Geopolitical tensions and conflicts make some destinations difficult for international travelers. Visits to these places are often inadvisable. Strict visa policies and high risk of violence make a country feel hostile. Terrorism, kidnapping, and political instability also contribute to safety concerns. The ranking of travel unfriendly countries uses three key global metrics. The Passport Index reflects visa accessibility and restrictions. The Global Peace Index measures overall peacefulness and conflict levels and the Danger and Safety Index. Safety indices evaluate crime, terrorism, and traveler risks. Brought to you by Tourism Review.
10 MOST TRAVEL UNFRIENDLY COUNTRIES IN 2026
Michael Trout
- Jan 26, 2026
10/ Somalia
Somalia consistently ranks among the most dangerous places worldwide. Security threats persist. These include street crimes, kidnappings, piracy, and ongoing political conflicts. Travel advisories strongly discourage visits. Infrastructure is limited. The risks for foreigners are high.
9/ Eritrea
Reports suggest locals are friendly. But the strict authoritarian regime makes the country unwelcoming. Mandatory national service and frequent terrorist threats are common. Street crimes and political instability are severe. Visa access is restricted and independent travel is nearly impossible.
8/ Mali
Travelers sometimes encounter welcoming people in cities like Bamako. But widespread terrorism damages the tourism potential. This is especially true in the north. Jihadist insurgencies, street crimes, and kidnappings are common. Security forces struggle to maintain control in large areas.
7/ Central African Republic
This culturally rich nation is home to diverse ethnic communities and strong traditions but is also one of the travel unfriendly countries. It suffers from a notoriously weak security apparatus. Armed militias and widespread violence are common. Political instability is chronic. These factors make it one of the riskiest destinations on Earth.
6/ Libya
Attitudes toward outsiders vary. Some locals offer friendly interactions. But post-2011 chaos created a dangerous environment. Factional violence continues. The central government is weak and militias and kidnappings make the situation unpredictable.
5/ North Korea
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea imposes extreme government control over all visitors. Tours are tightly scripted and constant surveillance is the norm. Independent exploration is forbidden. Strict rules and limited freedom of movement define the experience. Detention for minor infractions is a risk. These factors create an unfriendly reputation.
4/ Iraq
Traditional Arab hospitality persists in many areas. Reconstruction efforts have improved infrastructure in places like Baghdad and Kurdistan. But violence persists. Sectarian tensions and terrorism risks remain high. Political volatility makes much of the country unsafe for casual travel.
3/ Syria
Syria remains one of the most perilous and unfriendly countries for foreigners. Active armed factions and criminal networks are widespread. Kidnapping is routine. Some nationalities are high-value targets. Years of civil war have left the security situation fragile.
2/ Yemen
Travel to Yemen is extremely dangerous. Authorities strongly discourage any visits. The country faces ongoing terrorism and civil war. Armed clashes and crime are widespread. Kidnapping threats and unexploded landmines pose risks. Health risks are severe. The security environment has remained critical for years.
1/ Afghanistan
Afghanistan tops the list as the most unfriendly destinations for travelers. It has ranked among the least peaceful countries for years. Violence and political instability are ongoing. There is turmoil under the Taliban rule. Governance is weak. Terrorism and kidnappings are common. Most governments issue the highest "Do Not Travel" warnings. Independent tourism hardly exists.
Related articles