Determining the “most dangerous places on Earth” is a complex task, as danger can come in many forms, including violent crime, political instability, natural hazards, or even extreme environments. The level of risk can also vary greatly within a country or even a city.

Based on current travel advisories, security reports, and expert analysis for 2025, here is a list of 17 places and regions that are frequently cited as being among the most dangerous. This list is not exhaustive, and the level of risk can change rapidly.

Countries with Extreme Security Risks

These countries are under official “Do Not Travel” advisories from many governments due to ongoing armed conflict, widespread civil unrest, or a high threat of terrorism and kidnapping.

1. Syria: The country has been in a state of civil war for over a decade, with ongoing violence, terrorism, and political instability.
2. Yemen: A humanitarian crisis and ongoing conflict make it one of the most dangerous places on the planet.
3. Afghanistan: Following the Taliban takeover, the country faces a volatile security situation with a high risk of terrorism and civil unrest.
4. Haiti: The nation is experiencing widespread gang violence, kidnappings, and political instability, particularly in and around its capital, Port-au-Prince.
5. Somalia: Known for political instability, a high threat of terrorism from militant groups, and piracy off its coast.
6. Ukraine: The country is in an active state of war, with a high risk of military attacks across its territory.
7. Libya: The country faces ongoing internal conflict and a high threat of terrorism.
8. Central African Republic: Ongoing armed conflict and a weak central government contribute to a very high-risk environment.
9. Burkina Faso: The country faces a severe and escalating threat from terrorism and armed groups.

Cities and Regions with High Crime Rates

These locations have some of the highest homicide and crime rates in the world, often driven by gang violence, drug trafficking, and poverty.

10. Colima, Mexico: Often ranked as one of the most violent cities in the world based on its homicide rate.
11. Acapulco, Mexico: Once a popular tourist destination, it has become a hotspot for violent crime due to cartel activity.
12. Guayaquil, Ecuador: The city has seen a dramatic increase in crime and violence in recent years, largely due to drug trafficking.
13. Caracas, Venezuela: The capital city is known for extremely high rates of violent crime, including murder and kidnapping, fueled by political and economic instability.
14. Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: This city has a very high crime rate, with risks including violent assault, robbery, and carjacking.
15. Pietermaritzburg, South Africa: A South African city with a high crime index score, including a high rate of violent crimes.

Places with Environmental or Natural Dangers

These destinations are dangerous not because of human conflict, but due to extreme environmental conditions.

16. Danakil Desert, Ethiopia: One of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth, with toxic gases from volcanoes and extreme temperatures.
17. Snake Island (Ilha da Queimada Grande), Brazil: A small island off the coast of Brazil that is home to a unique and deadly species of venomous viper. The Brazilian government has banned visitors to the island.

It is crucial to consult official government travel advisories from sources like the U.S. State Department or the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office before traveling to any of these regions.