By Iolee Anagnostopoulou
Alright, fellow adventurers, buckle up because we’re diving into the realm of danger! Ever heard of the travel risk map by International SOS? No? Well, it’s like Google Maps but with a ‘Danger! Do not enter!’ sign plastered across the riskiest regions.
This yearly map assesses medical and security risks to enlighten travellers and businesses about potential dangers in countries worldwide. For the first time this year, the map now incorporates ratings concerning the risks of climate change. This addition comes in response to increased climate-related alerts issued to clients by International SOS, highlighting the growing health risks associated with rising global temperatures.
Of course, anybody who watches the news knows better than to go exploring places like Ukraine or Israel in the current climate. But there are other risky countries that you might have considered visiting even for a split second because they’re ‘oh, so cheap and exotic’!
So, here are the top five places you might want to keep off your travel itinerary for now:
Lebanon
The 2024 risk map highlights heightened security risks in this once-glamorous Mediterranean gem. Travellers are advised to reconsider their plans due to concerns related to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and armed conflict. Terrorist groups are actively plotting attacks, targeting tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, and government facilities.
The Lebanese government’s ability to protect foreign citizens is limited, and incidents of violence, including political disputes, can escalate rapidly. Kidnappings have occurred, often with ties to terrorist or criminal organisations. Plus, demonstrations can turn violent suddenly, with major roads and transportation routes affected.
Ecuador
Ecuador is grappling with a surge in crime and social unrest, prompting a nationwide state of emergency since January 8. Night-time curfews are enforced in select provinces, and travellers entering from Peru or Colombia must provide a Spanish police clearance covering the past five years. Power shortages and demonstrations are also frequent and can escalate unexpectedly, posing several safety risks.
Violent crime, theft, and kidnapping are prevalent in northern regions and Guayaquil City, with increased risk when you travel alone or after dark. To top it off, Ecuador is home to active volcanoes and diseases like yellow fever, malaria, dengue, Zika virus, and HIV/AIDS, especially in areas below 1500m.
Colombia
Certain regions of Colombia saw increased criminal activity and social unrest. Travellers are urged to revise their itineraries due to concerns about crime, terrorism, and civil unrest. The country grapples with widespread violent and organised crime, including homicide, assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, and extortion. Terrorist groups and criminal organisations are active, targeting various locations with attacks.
Specific regions, including Arauca, Cauca, the Colombia-Venezuela border and Norte de Santander, should be avoided due to heightened security risks. Meanwhile, demonstrations around political or economic issues occur regularly, often leading to road closures and disruptions in transportation.
Haiti
Travel to Haiti is strongly discouraged due to the prevalent threat of kidnappings, gang violence, and widespread civil unrest. On March 3, 2024, a state of emergency was declared in the Ouest Department, including Port-au-Prince, following escalating gang violence. Nightly curfews are in place, and the Toussaint Louverture International Airport is currently closed.
Spontaneous protests often lead to clashes with security forces, resulting in roadblocks and disruptions in various regions. Unfortunately, the country is also grappling with significant fuel, water, and food shortages and a “very high” risk in the medical category due to the heightened risk of contracting various illnesses from contaminated food/water and insect/animal bites.
Mozambique
Mozambique faces a significant threat of terrorism, particularly in Cabo Delgado and certain districts of Nampula province. Armed clashes between extremist groups and security forces are common, resulting in frequent attacks and heightened security presence in affected regions. Travellers may encounter delays and face opportunistic criminals at border crossings, with kidnapping being a risk in several areas. Violent crimes, including sexual assaults and robberies, are prevalent, especially at night and during holidays.
Moreover, Mozambique faces severe climate change risks, leading to flooding, cyclones, and other natural disasters, affecting services and infrastructure. Infectious diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis, and rabies pose additional health risks, with limited medical facilities available.
Phew, we made it through the danger zone! Remember, folks, while some places might sound exotic and adventurous, reviewing your country’s full Travel Advisory before packing your bags is essential. But fear not; for every risky destination, there’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered!
So why not skip the scare and opt for safer shores? Countries like Iceland, Luxembourg, Norway, Switzerland, and Denmark are not just safe havens; they’re also full of charm and wonder. Let’s explore the world responsibly until, hopefully, one day soon, the countries on this list are in a peaceful and safe state and ready to share their wonders with the rest of the world.