Travel Warnings 2024

When planning a trip abroad, it is essential that you stay up to date on the latest travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State. These travel warnings are issued on a 4-point scale of increasing concern.

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions - This level is reserved for nations where there may be pockets or crime or unrest, but the majority of the country is generally safe for U.S. travelers. Travelers should still be mindful of these warnings as there may be locations in these countries that, on their own, would qualify for a much higher travel advisory levels.
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution - This level applies to countries where Americans may be susceptible to higher than normal safety risks. There are a number of incidents that could trigger a level 2 designation including disaster recovery, high crime rates, mild political concerns, and/or the threat of terrorism. These issues may not be worth cancelling a trip over, but be sure to heed whatever warnings are issued - they are not to be ignored.
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel - Destinations classified as level 3 (whether they be entire nations or specific regions within a country) should be avoided unless travel is absolutely necessary and safety precautions are taken. It takes serious activity to trigger a level 3 advisory such as a natural disaster, significant crime risks (including elevated incidents of violent crime, kidnapping, and/or sexual assault), health emergencies, terrorism, political uprisings, or civil unrest. Take any level 3 threat seriously.
• Level 4: Do Not Travel - Traveling to a country or area that has earned a level 4 advisory - the highest advisory level the State Department issues - basically means that you are taking your safety (and possibly your life) into your own hands when traveling. The U.S. typically has limited abilities to ensure your well-being in these regions or provide support should you wind up in a crisis situation. Given that many of these nations are active conflict zones, terrorist hotbeds, and/or notably anti-American, the risks are great. Some of these nations will not permit Americans to enter. Those that do, will not go out of their way to offer protections or assurances of safety. Quite the contrary, many of these nations are quick to detain, incarcerate, or otherwise harass American nationals. Take the advisory's advice - do not travel to a level 4 destination.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

If you choose to travel to or live in areas of unrest despite the travel warning, it would be in your best interest to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

STEP is the U.S. State Department's free program to keep international travelers and American expatriots up to date with all of the latest safety and security announcements. As an added benefit, enrolling in STEP also makes it easier for your nearest U.S. Embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency while ou are abroad. As such, you should make it a priority to keep all of your information in STEP up to date; it is particularly important when you enroll or update your information to include a current phone number and e-mail address.

While STEP is most conveniently accessed from an internet enabled devise like a computer or smartphone, U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the nearest U.S. Embassy.

The most recent high-level travel warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State are listed below with links to useful resources for a safer travel experience.

We've also includes a Communication Plan for Travler's to High-Risk Areas.

Ukraine Travel Alert - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Department of State strongly advises against travel to Ukraine due to Russia's ongoing war. Frontline areas and regions bordering Belarus are particularly dangerous, with active combat, frequent attacks on civilian infrastructure, and limited embassy assistance. Even non-frontline regions face missile and drone attacks, martial law restrictions, and unpredictable security conditions. U.S. citizens in Ukraine must remain vigilant, monitor air alerts via mobile apps, and be prepared to shelter or evacuate immediately.

Travelers should follow all local authority instructions, respect curfews, and know nearby shelters. Dual U.S.-Ukrainian citizens face additional risks, including mobilization for men aged 18-60. The FAA prohibits U.S. flights over Ukraine, limiting travel options further.

Regions under Russian occupation, including Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, are especially dangerous due to military presence, human rights abuses, and targeting of U.S. citizens for harassment or detention. Embassy services in these areas are severely restricted.

For assistance, contact KyivACS@state.gov. Travelers should consult embassy notices and the FAA for the latest updates.

Learn more: Ukraine Travel Advisory

Uganda Travel Advisory - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises travelers to reconsider travel to Uganda due to risks of crime, terrorism, and anti-LGBTQI+ laws. Public demonstrations are unpredictable and can escalate rapidly, requiring increased caution.

Terrorism remains a significant threat, with attacks targeting religious venues, schools, and tourist areas, including a recent ISIS-linked incident in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, is prevalent, particularly in urban centers like Kampala, Jinja, and Entebbe, and in border regions.

The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act imposes severe penalties, including imprisonment and the death penalty, for LGBTQI+ individuals or those accused of supporting LGBTQI+ rights. Visitors and residents may face harassment, violence, or legal action under this law.

Public protests and demonstrations can arise suddenly and often lead to forceful crackdowns by security forces. Travelers should avoid large gatherings and stay updated on local conditions.

Learn more: Uganda Travel Advisory

Egypt Travel Advisory - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Egypt due to terrorism and limited consular assistance for dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens. Some regions, including the Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula, the Western Desert, and border areas, are designated "Do Not Travel" zones due to terrorism and military operations.

Terrorist threats persist, with attacks targeting religious sites, government facilities, diplomatic locations, and public areas like transportation hubs, markets, and tourist sites, even in heavily secured urban areas like Cairo. Religious sites, including mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses to these locations, have also been targeted.

Protests are strictly prohibited without a permit, and U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in demonstrations or posting critical content on social media. Dual citizens are considered Egyptian nationals under local law, and the U.S. Embassy's ability to assist in cases of arrest or detention may be limited.

Travelers should remain vigilant, avoid restricted areas, and stay updated on local security conditions.

Learn more: Egypt Travel Advisory

Rwanda Travel Advisory - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Rwanda due to an outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD). On September 27, 2024, the Rwandan government confirmed cases of MVD in health facilities, prompting the CDC to issue a Level 3 Travel Health Notice. U.S. government personnel are deferring all non-essential travel, and travelers may experience delays due to health screenings when departing Rwanda.

Exercise Increased Caution: The Rwanda-Burundi border area, particularly near Nyungwe Forest National Park, poses risks due to armed violence and unclear border markings. Tensions between the two countries have led to cross-border incursions. Permits are required for entry into the park.

Reconsider Travel: The Rwanda-Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) border is highly dangerous due to armed groups operating in the adjacent North and South Kivu provinces and Virunga Park. Escalating armed conflict in these regions may spill into Rwanda, particularly near Volcanoes National Park, which requires permits for entry.

Travelers are encouraged to stay updated through the CDC and Embassy websites, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and prepare contingency plans. Review the Traveler's Checklist and Country Security Report for detailed guidance.

Learn more: Rwanda Travel Advisory

Lebanon Travel Advisory - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict. On September 28, 2024, the State Department ordered the departure of non-mission-employed family members and authorized the departure of mission-employed family members and non-essential personnel due to escalating security concerns in Beirut.

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to depart Lebanon immediately while commercial flights are still available, although at reduced capacity. The Embassy may not be able to assist citizens who remain in the country if conditions worsen. Those staying should prepare to shelter in place if the situation deteriorates further, especially in Southern Lebanon, areas near the Syrian border, and refugee settlements.

The security environment in Lebanon has become increasingly volatile following airstrikes in Beirut and cross-border exchanges between Hizballah and Israel. Terrorist groups continue to pose a threat, with potential attacks targeting tourist areas, transportation hubs, and government facilities. Violent crimes, kidnappings, and politically motivated killings have also risen.

Unexploded landmines near the Syrian border and civil unrest pose additional risks. Avoid demonstrations, as they can turn violent without warning, and stay clear of border areas and unmarked trails. Review personal security plans, stay informed, and consider leaving Lebanon promptly.

Learn more: Lebanon Travel Advisory

Venezuela Travel Advisory - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Department of State strongly advises against all travel to Venezuela due to the high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of laws, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. Since March 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Caracas has suspended operations, and all consular services remain unavailable. The U.S. government cannot provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.

U.S. nationals face a high risk of wrongful detention, with some detained for up to five years without U.S. government notification or access. Violent crimes, including homicide, armed robbery, and carjacking, are widespread. Political demonstrations occur frequently and can escalate into violence, looting, or vandalism. Security forces often respond with severe crackdowns, using tear gas, rubber bullets, and other measures against protesters.

Colombian terrorist groups operate in border areas, adding to the instability. Nationwide shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies exacerbate the challenging living conditions. U.S. citizens in Venezuela should leave the country as soon as safely possible and seek assistance at U.S. embassies or consulates in neighboring countries.

Learn more: Venezuela Travel Advisory

Haiti Travel Advisory - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Haiti due to widespread kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited health care. Since March 2024, Haiti has been under a State of Emergency. Crimes involving firearms, such as robbery, carjacking, sexual assault, and kidnappings for ransom, are common. U.S. citizens have been victims, with some harmed or killed. Kidnappers target victims both randomly and through planned attacks, including on convoys, often demanding significant ransoms.

Protests, roadblocks, and mob violence are frequent and unpredictable, causing damage and endangering lives. The airport in Port-au-Prince is a hotspot for armed activity, and armed robberies frequently occur, including carjackings targeting lone drivers. U.S. embassy staff must use official transportation and are restricted from walking or traveling at night.

Crossing the Haiti-Dominican Republic border by land is highly dangerous due to kidnapping and violence. U.S. citizens face risks of immigration fines at unofficial crossings, and the U.S. embassy cannot assist with entry into the Dominican Republic. Ports in Haiti also pose significant security risks.

The U.S. government's ability to assist is extremely limited. Local authorities and medical facilities lack resources, and shortages of basic necessities are widespread. U.S. citizens in Haiti should leave as soon as safely possible.

Learn more: Haiti Travel Advisory

Guyana Travel Advisory - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Guyana due to crime. Violent crime, including murder and armed robbery, is prevalent, particularly during nighttime hours. Local police often lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, increasing risks for travelers.

Learn more: Guyana Travel Advisory

Bangladesh Travel Advisory - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Bangladesh due to civil unrest, crime, and terrorism. Certain areas, including the Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts (Chittagong Hill Tracts), are classified as "Do Not Travel" zones due to communal violence, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Although violent clashes following the July 2024 civil unrest have largely subsided, conditions remain unpredictable. U.S. citizens should avoid all gatherings, as even peaceful ones can turn violent without warning. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing are common in crowded areas, while more serious crimes like muggings, burglaries, and assaults occur in major cities, typically based on time and location rather than targeting foreigners.

Terrorist attacks can occur with little or no warning, targeting public areas such as markets, transportation hubs, tourist sites, restaurants, and places of worship. U.S. Embassy personnel face travel restrictions due to security concerns, and the U.S. government's ability to provide emergency assistance is limited, particularly outside Dhaka.

Learn more: Bangladesh Travel Advisory

Pakistan Travel Advisory - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Pakistan due to terrorism. Certain areas, including Balochistan province, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province (formerly FATA), and the vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and Line of Control, are classified as "Do Not Travel" zones due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

Violent extremist groups frequently conduct terrorist attacks in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and KP, resulting in numerous casualties. Targets include transportation hubs, markets, military installations, schools, places of worship, and government facilities. U.S. diplomats and facilities have been targeted in the past. Terrorist attacks can occur without warning, and the security environment remains fluid and unpredictable.

Protests and demonstrations are prohibited without permits, and U.S. citizens may face scrutiny or detention for attending protests or posting critical content on social media. Internet and mobile service outages are common during protests. While major cities like Islamabad have greater security resources, the U.S. government's ability to assist citizens outside Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi is limited due to travel restrictions on U.S. personnel.

U.S. government personnel require armed escorts and armored vehicles in certain areas and are prohibited from attending most large gatherings. Consular services are available at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and Consulates in Karachi and Lahore, but not in Peshawar.

Learn more: Pakistan Travel Advisory

Iran Travel Advisory - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Department of State strongly advises against all travel to Iran due to the risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest, and wrongful detention of U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens, particularly dual U.S.-Iranian nationals, are frequently detained on charges such as espionage or posing a national security threat, with limited or no consular access.

Violent extremist groups, including U.S.-designated terrorist organizations, operate in Iran, and the threat of terrorist activity persists. Bombings and attacks claimed by groups like ISIS pose risks to both targeted individuals and bystanders. The security environment remains dangerous and unpredictable.

The U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with Iran and cannot provide any routine or emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in the country. U.S. citizens are also cautioned against surrogacy services offered in Iran due to significant misrepresentation of the security situation and risks associated with unregulated surrogacy tourism.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued restrictions on civilian aircraft operations in or near Iran due to the risks. Travelers should consult the FAA's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices for details.

Learn more: Iran Travel Advisory

Libya Travel Advisory - Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Department of State strongly advises against all travel to Libya due to crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. U.S. citizens are at significant risk and should depart Libya as soon as possible via commercial means.

Crime and Kidnapping: Crime levels in Libya remain high, with frequent incidents of kidnapping for ransom, including U.S. citizens. Criminals and armed groups often target individuals arbitrarily, using threats or violence to compel third parties to act as a condition for release.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups are active in Libya, and while no incidents involving foreigners have been publicly reported since 2015, attacks can occur without warning. Potential targets include public spaces such as markets, hotels, airports, and government facilities.

Unexploded Ordnance: Landmines, cluster munitions, and unexploded ammunition are prevalent throughout Libya, including in populated areas. Travelers must avoid marked danger zones and refrain from touching suspicious objects.

Civil Unrest and Armed Conflict: Violence among competing armed groups frequently occurs, particularly in cities like Tripoli, Benghazi, and Misrata. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly escalate into violence.

The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli suspended operations in 2014, and the U.S. government has limited ability to assist citizens in Libya. Routine consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia. U.S. citizens requiring assistance should email TunisACS@state.gov with their details.

Flights in Libya are unreliable, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibits U.S. commercial aviation operations in Libyan airspace. Additionally, U.S. authorities caution mariners and passengers traveling through Libyan ports due to inadequate anti-terrorism measures.

Stay informed via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), the U.S. Embassy Libya's webpage, and the Department of State's official channels.

Learn more: Libya Travel Advisory

Full List of Travel Advisories

Communication Plan for Traveler's to High-Risk Areas

1. Share Itinerary and Contact Information

• Provide a detailed copy of your travel itinerary to your loved ones, including:
• Flight details (dates, times, airlines)
• Hotel or accommodation addresses and phone numbers
• Planned activities and their locations
• Local contact details (e.g., local guides, embassy or consulate contacts)

2. Set Communication Expectations

• Decide how often you'll check in (e.g., daily, every other day).
• Agree on the method of communication (e.g., phone calls, text messages, emails, or messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram).
• Choose specific times for updates, considering potential time zone differences.

3. Establish Backup Communication Methods

• Share alternative ways to contact you if the primary method fails:
• Local SIM card numbers or roaming phone numbers
• International calling cards
• Social media direct messages
• Emergency email accounts

4. Create Emergency Protocols

• Agree on what to do if:
• You miss a scheduled check-in.
• There's an emergency at home.
• You're unable to contact them due to technical or safety issues.

5. Provide Emergency Contact Details

• Share the contact information for:
• The nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in your travel area.
• Local emergency services (police, fire, medical).
• Your travel insurance company.

6. Use GPS or Tracking Tools

• Consider using apps that allow location sharing, such as:
• Google Maps (location sharing feature).
• Life360.
• Find My (Apple devices).
• A personal GPS tracker.

7. Pack Essential Communication Tools

• Ensure you have:
• A portable charger and extra charging cables.
• A power bank for emergencies.
• A backup phone or SIM card if possible.
• A satellite phone for extremely remote or high-risk areas.

8. Educate Loved Ones

• Teach your loved ones how to reach you using international dialing codes or messaging apps.
• Ensure they understand your plan, and rehearse it if necessary.

9. Maintain Copies of Important Documents

• Share copies of critical documents (passport, visa, travel insurance) with a trusted person back home and keep digital backups in a secure cloud service.

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