tense diplomatic relations to terrorism, there are many reasons some countries aren’t the safest option for American tourists. Some countries simply don’t welcome tourism. Here’s a look at 15 countries you should avoid when travelling if you are from the United States.
Iran
The Persian Gulf, Caspian Sea, Alborz and Zagros mountains, and Kish Island are all big tourist attractions in Iran. However, the U.S. State Department warns Americans against visiting because of tensions with Israel and the U.S., general civil unrest, terrorism, the possibility of wrongful detention, and kidnapping.
North Korea
North Korea might seem a bit mysterious, and curious would-be tourists might want to see Mount Paektu and the Mansu Hill Grand Monument. The problem with visiting is that the government forbids any personal exploration and places incredible restrictions on itineraries. Additionally, long-term and wrongful detention is a distinct possibility for Americans who visit North Korea.
Burkina Faso
Corruption, famines, droughts, and political and military coups are enough to make any country a dangerous place to visit. Burkina Faso also adds to that a staunchly anti-Western leader and prevalent cultural anti-American bias in general. Americans can expect an unpleasant visit with worries of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. While the country’s unique flora and fauna might be enticing, it’s not worth the risk.
Yemen
The rich cultural heritage, architecture, and dramatic landscapes of Yemen would bring tourists in by droves, but travel to the tip of the Arabian Peninsula is not safe, especially for Americans. Yemen and its Houthi rebels are politically opposed to the United States, making Americans even more vulnerable to trouble. Yemen is problematic due to a high incidence of poor healthcare, landmines, armed conflict, crime, kidnapping, terrorism, and civil unrest.
Ukraine
Tens of millions of tourists once flocked to cities like Odesa, Kyiv, and Lviv in Ukraine. Saint Sophia Cathedral, the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains, and the beautiful landscapes of Crimea were all popular. However, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has made the country a less desirable destination. Americans should be even more concerned since the U.S. has been politically and financially tied to the war.
Russia
For decades, Americans were forbidden from visiting the Soviet Union. Unfortunately, seeing the Kremlin, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, or the Caucasus Mountains in Russia today remains largely out of reach. Not only is the war between Ukraine and Russia concerning, but crime and questionable detentions are also problematic.
Somalia
Somalia has lovely beaches, a few national parks, and interesting architecture in the capital city, Mogadishu. Somalia is also the most underdeveloped country in the world, and its government’s corruption has led to U.N. sanctions since 1991. Dangers for those who choose to visit include kidnapping, piracy, health issues, lack of healthcare, crime, terrorism, and civil unrest.
Haiti
Tropical beaches always have an appeal for travellers, but some countries just aren’t safe for visitors looking for a holiday. Although Haiti is rich in culture, history, and scenic landscapes, the country has also faced many challenges in recent years, including deteriorating or nonexistent infrastructure. Tourists should also be concerned about their ability to get healthcare if needed, high levels of crime, and general civil unrest.
Venezuela
The highest and longest cable car in the world travels to the peak of Espejo Peak outside Venezuela’s capital. The country offers a plethora of museums and other cultural destinations, including ancient ruins. The problem with traveling to Venezuela is political and economic crisis has led to civil unrest, arbitrary law enforcement, and a higher risk of crime, terrorism, and wrongful detention.
Syria
No matter how beautiful a country is, war will make it an unattractive place for tourism. Syria has cities that are thousands of years old, including the world’s oldest capital, Damascus. Many people would love to visit, but armed conflict, bombings, civil unrest, terrorism, and hostage taking make it far too dangerous.
Afghanistan
Taliban controlled Afghanistan is not welcoming to Americans, or most international tourists, for that matter. While there are more than 300 tourism companies in the country, they only pull in a few thousand tourists per year. This is due to heavy restrictions on the freedom of women, high rates of crime, fear of wrongful detention and torture, and a lack of healthcare facilities even in the case of an emergency.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
The heart of central Africa is incredibly rich in diverse culture, scenic landscapes, and natural resources. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has much to offer visitors to its country, but geopolitical instability and a lack of development keep the crowds away. If you want to travel to the DRC, kidnapping, crime, armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest are all reasonable concerns.
Iraq
History buffs and biblical scholars alike would enjoy exploring Erbil, a 7,000-year-old citadel, the ancient city of Ur, and Iraq’s capital, Baghdad. The problem with visiting Iraq is that the country is unstable after many years of oppressive governments and repeated wars. Insurgents still commit terrorist acts across the country daily. Additionally, high crime rates, targeted kidnappings, and general anti-Western sentiment make visiting a bad idea for American citizens.
Sudan
Travel to Sudan is extremely dangerous due to ongoing armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. The U.S. State Department, UK Foreign Office, and Canadian government all advise against all travel to Sudan. There is active military conflict in Khartoum and other parts of the country, making the security situation highly volatile and unpredictable throughout Sudan.
Lebanon
Lebanon has majestic mountains and sun-drenched beaches. Tourists would enjoy ancient historical sites, natural wonders, and fantastic cultural experiences if the country were stable and secure. Unfortunately, war plagues the nation, and terrorism and civil unrest make it unsafe for even its own civilians.
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