North Korea
North Korea is perhaps the most secretive country in the world, and travel here has never been easy. In 2025, the regime has only tightened its grip, allowing foreigners in exclusively on tightly monitored group tours. If you’re hoping to explore freely, forget about it—solo travel is simply not permitted. The number of annual visitors has plunged dramatically since 2019, dropping from about 100,000 to just 5,000 in 2024, according to international travel statistics. This sharp decrease is partly due to ongoing nuclear tensions and the government’s unwillingness to invest in tourism infrastructure. Human rights concerns, constant surveillance, and a lack of communication channels for foreigners make visiting an unnerving prospect. Many governments, including the U.S. and South Korea, have stern warnings against travel here. For those who do visit, every movement is watched, and the atmosphere is tense—most travelers come away feeling more like prisoners than guests.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan remains gripped by conflict and instability, making tourism nearly impossible. In 2024, the U.S. State Department and other international agencies continued to warn against all travel, citing terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest as major threats. The number of foreign tourists has dropped to almost zero, with fewer than 1,000 visitors reported last year—most of them aid workers or journalists. Taliban rule has imposed severe restrictions on personal freedoms, especially for women and Westerners. Infrastructure is devastated, and basic necessities like electricity and clean water are unreliable in many areas. Humanitarian organizations have reported worsening conditions, with millions of people in need of urgent assistance. Armed checkpoints, curfews, and the presence of various militant groups make independent travel extremely risky. The allure of Afghanistan’s historic sites is now overshadowed by constant danger.
Syria
Syria’s devastating civil war has transformed one of the world’s oldest civilizations into a country off-limits to tourists. In 2025, millions are still displaced, and much of the infrastructure is in ruins. The United Nations estimates over 14 million people require humanitarian aid, and the government continues to struggle with basic services like electricity and healthcare. International travel bans are in place, and the U.S., UK, and EU all strongly advise against visiting. Tourist numbers, which were once in the millions, have fallen to fewer than 500, mostly made up of aid workers and journalists. Ancient landmarks like Palmyra and Damascus remain inaccessible or heavily damaged. The risk of violence, kidnapping, and disease is ever-present. For most, Syria’s tragic situation means travel is out of the question for the foreseeable future.
Venezuela
Venezuela’s collapse is as shocking as it is sad. Once a magnet for sun-seekers and adventurers, the country now struggles under the weight of hyperinflation, food shortages, and civil unrest. As of 2025, the U.S. Department of State continues to warn tourists about risks including arbitrary arrest, violent crime, and unreliable medical care. Tourist arrivals have plummeted to around 200,000, a fraction of what they were just a decade ago. Many airlines have suspended flights, and hotels struggle to operate amid frequent blackouts. Reports from travelers describe long lines for basic goods and a heavy military presence. Kidnappings and robberies have become common, with many locals fleeing to neighboring countries. Political instability has made Venezuela a no-go zone for most travelers.
Yemen
Yemen is currently enduring one of the world’s worst humanitarian disasters, with millions facing famine and displacement. The U.S. State Department and European governments have classified Yemen as “Do Not Travel” due to terrorism, armed conflict, and civil unrest. In 2023, the country reportedly saw fewer than 1,000 foreign visitors, mostly journalists and aid workers. Bombings and street violence are frequent, while infrastructure is almost non-existent—power cuts and water shortages are daily challenges. The threat of kidnapping and disease outbreaks is high. International organizations like the Red Cross have flagged Yemen as one of the most dangerous places on earth. Tourism, once a glimmer of hope in cities like Sana’a and Shibam, has disappeared as the crisis deepens. For now, Yemen is effectively closed to all but the most essential visitors.
Somalia
Somalia’s reputation for piracy, terrorism, and clan warfare has kept tourists at bay for decades. Travel advisories from the U.S., UK, and Australia specifically warn against visiting due to the risk of kidnapping, violence, and lawlessness. In 2024, it was estimated that fewer than 500 foreigners entered Somalia, most of them for humanitarian reasons. The lack of stable government and basic infrastructure means even the most adventurous travelers steer clear. Armed checkpoints, unpredictable security situations, and minimal medical facilities contribute to the dangers. International airlines rarely service Somalia, and those who do face constant threats. Visiting as a tourist is almost unheard of, with most embassies unable to provide assistance. The country’s beautiful beaches and ancient ruins remain out of reach for the foreseeable future.
Iran
Iran has seen a sharp drop in tourism numbers due to political tensions and strained relations with much of the Western world. In 2024, the country received about 4 million visitors, compared to 8 million in 2019, according to official reports. The U.S. State Department has issued warnings about the risk of arbitrary arrest and detention, especially for dual nationals. Ongoing sanctions have battered the economy, making travel logistics more complicated and expensive. Western credit cards don’t work, and access to cash is limited. Political protests and crackdowns on civil liberties have further discouraged visitors. While Iran’s ancient sites and vibrant culture remain alluring, the risks and restrictions have left many would-be tourists thinking twice. The possibility of sudden border closures or diplomatic incidents hangs heavy over any travel plans.
Belarus
Belarus has seen its tourism industry shrink dramatically since the disputed 2020 presidential election and the government’s crackdown on dissent. In 2023, tourism dropped to around 1 million visitors, down from 2.5 million in 2019. The EU, US, and other countries have imposed sanctions, and travel advisories warn of arbitrary detention, especially for those suspected of joining protests. The government’s harsh response to political opposition, including mass arrests and internet blackouts, has created a tense atmosphere. Many festivals and events have been canceled or are heavily monitored by security forces. Tourists risk being swept up in police operations or denied entry at the border. As a result, Belarus is fast becoming a destination that few foreigners dare to visit.
Russia
Since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia has seen a dramatic reduction in foreign visitors. In 2025, many countries continue to issue severe travel warnings, and international airlines have slashed routes to Russian cities. The number of tourists has dropped by over 50% since 2021, according to the Russian Union of Travel Industry. Political tensions, visa issues, and the threat of arbitrary detention for foreigners have made Russia a risky proposition. Many Western travelers worry about being caught up in diplomatic disputes or facing difficulties with law enforcement. The ruble’s instability and widespread sanctions have also made travel expensive and complicated. Reports of harassment and surveillance of foreign guests have increased. Russia’s vast cultural treasures now sit quietly, awaiting a return to better times.
Myanmar
Myanmar’s 2021 military coup sent shockwaves through Southeast Asia, and the fallout continues today. In 2024, tourism numbers dropped to roughly 300,000, a steep decline from the millions who visited before the coup. The U.S. State Department and other foreign offices warn against all travel due to risks of arbitrary detention, civil unrest, and violence. Protests and military crackdowns are common, and foreigners risk being caught in the crossfire. Internet outages, power cuts, and restricted movement have become the norm. Human rights groups report that journalists and tourists have been detained without reason. Traditional tourist hotspots like Bagan and Yangon feel empty as hotels and restaurants close their doors. For now, Myanmar’s charm and hospitality remain out of reach for most travelers.