14 Countries That Have Closed Their Doors to Tourists – Here’s Why
Tourism brings cultures together worldwide, creates economic growth, and opens the world’s wonders. Nonetheless, not all countries are eager to receive visitors.
Some have shut their borders entirely, and you might be surprised by their reasons. Below, we look at 14 currently closed destinations, but why? It may be political policy or protecting their environment.
North Korea – Strict Government Control
North Korea is synonymous with tight borders. Foreign tour operators are allowed in only a handful of approved outfits, and the country rigidly controls who gets in and who sees what.
The country reinforced these restrictions after the global pandemic, making tourism almost impossible. Other reasons are that it’s high security, you’ve got government minders, and you can’t get in unless you’re going on a guided tour.
It’s one of the most closed-off nations for a reason: political strategy, security concerns, and the government’s information control.
Selective Visas and New Beginnings: Saudi Arabia
It has always been difficult for tourists to visit Saudi Arabia. Until 2019, the kingdom had all but shut the door on visitors, issuing visas only to business people or religious pilgrims.
Even as the government launches programs to open up tourism—like the Vision 2030 program—it still closely monitors who come in. Strict dress codes, cultural rules, and regional safety sometimes thwart the nation’s growing tourism ambitions.
Bhutan – Sustainability Over Mass Tourism
Bhutan’s model is fewer people and more experience. Known for its “High-Value, Low-Impact” tourism policy, the country imposes a $200 to $250 daily fee on visitors.
This mandatory Sustainable Development Fee has strengthened Bhutan’s cultural heritage and environmental integrity. Although costly, it saves the kingdom’s pristine landscapes and generates good income.
The Restrictions on Cuba – U.S. Travel
Cuba is open to global travelers, but U.S. citizens have difficulties visiting. Because of an embargo, American tourists are generally restricted from traveling under strict regulations.
Tours must fall under approved categories like “educational exchange” or “journalistic activities. Traveling to Cuba, negotiating these rules, and lacking diplomatic relations can be difficult.
Iran – Diplomatic Barriers and Bureaucratic Hurdles
Worldwide, Iranian history and extraordinary architecture draw visitors, but its politics make them rarely worthwhile.
There are lengthy visa procedures, and people traveling there from the U.S., Canada, and the UK sometimes must take a government-approved escort. Political tensions have added to travel woes even though Iran has apparent attractions.
Tibet – Controlled Entry Through China
Tibet is culturally distinct but closely watched by China’s government. To visit this region, you must have many permits and restrictions, and it’s only possible through organized group travel.
Tibet is tightly under surveillance by China, which means independent travelers don’t stand much chance of visiting it.
Turkmenistan – Rigorous Visa Policies
Turkmenistan is one of Central Asia’s least visited destinations by design. Its visa rules are some of the most rigid worldwide, and only 5% of independent travelers receive approval.
Turkmenistan has been isolated because this government has chosen to stay in control and propagate a specific image before the people living outside.
Economic Crisis and Civil Unrest in Venezuela
Once the cultural gem of South America with its world-famous landscapes, travelers are put off coming to Venezuela by many crises. The economy is volatile; food shortages, high crime rates, and general political turmoil leave travelers uncertain about what they will find at their destination.
Of course, its natural beauty—Angel Falls, for example—is as majestic as ever, but the combination of risks makes Venezuela a challenging, dangerous destination for most visitors.
Nauru – Limited Infrastructure
This tiny Pacific island nation isn’t entirely closed to tourists, but getting there is no small feat. Nauru has no actual tourism infrastructure and no on-island flights or accommodations.
Due to a lack of resources and the country’s exclusive concentration on domestic issues, few resources remain for promoting global tourism.
Syria – Ongoing Conflict
A must-see for history buffs, Syria has now effectively been rendered off-limits because of ongoing conflict. Syria is inaccessible for most travelers – it’s too dangerous, the infrastructure has been damaged, and the visa procedures are complex.
Reminding one of what enduring war does to a nation’s heritage and cultural treasures is somber.
Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen
Yemen, like Syria, is inaccessible because of conflict and a deep humanitarian crisis. It is hazardous to travel to Yemen, and many countries advise against doing so.
The place’s rich traditions and breathtaking architecture can only be seen from afar.
Antarctica – Limited by Environmental Protection
Antarctica is pristine, and its pristine ecosystem enforces strict tourism limits, even though it isn’t a country. Human activity is kept to a minimum because of the Antarctic Treaty System.
The region is off limits to anyone but the most specific cruise operators, with highly defined rules, visitor numbers, and activities tightly monitored to protect its delicate environment from damage.
Libya – Political Instability and Safety Concerns
Libya, a land of great historical past encompassing excellent historical sites like Leptis Magna, is practically off limits (mainly due to political unrest and safety concerns).
The nation is unstable because of conflict over many decades, and it is perilous for travelers to be there for security reasons. More governments advise against travel to Libya, making tourism here nearly non-existent.
Somalia: Long-Term Security Risks
Somalia has had a strategic location in the Horn of Africa for centuries, with a legacy of cultural and historical heritage but a longstanding history of conflict. Instability, piracy, and terrorism plague the country.
It has poor infrastructure and is dangerous because of the threat of violence. Nations around the globe have issued travel advisories, advising against unnecessary risk.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
Disclosure: For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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