Traveling is a wonderful way to explore new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. However, not all destinations are equally safe and welcoming for tourists. Some places pose serious risks to travelers, such as violent crime, natural disasters, political unrest, or health hazards. In this blog post, we will look at some of the most dangerous tourist places in the world, and why you should think twice before visiting them.
Tijuana, Mexico
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Tijuana is a border city that attracts many visitors from the United States and other countries, mainly for its nightlife, shopping, and cheap medical services. However, Tijuana is also one of the most violent cities in the world, with a homicide rate of 138 per 100,000 people. The city is plagued by drug trafficking, gang wars, kidnappings, robberies, and extortion. Tourists are often targeted by criminals, especially in the slums near the border. If you decide to visit Tijuana, you should exercise extreme caution, avoid traveling alone or at night, and stay in well-known areas.
The Danakil Desert, Ethiopia
Niels Van Iperen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Danakil Desert is a remote and inhospitable region in the Horn of Africa, where temperatures can reach up to 131 °F. The desert is home to some of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth, such as volcanoes, salt lakes, geysers, and acid pools. However, these attractions also pose serious dangers to travelers, such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, poisonous gases, and eruptions. Moreover, the desert is located in a politically unstable area, where armed conflicts, banditry, and terrorism are common. Travelers who wish to visit the Danakil Desert should only do so with a reputable tour operator, and follow the advice of local authorities.
See More : 10 of the world’s most dangerous bridges
Mount Everest, Nepal
Daniel Oberhaus, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world, and a dream destination for many adventurous travelers. Every year, hundreds of climbers attempt to reach the summit, but only a few succeed. The ascent is extremely challenging and risky, requiring physical fitness, technical skills, and mental stamina. Climbers face low oxygen levels, freezing temperatures, strong winds, avalanches, and falls. Many people have died on the mountain, and some of their bodies remain frozen on the slopes. Mount Everest is not a place for casual tourists, but for experienced and well-prepared mountaineers.
Acapulco, Mexico
Terguz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Acapulco is a famous beach resort that once attracted celebrities and jet-setters from around the world. Today, however, Acapulco is a shadow of its former glory, as it has become one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. The city suffers from high levels of poverty, corruption, and crime, especially related to drug cartels. Homicides, kidnappings, extortions, and rapes are frequent, and tourists are often caught in the crossfire. Acapulco has lost much of its appeal and charm, and travelers should be very careful if they choose to visit.
Ciudad Guyana, Venezuela
Agência de Notícias do Acre, Foto: Gleilson Miranda / Governo do Acre, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ciudad Guyana is a city in eastern Venezuela, known for its industrial and mining activities. The city also has some natural and cultural attractions, such as the Orinoco River, the Llovizna Falls, and the San Felix Cathedral. However, Ciudad Guyana is also a very dangerous place, with a crime index of 852. The city has high rates of gang violence, car theft, robbery, and home invasion. The economic and political crisis in Venezuela has worsened the situation, leading to shortages of food, medicine, and electricity. Travelers who visit Ciudad Guyana should be aware of the risks and take preventive measures.
These are just some of the most dangerous tourist places in the world, but there are many others that you should avoid or be very cautious about. Traveling can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it can also be a perilous one. Before you book your next trip, make sure you do your research, check the travel advisories, and follow the safety tips. Remember, your life is more important than any destination.
