“Dangerous Countries”: Why the World is Much Safer than You Think

Is the world as dangerous as some people believe? Of course, there are safer and less safe areas, but generalizing can give us a very wrong idea of what the world is like and rob us of great opportunities.

Some US presidents have labeled them the “axis of evil,” “rogue states,” or “shithole countries”: those supposedly dangerous and uncivilized countries that no one in their right mind would travel to as a tourist. In short, they are supposed to be nothing but violence, crime, filth, and poverty. But how much truth is there behind these labels?

Perhaps we have been misled by a false image that makes us see the world in a completely distorted way? Today we want to go beyond the superficial. “But how are you going to go there? What are you going to do in Iran?” Anyone who has ever embarked on a trip to this eastern country has surely been faced with this question from friends and family who couldn’t believe what they were hearing.

What has been an open secret among regular travelers for decades is difficult for the rest of us, so to speak, to understand. The reasons are obvious: the country has not achieved its current notoriety for its rich cultural heritage, cuisine, or hospitality, but above all for its foreign policy disputes, its nuclear program, and its conflicts with Western countries. However, those who venture to travel to these supposedly dangerous countries often discover a completely different reality: a willingness to help that is deeply rooted in the culture as in few other places, warm hospitality, a fascinating ancient culture, and a level of safety that would surprise many. Looking beyond the “veil” of prejudice and realizing that the world is not only less dangerous than we think, but also much friendlier, is an essential experience.

It’s worth looking beyond the veil of prejudice

And this misunderstanding is not limited to Iran (which, of course, we are not suggesting you visit if it is at war at the time you read this article). You almost always hear similar questions when travel plans stray from the typical tourist routes. Colombia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Rwanda: many countries have a bad reputation, partly due to prejudice, biased media reports, and long-forgotten conflicts. But what happens when you forget the clichés and question your own prejudices?

Today we’re going to look at ten typically “dangerous” destinations as examples. This doesn’t mean that you should ignore the risks that traveling to certain regions may entail. What we hear about in reports or the daily news also happens in reality. But the bottom line is that, as a traveler, you are unlikely to encounter it. You should take the risks seriously and not ignore or downplay travel warnings from the State Department or common sense (as mentioned above, going into a war zone, as is the case at the time of writing with Israel or certain areas of Ukraine, is not usually a good idea). It is more a matter of considering certain countries in a broader context and not limiting yourself to current or old news stories that remain in the collective consciousness forever. The media often exaggerate the danger of belonging to a certain nationality and ending up as potential “political hostages,” but this is only relevant for certain public officials or journalists and can be minimized with the smart use of a second passport from a neutral country such as Vanuatu.

1. Visiting Iran

Reputation: Many people associate Iran with political instability, conflicts in the Middle East, discrimination, lack of women’s rights, and its nuclear program.

Perception as a tourist: Iran is one of the most hospitable countries in the world. Travelers often report that locals spontaneously invite them for tea, help them, or even invite them into their homes. Persian culture places a high value on hospitality, and tourists often feel much safer than they expected. As a cautious visitor to the country, you should refrain from making political statements or participating in them. However, those who treat the population with respect and behave appropriately in public spaces will be impressed by a millennia-old culture, with World Heritage Sites such as Persepolis, rather than by the nuclear program. These are topics that tourists should not get involved in.

2. Visiting Pakistan

Reputation: Due to news reports of terrorism and political unrest, Pakistan is often perceived as a dangerous country as a whole.

Perception as a tourist: In most regions of the country, tourists are welcome. Especially in northern areas such as Gilgit-Baltistan and the Hunza Valley, visitors encounter incredible hospitality.

Pakistanis take pride in welcoming visitors, and the culture of hospitality is deeply rooted there. However, some regions of the country can only be traversed with a police escort, and there are travel warnings, for example in the Peshawar region or Baluchistan, which should be taken very seriously. Nevertheless, many travelers prove that a tourist stay in Pakistan can be carried out without any problems. In a multi-part report about our group trip, you can read about the experience (in English).

3. Visiting Russia

Reputation: Currently, Russia is associated with authoritarian politics, geopolitical tensions, and armed conflicts. Media coverage of international conflicts has particularly damaged the country’s image in the West.

Perception as a tourist: If you do not intend to travel to the conflict regions of the country or participate in them in any other way, it is unlikely that you will come into contact with the conflict in Ukraine in a country that is almost fifty times larger than Germany. The size of the country alone should make it clear that the regions affected by military conflicts represent only a tiny fraction of the territory. Historic cities such as St. Petersburg and Moscow impress with their cultural diversity, while the vast expanses of Siberia and the landscapes of Lake Baikal also have much to offer. To dismiss the entire country as unsuitable for tourism or to avoid it altogether does not do justice to the country’s culture.

4. Visiting Colombia

Reputation: Colombia is often associated with drug cartels and violence, an image that has been reinforced over decades, especially in pop culture, through films and current series such as Narcos.

Perception as a tourist: Colombia has made considerable progress in terms of security in recent years and has become a very popular tourist destination. However, safety depends on the region and travel habits. Colombians are known for being cheerful, open, and very hospitable. Travelers often report being invited to eat or dance, especially in cities such as Medellín, which has gone from being a former stronghold of crime to a booming cultural center. The same is true in Bogotá and Cartagena.

5. Visiting Venezuela

Reputation: Venezuela is mainly associated with corruption, drugs, hyperinflation, and political protests. Many media outlets portray Venezuela as synonymous with instability and crisis, which deters many potential travelers. The high crime rate in large cities such as Caracas reinforces the impression that the country is dangerous for visitors.

Perception as a tourist: Despite the difficult political and economic situation, many travelers discover a completely different side to Venezuela. Venezuelans are known for their extraordinary warmth and hospitality. Venezuela is a country of breathtaking natural beauty. Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall, attracts adventurers from all over the world. The Gran Sabana, a unique area with plateaus (tepuis) and endless savannah, offers spectacular landscapes that are second to none. In rural areas and remote locations, visitors often feel safer than in large cities and have the opportunity to experience the warm culture up close.

6. Visiting Rwanda

Reputation: Many people still associate Rwanda with the 1994 genocide, which put the country in the international spotlight. This dark chapter continues to shape the country’s image, probably because so little is known about this small African country.

Perception as a tourist: In recent decades, Rwanda has become one of the safest and most stable countries in Africa. Visitors are surprised by its impressive cleanliness and growing economy. The capital, Kigali, is considered one of the most modern and cleanest cities on the continent, and nature lovers will also enjoy the Volcanoes National Park, famous for its mountain gorillas. Rwanda shows how change and progress can overcome prejudice.

7. Visiting Jordan

Reputation: Many people mistakenly associate Jordan with insecurity due to its proximity to Syria, Iraq, and Israel. However, Jordan is a stable haven among its crisis-stricken neighbors.

Perception as a tourist: Jordan is a safe country that is open to tourism. It has several World Heritage Sites and is particularly known for its Bedouin cultures, which can be found in Wadi Rum or around Petra. The expression “Ahlan wa sahlan” (welcome) is lived here with complete conviction and it is worth taking a look behind the scenes.

8. Visiting Saudi Arabia

Reputation: The country is mainly associated with extremely strict religious rules, state control, and restricted freedom.

Perception as a tourist: Since opening up to tourism in 2019, travelers have reported a surprisingly friendly and curious population, proud to share their culture and history. Like many of its neighbors, such as the Emirates and Qatar, the country is synonymous with economic boom, large-scale projects, and a forward-looking attitude. Hospitality is very important, especially in rural areas. The country is also considered very safe to travel in.

9. Visiting Ethiopia

Reputation: Ethiopia is often perceived as a poor and unstable country, partly due to reports of famine and internal conflict.

Perception as a tourist: Although, as in many parts of Africa, there is a noticeable difference between rich and poor, Ethiopians are proud of their culture and history and give tourists a warm welcome. Hospitality is also deeply rooted in tradition and visitors often have an authentic and respectful encounter with the population. With

10. Visiting Zimbabwe

Reputation: Known primarily for its economic instability, political problems, and hyperinflation.

Perception as a tourist: Zimbabwe is considered a safe country and offers many natural attractions, such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. Even the large cities of Harare and Bulawayo are considered safe, with the latter increasingly becoming the cultural center of the country over the years.

Reflecting on our fears

But where does this underlying fear that some travelers feel when heading to more exotic destinations come from? Let’s delve a little deeper into psychology.

Our perception of danger is deeply rooted in cultural differences and, above all, in stereotypes. What seems strange and “unknown” to us can often be threatening, especially if it is marked by a way of life that is very different from our own. Societies that profess other religions, traditions, or values are quickly perceived as unpredictable or even hostile, not because they actually are, but because they do not fit in with your usual experience and because, as a traveler, you have not yet come into contact with the culture, social norms, and laws. Thus, what the brain perceives as “safe” is what it knows, what it understands, what it believes it has control over. It is precisely in culturally different countries that travelers often experience a special hospitality and openness that put all their fears into perspective. Even so, a disproportionate number of people prefer to travel to the United States, which, with comparatively high rates of violence, is not among the safest countries in the world, but is “perceived” as such.

Fear of the unknown is deeply rooted in the human psyche. It serves to ensure survival and protect you from risks. However, in our globalized world, it often leads to exaggerated reactions. People tend to overestimate the risk and the actual probability of a problem occurring in unfamiliar situations and places.

This feeling of insecurity is further reinforced in certain places by what we see in the media. News about countries such as Iran, Colombia, or Pakistan often focuses on conflict, crime, and political instability—in other words, sensational headlines. This constant sensationalism creates a distorted image that reduces these countries to their risks. Many people, especially Western travelers, have the impression that violence and danger are the order of the day, even though tourists generally do not encounter them.

Traveling to countries that people consider dangerous requires stepping out of your comfort zone and, above all, courage, but this courage is richly rewarded. Traveling to lesser-known and less glamorous places offers the opportunity to shed preconceptions, question media images, and discover a world that is often very different from how it is perceived. Those who dare to stray from the beaten track not only discover breathtaking landscapes and fascinating cultures, but also the warmth and openness of people who are proud to share their stories.

It is precisely in countries with a reputation for being dangerous that encounters are often more intense, because outsiders are welcomed with curiosity and respect (unlike in many Western places with their “tourists go home” attitude). As a tourist, in some places you are simply a weirdo. These experiences not only create lasting memories, but also a deeper understanding of other ways of life and cultures, of how human beings function. They show that behind the headlines there is a reality that is full of humanity and hospitality. A reality inhabited by people who, in reality, have the same needs as you.

Traveling to these countries means, as simplistic as it may sound, overcoming fears and broadening horizons. It teaches us that the world is much less dangerous and kinder than we think.

Perhaps the true value of travel lies more in letting go of our prejudices and insecurities than in visiting other places. We must try to understand the world and see beyond appearances. Perhaps in this way we will understand that the world is full of places where we could live and be happy without anyone stepping on us.