14 Countries Best Left Off Your Vacation Itinerary
Planning an adventure abroad is thrilling, but some destinations have significant risks that outweigh the rewards. These risks are mostly due to violent crime, political instability, environmental degradation, or strained relations with the US.
Stepping back and reconsidering might save you a mountain of regret. These 14 countries are better skipped on your next vacation. Here’s why they’re flagged and where you can go instead.
North Korea
North Korea is one of the riskiest places to visit. The government imposes strict surveillance on all tourists. Foreigners, especially Americans, risk detention for minor infractions.
Diplomatic support from the US is limited, increasing the danger of wrongful imprisonment. South Korea is a safer alternative, offering a rich blend of history and modern culture.
Burma (Myanmar)
Burma, known as Myanmar, shines with golden pagodas and vibrant culture. Still, beneath the allure, it harbors significant travel drawbacks. Political turmoil continues post-2021 coup, with lingering civil unrest impacting safety.
According to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI), Myanmar ranks 148th out of 163 countries. It is, hence, one of the least peaceful countries in the world. Travelers face risks, including arbitrary detention and restricted movements.
Haiti
Haiti may have stunning beaches, but safety issues make it a risky stop. The US Department of State ranks Haiti at Level 4 — Do Not Travel. High crime rates, including kidnapping, carjacking, and armed robbery, are significant concerns.
In 2024, the UN reported more than 1,200 people were killed from July to September in Haiti. This was a result of gang violence and the fight against gangs. Meanwhile, political instability further affects day-to-day safety. Natural disasters are also a recurring threat, with the 2021 earthquake as a painful reminder. These factors contribute to a precarious environment for tourists.
South Sudan
Ongoing civil conflicts have led to profound instability in South Sudan. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, South Sudan ranks near the bottom at 161 out of 163 countries. This highlights significant safety concerns.
Armed conflict and banditry are common, and travelers are advised against unrestricted movement due to dangers from armed groups. The UN reports that over two million people were displaced by violence last year alone. Add to that an unpredictable climate with frequent floods, making travel plans dicey.
Iran
Iran is an intriguing land with Persian charm, yet it’s tangled in safety concerns that travelers must heed. The US Department of State advises against traveling to Iran, citing the risk of arbitrary detention.
Political tensions remain high, and strained U.S.-Iran relations don’t help. According to the 2024 World Prison Brief, Iran has one of the world’s highest incarceration rates. Opt for nearby Turkey instead, where history and culture await without the heavy risks.
Afghanistan
Ah, Afghanistan—a land of stunning landscapes but with risks that easily outshine the rewards! As of 2024, the Global Peace Index ranks Afghanistan at a concerning 163 out of 163 countries, marking it the least peaceful nation.
As continues the suspension of US embassy operations in 2021, Afghanistan remains a high-risk destination. The US government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services that limit assistance to American citizens.
Iraq
Iraq’s historical treasures are tempting, but its hazards are hard to ignore. Let’s talk numbers—the 2024 Global Peace Index places Iraq at a low 154 out of 163 countries. That is a flashing red light for travelers. Iraq’s new situation includes ongoing civil unrest and a high risk of kidnapping.
In addition, limited staffing in diplomatic missions reduces available support for travelers. An unstable government and frequent armed clashes contribute to daily unpredictability. Instead, consider Egypt as a historical adventure without the dicey backdrop.
Lebanon
Lebanon dazzles with Mediterranean flair, but you should skip this stop—for now. After the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October, the US State Department raised Lebanon’s travel advisory to Level 4: “Do Not Travel.” This was due to escalating security risks.
The region faces threats from missile and artillery exchanges involving Israel, Hezbollah, and other groups. The situation is highly unpredictable.
Syria
Once a beacon of ancient history and vibrant culture, Syria is now a no-go zone for travelers. The US State Department warns that no part of the country is safe, citing risks like terrorism, civil unrest, armed conflict, kidnappings, and wrongful detentions. Americans are frequent targets, and the US Embassy in Damascus has been closed since 2012.
Recent escalations include spillovers from the Israel-Hamas conflict, with the US conducting airstrikes in Syria after drone and rocket attacks on American forces in the region. These developments have only heightened instability, making travel to Syria extremely perilous.
Mali
With its striking landscapes and rich history, Mali should be skipped on your travel list. The country’s recent struggles overshadow its cultural beauty. Mali faces severe instability, making it a high-risk destination. The country experienced military coups in 2020 and 2021, leading to widespread crime, terrorism, and kidnappings.
A 2023 UN report highlighted abuses by Mali’s security forces and Russian Wagner mercenaries, including violence against women. Additionally, the UN ended its decade-long peacekeeping mission in December 2023, which had been among the deadliest in its history, with hundreds of personnel killed since 2013.
Libya
Libya remains on the advisory list primarily due to armed conflict, residual landmines, and a high risk of kidnapping. The presence of active militant groups exacerbates the safety issues for travelers. Travel networks are unreliable, making both movement and communication difficult.
There have been many civilian casualties in Libya, including from airstrikes, ground fighting, and explosive remnants of war. It’s not worth the risk when destinations like Morocco or Tunisia offer similar enchantment, minus the volatility.
Russia
Although Russia holds a wealth of cultural and historical treasures, visiting it has serious risks. Amidst the continued war with Ukraine, travel to Russia poses significant risks, including the potential of being caught in hostilities and facing restrictions. Russia is ranked 162nd out of 163 countries in the 2024 Global Peace Index.
The country’s internal climate has become a hotspot for international sanctions, and travel insurance may not even cover trips here. Some areas have restricted foreign entry, and reports suggest that surveillance is rampant.
Somalia
Somalia’s beautiful coastline and cultural richness don’t cut travel safety. It faces extreme challenges, making it one of the most dangerous places for travelers. A catastrophic drought killed 43,000 people in 2022, triggering famine amidst ongoing conflict with Islamist insurgents.
Violent crime, terrorism, and kidnappings are rampant, and pirates continue to operate along its coast. Medical facilities are scarce and poorly equipped. The militant group Al-Shabaab remains a major threat, engaging in frequent attacks. In January 2024, Al-Shabaab militants took hostages from a U.N.-contracted helicopter that crashed in central Somalia, highlighting the risks of operating in the region.
Yemen
Yemen is a captivating land, rich in history and culture, but it’s no place for a vacation. Since the civil war began in 2014, the country has experienced relentless turmoil. The UN reports that Yemen’s conflict has led to the deaths of over 377,000 people, including many from indirect causes like lack of food and healthcare.
Travelers face exceptional risks, including frequent airstrikes and active landmines. Yemen’s challenges far outweigh its attractions. For a safer experience, think about exploring other Middle Eastern gems until this crisis subsides.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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