Seeing different countries and cultures can provide some of the most satisfying experiences life has to offer. In this day and age, international travel has never been more convenient and accessible. Whether you’ve got a wanderlust bug, an itch for adventure, or are seeking self-discovery, it’s important to pack precautions when traveling internationally.
War-torn state governments, drug and human traffickers, impoverished populations, and lack of education contribute to these countries’ overall lack of security. In their Crimes Against Tourists guide, Arizona State University reported that theft is the most common crime against tourists, but foreigners are also significantly more likely to be the targets of assault, fraud, and scams.
To provide a comprehensive list of the least safe travel destinations of 2023, Impactful scraped data from a handful of international databases, including the US Department of State, the World Population Review, the Global Economy, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the Worldometer, and the Global Organized Crime Index.
If a country’s data was unpublished or outdated, we labeled it as not available (NA).
Israel, the West Bank and Gaza
- Threat level: Other
- Homicide rate: 1.49
- Violent crime: 56%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 5.5
Israel is a small country located at the heart of the Middle East and bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. For years, it has been involved in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. The US Department of State advises against travel to Israel due to high levels of terrorism, airstrikes, frequent attacks on civilians, border blockades, resource shortages, and armed conflict.
Visit the Israel Travel Advisory for more info.
Mexico
- Threat level: Other
- Homicide rate: 29.07
- Violent crime: 39%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
Located in Central America, Mexico is a large country rich in culture and beauty. However, according to the US Department of State, travelers must consider the high risk of violent crime, kidnapping, and theft when visiting the country. Travel is strictly limited, if not prohibited, in many regions, including Chihuahua, Guerrero, Michoacan, and Zacatecas.
Visit the Mexico Travel Advisory for more info.
Somalia
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 5.6
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8
Somalia is located on the East African coast, bordering the Indian Ocean, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Due to a lack of a centralized government and little to no oversight, Somalia has limited medical facilities. Civilians suffer rampant pirate activity, unauthorized blockades, violent crime, kidnapping, bombings, and high levels of civil unrest.
Visit the Somalia Travel Advisory for more info.
Haiti
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 6.68
- Violent crime: 2%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6.5
Haiti is an island country located in the Caribbean Ocean. Due to recent gang activity, Haiti has limited fuel, drinking water, medicine, and food access. Kidnapping and violent crime pose a high threat to visitors and civilians alike, but cases with US citizens often involve ransom negotiations and hostage situations.
Visit the Haiti Travel Advisory for more info.
Ukraine
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 6.18
- Violent crime: 6%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Located in eastern Europe, Ukraine is the second-largest country on the continent. Since the Russian invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has been considered highly unsafe for travel. Citizens suffer armed conflict, military attacks, lack of security, food and fuel shortages, and destroyed infrastructure. Visitors are advised to take high precautions, monitor media, and security alerts, and have a plan of action in an emergency.
Visit the Ukraine Travel Advisory for more info.
Afghanistan
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 6.66
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
Afghanistan is located in the heart of south-central Asia, bordered by Pakistan and Iran. The country has suffered high levels of terrorism and political instability for years. Due to anti-Western ideologies and religious extremism, several militant groups in the country target US citizens specifically. However, since suspending US Embassy services in 2021, hostage rescue efforts within the country are unavailable.
Visit the Afghanistan Travel Advisory for more info.
Yemen
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 6.77
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
Yemen is an Islamic republic occupying the southwesternmost end of the Arabian Peninsula. Currently, this country faces one of the most significant humanitarian crises in the history of the world, with approximately 17.8 million people suffering extreme deprivation. The US Department of State advises against travel to Yemen due to terrorist activity, the targeting of US citizens, and an ongoing civil war.
Visit the Yemen Travel Advisory for more info.
Venezuela
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 36.69
- Violent crime: 1%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
Located at the northern tip of South America, Venezuela suffers intense economic instability, high levels of starvation, increased crime rates, and mass emigration. Recently, the US government withdrew Embassy personnel, making aid for international victims virtually unavailable. The country has rampant human rights violations, violent political demonstrations, inadequate healthcare, and terrorism.
Visit the Venezuela Travel Advisory for more info.
Syria
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 0.88
- Violent crime: 0.2%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
Syria, officially known as the Syrian Arab Republic, is located in the Middle East. The US Department of State advises against travel into Syria due to intense armed conflict, ongoing civil unrest, and terrorism. The country’s fight against the Islamic State on many fronts causes severe civil unrest.
Visit the Syria Travel Advisory for more info.
Sudan
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 5.15
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8
Located in the northeastern region of Africa on the border with the Middle East, Sudan is a hotspot of intense political unrest. Frequent protests and demonstrations disrupt communications and often result in violence against peaceful protestors. Travelers are also at risk of kidnapping.
Visit the Sudan Travel Advisory for more info.
South Sudan
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 14.87
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
South Sudan split from Sudan in 2011 after years of civil conflict. Today, the independent nation has high civilian casualties, internal displacement, and violent crime rates. According to the US Department of State, travelers are at risk of kidnapping and human trafficking.
Visit the South Sudan Travel Advisory for more info.
North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 4.7
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8
The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is a highly restricted area, and most passports are not valid for flights into the country. The United States maintains no diplomatic relations with North Korea other than through the Swedish government. Aid is unavailable within the country.
Visit the North Korea Travel Advisory for more info.
Libya
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 2.5
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 9.5
Libya is a large country located in North Africa. In 2011, it experienced a major revolution that resulted in the upheaval of the country’s political structure. Because of this, health services and access to electricity, food, and water are unreliable. Travelers risk becoming victims of violent crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict.
Visit the Libya Travel Advisory for more info.
Iraq
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 10.07
- Violent crime: 0.04%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8
Iraq is a Middle Eastern country bordered by Syria, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Turkey. Up until recently, Iraq was in the middle of a war against the Islamic State, which led to the internal displacement of civilians and civil unrest. Travelers in Iraq are at risk of being caught in violent protests or falling victim to assault, robbery, or kidnapping.
Visit the Iraq Travel Advisory for more info.
Iran
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 2.5
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
Iran, located at the center of South Asia, is an Islamic republic. Travelers are at high risk of kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment. Due to intense religious and political disputes, failing infrastructure, and drought caused by climate change, Iran is not an advisable destination for tourists.
Visit the Iran Travel Advisory for more info.
Burma (Myanmar)
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 2.26
- Violent crime: 1%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6.5
Burma, also known as Myanmar, is a small Southeast Asian country home to over 100 ethnic groups. The conditions in the country are precarious due to a 2021 deposition of government leaders that has led to an ongoing civil war. In addition to armed conflict and civil unrest, travelers in Burma may encounter inadequate healthcare and pandemic-related travel restrictions.
Visit the Burma Travel Advisory for more info.
Russia
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 8.21
- Violent crime: 4%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6.5
Russia is a transcontinental country with a population of over 143.4 million. Since the February 2021 invasion of Ukraine, the US Department of State has advised tourists to avoid all travel into the country. The US Embassy has limited reach outside the capital city of Moscow, and there are few travel options for visitors.
Visit the Russia Travel Advisory for more info.
Mali
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 10.8
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Located in the heart of West Africa, Mali is the eighth-largest country on the continent. According to the US Department of State, religious extremist groups and terrorist organizations often target western travelers within the country. The Mali government is also known for committing human rights violations and for taking violent measures against civilians.
Visit the Mali Travel Advisory for more info.
Central African Republic
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 20.12
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
The Central African Republic is unsupported by the US government, and embassy-provided aid is unavailable in many regions of the country. Due to extreme poverty, political unrest, and a dramatic food crisis, 58 million people face food insecurity and 15 million are displaced from their homes. Travelers are at risk of violent crime.
Visit the Central African Republic Travel Advisory for more info.
Burkina Faso
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 1.25
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6
Burkina Faso is located south of the Saharan Desert in the heart of western Africa. With an unemployment rate of over 50%, it is one of the poorest nations in the world. Travelers are advised to be aware of terrorist threats and face a high risk of kidnapping and violent crime.
Visit the Burkina Faso Travel Advisory for more info.
Belarus
- Threat level 4: Do Not Travel
- Homicide rate: 2.39
- Violent crime: 4%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Ever since the initial invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, the nation of Belarus has housed Russian troops along its southern border, which touches Ukraine. The US has since evacuated all personnel, and American travel to the country has become substantially more dangerous. Political persecution and conflict put travelers at risk of violent harassment or arrest.
Visit the Belarus Travel Advisory for more info.
Uganda
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 10.52
- Violent crime: 11%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Uganda is a small country located in central-eastern Africa. Travelers in this country are at risk for the Ebola virus and face frequent terrorist attacks. In terms of political unrest, Uganda’s candidates often face intimidation, voting irregularities, and security officer violence.
Visit the Uganda Travel Advisory for more info.
Columbia
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 25.34
- Violent crime: 66%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
Colombia is located on the northern edge of the South American continent. Terrorist groups like the National Liberation Army (ELN) and Segunda Marquetalia threaten tourists and civilians in Colombia. Because of the current political instability, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Colombia is prone to violent demonstrations that make in-country travel difficult.
Visit the Colombia Travel Advisory for more info.
China
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 0.53
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6.5
In terms of population, the nation of China is the largest in the world. The country faces human rights violations such as restricted press, extended detention, unlawful treatment of civil rights activists, and ethnic minority subjugation. Currently, travelers are advised to take precautions against the COVID-19 pandemic, which include extended quarantine upon arrival and often additional testing.
Visit the China Travel Advisory for more info.
Peru
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 7.91
- Violent crime: 44%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Civil unrest in Peru has led to drastic jumps in crime. Visitors and locals are at risk of muggings, carjackings, theft, and assault. While much of this crime is sporadic, organized crime and gang violence are commonplace in cities like Lima and along some of the nation’s borders.
Visit the Peru Travel Advisory for more info.
Nicaragua
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 7.19
- Violent crime: 25%
- Human trafficking GOCI score:
Under the rule of Nicaragua’s current president, Daniel Ortega, the country has faced political unrest and restrictions on speech and expression. Risks for Americans visiting the area include long-term detention, prolonged solitary confinement, and insufficient food for extended periods.
Visit the Nicaragua Travel Advisory for more info.
Trinidad and Tobago
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 30.65
- Violent crime: 29%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6
Trinidad and Tobago is an island nation located off the coast of Venezuela. The country experiences high rates of discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as government corruption, human trafficking, and organized crime. Sporadic violent crime is especially prominent in Queens’ Park Savannah and the downtown Port of Spain.
Visit the Trinidad and Tobago Travel Advisory for more info.
Nigeria
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 34.52
- Violent crime: 0.01%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
Travel in Nigeria is restricted due to terrorism and violent crime, kidnappings, and maritime crime. As a result of political and civil unrest in the southern regions of the country, organized armed military factions often collaborate with local gangs in terrorist efforts. Americans traveling in Nigeria risk falling victim to kidnapping or violent crime.
Visit the Nigeria Travel Advisory for more info.
United Arab Emirates
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 0.46
- Violent crime: 1%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
The United Arab Emirates are south of Saudi Arabia on the coast of the Persian Gulf. Terrorist attacks, such as air raids and drone strikes from neighboring Yemen, put travelers at high risk. Political and social activists within the country are also often victims of unlawful detention, unfair trials, and restricted speech.
Visit the United Arab Emirates Travel Advisory for more info.
Tuvalu
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 18.62
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 1.5
Located east of Australia in the heart of the South Pacific Ocean, Tuvalu is a small island with a population of only 11,000. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, travel in and out of the country is severely limited. US citizens can expect long delays flying in or out of the country.
Visit the Tuvalu Travel Advisory for more details.
Saudi Arabia
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 1.27
- Violent crime: 8%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
With a population of 27 million, Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula. Civilians face the risk of drone and missile attacks and terrorist violence. The Saudi Arabian government restricts speech and expression, and within the criminal justice system, punishments are often cruel and unlawful.
Visit the Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory for more info.
Papua New Guinea
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 9.75
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Papua New Guinea is a Pacific island off the northern coast of Australia. In terms of crime, the island country is hazardous for women and girls. Travelers in Papua New Guinea are warned to take precautions against civil unrest and violent public demonstrations.
Visit the Papua New Guinea Travel Advisory for more info.
Pakistan
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 3.88
- Violent crime: 3%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8
Pakistan is a small country located in the heart of southern Asia. In the country’s borders, tourists and civilians face high risk due to terrorist attacks and armed conflict throughout the country. Due to intense political unrest and targeted terrorist attacks.
Visit the Pakistan Travel Advisory for more info.
Niger
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 4.43
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
Travelers in Niger are advised to take precautions against violent crime, kidnapping, and terrorism. This is one of the largest countries in Africa, with a population of over 25 million. The country is currently facing an influx of refugees.
Visit the Niger Travel Advisory for more info.
Micronesia
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 4.8
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 5
Micronesia is a Pacific island nation located near Guam and the Marshall Islands. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, travel in and out of Micronesia is nearly impossible.
Visit the Micronesia Travel Advisory for more info.
Mauritania
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 10.2
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7.5
Mauritania is faced with high rates of terrorism and crime due to an insufficient police force. Those within the country’s incarceration system also face heavy abuse and mistreatment. Travelers in Mauritania are advised to remain vigilant against potential mugging attacks.
Visit the Mauritania Travel Advisory for more info.
Marshall Islands
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 3.98
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 4.5
The Marshall Islands is an independent microstate located in the Pacific. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel in and out of the country is limited. Travelers are advised to expect delays, cancelations, and strict regulations.
Visit the Marshall Islands Travel Advisory for more info.
Lebanon
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 2.49
- Violent crime: 17%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 8.5
Lebanon is a country in the northern Arabian Peninsula that borders the Mediterranean Sea. It is known to be a terrorist hot spot, and travelers are advised to take precautions against potential armed conflict. The country is prone to terrorism, frequent kidnappings, and discrimination against women.
Visit the Lebanon Travel Advisory for more info.
Kiribati
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 7.52
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 4.5
The nation of Kiribati is located in the central Pacific Ocean. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, travel in and out of the country is severely limited. It also faces devastating effects of climate change, suffering high risk of storm surges and coastal flooding.
Visit the Kiribati Travel Advisory for more info.
Jamaica
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 43.85
- Violent crime: 26%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 5
Jamaica suffers high rates of corruption within its ranks of government officials, resulting in political instability. Crimes such as armed and sexual assaults, home robberies, and homicides are prevalent in many regions of the country. Jamaica is located among the Caribbean Islands, just south of Cuba.
Visit the Jamaica Travel Advisory for more info.
Hong Kong
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 0.65
- Violent crime: 10%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: NA
Hong Kong is an independent city known as the People’s Republic of China, located on the country’s southern coast. Due to intense COVID-19 procedures and strong national government oversight, travel in and out of Hong Kong is difficult. Access to medical care within the city is not guaranteed.
Visit the Hong Kong Travel Advisory for more info.
Honduras
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 38.93
- Violent crime: 31%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6.5
Honduras is a Central American country located between Mexico and South America. Honduras is listed as a dangerous place to visit because drug trafficking and corruption are common there. Homicide and armed robbery are common, and travelers are advised against participating in potentially violent public demonstrations.
Visit the Honduras Travel Advisory for more info.
Guyana
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 14.25
- Violent crime: 28%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 5.5
Guyana is a South American country located on the northern coast. Travelers are at risk of violent crime and are advised to remain vigilant when around banks or surrounding businesses. Due to the country’s poor infrastructure, adequate healthcare is also unreliable.
Visit the Guyana Travel Advisory for more info.
Guinea-Bissau
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 1.15
- Violent crime: 12%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 5.5
Guinea-Bissau is a West African country on the tropical Atlantic coast. Due to decades-long political and civil unrest, Guinea-Bissau suffers high poverty and an unstable economy. Violent crime, demonstrations, and the targeting of foreigners make the country an unsafe tourist destination.
Visit the Guinea-Bissau Travel Advisory for more info.
Egypt
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 2.55
- Violent crime: 0.3%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 5.5
Egypt is a richly diverse nation located in the northernmost corner of the African continent. Travelers are advised to take precautions when traveling in Egypt due to frequent and targeted terrorist activity. Any activity that could be perceived as anti-Egypt could result in long-term detention, including proximity to a political demonstration.
Visit the Egypt Travel Advisory for more info.
Guatemala
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 22.5
- Violent crime: 22%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6.5
Within the country of Guatemala, poverty affects nearly 49% of the population. Travelers in Guatemala face the risk of violent crime and targeted robbery. The law enforcement system often fails to respond adequately to emergency calls.
Visit the Guatemala Travel Advisory for more info.
Ethiopia
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 8.79
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 6
Ethiopia is a land-locked country in eastern Africa, just south of Sudan. The country faces armed conflict, civil unrest, high violent crime, and human rights violations. Travelers in Ethiopia face the risk of falling victim to gang violence, terrorism, and kidnapping.
Visit the Ethiopia Travel Advisory for more info.
El Salvador
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 52.02
- Violent crime: 30%
- Human trafficking GOCI score: 7
The nation of El Salvador faces intense government corruption and high crime rates due to gang violence, economic instability, and insufficient education. Travelers in El Salvador are advised against walking out after dark or traveling alone. This country is located just south of Guatemala in Central America.
Visit the El Salvador Travel Advisory for more info.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 13.4
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking: 7
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is located in the heart of Africa, with a total land area of nearly 1 million square miles. This country faces long-standing issues within the political system, resulting in poor economic conditions and organized violent crime. Travelers risk terrorist attacks, kidnapping, and unsafe conditions.
Visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Advisory for more info.
Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
- Threat level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Homicide rate: 11.8
- Violent crime: NA
- Human trafficking: 6.5
Cote d’Ivoire, or the Ivory Coast, is a tropical West African country with a rich heritage and a population of nearly 27.5 million. The country faces problems such as severe political instability, terrorism, violent crime, poverty, and human rights violations. Travelers in Cote d’Ivoire are advised to avoid potentially violent demonstrations and to stay alert in destinations frequented by tourists.
Visit the Cote d’Ivoire Travel Advisory for more info.
