10 most dangerous holiday destinations in the world

There are many picturesque places on Earth attracting curious tourists in droves. But if you’re looking for nerve-racking getaway locations to set your blood pumping, I’m happy to report they don’t come in short supply.

From harrowing heights and perilous routes to inhospitable crime dens and deadly hazardous zones, I guide you to the most dangerous holiday destinations in the world that only the most daring travellers should visit.

1. Death Valley, USA

Located in southeastern California, this drop-dead gorgeous valley takes the spot for the hottest place on the planet.

It almost looks ethereal, with its undulating sand dunes and rock-salt ridges – but you’ll quickly learn why it’s got “death” in its name.

The scalding temperatures in Death Valley reach as high as 56.7 °C (134 °F).

But if you don’t mind the blazing sun, perhaps the presence of scorpions, black widows, and rattlesnakes could hold you in your tracks!

Despite that, there’s a wealth of enjoyable activities to do here. Explore hundreds of kilometres of backroads on a 4×4 truck, hike deep canyons and dunes, or witness the Death Valley skies speckled with stars at night! 

2. Danakil Desert, Ethiopia

While California takes the cake for having the hottest spot in the world, Danakil Desert is no pushover in terms of hotness.

With its blistering temperatures going as high as 50 °C (120 °F), it’s not a destination many consider remotely ideal.

The Danakil Desert is one of the lowest points on Earth (400 metres below sea level).

It’s also wrought with sulfurous springs, bubbling fissures, and active volcanoes spouting obnoxious and potentially toxic fumes.

But for those brave enough to visit, you’ll love dipping in its hot springs!

The view of the Dallol is simply surreal, if not dangerous – a messy canvas of bright yellow, green, and red.

A local guide is necessary when wandering around the colourful sulfuric landscape.

3. Skeleton Coast, Namibia

An impressive stretch of 500 kilometres of sand and dark-blue waters, reaching the Skeleton Coast of Namibia will feel like witnessing the literal end of the earth.

Here, the endless dunes of the Namib desert meet the treacherous currents of the Atlantic Sea.

Walking its sweeping inhospitable shoreline, you’ll see where the location got its spooky name.

Past its otherworldly beauty, the vast beach is dotted with whitewashed skeletons of sea animals and shipwrecks dating back to the 15th century!

4. Oymyakon, Russia

Tucked in the heart of Siberia is the coldest inhabited place on Earth only the dauntless visit: Oymyakon.

While the temperature drops abysmally at -60 °C (-76 °F) the pale scenery is truly stunning any time of the day. Come sunset, and it transforms into an otherworldly marvel.

While here, you’d best visit the “Pole of Cold” monument, where the coldest temperature (-72 °C or 96 °F) is recorded in an inhabited area.

It’s a short walk from the town’s entrance, with visible signposts to point you around.

5. Acapulco, Mexico

Famous for its gorgeous bays, fantastic climate, and vibrant nightlife, Acapulco attracted tourists annually in droves. But that’s no longer the case.

Dominated by local gangs, the city has witnessed an unprecedented rise in violent crime rates and illegal activities.

If you do visit, make a point to stick to public tourist areas and avoid venturing out without a local guide.

6. Mount Everest, Nepal

An icon for being the highest point on Earth above sea level, Mount Everest enjoys the attention of climbers worldwide who want to scale its 8,849-metre peak.

Naturally, scaling its harrowing summit comes fraught with life-threatening risks. 

Think of altitude sickness, extreme cold, low oxygen levels, and other deadly scenarios common in these unforgiving elevated terrains.

Those without plans to conquer the tallest peak can easily find enjoyable activities like skiing, water rafting, biking, or camping in the surrounding area.

7. San Pedro Sula, Honduras

Known as the Sun Valley of Honduras, San Pedro Sula is another often overlooked tourist destination for its high crime rate. Although, it does have its charms, too.

The 3rd avenue of the city is home to the Museo de Antropologia e Historia (Museum of Anthropology and History), where you can learn about the customs and traditions of past civilisations.

Then there’s the El Pequeño Sula, a children’s museum, with its fun earthquake simulator.

You’ll love exploring the Maya Site of Copan, appreciating well-preserved sculptures, architecture, and glyph artefacts.

8. Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine

Located 130 kilometres from Kyiv, Ukraine, curious visitors can now trace the devastating results of the tragedy that shook the world in 1986.

Strolling on specified “safety routes” inside the exclusion zone, tourists over the age of 18 years old can take memorable photos and videos inside Chernobyl.

Venturing within these radiation areas requires wearing protective gear at all times. With an expert guide, staying overnight is even allowed!

9. Timbuktu, Mali

Found in the western African country of Mali, Timbuktu is often considered a pariah for travellers, with countries directly advising tourists to avoid the area.

Once an affluent trading region and centre of Islamic culture in the Middle Ages, the city has been ravaged by constant armed conflict and poverty.

Still, it remained an important site brimming with historical significance and artefacts.

There are three great mosques in Timbuktu: Djingareyber, Sankore, and Sidi Yahia, pieces of evidence of the once-great city’s golden age.

10. Madidi National Park, Bolivia

In the northeastern parts of Bolivia, you’ll find a deadly paradise only a few would dare venture: Madidi National Park.

It looks picturesque at first, with panoramic views of lush greeneries and wavy verdant hills.

Countless dangers lurk behind Madidi’s abundant wild and plant life. Homing poisonous plants and fierce fauna, anyone caught unprepared will endure itches and rashes to no end. 

Not to mention aggressive fire ants and prowling hungry jaguars!

Have you been brave enough to visit any of the most dangerous holiday destinations in the world? Any you’d add to the list? Let me know in the comments below!

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