15 Places So Risky Americans Should Never Step Foot in Them

Traveling opens a whole world of adventure, but definitely not every destination is a postcard-perfect getaway. Certain locations are filled with dangers, from political unrest to natural disasters and even extreme crime rates. We may all like the idea of exploring not-so-familiar territory; still, some places are better off admired from afar—for your own safety.

Some of these places may sound tempting but are considered quite dangerous to visit. Be it crime, health hazards, or capricious environments, these places will stand as cautionary tales even for the most seasoned travelers.

Venezuela

From being one of the most beautiful countries with breathtaking landscapes, Venezuela has turned into one of the most dangerous places in the world. The high level of crime, political instability, and acute shortage of basic amenities make it a zone of high risk. Kidnappings, robberies, and violent crimes are common, especially in cities such as Caracas. The locals struggle to get through their everyday life so tourists are better off avoiding it altogether.

North Korea

While the tight regime and propaganda make North Korea intriguing, it is highly restricted and very dangerous to visit on a tourist basis. Even minor missteps in photographing or uttering something wrong may serve a person with a very severe punishment. People have been held in detention for years due to misunderstandings; thus, it is not for curious travelers.

Honduras

Blessed with natural beauty, Honduras is one of the most murderous countries in the world. Rampant gang violence and drug-related crime rates often go unrecorded and rage rampant. Safety concerns have cropped up in places that attract tourists like San Pedro Sula.

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine

Thrill-seekers are drawn to Chernobyl, the site of the infamous 1986 nuclear disaster. Though guided tours are available, there is still a very real risk of radiation exposure. It’s dangerous to veer off designated paths because radiation hotspots dot the exclusion zone.

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

The capital of Haiti is a fast hub of political unrest and economical misery. The city is extremely dangerous with high crime rates, car hijackings, and armed robberies. The lack of a reliable police presence only raises concerns about personal safety, particularly for foreigners who are not usually used to the local landscape.

Afghanistan

With its stormy history, Afghanistan is now one of the most hazardous states in the world; it has remained so due to continuous conflicts. Terrorism threats, kidnappings, and bombings are ever-present. Its breathtaking mountains and great cultural history are outweighed by the risks that come with this destination.

Somalia

Known for its beautiful beaches, Somalia is a no-go zone for most travelers due to its history of piracy, terrorism, and instability. Kidnappings for ransom are common, and without a functioning central government, there’s little to no protection for visitors.

Mogadishu, Somalia

While Somalia as a whole is dangerous, Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, is especially unsafe with frequent terrorist attacks and violent crime. Even humanitarians and journalists travel under armed escort; the risks are that severe.

Mount Everest

Mount Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure but incredibly perilous. Snowstorms, extreme weather, and altitude sickness kill people every year. Some seasoned climbers have even fallen victim to the mountain’s ruthless conditions.

Ciudad Juárez, Mexico

While Mexico has a lot of safe tourist destinations, Ciudad Juárez is not one of them. This city has gained a reputation for its high crime rate and continuous violence due to drug trafficking organizations. It is anything but a laid-back destination. Tourists are often targeted for robbery, which makes it particularly dangerous for Americans.

Cape Flats, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is on many people’s bucket lists, but Cape Flats is known for its violent gang activity. It is riddled with drug trafficking and armed robberies, and to venture into it without knowing your way around can be hazardous.

Iran

Though Iran offers breathtaking architecture and fabulous history, strained relations between the United States and Iranian governments make it a dicey proposition for Americans. There have been arrests and detentions of foreigners, usually without apparent charges.

Democratic Republic of Congo

The DRC is a wildly wealthy country in natural resources and wildlife, but it’s also embroiled in ongoing conflicts, political instability, and diseases such as Ebola. It’s an extremely hazardous destination, with kidnappings and armed attacks not unheard of.

Central African Republic

This African state is a powerhouse of wildlife and natural splendors, but the risk isn’t worth it. The nation has been torn apart by fighting between armed factions, and very often civilians—and visitors—are caught in the crossfire.

Yemen

The Yemen humanitarian crisis and continuing civil war make this nation among the most dangerous in the world. The food shortage, bombings, and the collapsed healthcare system have created a dire situation for everyone.