The U.S. government has expanded its fall 2025 travel alert list to include Ecuador, joining Brazil, Mexico, France, the UAE, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. The advisory warns of increasing dangers for tourists in several high-risk regions across these countries.
Ecuador Under the Spotlight
Ecuador now faces a heightened advisory as crime, gang violence, and kidnapping claims rise. The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to exercise increased caution throughout the country, especially in specific high-risk zones.
“Do Not Travel” areas include parts of Guayaquil (south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue), Durán in Guayas province, Huaquillas and Arenillas in El Oro, Quevedo, Pueblo Viejo and Quinsaloma in Los Ríos, and Esmeraldas city extending north. Travelers are also advised to reconsider travel to zones just outside these cities and provinces such as Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarqui, Sucumbíos, Manabí, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo.
Beyond crime, the advisory highlights the threat of terrorism and unrest. Demonstrations often erupt with little warning, occasionally blocking highways and disrupting transport. Tourists are urged to steer clear of protests.
Other nations gaining attention in the fall 2025 alert roster share similar concerns. Here’s a snapshot of travel risks per country:
Brazil: Border Zones and Favelas
Brazil continues to draw tourists, yet the U.S. alert flags serious hazards near its land borders. Regions within 160 km of borders with Colombia, Venezuela, and Paraguay see rising gang activity, organized crime, and kidnappings.
Favelas in metropolitan areas remain high risk, especially after dark. Even within capital satellite cities, violence surges at night, prompting travel restrictions for U.S. personnel in many neighborhoods.
Mexico: Cartels, Robbery, and Urban Threats
Mexico draws millions of visitors each year, but the advisory urges heightened vigilance. States like Guerrero, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas—near the U.S. border—remain hotspots for cartel violence, kidnappings, and battles between rival groups.
Major cities including Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are not immune. Tourists are warned to avoid isolated areas, beware late-night travel, and watch for scams in nightlife zones.
France: Terrorism and Civil Unrest
France, a perennial tourist magnet, faces persistent terrorism risks in public spaces, transit hubs, and major landmarks. The advisory also underscores frequent strikes and protests, especially in Paris, which can escalate unpredictably.
Visitors should avoid protest zones and monitor service disruptions that may arise during political unrest.
UAE: Regional Tensions and Security Threats
While often viewed as secure, the UAE’s location makes it sensitive to regional tensions. The U.S. warning mentions the possibility of aerial or missile attacks on high-profile sites, malls, and public venues.
Tourists should also respect local laws strictly, as penalties for behavior violations or drug-related offenses are harsh.
Sri Lanka: Political Instability and Mine Risks
Sri Lanka’s travel alert warns of sporadic protests, economic unrest, and ongoing risks of terrorism. Violent clashes in public gatherings have occurred, and unrest can disrupt services.
In parts of the north and east, landmines from past conflicts remain an invisible threat. Travelers must avoid off-path excursions and stay within established routes.
Cambodia: Fragile Security in Remote Areas
Cambodia’s advisory flags elevated threat levels in border areas and remote zones. Sites near the Thai border and provinces like Battambang and Siem Reap face crime and occasional military clashes.
In Phnom Penh, street crime and bag snatching are common in tourist districts. In remote provinces, landmine hazards persist. Visitors are urged to stay on known trails and avoid isolated areas without local guidance.
What Travelers Should Do
- Enroll in emergency notification services to receive real-time alerts.
- Monitor local media and stay alert to sudden events.
- Avoid areas marked “Do Not Travel” or zones experiencing protests.
- Always carry identification and travel documents securely.
- Use trusted local transport, avoid hailing taxis on the street.
- Purchase comprehensive travel and evacuation insurance.
- Keep flexible travel plans—be ready to change routes if security conditions worsen.
As these nations enter a period of elevated travel risk, staying informed and cautious is essential. Safeguarding your journey starts with knowing where danger lies—and avoiding it.
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