The holiday season is fast approaching. If you haven’t decided where to go yet, don’t worry! But remember, not every travel destination will be the right choice. Discover 12 dangerous countries to avoid for your holidays in 2025.
Safety is one of the main criteria when selecting a travel destination. For many British people, the reputation of the holiday destination is just as important, including factors such as the cost of the trip, attractions, local culture, and hotel quality.
Where did British people travel to in 2024? Travel safely!
Tourists from the UK have been travelling for many years to well-known destinations with high tourist appeal. For these decisions, factors like price-quality balance, good reviews, recommendations from friends, distance from home, or travel agency offers play a big role.
The most popular holiday destinations among British people in 2024:
- Spain
- France
- Italy
- Greece
- Portugal
- USA
What’s interesting is that these are not the safest possible destinations. Of course, tourists choosing these countries are generally staying in high-security resorts. However, travelling on your own can still pose challenges.
In 2024, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of tourists heading to once-popular destinations like Egypt, Bulgaria, or Tunisia. Recent concerns about Tunisia have raised a lot of interest among travellers, especially wondering if Tunisia is a safe country for holidays, taking into account the recent number of incidents involving tourists and local law enforcement.
TOP 12 places to avoid for holidays in 2025
The safety of a given country is assessed using the Global Peace Index, a report published annually by the Economics and Peace Institute in Sydney. Based on this, we have prepared a list of the TOP 15 most dangerous countries in the world. Tourists can also check safety levels through the UK Government’s travel advisory system.
Planning to travel abroad? Check out our list of 12 destinations you should avoid at all costs. This ranking includes the most dangerous countries in the world, and not only!
Mexico
The list of dangerous tourist destinations opens with a country in North America. With its intriguing history and spectacular attractions, including one of the seven new wonders of the world, such as Chichen Itza, Los Cabos, and the capital city – Mexico City.
However, it is a very dangerous country. There is an exceptionally high level of violent crime, including armed robberies, theft, abductions, and even murders. One of the main sources of violence is the drug cartels, which not only terrorize locals but also target tourists.
Thus, Mexico is one of the main countries to avoid for holidays.
Ukraine
A few years ago, visits to our eastern neighbors were quite popular. British travelers used to visit cities like Lviv, Kyiv, or the abandoned Chernobyl and Pripyat.
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the country has become a war zone, and travel to these areas can expose travelers to significant danger. Given this situation, plans to travel to Ukraine should definitely be abandoned for the time being.
Israel
Despite the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Israel, with its capital in Jerusalem, has long been a popular travel destination for tourists worldwide. Many people choose it for its religious significance. Others, however, cannot resist its attractions, such as the Dead Sea, the Golan Heights, or the vibrant city of Tel Aviv.
According to the UK Foreign Office, Israel is a country with high terror risk. The situation deteriorated in October 2023, when a state of emergency was declared across the entire country. Military actions in the Gaza Strip and Palestinian-controlled areas have brought significant danger to tourists, making this region highly unsafe to visit for any holidays.
India
Dangerous countries for holidays are not only associated with crime and armed conflicts. A great example is India, where the problems include poor sanitary conditions… and in some places, the lack of them entirely.
18.6 out of every 100,000 people die there due to extremely poor living conditions. In many regions, there is no access to clean water. Furthermore, India is a country with poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and massive overcrowding.
Don’t be misled by stunning visuals of places like Taj Mahal – this country certainly doesn’t look like it does on postcards…
Myanmar (formerly Burma)
Myanmar is one of the textbook examples of countries you should avoid for your holidays in 2025. According to the UK Foreign Office, all travel to this country is strongly advised against due to the ongoing crisis. A few years ago, it was still possible to visit the country, known as Burma back then. Why? The main reasons are terrorism risks, political instability, and the ongoing civil war that started in February 2021.
A huge disappointment for lovers of authentic Asian culture. Over the years, colonial architecture and scenic lakes used to attract thousands of tourists. But now, there is no real chance of the situation improving anytime soon.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan is one of the most dangerous tourist destinations, chosen only by the most adventurous globe-trotters. Still considering it? In this South Asian country, which has been torn apart by war for many years, abductions, terrorist attacks, and violations of human rights are an everyday occurrence.
It’s safe to say that the country, with its capital in Kabul, ranks 160th on the Global Peace Index 2024. This places it among the most dangerous countries to visit and should be avoided at all costs.
North Korea
Perhaps the most ominous capital in the world? Kim Jong Un’s train – Do the locals even have basic living standards? Everything points to the country’s exceptionally isolated surroundings.
North Korea is a country that intrigues in many ways – it’s no surprise that many travelers dream of visiting this isolated country. However, traveling to the country with the capital in Pyongyang is a bad idea. The regime in place enforces strict laws, including daily oppression and human rights violations. Only a few travel agencies organize trips to the country, and foreign visitors are extremely restricted.
South Sudan
Another one of those extreme destinations chosen by thrill-seekers, this country ranks 161st on the Global Peace Index and is one of the most dangerous countries to visit in 2025. It’s no surprise that South Sudan remains one of the most unsafe countries for tourists due to ongoing armed conflicts and poor infrastructure.
The country suffers from poor hotels and communication infrastructure, with some African nations still experiencing violent civil wars. What’s worse, South Sudan lacks any UK diplomatic missions in the region, making it even more dangerous for foreign nationals.
Venezuela
Once one of the wealthiest countries in South America, today Venezuela is plagued by the ongoing economic crisis, making it one of the most dangerous places on the continent. Despite its interesting history and picturesque landscapes, Venezuela remains a risky travel destination.
The UK Foreign Office strongly advises against any travel to the region, particularly near the borders of Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana, primarily due to the high activity of drug cartels and frequent mass protests and riots.
Colombia
Similar to its previously mentioned neighbors, Colombia remains a high-risk country due to drug trafficking, as well as daily issues with armed robberies and kidnappings.
Certain areas are particularly at risk from criminal activity targeting tourists. The country’s capital, Bogotá, is unsafe, particularly in remote areas and busy city centers or local public transportation.
El Salvador
El Salvador is one of the more exotic destinations on our list of countries you should avoid for holidays. Despite the long, arduous journey, which takes over a day of travel, tourists should avoid visiting due to its extremely high murder rates.
According to data provided by the UN, the country experiences over 52 murders per 100,000 residents. El Salvador ranks at the top of our list. The widespread access to firearms increases the risk of robbery and abductions. The UK Foreign Office strongly advises against traveling to this region.
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is another country on our list where holidays are best avoided. Though its isolated position near Australia may seem appealing, the situation is quite different when you consider the harsh reality. The capital, Port Moresby, is notorious for brutal murders, thefts, and violent crimes – often targeting unsuspecting tourists.
In addition to its high crime rates, the country faces significant financial difficulties and severe sanitary risks. Other dangers include natural disasters and ongoing conflicts between local tribes.
Dangerous countries for holidays – FAQ
Is Turkey a safe destination for holidays?
Turkey is a country with an increased terrorism risk, especially in the areas near the borders with Syria and Iraq. However, staying in resort areas or larger cities does not pose a major threat. The UK Foreign Office only advises exercising particular caution.
Where to go on holiday in 2025?
British tourists most often choose holiday destinations around the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Popular travel destinations include Malta, Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Croatia, and Italy. For holidays in warmer EU countries, the UK recommends places with easy flight connections.
Which countries are best avoided?
When planning a holiday abroad, you should avoid destinations with high levels of terrorism, military conflict, and crime risks. The UK Foreign Office provides up-to-date information on the safety of each country.
Which are the dangerous countries?
The safety of any country can be verified using the annual Global Peace Index report. According to the latest 2024 version, the most dangerous countries in the world are Yemen, Sudan, South Sudan, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
Is Tunisia safe to visit in 2025?
The UK Foreign Office advises caution when traveling to Tunisia. Since 2015, a state of emergency has been in place, which includes a ban on photographing government buildings and security forces. However, reputable resorts remain relatively safe.
Is Georgia a dangerous country?
Georgia is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination for British tourists. The country is generally safe, and tourists don’t face major risks. However, it’s important to avoid areas near the South Ossetia and Abkhazia conflict zones.
Is the Dominican Republic a safe country in 2025?
The Dominican Republic, which is gaining popularity among tourists, remains a safe country as long as tourists adhere to basic safety rules. However, some larger cities and wild areas can be dangerous for foreigners, especially in remote regions.
What are the safest countries in Africa for holidays?
Although Africa is often associated with danger, there are several safe countries to visit. Some of the safest and most tourist-friendly destinations include Mauritius, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, and Ghana.