Now, Somalia is a fascinating place—beautiful coastline, rich history. But also, pirates, militias, and random explosions. It’s like a pirate movie, but the pirates have better Wi-Fi and worse intentions. The U.S. government says it’s a “Level 4” danger zone. Translation: bring a flak jacket, not a swimsuit.
What about Mali? I hear you ask. Good question. Mali has breathtaking desert cities like Timbuktu, but also active terrorist groups that hold foreign tourists for ransom. Pro tip: if your travel guide says “wear a bulletproof vest under your dashiki,” maybe reconsider.
What countries are not safe to travel to 60 photos - Guidebookbali.com
Then there’s Iraq, which is slowly recovering from decades of chaos. But “slowly” still means kidnappings, car bombs, and ISIS remnants in some areas. The northern Kurdistan region is safer, but the rest is a giant “advance at your own risk” sign.
The “Maybe Not Right Now” Places
Let’s talk about Venezuela. It’s a beautiful country with Angel Falls and stunning beaches. But it also has hyperinflation, violent crime, and a police force that might shake you down for cash. The country’s official currency is worth less than the paper it’s printed on. Surprising fact: some hotels run out of toilet paper, but you can buy a sandwich for a million bolivars—if you survive the mugging.
Myanmar (Burma) is another tricky one. The scenery is gorgeous, but the military junta and ongoing armed conflicts are not. Since the 2026 coup, tourists have been caught in crossfires and arbitrary detentions. It’s not a no-go zone for everyone, but you’d better have a solid exit plan and a lot of luck.
Places To Travel
Haiti is a small island that packs a big punch—of the bad kind. Gang violence, kidnapping for ransom, and frequent civil unrest are the daily specials. Note to self: your phone’s “Find My iPhone” won’t help when you’re being held for a $50,000 ransom in Port-au-Prince.