Africa FAQ

FAQ Number:	25
Question:	Which African countries are currently unsafe for travel?
Answer:	According to the American State Department website, travel warnings 'are issued to describe long-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable. A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staf'. The warnings often come as a response to civil war, terrorist attacks or outbreaks of life-threatening diseases like Ebola. Africa represents more than a third of all countries that have travel warnings in place, but most of them aren't exactly tourist hot spots. Also, travel warnings often apply to a specific region of the country and travel to other parts of the country are still relatively safe. You should avoid booking a trip that coincides with an election in that country, as elections often lead to a degree of unrest in less stable African countries. Before you begin planning your trip make sure to check the State Department website < http://travel.state.gov/travel/travel_1744.html> for the most up-to-date and accurate information about the safety of the area you wish to visit. If you are going to rural or especially underdeveloped areas, it is advisable register your trip with the State Department. Your registration will inform the State Department of your whereabouts abroad and in the event of an emergency they will be aware of your presence in the country. If you register your trip, you will also receive any newly issued travel warnings immediately by email. The most recent travel warnings issued by the US State Department for African countries are listed here: Kenya (March 2010), Chad (June 2009), Burundi (July 2009), Eritrea (March 2010), Somalia (December 2009), Central African Republic (August 2009), Cote d'Ivoire (September 2009), Nigeria (July 2009), Algeria (November 2009), Sudan (December 2009), Democractic Republic of Congo (September 2009), Mauritania (December 2009) and Mali (August 2009).
Source:	www.travel.state.gov

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FAQ about Africa

Which African countries are currently unsafe for travel?