The US Department of State has officially added South Sudan to its highest-risk “Do Not Travel” list, placing the country alongside Yemen, Venezuela, Russia, Libya, Ukraine, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Haiti. The advisory cites escalating violence, armed conflict, crime, and kidnappings, effectively rendering South Sudan an unviable travel destination. This development is a significant blow to the nation’s fragile tourism sector and raises concerns about the increasing number of countries becoming inaccessible to international travelers.
The decision comes amid rising instability worldwide, with conflicts, kidnappings, and terrorism disrupting travel and tourism in multiple regions. While these advisories are issued primarily for security reasons, they carry severe consequences for local economies, foreign investments, and global tourism trends.
South Sudan has long struggled with political instability, ethnic violence, and weak governance. The US advisory follows a March 2025 order requiring the departure of non-emergency personnel, signaling a further decline in security conditions. Reports indicate widespread violent crime, including carjackings, armed robberies, and kidnappings. The country is rife with armed groups, and weapons remain easily accessible, increasing the risk of sudden outbreaks of violence. Foreign nationals, including journalists, face additional dangers, as reporting without government approval is illegal, with some reporters facing harassment or worse.
The inclusion of South Sudan on this list effectively shuts down any potential for tourism development. The country, while not a mainstream travel destination, has been attempting to promote its rich wildlife and cultural experiences. However, with the advisory in place, any aspirations for tourism-driven economic recovery are now unrealistic.
Tour operators offering adventure tourism or wildlife experiences in South Sudan will likely face significant losses, as the advisory discourages all forms of non-essential travel. Airlines may reduce or suspend flights, further complicating logistics for visitors and residents alike. Meanwhile, tourism-related businesses, including hotels, guides, and transportation services, will struggle to survive. Foreign investment, already limited, is expected to decline further, stalling any progress in developing South Sudan’s tourism infrastructure.
In addition to the tourism industry, humanitarian aid workers and business travelers are also affected. Many visitors to South Sudan are professionals working in relief operations, journalism, or business sectors. However, the latest advisory warns that even these groups face a high risk of violence and kidnappings, leading to potential reductions in aid programs and foreign business engagement.
South Sudan now joins a growing list of nations deemed unsafe for travel. The presence of Yemen, Venezuela, Russia, Libya, Ukraine, CAR, and Haiti on this list highlights the increasing security risks affecting tourism and business activities globally. These countries each face unique yet severe risks, from war and terrorism to political instability and high crime rates, making tourism virtually impossible.
The increasing number of nations on the US “Do Not Travel” list reflects a growing global security crisis. Many regions that once attracted travelers are now considered too dangerous due to kidnappings, armed conflicts, and crime. This shift significantly impacts international travel, tourism economies, and business operations.
For South Sudan, being added to this list further cripples its struggling economy. The outlook for tourism in high-risk countries remains bleak as instability continues to drive travelers away. The global tourism sector must now adapt to an era where once-accessible destinations are becoming off-limits, forcing businesses, investors, and travelers to reassess their plans in an increasingly volatile world.
