As Americans, we all love to travel and see the world in all its vastness. However, there are certain places that aren’t worth adventuring into. We’ve compiled the 20 worst places you can go for a vacation and why they’re so dangerous.
Venezuela
Venezuela faces political unrest, with strikes, protests, and violent clashes between groups being commonplace there. You may find yourself in need of basic necessities in all the strife too, and the US Department of State says that even being within 50 miles of the country is still as dangerous as being in it.
Honduras
In Honduras, the crime rates are unprecedented, and according to the World Bank, the country witnessed a homicide rate of 38 per 1,000 people in 2021 alone. Urban areas like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro are of particular interest to criminals, with armed robbery and gang violence being the most rampant violent crimes.
Nigeria
Nigeria has also seen a significant rise in insecurity, fuelled by a steep downturn in economic fortunes. Regardless of its rich culture and attractions, know that foreigners are particularly at risk of being kidnapped for ransom. And just in May 2023, two Americans were killed in an ambush, even with police escorts with them.
Pakistan
Terrorist attacks in Pakistan are a real threat, and foreigners are often targeted for them. Bomb explosions frequently kill tens of people and injure dozens more, and areas near the Afghan border are said to be particularly hazardous. Travelers should carefully assess the risks and stay updated on travel advisories before considering a trip to Pakistan.
Syria
Syria’s ongoing civil war makes it one of the most dangerous destinations in the world, too. The conflict has devastated infrastructure and created extreme security risks, and in November 2023, a car bomb in Damascus killed 12 civilians. Travel to Syria is strongly discouraged due to these unpredictable and perilous occurrences.
El Salvador
El Salvador struggles with gang violence and high crime rates, especially in urban regions. The country reported over 1,100 homicides in 2023, with many incidents linked to gang activity. And these conditions pose significant dangers to tourists, especially when it comes to crimes like armed robbery and assault.
Mexico
Certain areas in Mexico, particularly near the U.S. border and in some coastal states, are plagued by drug cartel violence. The Guardian states that the rising insecurity in the country spiraled after the government militarized its war on drugs. Violent clashes between rival cartels cause tens of deaths, and we also see tourists affected by crimes like kidnappings.
South Africa
South Africa has notable crime issues, including muggings, carjackings, and burglaries. The country recorded over 21,000 murders in 2023 alone, and this was a significant increase from what it experienced in previous years. These incidents also happen in both urban and suburban areas, meaning there isn’t really anywhere you can deem completely safe.
Somalia
Notorious for piracy, particularly in its coastal waters, in November 2023, pirates hijacked a ship off the coast of Somalia, holding its crew for ransom. Somalia also witnesses unpredictable internal conflict and a lack of stable governance, all of which make it highly unsafe for travelers.
Haiti
Haiti frequently experiences natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes, which can devastate infrastructure and impact safety. In August 2023, for instance, an earthquake in southern Haiti killed over 1,400 people, and this factor, combined with political instability, made Haiti a challenging destination for American travelers.
Sudan
Sudan has been plagued by civil unrest and violence for years, particularly in regions like Darfur. And we see clashes between opposing, heavily armed forces that kill thousands of civilians every year. And in addition to this, there’s also the potential danger of kidnapping to deal with as a foreigner.
Brazil
Brazil reported over 47,000 homicides in 2022 alone, and it also faces high violent crime rates that particularly manifest through armed robbery and theft. This is especially true in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Despite its vibrant culture and natural beauty, you must prioritize personal safety when you consider traveling here.
Iraq
Iraq continues to face threats from terrorist groups, and it’s one of the most dangerous destinations to be in. The country has experienced consistent insecurity since 2003, when the Iraq War started, and with the U.S. playing a key role in starting the war, you see exactly why Americans aren’t welcome here.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan remains unstable due to ongoing conflict and terrorist activities, and The Independent ranks it as the most dangerous country in the world. The security situation is highly volatile, and, for instance, in the news, we see suicide bombings claim tens of lives every month, even in the country’s capital, Kabul.
Libya
Libya’s political instability and ongoing conflict create a hazardous environment for travelers. The risk of violence and kidnapping is high, and just in October 2023, clashes between rival militias in Tripoli resulted in multiple casualties. Safer alternatives are recommended when planning international travel.
Guatemala
Guatemala experiences significant crime and violence, particularly in urban areas. The country recorded a homicide rate of 22 per 100,000 people in 2022, and tourists may specifically face risks such as armed robbery, assault, and kidnappings. Guatemala may be attractive for its rich Mayan heritage, but it’s best to consider other options.
The Philippines
The southern region of the Philippines, particularly Mindanao, has its residents facing constant kidnapping threats from the militant groups operating there. Foreigners are often targeted, and in 2023, three tourists were kidnapped by armed men in this part of the country.
Yemen
Yemen’s ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis create an extremely unsafe environment for travelers as well. There’s a high risk of violence and kidnapping for foreigners; airstrikes are a common occurrence; and, in addition to these, you also have famine and diseases to deal with when stranded.
Jamaica
In Jamaica, you are also at risk of violent crimes and theft, particularly in certain areas of Kingston and Montego Bay. The country even recorded over 1,300 homicides in only 2023, and despite its beautiful beaches and music culture, as a tourist, it’s best to avoid here if a trip isn’t absolutely necessary.
The Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo experiences one of the most devastating ongoing conflicts and civil unrest reported in the news today. Violence and instability are common, and some of the worst diseases to have sprung up recently are also reported from here, making it a dangerous destination.
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