The most difficult countries to visit are based on different factors such as insecurity, political instability, culture, visa restrictions and limited infrastructure, among many other factors. There are about 195 countries in the world. However, some are not easily accessible, which can be a bummer to travel nomads or tourists.
However, few people have managed to visit these countries and have diverse responses to their experiences. While some found their visit very disappointing, others believe it was a transformative experience.
Either way, the fact remains that some countries are not easily accessible to foreigners. Therefore, if you are an adventurous tourist looking to explore, these are the top 10 most difficult countries to visit in the world.
Top 10 most difficult countries to visit
1. North Korea
North Korea is the most difficult country to visit, especially if you are from the United States of America and South Korea. The country is isolated from the rest of the world, not by location, but due to the government’s intentional efforts to ensure there are no “dangerous” foreign influences on the people.
Also, there are talks that the North Korean government does not want what happens behind its borders to be known to the rest of the world. However, if you do get a visa, you cannot move around alone. A tour guide will be assigned to take you around and accompany you back to your accommodation.
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2. Bhutan
Unlike North Korea, Bhutan is isolated from the rest of the world due to its location. The Himalayan country shares many of the treasures of Nepal and Tibet but is even more difficult to visit than Tibet because it is a highly disputed area. Meanwhile, Tibet requires a Chinese visa and a special Tibetan visa that can only be obtained from inside China.
Also, foreign visitors must book package tours through approved providers and must pay a daily fee of US$250 to contribute to the protection of Bhutan’s natural and historical landscape. As if that is not enough, each visitor must not visit alone because of the country’s limited infrastructure.
3. Turkmenistan
The Central Asian country is very difficult to access due to its visa restrictions. Simply put, you must have a local sponsor before you have the chance. Not only that, you must have an authorised tour throughout your stay.
In addition, there is little tourist infrastructure in the country. Tagged the gates of hell, most parts of the country are covered by the Karakum Desert, which is picturesque and popular for trekking, camel rides and hot-air balloon trips.
4. Eritrea
Eritrea is one of the most isolated nations on Earth. Located in the Horn of Africa along the Red Sea, it is extremely difficult for tourists to gain access to the country.
All travel must be pre-arranged by the government and visitors are restricted to only a few areas, as security checkpoints are common during travel. Also, Eritrea’s tense border disputes and compulsory military conscription further deter visitors from visiting the country.
5. Chad
Chad has been facing security challenges, including terrorism, armed conflict and civil unrest for years, posing risks to travellers. With only 14 countries granted visa-free entry, it is extremely difficult to get a visa due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, sparse embassies abroad, lengthy processing times and strict documentation requirements.
First, you must get an invitation letter, usually requiring a hotel booking in N’Djamena with a non-refundable fee. When you do enter the country, you must register with the police within 72 hours of arrival. Travel outside N’Djamena requires careful planning and security arrangements.
6. Somalia
Like Chad, Somalia has been plagued by conflict, terrorism and piracy, making it one of the most dangerous countries to visit in the world. The country is ranked sixth on the Global Peace Index as one of the most dangerous places to visit.
As a result, many consulates and embassies avoid issuing visitor visas to prevent risking their citizens. Visa is difficult to obtain due to the lack of a working central government in certain regions. Also, Somalia does not have a lot of embassies across the world. Then there are issues around underdeveloped infrastructure, substandard airports and risky road travel due to banditry and lack of maintenance.
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7. Iran
Iran is a challenging country to visit due to its security issues and visa restrictions. Only about 1,000 to 2,000 visas are granted yearly, mostly for family visits. Also, visitors require an authorised guide and cannot travel freely around the country. Iranian people are generally friendly, but the government is particularly distrustful of Americans and the British.
8. Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa is renowned for its rich natural resources. However, the country remains underdeveloped due to its constant political instability and conflicts between armed groups.
Hence, the country is generally considered unsafe to visit. Traveling is poor and restricted requiring permits that are rarely approved for foreigners. There are also cases of violent crimes against tourists.
9. Syria
Syria is a Middle Eastern country that has endured its devastating share of civil war since 2011. Known for its rich culture and historical sites, Syria should have been one of the top tourist destinations on the continent.
On the contrary, conflicts involving rebel forces and terror groups like ISIL make Syria extremely dangerous to visit. As a result, many governments have advised their citizens against travelling to the country. The country’s strict visa rules are also not helping matters.
10. Nauru
Nauru is a tiny Micronesian Island where there is almost no tourism activity going on. The country has only one airport with limited flights. Also, unique visas are granted, with limited facilities and activities for tourists.
Also, Nauru has a history of environmental devastation from phosphate mining which has made the country’s landscape rather barren.
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