Table of Contents
U.S. Expands Travel Warnings to 21 High-Risk Countries
The U.S. Department of State has expanded its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory to include 21 countries, citing growing threats such as terrorism, civil unrest, kidnappings, and wrongful detentions.
These advisories are based on thorough assessments of instability, violence, and humanitarian crises in these regions. Travelers, including tourists, journalists, aid workers, and even those visiting family abroad, are urged to carefully consider the risks.
While many of these countries are culturally rich and historically significant, their escalating safety concerns now take precedence. Here’s a closer look at each of the 21 countries currently marked as highly dangerous for U.S. citizens:
Afghanistan
Afghanistan remains perilous due to ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and the constant threat of wrongful detainment. The Taliban’s grip on the country has led to widespread instability and harsh restrictions on civil liberties. Public areas, including markets and offices, are frequent targets for attacks. Foreigners are at an elevated risk, especially of kidnapping. Humanitarian organizations have largely withdrawn, leaving little support for those who remain. With minimal U.S. presence and poor infrastructure for evacuations, travel to Afghanistan is not advisable at this time.
Belarus
Belarus has become increasingly dangerous due to its close ties with Russia and the ongoing tensions surrounding the region. The government enforces arbitrary laws, detaining foreigners on questionable grounds. Civil rights are severely restricted, and protests are met with violent crackdowns. The country is under heavy surveillance, and its proximity to the conflict in Ukraine increases the volatility. Foreign visitors may be wrongly accused of espionage, making Belarus a highly risky destination.
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is facing rising levels of terrorism and political instability. Armed groups regularly target civilians, aid workers, and law enforcement. The government’s authority is weak, especially in rural areas, making travel, particularly by road, extremely dangerous. Kidnappings for ransom are common, and terrorist attacks frequently target public places. Access to healthcare is limited, which complicates emergency responses. With minimal diplomatic support on the ground, Burkina Faso is considered highly unsafe.
Burma (Myanmar)
Myanmar’s instability, rooted in the 2021 military coup, has made the country an increasingly volatile place for travelers. The regime ruthlessly suppresses opposition, and urban centers regularly experience bombings and violent clashes. Foreigners are at risk of arbitrary detention, with frequent changes to travel restrictions and laws. Myanmar’s continued human rights violations make it unsafe for international visitors, and the situation could deteriorate further without warning.
Central African Republic
The Central African Republic (CAR) is marked by ongoing conflict between government forces and rebel groups, making it a perilous destination. Violence often targets civilians, with widespread kidnappings and ambushes in rural areas. Medical services are insufficient, and infrastructure is unreliable. Traveling outside the capital is fraught with danger due to rebel checkpoints and attacks. Humanitarian workers are particularly vulnerable, and foreigners lack adequate protection, keeping CAR on the “Do Not Travel” list.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains one of the most dangerous countries in Africa. Armed militias and rebel factions are engaged in constant violence, especially in the eastern regions. Foreign nationals face a high risk of kidnapping, ambushes, and carjackings. Health threats like Ebola and measles are prevalent, and medical care is insufficient. Roads are dangerous and subject to sudden travel restrictions. Aid workers face immense risks, and even larger cities suffer from inadequate emergency services, making the DRC an unsafe travel destination.
Haiti
Haiti is grappling with an acute crisis marked by gang violence, political collapse, and economic decline. Armed gangs control large portions of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and kidnapping for ransom is rampant. Basic services such as healthcare, electricity, and clean water are in severe shortage. Protests, often related to fuel shortages and economic hardship, can escalate into violent clashes. The country’s fragile state leaves foreigners at high risk, and there is limited government control or protection, rendering Haiti one of the most dangerous countries for U.S. travelers.
Iran
Iran is a high-risk destination for U.S. travelers due to government actions and civil unrest. The regime has a history of detaining dual nationals and Americans on vague, politically motivated charges. Foreigners are monitored closely, with strict surveillance in public spaces, hotels, and transportation. Protests are frequent, often escalating into violent confrontations. With heavy censorship of internet and phone communications, travel to Iran presents serious risks, especially for those without local support or knowledge.
Iraq
Iraq continues to face serious instability, with terrorism, militia violence, and political unrest disrupting daily life. Foreign nationals, particularly Americans, are frequent targets of attacks, including kidnappings. Bombings and rocket strikes occur regularly, and extremist groups operate throughout the country. Infrastructure like healthcare, electricity, and water services is often unreliable. Landmines and unexploded ordnance present additional dangers. While some regions have improved, Iraq remains a high-risk destination for travel.
Lebanon
Lebanon is in the midst of a profound political and economic crisis, exacerbated by tensions along its borders. Armed militias and extremist groups are active, and violent outbreaks are commonplace. Protests related to economic struggles often turn violent. Basic services, including healthcare and utilities, have largely collapsed, adding to the nation’s instability. Regional conflicts and the threat of arbitrary detention make Lebanon a dangerous destination for foreigners.
Libya
Libya is in a state of ongoing civil war, with armed militias controlling large swaths of territory. Violent clashes between warring factions are common, and the lack of law enforcement leaves foreigners vulnerable to kidnapping and other threats. Air travel is often disrupted due to sudden airport closures, and medical services are limited, especially outside major cities. With no U.S. embassy and minimal consular support, Libya is a hazardous country for travelers.
The U.S. Department of State urges all Americans to carefully consider these travel advisories before making plans to visit these high-risk nations. While the allure of exploring foreign cultures and histories may be tempting, the risks in these countries are severe and should not be underestimated. Travelers are encouraged to stay updated on the latest safety information and seek alternative destinations to ensure their well-being.
U.S. Expands Travel Advisory: 21 Countries Now Marked as “Do Not Travel”
In 2025, the U.S. Department of State has added 21 countries to its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory list, citing severe and ongoing risks such as terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the threat of wrongful detentions. This list serves as a cautionary measure to help U.S. citizens make informed decisions about international travel.
The countries on the list are currently experiencing destabilizing conditions that pose significant dangers not only to tourists but also to journalists, aid workers, and expatriates. Many of these nations are grappling with political oppression, internal violence, and humanitarian crises that further endanger travelers. Here’s an overview of each country added to the high-risk list:
Mali
Mali is beset by a wave of terrorism, insurgency, and armed conflicts. Extremist groups routinely target both local and international populations, carrying out frequent attacks in public spaces and against civilians. The government’s control is fragile, particularly in northern and central regions, leaving foreign nationals exposed to abductions for ransom. Poor road infrastructure and unreliable communication networks further complicate evacuation efforts. Humanitarian missions in the country face heightened risks. Due to these persistent dangers, Mali remains under the highest travel warning.
North Korea
North Korea is one of the most isolated and unpredictable nations in the world, with strict laws and pervasive surveillance systems that pose significant risks to foreign visitors. Even minor infractions can result in long-term imprisonment or forced labor. With no U.S. diplomatic presence in the country, American travelers have no access to consular assistance, leaving them vulnerable. Communications are severely restricted, and detainees are often used as political leverage in international negotiations. Due to these harsh conditions, North Korea continues to be marked as one of the highest-risk countries for travel.
Russia
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, alongside increasing geopolitical tensions, has escalated the risks for travelers in Russia. Arbitrary arrests, surveillance, and forced conscription are just some of the dangers that foreign nationals face. With strong anti-American sentiment, particularly in regions close to conflict zones, the situation remains volatile. Protests are suppressed harshly, and dual nationals may be subject to exit bans or even forced enlistment in military service. Given these risks and the limited consular support available, Russia remains on the “Do Not Travel” list.
Somalia
Somalia continues to be plagued by violence, terrorism, and lawlessness. Militant groups, including al-Shabaab, regularly target civilians and government infrastructure, leading to frequent attacks across the country. The threat of kidnapping is high, particularly for foreigners. The healthcare and travel infrastructure are severely underdeveloped, and with no U.S. embassy in the country, travelers are left with limited or no support in times of crisis. Given the lack of government control and the widespread violence, Somalia is considered an extremely dangerous destination.
South Sudan
South Sudan is engulfed in ongoing conflict and a dire humanitarian crisis. Inter-ethnic violence and political instability have forced millions from their homes, and armed attacks are common along roads and in remote villages. Humanitarian workers are at significant risk of being targeted, and access to healthcare is severely restricted due to seasonal flooding and poor infrastructure. The government is struggling to maintain order, and disruptions to travel and security are frequent. South Sudan remains a high-risk country for any travel.
Sudan
Sudan is currently embroiled in violent conflict between rival military factions, especially in urban centers like Khartoum. This ongoing fighting has led to widespread casualties and forced displacement of civilians. Foreign nationals are at great risk of being caught in crossfire, detained, or targeted for violence. Looting and fuel shortages have crippled the country’s healthcare system, and communication blackouts make it increasingly difficult for travelers to seek help. The U.S. has limited capacity to assist citizens in Sudan, making it a particularly hazardous destination.
Syria
Syria’s ongoing civil war has devastated much of the country. Airstrikes, chemical attacks, and artillery fire continue to threaten both civilians and foreign visitors. The government, rebel factions, and extremist groups are all vying for control, resulting in constant instability. Foreigners are at risk of kidnapping, exploitation, and wrongful detention. Humanitarian aid operations are often suspended due to security concerns, and basic infrastructure has been destroyed. With widespread violence and danger, Syria remains one of the most perilous places for international travelers.
Ukraine
Ukraine is at the heart of a full-scale war due to Russia’s invasion, making it an exceptionally dangerous place to visit. Cities continue to be hit by missile strikes and shelling, causing widespread destruction and casualties. Even regions far from the front lines are at risk, as landmines and unexploded ordnance pose threats to civilians. Hospitals and utilities are severely disrupted. Journalists, aid workers, and foreign nationals in Ukraine face escalating risks as the situation remains volatile, and the U.S. strongly advises against travel to the country.
Venezuela
Venezuela is grappling with severe economic collapse, hyperinflation, and escalating violence. Basic necessities like food, water, and electricity are in short supply, and the country’s healthcare system is in critical condition. Criminal gangs and corrupt government forces often extort or kidnap foreigners, while protests can quickly turn violent. With growing political unrest and widespread shortages, Venezuela presents a significant risk to travelers, particularly Americans who may also face wrongful detention and political harassment.
Yemen
Yemen’s ongoing civil war has led to widespread suffering, with frequent airstrikes, drone attacks, and artillery fire affecting civilians across the country. The conflict between government and rebel forces has devastated infrastructure and made humanitarian conditions dire. Foreigners face high risks of kidnapping and detention, and the country’s fragile state makes evacuation or rescue nearly impossible. With limited access to healthcare and ongoing violence, Yemen remains one of the most hazardous countries for international travel.
In light of these severe dangers, the U.S. Department of State urges all travelers to heed these warnings and avoid visiting the countries currently on the Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list. In many of these regions, U.S. diplomatic support is either minimal or unavailable, and the risks to personal safety far outweigh any potential benefits of travel. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed by consulting travel advisories at travel.state.gov and to consider alternative, safer destinations for their international plans.