The 12 Most Hazardous Places for Americans to Visit in 2025

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Are you thinking about your next great adventure? While it is cool to visit new destinations, you also need to know the risks involved in traveling to a place you have not been before. Environments with political instability, natural disasters, public health concerns, or safety risks are complex.

This guide presents the 12 most dangerous places for Americans in 2025, highlighting what to expect and safety measures to take when possible.

Haiti

The Most Hazardous Places for Americans to Visit in 2025 — Image Credit: Kelly/Pexels

Although Haiti is still a beautiful and culturally and historically rich destination, long-standing civil unrest and widespread gang violence make it a dangerous place for travelers. Avoid nonessential travel to high-risk areas and engage experienced local guides if you are there.

Afghanistan

Taliban resurgence is keeping Afghan security under the gun. It’s one of the most dangerous destinations in the world, thanks to political instability, terrorist attacks, and lack of infrastructure.

Venezuela

Venezuela has a dwindling economy, with crime, corruption, and unreliable access to essential resources. U.S. travelers have detailed robberies and even arbitrary detentions. Have funds for emergencies, do not travel at night, and research to pick safe accommodation options.

North Korea

North Korea has tightly controlled travel — visitors have limited freedom of movement. However, foreign visitors are at increased risk of being jailed on dubious legal grounds, and tensions between the host countries also make matters worse.

In the event of visiting, follow strict local laws, avoid all political discussions, and travel only with authorized guides.

Somalia

Somalia has pretty coastlines but is best known for concerns about piracy, terrorism, and weak government control over some parts of the country.

According to the Global Peace Index, it is one of the least peaceful countries. Avoid sea routes and have emergency insurance coverage if travel can’t be avoided.

Myanmar (Burma)

Myanmar—which saw a surge in tourism interest in the years after protests in 1988, is now politically unstable, under military control, and subject to armed conflict.

Since the military coup in 2021, protest crackdowns & targeted violence have increased. Choose Southeast Asian destination options and watch for alerts for improvement.

El Salvador

El Salvador has dramatically reduced crime rates in recent years, but gang‐related violence is an issue for tourists who aren’t aware of the safe zones.

Concerns about transportation scams and petty crimes are raised in USAC’s data. Staying inside San Salvador and parts that are notorious for gang activity is not advisable.

Democratic Republic of Congo

DRC is suffering from internal conflicts, poor infrastructure, and disease outbreaks (Ebola). Humanitarian agencies said foreign visitors face heightened risks. Only travel with an experienced guide and to destinations outside conflict zones.

Yemen

Yemen is one of the least safe places for traveling. There are humanitarian crises, active conflicts, and terrorism. The country’s failing health infrastructure adds to the challenges for tourists. Follow all travel advisories and put recreational visits on hold indefinitely.

South Sudan

Currently, South Sudan is ultra-dangerous for all tourists due to its continuing political instability and raging factional wars. Combine that with extreme food insecurity and a lack of medical infrastructure, and the risks go through the roof.

Listen to advisories from international NGOs or the United Nations, who will help you keep updated on the changing situation.

Mexico (Certain Regions)

Although Mexico remains the overwhelming vacation spot of choice for Americans, there are areas of the country, such as Tamaulipas, Guerrero, and Sinaloa, that are experiencing high crime because of cartel violence. According to the State Department, travelers to these areas should be cautious.

Pakistan

Despite Pakistan’s marvelously scenic natural landscapes, there are terrorism risks and sectarian violence in border areas near Afghanistan and some provinces.

The best option would be to visit secure and decently known spots like Islamabad or Hunza Valley. It’s insisted that if you have an itinerary, you register it with nearby specialists.

There’s no need to settle for feeling unsafe while you explore the world. Remaining informed about potential hazards and following expert advice will help you go safely and help protect yourself and those you travel with. Again, research, read travel advisories, and understand your needs.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.