Pakistan Joins with Jamaica, Ethiopia, Mauritania, Colombia, Bangladesh, Burundi, Guatemala, Vanuatu, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Honduras, Macao and Many More: These Countries Are in Do Not Travel List Level 3 for US Citizens

Published on March 8, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In a stark warning for American travelers, the US State Department has placed Pakistan, Jamaica, Ethiopia, Mauritania, Colombia, Bangladesh, Burundi, Guatemala, Vanuatu, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Macau on its “Do Not Travel” list, citing escalating security risks, violent crime, and terrorism threats.

Pakistan has seen a surge in terrorist attacks, making it the second-most terrorism-affected country in the world, while Jamaica struggles with record-breaking homicide rates linked to organized crime and gang violence. Meanwhile, Ethiopia and Mauritania face political instability and ongoing conflicts.

In Colombia and Honduras, widespread drug cartel activity, kidnappings, and violent crime have made travel perilous, while Guatemala and Nicaragua continue to battle civil unrest and corruption-driven violence.

Country – Airlines Operating Between US and Country

1. Pakistan – Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines (via layovers)
2. Jamaica – American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue
3. Ethiopia – Ethiopian Airlines (direct from Washington, D.C.)
4. Mauritania – Air France, Royal Air Maroc (via layovers)
5. Colombia – American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Avianca
6. Bangladesh – Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines (via layovers)
7. Burundi – Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa)
8. Guatemala – American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines
9. Vanuatu – Air Vanuatu, Qantas, Air New Zealand (via layovers in Australia/New Zealand)
10. Mozambique – Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates (via layovers)
11. Nicaragua – Avianca, Copa Airlines (via Central American hubs)
12. Honduras – American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines
13. Macao – Cathay Pacific, Air Macau (via Hong Kong or mainland China)

Mozambique and Burundi are plagued by armed insurgencies, and Vanuatu, despite its idyllic beaches, has been flagged for weak infrastructure and law enforcement limitations. Even Macau, typically considered safe, faces travel restrictions due to unpredictable geopolitical tensions.

The U.S. State Department urges citizens to avoid travel to these countries, warning that emergency assistance may be unavailable, and urging Americans abroad to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates. Travelers are advised to review security conditions, avoid high-risk areas, and ensure they have emergency evacuation plans before considering travel to these destinations.

The United States government has escalated its travel advisory for Pakistan, issuing a stark warning for American citizens to reconsider travel due to worsening terrorism, escalating violence, and the increasing likelihood of armed conflict. The latest Level 3 advisory urges travelers to stay away, while key areas—including Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the India-Pakistan border (LoC)—have been placed under Level 4: Do Not Travel warnings.

The latest 2025 Global Terrorism Index paints a grim picture, ranking Pakistan as the second-most terrorism-affected country in the world, surpassing previous hotspots of instability. The number of terrorist attacks has surpassed 1,000 for the first time, and casualties have risen by an alarming 45% in just one year, making 2024 the deadliest year on record.

This sudden surge in violence has forced the U.S. State Department to issue one of its strongest advisories to date, signaling that Pakistan is no longer safe for foreign visitors—especially Americans.

The Rising Death Toll: A Nation in the Grip of Terrorism

The State Department’s travel warning is not just a routine advisory—it is a clear alarm bell for travelers about the unprecedented instability unfolding across Pakistan. According to data compiled from official intelligence sources and international security reports, the number of terrorist attacks has more than doubled from 517 in 2023 to 1,099 in 2024. The death toll has surged from 748 to 1,081, marking a 45% increase in just one year.

This means that more than three people are dying every single day in terror-related incidents. The staggering rise in coordinated attacks, armed ambushes, and bombings is pushing Pakistan further into crisis, with its security forces struggling to contain the chaos.

Where Are These Attacks Happening? The Most Dangerous Zones for Travelers

While the entire country is experiencing rising violence, some regions have become veritable war zones—so much so that even Pakistani citizens are avoiding travel within their own borders.

1. Balochistan: Pakistan’s Deadliest Province

• More than 50% of Pakistan’s terrorist attacks in 2024 occurred here.
• Separatist insurgents, radical groups, and foreign-backed militants have turned Balochistan into one of the most dangerous places in the world.
• Americans and Westerners are prime targets for kidnappings, assassinations, and ransom demands.

2. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: A Region Under Siege

• The province accounted for 46% of all terrorism-related fatalities in 2024.
• The recent terrorist siege at Bannu Cantonment saw five soldiers and 13 civilians killed in a brutal, coordinated attack by heavily armed militants.
• Security forces are overwhelmed, and even military convoys have been ambushed.

3. The Line of Control (LoC): A Powder Keg Ready to Explode

• This volatile region is one of the most militarized borders in the world, and the risk of cross-border shelling, armed skirmishes, and terrorist infiltration is extremely high.
• Both Pakistani and Indian forces are engaged in routine clashes, and foreigners are strongly discouraged from traveling anywhere near the region.
• Any sign of instability between Pakistan and India could result in a rapid escalation of violence.

No One Is Safe: The U.S. Government Warns That Security Forces Cannot Protect You

For Americans who believe they might be able to rely on the local authorities for protection, the U.S. government has issued a sobering reality check:

“There are greater security resources in the major cities, but the overall security environment remains fluid and can change rapidly. U.S. government personnel in the country are required to use armored vehicles and armed escorts for travel in certain parts.”

This statement underscores just how unstable the situation has become—even diplomats and high-ranking officials are forced to take extreme precautions just to move within the country.

For ordinary American travelers, the risks are even greater. If a terror attack, kidnapping, or military escalation occurs, the U.S. government has made it clear that it may not be able to assist in an evacuation.

Terrorists Strike Without Warning: The Growing Threat to Foreigners

Pakistan’s security forces are struggling to contain a deeply entrenched terrorist network, with dozens of extremist groups operating in different provinces. The most alarming aspect of this crisis is that attacks are becoming more unpredictable, more frequent, and more deadly.

Who Is Being Targeted?

According to intelligence reports, terrorists in Pakistan have shifted their focus to high-profile targets, including:

• Foreigners and American citizens
• Public transportation hubs (airports, bus stations, railways)
• Shopping malls and open markets
• Military installations and police stations
• Hospitals and places of worship
• Hotels and government facilities

Even in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, American tourists and business travelers face enormous risks. There have been multiple cases of foreign visitors being harassed, detained, and even kidnapped for ransom.

How to Avoid Becoming a Victim: The U.S. Government’s Survival Guide

For those who still choose to travel to Pakistan despite the warnings, the State Department has issued a strict list of survival recommendations:

1. Avoid crowded places, public gatherings, and any form of protest.
2. Vary your travel routes and timing to reduce the risk of being targeted.
3. Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly near markets, government buildings, and military installations.
4. Ensure you have an evacuation plan that does NOT rely on U.S. government assistance.
5. Keep your travel documents up to date and accessible at all times.
6. Get comprehensive medical insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation.
7. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time security alerts.

Why the Situation in Pakistan Could Get Even Worse

The ongoing violence in Pakistan is not just a temporary crisis—it is an indication of a deeper, systemic security failure. With the country experiencing its deadliest year yet, many international security analysts fear that things will only deteriorate further in the coming months.

Pakistan’s law enforcement is stretched thin, and the government is struggling to control militant factions that have gained more power in recent years. The economic crisis has also exacerbated instability, making it even more difficult for the country to mount an effective counterterrorism strategy.

The Final Verdict: Should Americans Travel to Pakistan?

With terrorism at an all-time high, security forces unable to provide full protection, and the U.S. government issuing one of its strongest warnings ever, the answer is clear:

Americans should avoid traveling to Pakistan at all costs.

The situation is deteriorating rapidly, and even those with business or family ties to the country should reconsider any non-essential travel.

If you still choose to ignore these warnings, ask yourself:

• Would you be able to survive in a hostage situation?
• Do you have an evacuation plan if flights are suddenly grounded?
• Would you be willing to risk your life for a trip that could be postponed?

The U.S. government has spoken—traveling to Pakistan is a risk that is simply not worth taking.

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