In an increasingly divided world, international travel poses certain risks that have never been seen before. With grave threats to humanity like the Taliban, certain countries like Afghanistan should be avoided at all costs.
Other countries, like Japan, don’t need to be crossed off your list. You just need to do your due diligence, and proceed with caution and respect for cultural norms.
We’ll start with some of the places that should strictly be avoided and then move down to other countries that simply require a little extra street smarts.
1. Afghanistan
If you have a desire to see the Middle East, Afghanistan is not it. After decades of war, they’re also facing natural disasters like droughts and earthquakes.
The main area of concern, however, is the Taliban’s continued influence. There are massive restrictions on women’s rights, and public floggings and executions have been revived.
That’s probably the worst of it, but kidnappings are also common and, should you break free, there’s no American Embassy to run to.
2. Egypt
Wouldn’t it be lovely to see the pyramids? Without doubt, they’re one of the most stunning examples of architecture anywhere in the world.
However, you might want to stick to YouTube videos instead of an in-person tour due to the pervasive political instability that still exists today.
Tourists and women, in particular, are often targeted and there are a number of ongoing scammers who tend to put Americans in their sights.
3. Morocco
Like Egypt, Morocco has a beautiful, colorful, and vibrant culture. Their architecture, decor, and food, alone, are worth an honorable mention.
However, their conservative Islamic culture doesn’t look upon Western civilization, particularly Americans, with fondness. Solo female travelers are the most at-risk and the public markets can prove particularly overwhelming.
Instead, you can explore our list of the safest cities for solo female travelers to set your sights on better locales.
4. Sudan
The African continent is something to behold. From the pyramids to wild safaris, there are so many treasures to take in.
However, Sudan and South Sudan should never be on your bucket list. Kidnappings, violent attacks on women, and carjackings are quite regular occurrences. Things are so bad that the U.S. Embassy ceased operations in 2023.
5. Kenya
Like Egypt and Sudan, Kenya should also be crossed off the list. Although they have some of the most spectacular safaris, you can make safer travel arrangements down in South Africa.
In Kenya, you run the risk of theft, scams, kidnappings, and other violent crimes. Like Afghanistan and Morocco, there are strict gender rules in place that stand in stark contrast to women’s rights in America.
6. North Korea
It’s well known that Americans are not beloved by those in power in North Korea. We’ve been in their sites for a long time now and, should we land on their soil, all sorts of things could go sideways.
Wrongful arrests are a regular occurrence, as well as long-term detention. Common sense would lead you to strike this off your bucket list. But, in case that wasn’t enough, the US actually announced that American passports will no longer be valid for travel to North Korea.
7. Russia
This one is terribly sad. First and foremost, the lost lives between Russia and Ukraine are unspeakable.
Aside from that, Russia has a beautiful, colorful, and unique culture. And, because of all the civil unrest, it’s probably not a country we’ll ever be able to visit again.
8. Ukraine
Ukraine falls on this list for similar reasons. Drone, missile, and mortar attacks can still happen at any time, in any part of the country.
In Russian-occupied territories, Americans are particularly targeted and at risk of public harassment and detention. If you have family there that you need to see, travel with extreme caution and review the safety guidelines set forth by regional officials.
9. Belarus
Belarus is on the periphery of the war with Ukraine. Russia has used it as a staging ground for the war and is prone to do so again at any moment in time.
They’ve maintained a close alignment with Russia, even throughout the war, so it might as well be crossed off the list, along with Russia and Ukraine. Like Afghanistan and Sudan, there are also no American embassies within this country.
10. Venezuela
Since residents of Venezuela often feel unsafe, Americans can expect that to compound exponentially.
Spontaneous political demonstrations are a regular occurrence and, in the midst of all that chaos, you could easily befall a violent crime, theft, or even kidnapping.
11. Brazil
Sadly, Brazil is another colorful South American country that belongs on this list. Like Venezuela, citizens are plagued with political unrest that could easily affect tourists from any other nation.
Crime levels are exceedingly high, especially in the big cities, which would put you on such high alert that it would be difficult to enjoy the surrounding culture.
12. Mexico
Unless you’re traveling straight to a world-class resort, be very careful when moving through Mexico.
The U.S. State Department commonly issues travel advisories to several states within Mexico, particularly Colima, Michoacan, and Zacatecas.
Mexico City is colorful and chock full of cultural delights. But, there, too, you must proceed with extreme caution and always be aware of your surroundings.
13. Haiti
Americans are frequently targeted in Haiti. Kidnappings for ransom are one of the primary causes for concern.
Residents, themselves, are faced with gasoline and medicinal shortages. Aside from that, civil unrest remains prevalent, as well as several different forms of violent crimes.
14. Jamaica
As recently as the 1970s, Jamaica was quite the hotspot. With its gorgeous beaches and lush resorts, it beckoned visitors from all over the globe, especially America.
However, crime rates remain exceedingly high these days, especially in the big cities. Like Morocco, this is a particularly dangerous place for solo female travelers, especially in tourist destinations.
If, for some reason, you have to go, here are 20 safety tips for female solo travelers.
15. India
India isn’t strictly forbidden the way other countries on this list are. But, it can be quite overwhelming and, sometimes, unwelcoming for American tourists.
The dense population, immense amount of traffic, and pervasive pollution are problems all on their own.
But, India also maintains a caste system which might be difficult to grasp and respect. Along with that, the gender roles are very defined, which might stand in stark contrast to American values.
16. Japan
Japan is actually well worth a visit. Tokyo and Kyoto, alone, are worth the journey. But, their methods of communication are quite different from the free-spirited American way.
There’s a distinct emphasis on politeness, respect, and conformity that can throw you off balance. They don’t often learn English the way residents of European countries do.
So, the language barrier may pose a problem. That said, most of the signage is in Japanese and English, which makes public transportation pretty manageable.
Be Safe Out There
Before you embark on a new destination, it’s critical to research the area, including current events and cultural values. An exciting adventure could quickly turn into a harrowing disaster if you travel somewhere that’s not welcoming to Americans.
In lieu of these destinations, take a tour through our numerous destination guides. We’ll help you land somewhere safe, well-educated, and full of excitement and delight.