North Korea
North Korea stands out as one of the most secretive and isolated countries on Earth, and its approach to tourism in 2025 has become even more restrictive. The government has introduced new regulations that require foreign visitors to apply for special permits months in advance. These permits are rarely granted, with international reports showing a 70% drop in tourist arrivals since 2020. Authorities have increased surveillance and monitoring of all foreigners, making travel not only difficult but also stressful. Many travel agencies specializing in North Korea have either ceased operations or drastically cut back on their offerings. The country’s renewed focus on self-sufficiency and internal control means access for outsiders is unlikely to improve. International observers note that tourism is now seen as a potential security threat by the regime. As a result, North Korea is increasingly becoming a destination that is completely off-limits to the average traveler.
Venezuela
Venezuela’s ongoing economic crisis has drastically impacted its tourism sector, which has faced a 30% decline in 2025 alone. The country has introduced stricter visa requirements, making it difficult for tourists to obtain entry permits. Safety concerns, including widespread crime, kidnappings, and civil unrest, are commonly reported by foreign embassies and international organizations. The collapse of basic infrastructure such as transport and healthcare further discourages visitors. Government crackdowns on illegal border crossings have also made spontaneous travel to Venezuela nearly impossible. International travel advisories consistently rank Venezuela as a high-risk destination. Many airlines and cruise lines have suspended routes to the country due to security and operational risks. These conditions have led to Venezuela’s reputation as a nation where foreign tourists are no longer welcome.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for tourists, with nearly all travel agencies ceasing operations since the Taliban regained power. In 2025, the government has issued public statements that foreign tourists are not encouraged and are unlikely to be granted entry. The U.S. State Department and numerous other governments strongly advise against all travel to Afghanistan due to extreme security concerns. The number of international visitors has dropped to almost zero, with only a handful of journalists or aid workers entering on special permits. The lack of functioning infrastructure—hotels, transportation, reliable internet—makes independent travel virtually impossible. The threat of kidnapping, bombings, and general lawlessness is a daily reality. International airlines have ceased flights to Kabul, further isolating the country. Afghanistan is now widely regarded as a no-go zone for global tourists.
Syria
Syria’s civil war has devastated its once-thriving tourism industry, and 2025 shows no sign of recovery. More than 90% of the country’s tourist infrastructure, including ancient sites and hotels, has been destroyed or left inoperable. Ongoing conflict, terrorist threats, and government checkpoints make travel within the country highly dangerous. Most Western governments, including the U.S. and EU member states, maintain strict travel warnings against visiting Syria. The government’s attempts to promote tourism in “safe” areas have not overcome the widespread perception of risk. Airlines and tour companies have suspended operations to Syria indefinitely. Humanitarian organizations confirm that even seasoned professionals struggle with logistics and safety. As a result, Syria is essentially closed to all but the most determined—and well-protected—visitors.
Iran
Iran has taken a hardline stance on foreign tourism amid escalating tensions with Western nations in 2025. The government has tightened visa regulations, with approval times stretching into months and many applications denied outright. Reports show a nearly 50% drop in international arrivals since 2020, according to tourism industry data. Political unrest and government crackdowns on protests make large parts of the country off-limits. The U.S. State Department and European foreign offices continue to issue strong warnings against travel to Iran. Internet access is heavily censored, and foreign visitors are often subject to surveillance or questioning. Iran’s authorities have also been accused of detaining foreign nationals, further scaring off potential tourists. The combination of bureaucracy and instability has made Iran increasingly inaccessible to outsiders.
Belarus
Belarus has faced increased international isolation due to its political situation, especially since contested elections and widespread protests. In 2025, the government continues to impose strict entry regulations and has sharply reduced the number of visas issued to foreigners. Many Western nations advise their citizens to avoid travel due to the risk of arbitrary detention and civil unrest. Tourism numbers have dropped dramatically, with industry reports indicating a steep decline since 2021. The government’s surveillance policies and restrictions on movement further discourage visitors. Protests and sporadic violence have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. International flights to Belarus have been reduced, cutting off many direct connections. The environment remains tense and unwelcoming for tourists from abroad.
Myanmar
Myanmar’s political instability since the military coup of 2021 has all but destroyed its tourism sector. By 2025, visitor numbers have fallen by over 80%, with most countries issuing strong travel advisories against entry. The military government has imposed new restrictions, requiring extensive background checks and limiting the issuance of tourist visas. Ongoing armed conflict and reports of violence against civilians make travel risky and unpredictable. Many hotels, guesthouses, and tourist attractions have closed their doors, unable to operate safely or profitably. Foreigners who do enter are subject to heavy monitoring and curfews. Tour companies have withdrawn their services, and insurance providers often refuse to cover trips to Myanmar. These factors combine to make the country almost completely closed to international tourism.
Libya
Libya’s ongoing conflict and lack of a stable government have kept it off the tourist map for years, and 2025 is no exception. Strict travel restrictions are in place, and entry to the country is only possible with special permits that are rarely granted. International travel advisories consistently warn of the dangers posed by armed groups, kidnappings, and civil unrest. The collapse of tourism infrastructure means very few hotels or services are operational. Airlines have suspended flights to Libya’s major cities, further reducing access. Aid organizations and journalists—when allowed entry—operate under tight security. Crime rates remain high, and locals struggle with everyday safety. For now, Libya remains inaccessible for the average tourist.
Central African Republic
The Central African Republic has been plagued by conflict and insecurity for years, and its tourism sector is nearly nonexistent in 2025. The government has imposed tough travel restrictions, and the majority of foreign embassies strongly discourage any visits. Reports from humanitarian agencies highlight recurring violence, crime, and a lack of reliable infrastructure for visitors. The few international flights that exist are reserved mainly for aid workers and diplomats. Hotels and restaurants operate under constant threat, and many have closed entirely. Road travel is dangerous due to banditry and poor conditions, making it nearly impossible for tourists to explore safely. The country’s rich wildlife and cultural sites remain out of reach for all but a few. Until peace returns, the Central African Republic will remain closed to global tourism.
South Sudan
South Sudan’s ongoing turmoil since its independence in 2011 has resulted in a tourism industry that is virtually nonexistent in 2025. The government has introduced strict measures limiting foreign entry, and most embassies warn against travel due to security risks. Tribal clashes, armed violence, and rampant crime are common occurrences according to international agencies. Basic amenities such as hotels, reliable transport, and even clean water are hard to find outside the capital. The few visitors who do arrive are often aid workers or journalists, operating under strict security arrangements. Travel insurance for South Sudan is nearly impossible to obtain, and airlines offer very limited connections. The country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage are overshadowed by instability. For the foreseeable future, South Sudan remains closed to ordinary tourists.