The U.S. State Department is warning tourists “not to travel” to sections of Haiti due to rising terrorist attacks. Canva

If you’re thinking of traveling to Haiti anytime soon, take note that this might be a country you want to avoid.

The U.S. State Department reissued its highest travel advisory to the Caribbean nation of Haiti, warning Americans not to travel there “for any reason.”

It also advises any nonessential U.S. government employees and family members should leave the country immediately, if they are there now.

Here is what you need to know about the travel advisory and why the U.S. government is saying you shouldn’t travel there.

What does the latest travel advisory to Haiti mean to you?

Item Detail Start Date July 15, 2025 What’s changing Updated travel advisory warning people not to travel to Haiti “for any reason” due to “kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest and limited health care.” Also, new information warning tourists not to travel through the border of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. What will happen? Travelers should “not travel” to Haiti for any reason and U.S. government employees and their families already there should leave immediately because of security risks in the country. Who will it affect? Travelers to Haiti

The agency gave a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory to Haiti due to the “kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest and limited health care” in the country.

The State Department especially warned Americans not to cross the land border “between Haiti and the Dominican Republic” due to “kidnapping and violence” risks.

There was also an additional warning from the agency that the U.S. Embassy would not help U.S. citizens who try to cross into the Dominican Republic at unofficial border crossings due to the high immigration fines they could face when trying to leave.

What is the highest travel advisory?

There are four levels of travel advisory, Level 1 through Level 4.

When planning a vacation, you should check the current travel advisory for that destination. So, which level is the most concerning?

Level 1 : Exercise Normal Precautions – This is the lowest level of advisory; it is advised that there is some risk in that area, and travelers should take precautions while on their visit.

Level 2 : Exercise Increased Caution – There is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution.

Level 3 : Reconsider Travel – There are serious risks to safety, and travelers are advised to reconsider their travel plans to this destination.

Level 4: Do Not Travel – This is the highest level of advisory, and it is strongly recommended not to travel to any destinations with a Level 4 advisory, due to many factors, one of which is that the U.S. government might not be able to provide travelers any assistance in the event of an emergency.

What should travelers to Haiti do in light of this travel advisory?

The U.S. State Department warns people who do not heed the travel advisory to do the following:

Avoid demonstrations and crowds.

Monitor local media.

Make arrangements for hotel/airport transfers in advance or have someone meet you.

Keep your travel documents in order.

Make plans to evacuate without the assistance of U.S. government officials.

Bring an adequate supply of prescription and over-the-counter medicines that you need.

If you are being followed as you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station immediately.

Be in contact with your family or host organization.

Draft a will, put your financial affairs in order and let your family know about funeral wishes.

Leave DNA samples with your health care provider for your loved ones.

Don’t travel alone and always travel by vehicle when possible with the doors locked.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

You can find more details about the travel advisory and how to remain safe while traveling here.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.