South Sudan Added to US “Do Not Travel” List: Implications for Tourism Sector

South Sudan has been added to the U.S. “Do Not Travel” list due to severe violence and instability, joining countries like Yemen and Venezuela. This advisory threatens the already fragile tourism industry, leading to reduced flights and diminished foreign investment. The global travel landscape is becoming increasingly perilous as many nations face similar security advisories, complicating travel for various stakeholders.

The United States Department of State has recently added South Sudan to its highest-risk “Do Not Travel” list, along with other countries such as Yemen, Venezuela, Russia, Libya, Ukraine, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Haiti. This designation is due to a significant increase in violence, armed conflict, crime, and kidnappings in South Sudan, effectively rendering it a non-viable travel destination. With this advisory, the tourism sector in South Sudan faces severe economic challenges as flight availability declines, and foreign investment diminishes.

This decision reflects a growing global instability marked by conflicts and terrorism that disrupt travel across several regions. The advisory, primarily aimed at ensuring travelers’ safety, carries profound implications for local economies and the global tourism industry. South Sudan has a long-standing history of political instability, ethnic violence, and governance issues. On March 8, 2025, the U.S. ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel, signaling an escalated security threat in the region.

The advisory highlights the prevalence of violent crime, including carjackings, shootings, armed robberies, and kidnappings across South Sudan. Armed groups operate throughout the area, making weapons readily accessible to civilians, resulting in increased risks of sudden attacks. Foreign nationals, particularly journalists, face additional dangers, as reporting without authorization is prohibited, often leading to harassment or violence against media professionals. As a result, tourism has become virtually unfeasible in South Sudan.

Although South Sudan possesses potential for wildlife tourism and cultural experiences, the recent advisory signals that recovery through tourism is now implausible. Few tour operators specializing in adventure or wildlife experiences may experience a drastic decline in bookings. Furthermore, airlines are likely to reduce or suspend flights, complicating travel even further.

Businesses related to tourism, including hotels, tour operators, and transportation services, are expected to struggle significantly due to the advisory. Foreign investors usually avoid countries on the “Do Not Travel” list, which jeopardizes any upcoming tourism development projects in the nation, further stunting the sector’s growth.

Traditionally, those visiting South Sudan have included aid workers, journalists, and business professionals; however, the latest advisory indicates high risks for even these groups. Organizations may choose to reduce or suspend operations in the country in light of the escalated violence and kidnapping threats.

South Sudan’s current status places it among a growing number of countries under strict U.S. travel advisories. Each country on this list faces unique but substantial risks that have adversely affected tourism and business activities.

Countries like Yemen endure extreme violence due to terrorism and civil war, compounded by a lack of U.S. consular support since 2015. Venezuela remains rife with crime and arbitrary detentions, with its U.S. Embassy closed since 2019. Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine and its hostility towards American travelers also restrict tourism, while Libya suffers from militia control and widespread violence. Ukraine continues to experience constant warfare, rendering tourism nearly impossible. The CAR battles armed conflict and political instability, while Haiti faces chaos largely due to rampant crime and gang control.

The expansion of the U.S. “Do Not Travel” list is indicative of a deteriorating global security situation, with notable patterns emerging. The recent addition of South Sudan signifies another setback for global tourism, closely linked to the rise of violence, crime, and political unrest across various regions. The tourism sector must adapt to new realities, as entire nations find themselves effectively off-limits, prompting travelers and businesses to critically reassess their plans.

The inclusion of South Sudan on the U.S. “Do Not Travel” list underscores the growing challenges faced by the international tourism sector due to rising violence and instability. This advisory not only hampers South Sudan’s tourism industry but also highlights a broader trend affecting numerous nations grappling with similar security concerns. Consequently, travelers and businesses must navigate an increasingly perilous landscape, urging a careful reconsideration of travel plans in troubled regions.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com