15 Countries Travelers Are Eager to Avoid Forever
Not every destination results in return travelers. For years, many travelers have refused to visit certain countries for safety, political instability, cultural differences, or unfortunate experiences.
A 2024 World Travel Market Global Travel Report survey found that 29% of key global markets had turned down a destination visit in the last year due to poor weather. Other recorded reasons include social unrest, safety risks, inadequate infrastructure, or cultural misunderstandings—all important for anyone planning their next travel.
Scroll through 15 countries travelers frequently say they tend to avoid — and get a glimpse into what makes those threats so debilitating.
Venezuela
Venezuela has consistently ranked low on the most popular destinations; it has never been a safe place to visit. Once a cultural hub of Caracas, the capital was known to have, in 2022, one of the highest crime indices in the world, as per Numbeo.
Venezuela’s breathtaking natural beauty—Angel Falls or the Amazon rainforest—has allure, but safety-conscious travelers often see it as not worth the risk.
Afghanistan
It’s no secret that Afghanistan is a dangerous destination. Decades of war, civil unrest, and ongoing political instability have caused a travel warning that has halted visits.
Strangely and by all accounts boringly, infrastructure struggles and basic safety risks make it an off-limits option, even for the most adventurous tourists. Afghanistan has a fascinating history and culture, but various challenges led many to cross it off their list.
Somalia
Many travelers see Somalia as inaccessible, with high risks of terrorism, political unrest, and widespread piracy. The U.S. Department of State consistently issues Level 4 travel advisories (“Do Not Travel”) for Somalia, the latest being July 2024.
Its coastal landscapes and historical landmarks may well appeal to intrepid travelers, but most stay away because of the unknown risks.
North Korea
North Korea is a mysterious—and undoubtedly unique—place. Its incredible restrictions on personal freedom and almost total lack of transparency mean that very few tourists choose to visit.
Visitors are subject to strict surveillance, may be detained for minor infractions, and have the government in control of every aspect of the whole experience, with little room for actual cultural experiences or spontaneous exploration.
Iraq
While Iraq has come a long way since the height of its conflict, most global travelers still perceive it as dangerous to visit.
Terror incidents still occur, and the infrastructure has not recovered. Babylon is just one historical treasure of Iraq, but visiting is much riskier than one might imagine for even the most curious of explorers.
Yemen
Unlike many other countries, Yemen is crowded with history and incredible landscapes. However, its precarious security makes it one of the most dangerous tourist countries.
Years of political conflict, humanitarian crises, and reported incidences of kidnapping have damaged the nation. The challenges in Yemen scare off international visitors who travel to relatively safer and more stable destinations.
Haiti
Haiti has long been a politically unstable, economically tricky, and disaster-prone destination. However, its reputation as a place most people don’t travel to might attract the more intrepid traveler.
Still, legitimate ongoing safety concerns, particularly in Port-au-Prince, usually keep people away. The dangers were also made clear with the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
Libya
The fierce battle between the Government of National Accord and the House of Representatives in Libya left the country unattractive to tourists. The heightened political tumult and history of civil war have diminished the beauty of its ancient Roman ruins, natural desert formations, and other Libyan marvels.
This country is known for high violent crime rates, unreliable systems, and restricted access, which have destroyed the country’s geographical allure for many travelers.
Central African Republic
The Central African Republic is rated among the least visited countries. Only a handful of its adventurous visitors see it.
Heavily ravaged by poverty, limited infrastructure, and ongoing violence between rebel factions, it is mainly inaccessible to anything but the most determined foreign visitor.
South Sudan
While South Sudan achieved independence in 2011, there’s continued conflict, and infrastructure remains undeveloped, making it one of the most avoided destinations for leisure travelers.
Syria
Syria was once a favorite among travelers looking for ruins or historical landmarks. But the civil war and its devastation have made it one of the most dangerous places on earth. Damascus and Aleppo are now symbolic of hardship rather than wonder.
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is stunningly tropical, but tourists avoid it because of theft, violent crime, and local clashes with foreigners.
Many parts of the island nation are poorly served by infrastructure, making safe exploration and reliable travel options difficult.
Nigeria
As Africa’s biggest economy with Lagos, one of its most vibrant cities, Nigeria can still be off-putting for travelers with its high crime rate, kidnapping rate, and internet scam rate.
Heavy safety concerns engage travelers in travel decisions, especially for foreigners who do not know local customs.
Pakistan
Pakistan offers a magnificent experience for people who love outdoor errands and traditional culture. However, violence and terror threats still constitute a perennial concern in some areas. If you are willing to visit, you must follow strict precautions to ensure your safety during the trip.
Belarus
News about Belarus never goes unnoticed, as it is always in the spotlight for its atrociously poor human rights record. Belarus is familiar with controversial global politics.
International travelers are already nervous after Russia’s 2022 military activities intensified tensions. Its official corruption and restrictive environments make its fascinating Soviet-era architecture feel like only half the story.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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