U.S. Department of State Places 21 Nations Under Level 4 "Do Not Travel" Advisory

As of December 2024, the U.S. Department of State has designated 21 nations under its Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory, which notably includes seven countries in Africa. This classification indicates that these destinations present extreme risks, encompassing threats such as armed conflict, terrorism, crime, and civil unrest, rendering them unsafe for travel. These travel advisories are routinely updated to reflect the most current conditions and are based on a variety of critical factors, including crime rates, political instability, natural disasters, and health crises. The advisory system is categorized into four distinct levels, each providing specific guidance for travelers:

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions - This indicates that the country is generally safe, although standard vigilance is advised.
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution - Here, specific safety concerns are noted, necessitating increased vigilance from travelers.
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel - This level highlights significant risks present in the country, urging travelers to postpone or reconsider their plans.
• Level 4: Do Not Travel - This highest level of advisory indicates severe risks, advising against travel altogether or urging individuals to depart immediately if they are already in the area.

For countries classified under Level 3 and Level 4, reviews of the conditions are conducted every six months. In contrast, Level 1 and Level 2 countries are reviewed on an annual basis. Currently, the following seven African countries are under the U.S. Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisories:

1. Libya — Last Updated: August 1, 2024
   Reasons: Crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict.
   Libya is experiencing high levels of violent crime, including kidnappings. Armed groups engage in frequent clashes, and terrorist activities are a constant threat. The presence of unexploded ordnance adds further risk for travelers, and arbitrary detentions can occur, with the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli having suspended operations since 2014. Departing from Libya via commercial means is strongly advised.
2. Mali — Last Updated: July 31, 2023
   Reasons: Crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
   Frequent attacks by terrorists and armed groups targeting locations popular with foreigners, such as hotels and restaurants, characterize the security landscape in Mali. Violent crimes, including armed robberies and kidnappings, are prevalent, especially during holiday periods. Travel outside the capital, Bamako, is heavily restricted for U.S. personnel, and emergency response capabilities are severely limited.
3. Somalia — Last Updated: July 23, 2024
   Reasons: Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, and piracy.
   Somalia is plagued by widespread violent crime, including murder and kidnappings. Terrorist attacks are common, particularly in public spaces and government facilities, while piracy remains a significant threat in coastal areas. Civil unrest, coupled with inadequate medical facilities, further complicates the situation.
4. South Sudan — Last Updated: July 31, 2023
   Reasons: Crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict.
   The country is beset by violent crime, including carjackings and robberies, alongside ongoing armed conflict and intercommunal violence. The U.S. Embassy in Juba operates under stringent security protocols, which limits the availability of consular services. Journalists in the region face additional risks of harassment and violence.
5. Sudan — Last Updated: April 22, 2023
   Reasons: Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
   Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in armed conflict, particularly in Khartoum, leading to disruptions in communication and transportation systems. Violent clashes are frequent, making travel extremely dangerous. Operations of the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum are suspended, further restricting assistance for U.S. citizens.
6. Burkina Faso — Last Updated: June 31, 2023
   Reasons: Terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
   Persistent threats from terrorist groups targeting various public venues such as hotels, schools, and places of worship characterize the security situation in Burkina Faso. Multiple regions are under states of emergency due to ongoing violence, and the U.S. government has restricted travel for its personnel, limiting emergency services in many areas.
7. Central African Republic (CAR) — Last Updated: December 26, 2024
   Reasons: Armed conflict, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.
   Large areas of the Central African Republic are controlled by armed groups engaging in violent crime and kidnappings. The medical services available are inadequate, and civil unrest can disrupt travel at any moment. The U.S. government imposes strict travel restrictions on its personnel, which limits their ability to assist U.S. citizens in need.