Planning an international trip requires careful safety due diligence, and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) is a key resource for understanding potential risks.
The DOS issues travel advisories, and a Level 3 advisory recommends that Americans reconsider travel to that location.
Here is a look at 24 countries currently listed at Level 3 by the DOS, and why caution is advised:
1. Lebanon
Lebanon’s travel advisory score was lowered from a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) to a Level 3 on January 29th, but significant threats still remain.
The DOS advises against visiting refugee settlements due to the possibility of armed clashes. Armed conflict is also cited as an issue in the southern part of the country and along the border with Syria.
2. Saudi Arabia
Travelers to Saudi Arabia face the possibility of missile and drone attacks, including those supported by Iran, which occurred as recently as September 2023.
Additionally, individuals who post content considered offensive, critical, or disruptive to public order by Saudi authorities are known to be arrested.
3. Jamaica
Beyond its popular image, the DOS advises reconsidering travel to Jamaica primarily due to crime and under-resourced medical services.
If traveling there, the DOS strongly recommends purchasing travel insurance, as an air ambulance to the U.S. can cost $30,000 to $50,000.
It’s also recommended to avoid walking or driving at night, using public transportation, and certain regions listed on the DOS website.
4. Papua New Guinea
Despite its scenic views, Papua New Guinea experiences significant violent crime and civil unrest.
Piracy is also a concern, and the DOS recommends avoiding boat travel on the Bismarck and Solomon Seas along the north and eastern coasts, as sailboats have been boarded by criminals.
5. Nicaragua
The DOS warns travelers that Nicaraguan officials have been known to arbitrarily prevent people from entering or departing the country based on perceived associations.
Arbitrary enforcement of laws is a significant issue, and the risk of wrongful detention can be high, particularly for those perceived as pro-democracy advocates. The DOS implores Americans to “Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly”.
6. Niger
While Niger’s risk level was lowered from Level 4 to Level 3 on January 8th, crime, civil unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping remain prevalent concerns.
Armed robberies and other violent crimes are common. Although usually peaceful, demonstrations are frequent and have the potential to turn violent.
7. Colombia
Colombia is listed for reconsideration due to the risk of crime and terrorism. The DOS encourages visitors to keep a low profile.
Avoiding travel to the Colombia-Venezuela border is strongly advised, as crime, kidnapping, and the possibility of detention are heightened risks there.
8. Uganda
Terrorist attacks are an ongoing threat in Uganda, including in areas popular with tourists. Violent crimes are also cited as a “serious threat”, especially in larger cities.
The DOS particularly urges people who are LGBTQI+ or perceived as such to avoid travel due to laws passed in May 2023 that could lead to prosecution, including life imprisonment.
9. Guinea
Guinea is impacted by a devastating fuel depot explosion on December 18, 2023, resulting in ongoing fuel shortages and strained hospital resources treating the injured.
Demonstrations are also common and often unplanned, meaning tourists could easily find themselves in one that can turn violent.
10. Nigeria
Reasons for reconsidering travel to Nigeria include crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed gangs. The DOS lists a long list of specific regions Americans should avoid.
Armed gangs are a major issue in Southern Nigeria, particularly the Niger Delta and Southeast, where assaults on security services are common.
11. Mauritania
Mauritania’s advisory highlights crime and terrorism as reasons for reconsideration. Muggings, armed robberies, and assaults are common.
Terrorism is also possible, and the DOS recommends travelers monitor local news and be prepared to change plans in case of a breaking event.
12. Guinea-Bissau
Civil unrest and crime are prevalent in Guinea-Bissau, making it dangerous for Americans. The country experiences intermittent political instability, leading to frequent demonstrations.
If traveling there, the DOS recommends moving around only during daylight hours and avoiding displaying signs of wealth.
13. Ethiopia
Ethiopia is on the Level 3 list due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, crime, communications disruptions, and kidnapping in border areas.
While the security situation in Addis Ababa is currently stable, the DOS provides a long list of other areas tourists should stay clear of.
14. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Crime and civil unrest are common in the DRC. The U.S. government notes it has “extremely limited” means to provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens outside of Kinshasa.
Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution when walking or driving.
15. Chad
Chad’s borders are prone to armed conflict and minefields. The Lake Chad region is also susceptible to terrorism.
The DOS encourages Americans to have a contingency plan to leave the country if conflict arises and to be particularly aware in areas frequented by Westerners where terrorist attacks can occur.
16. Burundi
Burundi’s police force lacks the resources and training to effectively respond to the violent crime the country faces. Medical services are also significantly below U.S. standards.
If traveling to Burundi, it’s wise to pack enough prescription and over-the-counter medicine and purchase medical insurance.
17. Trinidad and Tobago
Crime is identified as the main reason for Trinidad and Tobago’s Level 3 ranking. However, travelers should also exercise increased caution due to terrorism and kidnapping.
Widespread gang activity is noted, and terrorist attacks can happen, with tourist areas often being targeted.
18. Honduras
The DOS advises reconsidering travel to Honduras due to issues with crime and kidnapping. Specifically, the Gracias a Dios Department should be avoided. Risks include violent street crime, extortion, and homicide.
Travelers should avoid demonstrations and be extra cautious when using ATMs and entering banks.
19. Guyana
The South American country of Guyana is on the reconsideration list because of violent crime. Armed robberies and other violent crimes are prevalent, particularly at night.
Despite police efforts, they often lack resources to effectively address the crime problem. The DOS suggests not walking or driving at night, nor flashing expensive belongings.
20. Guatemala
The DOS recommends avoiding Guatemala altogether due to high crime rates. Specific areas cautioned against include the San Marcos and Huehuetenango departments, as well as Zone 18 and the city of Villa Nueva in Guatemala City.
The country has a notorious low arrest and conviction rate, partly attributed to under-resourced police departments.
21. El Salvador
El Salvador has faced high crime rates for years. In 2022, a “State of Exception” was declared due to a sharp increase in homicides, which remains a significant factor in the DOS’s recommendation to reconsider travel. Travelers should avoid walking outside after dark and should not drive to unfamiliar areas.
22. Egypt
Egypt has a high threat of terrorism, with the Sinai Peninsula and the Western Desert being particularly vulnerable. There are also military zones along the border that Americans should not enter.
Participating in protests or demonstrations without a permit is illegal. Travelers should practice increased caution as terrorists can strike anytime.
23. Mainland China/Macau
The DOS recommends reconsidering travel to Mainland China primarily due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the risk of wrongful detentions.
In Macau, emergency consular services for Americans are limited, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws is also an issue.
24. Pakistan
Due to active terrorist groups, the DOS encourages Americans to avoid traveling to Pakistan. The Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces are especially susceptible to terrorist attacks.
Both terrorism and armed conflict are common at the India-Pakistan border. For routine trips, it’s recommended to vary travel routes and timing.
Alicia Richards