South Africa Joins Kenya, Costa Rica, Uzbekistan, The Bahamas, Ghana, And More As Australia Issues Updated Travel Advisory In Response To Escalating Security Threats

Published on December 11, 2025

Australia has updated its travel advisory for a number of nations, including South Africa, Kenya, Costa Rica, Uzbekistan, The Bahamas, and Ghana, in response to growing security risks. Due to growing risks associated with terrorism, violent crime, and regional instability, the advisory advises Australian travellers to be extremely cautious. The Australian government has stressed that travellers must remain vigilant, stay away from high-risk areas, and heed local authorities’ instructions to ensure their safety as worries about security conditions in these countries grow. The advisory highlights persistent issues in these areas, such as armed robberies, kidnappings, terrorism-related incidents, and civil unrest, so it is crucial that travellers are well-informed before setting out on their travels.

In recent updates to its travel advisory system, the Australian government has urged travelers to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to several countries across the globe. These advisories, part of the broader Smartraveller program, come as various regions face ongoing security threats ranging from violent crime to terrorism, and the Australian government has updated these warnings to ensure that citizens remain informed and prepared when traveling.

South Africa: Ongoing Security Risks Lead to Heightened Caution

Australia’s travel advisory for South Africa reflects ongoing concerns about violent crime, which continues to be a significant issue in major urban centers and rural areas. Travelers are urged to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in the country’s high-crime areas like major cities and townships, especially after dark. South Africa has faced a range of challenges, including violent protests, armed robberies, and violent carjackings, which are common in both urban and tourist-heavy regions.

The advisory further highlights the risk of express kidnappings, a dangerous trend where individuals are abducted and held for ransom. Travelers should be alert to their personal security at all times, and it is advisable to avoid large public gatherings or protests, which can turn violent.

In addition to concerns about violent crime, South Africa also faces occasional power outages (known as “load shedding”), which contribute to an uptick in criminal activities during those times. Travelers are advised to remain particularly vigilant when in public spaces or traveling by car, and always to follow the advice of local authorities for up-to-date safety information.

Kenya: Terrorism and Violent Crime Continue to Pose Threats

Kenya’s ongoing security concerns have led Australia to issue an advisory for its citizens, urging them to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. This advisory emphasizes that terrorist attacks could occur at any time, particularly in public areas. The risk of kidnapping is high, especially in the regions bordering Somalia, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, where armed groups operate.

One of the major security concerns in Kenya is the threat posed by terrorists targeting foreign nationals, including aid workers and tourists. Australian travelers are specifically advised to avoid border regions, such as Mandera, Garissa, and parts of Wajir county, where kidnappings have occurred in the past.

In addition to the terrorism risk, violent crime, including armed carjackings and home invasions, is prevalent. Travelers are advised to avoid traveling at night, as this is when criminal activity is often most frequent. Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, as well as other tourist cities, can experience violent crime, particularly in certain districts. Those traveling to Kenya should stay alert, use reliable local transportation, and avoid traveling alone.

Costa Rica: Rising Violent Crime in Tourist Areas

Costa Rica has seen an increase in violent crime in recent years, which has led Australia to issue a cautionary advisory for its citizens. The rise in violent crimes, including carjackings and “express kidnappings,” has been noted particularly in popular tourist areas, resorts, and transport hubs. While Costa Rica remains a popular tourist destination known for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the risks are real, especially in busy, high-traffic areas where criminals target foreign visitors.

The advisory also warns travelers about the potential for petty crime, including pickpocketing and theft. Tourists are advised to carry minimal valuables, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious when using public transport. Additionally, the risk of drink spiking and methanol poisoning is prevalent in Costa Rica, especially in bars and clubs, and visitors are urged not to leave drinks unattended.

It is also advised that travelers make arrangements to arrive and leave major airports during daylight hours to minimize security risks. Using established, registered tour operators and taxis is strongly recommended to avoid the risk of falling victim to scams or criminal activity.

Uzbekistan: Terrorism and Regional Security Risks

Uzbekistan’s updated advisory from Australia reflects the ongoing threats posed by terrorism and civil unrest, particularly in the country’s border regions. Uzbekistan shares borders with Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, areas where regional tensions and conflict pose significant risks to foreign visitors. The advisory highlights that terrorism-related incidents have occurred in the country, including attacks targeting public places that are popular with tourists.

The volatile security situation in Uzbekistan’s border regions is compounded by the presence of unmarked landmines, which increase the dangers of travel in these areas. While most of Uzbekistan remains relatively safe for tourists, travelers are advised to avoid border regions, including the eastern Ferghana Valley, Andijan, and areas near Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

In addition to the threat of terrorism, travelers are advised to be cautious about violent protests, which have occasionally occurred in response to political tensions. As with many other destinations, visitors should follow local media for the latest updates and heed the advice of local authorities regarding any potentially hazardous situations.

The Bahamas: Violent Crime Risks for Tourists

The travel advisory for The Bahamas issued by the Australian government calls for a high degree of caution due to the risks associated with violent crime, particularly in urban areas such as Nassau and Freeport. Tourists are often the target of armed robberies, burglaries, and theft, and the advisory urges Australians to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

Sexual assault is also a frequent concern, particularly in isolated or less populated areas. Travelers are advised to avoid deserted beaches and areas that are poorly lit after dark. The Bahamas’ water sports industry has also been flagged as a potential safety risk due to its lack of regulation, with some operators offering equipment and activities that might not meet necessary safety standards.

Drink spiking is another serious risk in the country, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. The Australian advisory urges travelers not to leave their food or drinks unattended, as this can lead to incidents of drug-facilitated crimes.

Ghana: Violent Crime and Regional Conflicts Pose Growing Threat

Ghana, while generally considered a stable country in West Africa, has been facing an uptick in violent crime, particularly in the northern regions, which border Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso. Australia’s travel advisory for Ghana urges citizens to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in areas where tribal conflicts and banditry have led to violence.

The advisory warns that incidents of armed robbery, kidnapping, and sexual assault are on the rise, especially in and around the capital city, Accra. The northern regions of Ghana, especially those near the borders with Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire, have experienced heightened terrorist activity. Travelers are advised to avoid these areas and remain vigilant while traveling in the country.

In addition to security concerns, Ghana has experienced curfews in certain regions due to ongoing criminal activities. Travelers are urged to plan their movements carefully, adhere to local curfews, and avoid demonstrations, protests, and large public gatherings, as these can quickly turn violent.

Other Countries of Concern

Australia’s updated travel advisories don’t just focus on the countries mentioned above. Several other nations around the world have been flagged as destinations where travelers should exercise caution due to political instability, civil unrest, and safety concerns. Travelers are urged to remain aware of any risks posed by demonstrations, violent crime, or environmental hazards, and always monitor local media and follow official advice to stay safe.

Due to growing security risks, such as violent crime, terrorism, and regional instability, Australia has revised its travel advisory, recommending extreme caution for South Africa, Kenya, Costa Rica, Uzbekistan, The Bahamas, and Ghana. This warning is issued as worries about travellers’ safety in these nations increase.

The Australian government’s updated travel advisory system reflects its ongoing commitment to keeping citizens informed about potential risks while traveling abroad. As security concerns continue to escalate in certain regions, including South Africa, Kenya, Costa Rica, Uzbekistan, The Bahamas, and Ghana, travelers are urged to remain vigilant and take extra precautions. Whether it’s avoiding high-risk areas, staying alert to your personal security, or following local authorities’ advice, these measures can help ensure that your travel experience remains as safe and enjoyable as possible.