12 Most Dangerous Destinations for the Daring Traveler
Some of the links might be affiliate links and, at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission. See our disclaimer for more info.
Some of the most intrepid travelers are all over danger, seeking out those most hazardous trips on earth. Whether that describes you or you simply want to know where to steer clear of, this rundown of a dozen dangerous destinations is fascinating. From drug cartels or murder to extreme temperatures and other natural dangers, here’s where to go only if you accept the severe threat to your life.
Death Valley, USA
Save this!
There’s a reason why Death Valley is named that way. Much of the risk is due to heat, as the temperature can regularly exceed 50°C (122°F) in summer. Dehydration, heatstroke, and exhaustion are major risks where the highest temperature on earth was recorded. It’s a dangerous area in another way, too, due to the number of people who are armed.
Read also: Iconic Places
Mount Everest, Nepal and Tibet
Climbing Mount Everest is one of the most dangerous things you can do on Earth. A killer combination of extreme altitude and unforgiving weather means many take on the challenge without making it to the summit – or back down the mountain. The notorious Death Zone is the worst, with oxygen starvation causing dizziness and nausea at best. Climbers use bodies as markers, as it’s too risky and expensive to move them.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World
Caracas, Venezuela
Caracas is one of the world’s murder capitals, with 110 deliberate killings per 100,000 people. Due to the prevalence of violent crime, it’s recommended that visitors hire a private security firm to escort them to and from the city’s airport. If you decide to take the risk and travel to destinations like Angel Falls anyway, never resist an attacker, as murder is too often the result.
Read also: Visa-Free Caribbean Destinations
El Caminito del Rey, Spain
El Caminito del Rey in Andalusia has one of the most perilous pathways on the planet. Put one foot wrong on this narrow walkway, and you could plunge to your death. The path is set on the side of a cliff with a vertical drop. Despite undergoing safety improvements, the prospect of stepping onto it isn’t for those with even the remotest fear of heights.
Read also: Unique Places in Europe
Oymyakon, Russia
Where Death Valley is known for its searing heat, Oymyakon in Russia is the opposite. It’s extremely cold here, with the mercury often dipping to -40°F (-40 °C) – coincidentally the same figure in Fahrenheit and Celsius. Though flora and fauna struggle to survive in this climate, the Yakut people call this place home. Being very friendly, the only danger is posed by the inhospitable temperatures.
Read also: Hidden Countries To Visit
Sinaloa, Mexico
Drug cartels rule in this part of Mexico, which makes it a very dangerous area. Between 2018 and 2019, 10 American citizens traveling through the area were killed. As well as violent crime, such as armed shootouts between cartels and the Mexican military, Sinaloa is also notorious for kidnappings.
Read also: Hidden Beaches in the Caribbean
Aletsch Glacier, Switzerland
Concealed chasms pose a danger to the public at Aletsch Glacier in Switzerland. Though the glacier’s surface may seem like smooth ice, there are hidden crevasses that adventurers can fall into. Serious injury or even death can be a tragic result. Experienced, highly trained guides, plus the right protective gear, are essential for anyone who wants to explore the glacier.
Read also: Underrated Cities in Europe
Pripyat, Ukraine
Pripyat in Ukraine was formerly part of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), otherwise known as Russia. In 1986, Pripyat was the site of the biggest nuclear disaster ever when a reactor at the nearby Chernobyl power plant exploded. As it’s reckoned that Pripyat won’t be habitable for another 20,000 years due to high radiation levels, it’s not somewhere you should visit soon.
Read also: Cities in Europe for Solo Traveling
Mount Huashan, China
Like El Caminito del Rey in Spain, Mount Huashan in China is infamous for its cliff-side path. It’s made from planks, so it’s hardly what you’d call safe or steady. Though the planks are attached to the rock below, intrepid travelers must cling tightly to a chain. Wet and very windy weather only adds to the dangers posed by this precarious walkway.
Read also: Visa-Free Asian Destinations
Death Road, Bolivia
This Bolivian destination is another where the name gives the game away. North Yungas Road runs 43 miles between La Paz and Coroico and is dangerous due to an often fatal combination of wet, misty weather and sheer drops. Mountain biking is popular, even though hundreds of people have lost their lives here. Though some safety measures were introduced during the 1990s, driving or riding along Death Road in Bolivia remains incredibly risky.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World
Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
The dangers of the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia are undeniable. While visitors are attracted to the unique geological features of the region, including gushing geysers, sulfurous springs, and lakes of lava, the volcanic activity and scorching sunshine make this a perilous place. You cannot visit at all without the required protective equipment.
Read also: Most Beautiful Countries To Visit
The Devil’s Pool, Zambia
The dangers of the Devil’s Pool are posed by the sheer power of Victoria Falls. Its attraction lies in its unique perspective on the thundering falls, but one false move and the Zambezi River could send you tumbling to your death. Strong currents combined with slippery rocks underfoot only increase risk.
Read also: UNESCO World Heritage Sites