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As of March 11, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has issued “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisories for several countries.

The State Department routinely evaluates countries worldwide to provide travel guidance for citizens. Advisories are based on various factors, including crime, terrorism, civil and political instability, healthcare conditions, and the risk of natural disasters.

These advisories are the highest level, indicating a significant risk to travelers.

The countries currently under Level 4 advisories include:

Afghanistan

Due to the dangers of armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

The U.S. Embassy in Kabul ceased operations in 2021, and the U.S. government says it cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to American citizens in Afghanistan.

Belarus

The Department of State advises Americans not to travel to Belarus “due to the Belarusian authorities’ arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the risk of detention, the continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the potential of civil unrest, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.”

Burkina Faso

Americans are urged not to travel here due to the threat of crime, kidnapping, and terrorism.

“Terrorists may conduct attacks anywhere with little or no warning,” U.S. authorities warn, adding that kidnapping and hostage taking are also threats throughout the country.

Burma (Myanmar)

Americans are advised not to travel due to a variety of reasons, including armed conflict, civil unrest, and wrongful detentions. It also says travel should be reconsidered due to limited healthcare and emergency medical resources.

Central African Republic

Armed conflict, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping are among the reasons Americans are advised not to travel to the Central African Republic.

“Although there have been no specific incidents of violence or threats targeting U.S. citizens, there is a continuing risk of civil unrest, demonstrations, and election-related violence (including renewed outbreaks of armed conflict) occurring throughout the country, including the capital of Bangui,” reads the travel advisory.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Americans are advised not to travel due to armed conflict, crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and terrorism.

Haiti

Americans are warned not to travel due to risks of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure.

Iran

“U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason,” a travel advisory warns.

Dangers for American travelers include the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest of U.S. citizens and wrongful detentions.

Iraq

“U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping,” the Department of State warns.

“Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies,” it says.

It also says the U.S. government has a limited ability to provide assistance to American citizens.

Lebanon

“Do not travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict,” officials warn.

“Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk.”

Libya

Directives not to travel have been issued due to crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict.

Mali

Violent crime, including kidnapping and armed robbery, is common in Mali, especially during local holidays and events in Bamako and the southern regions, officials warn.

Terrorist and armed groups continue to plan attacks and kidnappings, often targeting locations frequented by foreigners, the advisory said.

North Korea

Americans are advised not to travel due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.

Russia

A Department of State advisory warns U.S. citizens not to travel to Russia due to “the consequences of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces.”

“The Department has determined that there is a continued risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by Russian authorities,” it adds.

Somalia

Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, piracy, and a lack of availability of routine consular services are among the reasons Americans are warned not to travel to Somalia.

“Violent crime, such as kidnapping and murder, is common throughout Somalia. Illegal roadblocks are widespread,” reads the Department of State’s advisory.

South Sudan

U.S. citizens are urged not to travel due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict.

Sudan

An advisory against travel to Sudan warns that travelers face the risk of armed conflict and crime, including kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasions, and carjackings.

Terrorist groups and their sympathizers may launch attacks without warning, targeting government facilities and locations frequented by Westerners, U.S. officials warn.

Syria

Americans are urged not to travel to Syria due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and the risk of unjust detention.

Ukraine

U.S. officials say Americans should not travel to frontline regions and regions near the border with Belarus “due to presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security forces on the Belarusian side of the border, proximity to active ground combat, frequent shelling, missile and drone attacks on populated areas and civilian infrastructure, and limitations on the Embassy’s ability to provide assistance to U.S. citizens in those areas.”

Venezuela

U.S. officials warn there is a high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure for travelers to Venezuela.

Yemen

Americans are advised not to travel to Yemen due to the threats of terrorism, civil unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict, and landmines.

Mexico (Partial)

Level four advisories have also been issued for select regions of Mexico, including Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Sinaloa, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Colima.

Travel FBI Warns Californians Of Spring Break Travel Dangers The U.S. Department of State issued travel alerts for popular spring break destinations, and the FBI is warning Californians to be cautious.

Several popular destinations for Golden State residents are under travel alerts, especially in Mexico amid spikes in kidnappings and crime targeting tourists. (David Allen/Patch)

LOS ANGELES, CA — The first day of Spring is Thursday, and the FBI on Monday warned California families and student spring breakers to take precautions while traveling abroad.

Several popular destinations for Golden State residents are under travel alerts, especially in Mexico amid spikes in kidnappings and crime targeting tourists. The FBI is urging travelers to review and take U.S. Department of State travel advisories seriously. Currently, the state department is urging Americans not to travel to Mazatlan, Mexicali Valley, Acapulco and six Mexican states including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnappings. The State Department is also urging people to reconsider travel plans to Baja California, Rosarito, Tijuana, and Ensenada.

Similarly, the State Department is urging residents to reconsider travel to destinations such a Jamaica and to avoid certain areas of the island altogether due to crime. Travelers in Costa Rica and Cuba are advised to use increase caution due to crime, according to the State Department.

“Whether it’s families looking to escape the final throes of winter or a college student seeking a brief respite from the rigors of academic life, know that the risks are there,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge, Akil Davis. “Maintain vigilance throughout your travels and be prepared to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate should the need arise.” Additionally, travelers should take the following precautions, according to the FBI:

The United States Department of State has released an updated travel advisory warning American citizens not to travel to 21 countries around the world. The warning cites heightened risks from violent conflicts, terrorism, and crime. This Level 4 advisory, which states “Do Not Travel,” is the most severe travel warning issued by the US government. It now includes nations such as Russia, Venezuela, Belarus, North Korea, Iran, Sudan, and Myanmar (also known as Burma).

Travel experts recommend checking the State Department’s website before booking international trips, as travel restrictions can directly impact insurance coverage and emergency evacuation services. The announcement comes amid rising global tensions and deteriorating security situations in multiple regions.

Countries Under The Level 4 “Do Not Travel” Advisory

The complete list of Level 4 countries includes Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Burma (Myanmar), Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen. Additionally, specific regions of Mexico face similar warnings due to crime and kidnapping risks, including the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas.

These advisories serve as more than mere suggestions. Travel insurance policies often exclude coverage for destinations under Level 3 or 4 warnings. Credit card travel protection benefits typically won’t apply in these high-risk locations. More importantly, Americans who choose to travel to these countries despite warnings may face limited or no consular assistance during emergencies, as US embassy services operate with restricted capacity in many of these nations.

Before planning any international trip in 2025, visit the State Department’s travel advisory website for the most current safety information. Consider registering with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) when traveling abroad, which allows the government to contact you during emergencies. Remember that conditions can change rapidly, so continue monitoring advisories even after booking your trip. Travelers with essential business in high-risk regions should consult security experts about additional precautions and contingency plans.

In the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, India, that killed at least 26 people, the US Embassy and Consulates in India issued a Level 2 travel advisory warning for Jammu and Kashmir on April 23.

The travel advisory update, which urges travellers to “Exercise Increased Caution” stated, “Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Do not travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Violence happens sporadically in this area and is common along the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan. It also occurs in tourist spots in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government does not allow foreign tourists to visit certain areas along the LOC.”

“US government personnel are prohibited from travel to Jammu and Kashmir,” the warning added.

In addition to issuing these words of caution, the United States also ultimately reminded the citizens of its “Travel Advisories” database. With travel warnings classified 1 to 4: Exercise Normal Precautions; Exercise Increased Caution; Reconsider Travel; Do Not Travel, the reminder comes ahead of summer vacations when families often plan overseas trips.

While Jammu and Kashmir in India was merely flagged under the Level 2 advisory: Exercise Increased Caution, over 15 countries have completely been rendered a no-go zone. According to the official US Department of State website, two more countries were added to the ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories list in April, bringing the total number of countries as high as 21.

US travel advisory: Level 4 ‘Do No Travel’ warning for 21 countries

Burma (Myanmar)

Afghanistan – 2025

Belarus

South Sudan – 2025

Haiti

Iran – 2025

Iraq

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) – 2025

Lebanon

Libya

Mali

Russia

Somalia

Sudan

Syria – 2025

Ukraine

Venezuela

Yemen – 2025

Burkina Faso – 2025

Central African Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo – 2025

Countries recently added to the ‘Do No Travel’ US travel advisory

Of these 21 countries, eight were added to the ‘Do No Travel’ advisory list this year. The latest ones to be included in the list are Iran, Yemen – both on March 31, 2025, North Korea (April 29) and Burkina Faso (April 16).

North Korea joined the Level 4 US travel advisory due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest, long-term detention, and the threat of wrongful detention of US nationals.” The lack of any diplomatic relations between the US and North Korea, the State Department warned that it cannot offer direct help to US citizens in North Korea in case of emergencies. Terrorism, crime and kidnapping were cited as reasons for Burkina Faso being listed in the ‘Do Not Travel’ roster.

As for the travel advisories against Iran and Yemen, the US State Department advised citizens not to travel to these countries due to ” terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest of US citizens, and wrongful detention,” and “terrorism, civil unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict, and landmines,” respectively.

In addition to these 21 countries, the State Department also flagged several Mexican states in the ‘Do Not Travel’ warning: Colima (crime and kidnapping), Guerrero (crime), Michoacan (crime), Sinaloa (crime), Tamaulipas (crime and kidnapping), and Zacatecas (crime and kidnapping). The same warning was extended against travelling to Gaza.

US Issues New Travel Alert For Mexico Warning Of Hurricane Season And Crime Risks In Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, And Zacatecas

The US has issued a new travel alert for Mexico, cautioning travelers about significant risks from both ongoing violent crime and the active hurricane season. The alert highlights dangerous conditions in states like Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas, where crime and kidnapping remain prevalent. Additionally, the hurricane season from May to November poses threats such as flooding, severe winds, and travel disruptions including flight delays and cruise port closures, urging visitors to exercise heightened caution and stay informed throughout their trip.

Exploring Mexico Beyond the Resorts: Safety Tips and Travel Realities for Visitors

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Despite ongoing political tensions between the United States and Mexico, millions of Americans continue to travel south each year to enjoy the vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history that Mexico offers. Yet, many American travelers experience only a highly controlled, sanitized version of Mexico, often confined within the walls of all-inclusive resorts or limited to the safe zones provided by cruise ship excursions.

For countless visitors arriving at Mexican cruise ports such as Cozumel or Costa Maya, the day’s adventure rarely extends beyond the secure boundaries of port terminals or organized tours. These options are undoubtedly the safest way to enjoy the country, especially for first-time visitors or those concerned about security. However, this approach often comes at the cost of missing out on authentic cultural experiences and a deeper understanding of Mexico’s diverse local communities.

Cruise port visits tend to resemble a curated theme-park experience rather than a genuine exploration of a country. While you may catch glimpses of traditional dancers and browse through souvenir shops offering a mix of handcrafted goods and tourist-targeted merchandise, the overall experience can feel somewhat artificial. Shoppers may find unique local crafts or regional specialties like locally distilled rums, but alongside these are mass-produced trinkets and T-shirts emblazoned with port names—items many travelers later regret purchasing.

Beyond the Resort Walls: Venturing Safely into Mexico

It is entirely possible to travel safely beyond your resort or cruise ship perimeter and experience the true Mexico, but this requires careful planning and an understanding of the risks. The US Department of State issues comprehensive travel advisories that all American visitors should closely review before embarking on their Mexican journey. These advisories reflect ongoing challenges with violent crime, infrastructure, and regional security concerns.

The US government issues a broad warning regarding crime in Mexico, highlighting that violent offenses such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery remain common in many parts of the country. Furthermore, US diplomatic services often have limited ability to assist American citizens in emergencies, especially outside major urban centers or state capitals. Certain areas are completely off-limits to US government personnel, indicating heightened risk.

High-Risk Areas: Places Americans Should Avoid

The State Department specifically advises US travelers to avoid several states due to the prevalence of violent crime and kidnapping:

Colima : High levels of crime and abduction.

: High levels of crime and abduction. Guerrero : Widespread criminal activity.

: Widespread criminal activity. Michoacán : Notorious for violence and criminal networks.

: Notorious for violence and criminal networks. Sinaloa : Known for drug cartel activity and associated dangers.

: Known for drug cartel activity and associated dangers. Tamaulipas : Crime and kidnapping concerns.

: Crime and kidnapping concerns. Zacatecas: Elevated risks from organized crime and kidnappings.

Interestingly, cruise port areas within or near these states often maintain a higher level of security and are generally considered safe for visitors, especially if remaining within controlled zones. Nonetheless, travelers venturing beyond these perimeters must exercise heightened vigilance.

Practical Safety Tips for American Tourists

Travelers intent on exploring Mexico more extensively should adhere to the following State Department recommendations to minimize risks:

Keep close communication with friends or family at home. Inform them of your travel itinerary and regularly update them about your whereabouts.

When separating from your group, share your GPS location via smartphone.

If taking taxis alone, photograph the taxi’s identifying number or license plate and send it to a trusted contact.

Opt for toll roads whenever possible; avoid driving alone, particularly at night, since police and emergency services are often scarce outside major cities.

Exercise extra caution in nightlife venues such as bars, nightclubs, and casinos, where crimes are more likely to occur.

Avoid displaying wealth by refraining from wearing expensive watches, jewelry, or flashing large amounts of cash.

Be vigilant when using ATMs or visiting banks; choose well-lit, secure locations.

Follow official US State Department social media channels for the latest travel updates and alerts.

By incorporating these precautions, travelers can significantly improve their safety while experiencing Mexico beyond the standard tourist bubble.

Weather Hazards: Navigating Hurricane Season in Mexico

In addition to security concerns, travelers to Mexico must remain mindful of seasonal weather threats. Mexico’s hurricane season officially runs from May through November, with peak activity occurring between July and October along both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Hurricanes and tropical storms pose serious hazards, including life-threatening flash floods, powerful winds, dangerous surf, and swift rip currents.

The US Embassy and Consulates in Mexico consistently remind travelers to stay alert during this period, as storms can disrupt travel plans dramatically. Cruise ships, for example, may be forced to skip scheduled ports to avoid dangerous weather systems. However, sudden storms can also impact visitors already onshore.

Heavy rains from hurricanes can cause widespread flooding, sometimes extending hundreds of miles inland and persisting for days after the storm passes. What begins as a minor tropical disturbance can rapidly escalate, leaving travelers with little time to evacuate or alter plans.

Potential Consequences of Hurricanes

The impact of hurricanes can be devastating, with serious damage to critical infrastructure such as roads, power grids, telecommunications, and water supplies. Food, accommodation, medical facilities, and emergency services can become scarce or inaccessible. Airports may shut down or operate on reduced schedules, causing flight cancellations or significant delays.

For US citizens caught in affected areas, these disruptions may mean prolonged stays in emergency shelters with limited resources or difficulty returning home as planned. It is therefore essential to monitor weather forecasts closely, register with the US State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and maintain a flexible travel itinerary.

Balancing Adventure and Caution

Visiting Mexico offers unparalleled opportunities for cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation. From vibrant street markets and historic ruins to colorful festivals and world-class beaches, Mexico’s allure is undeniable. However, Americans considering travel beyond the confines of all-inclusive resorts and cruise port safety zones must balance their desire for authentic experiences with an informed understanding of the risks involved.

The US issues a new travel alert for Mexico due to high crime rates in several states and the risks posed by the hurricane season, urging travelers to remain vigilant and prepared.

Preparation is key. Thoroughly researching your destination, respecting local customs, maintaining situational awareness, and following official safety advice can help ensure a rewarding and secure visit. Mexico’s beauty and warmth are best appreciated when experienced responsibly, armed with knowledge and caution.

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