The most dangerous place to live in the world

While some places are deemed dangerous because of natural conditions and wildlife, there are many places that have become dangerous because of human intervention.

This blog is dedicated to finding some of the most deadly and dangerous places on earth. If you know of any places other than these, do share them with me down below in the comment section.

77 Most Dangerous Places on Earth – Vile, Viscious & Deadly!  

There are many dangers lurking around every part of our planet. From dangerous wildlife to harsh natural phenomena and from crime-infested areas to alarming levels of pollution, there are a lot of factors that make a place dangerous.

While no place on earth can be considered completely safe, there are some places that you should think twice before visiting. 

I have included places in all the places that are considered to be dangerous. While some of these places are restricted to public access, some places can be visited. The list includes dangerous countries, active volcanoes, dangerous animal infested areas, etc.

Here are the most dangerous places on Earth that you need to think twice before visiting:

1.  Maceio, Brazil: Keep it Off your Bucket List

When I first saw the pictures of this city, everything seemed normal. The city has modern architecture and some beautiful blue sand beaches. However, a closer look revealed the real danger.

The city is not one of the many dangerous places in South America. Away from the beaches, the city is surrounded by slums and marred by drug-related violence.

No, wonder they call it the ‘murder central.’ This is one place; I would remember keeping off my travel bucket list.

2.  Oymyakon, Russia: Coldest Inhabited Place on Earth

This small settlement in Siberia is one of the coldest inhabited place on earth.

This is one of the most dangerous places on earth because of the weather extremes. The lowest recorded temperature has been below -60 degrees Celsius.

The place is so cold that even your eyelashes can freeze! Travellers should exercise extreme caution while visiting the region.

3.  Sahel Region, North Africa: Hot & Arid, But that’s Not All

The Sahel region lies between the Sahara and Savanna in Africa. It has more than one problem which makes it one of the most dangerous places in the world.

The extremely hot region has little rain and is constantly hit by famines and droughts. With rising bloodshed and violence, Sahel is also fast becoming the centre of terrorism.

All these factors make this an extremely dangerous place.

4.   Lake Kivu, Congo and Rwanda: One of the Three Exploding Lakes

The freshwater lake is located along the border between Congo and Rwanda. The lake is one of Africa’s great lakes. 

Underneath the lake lies a huge deposit of Carbon dioxide and methane gases. In the event of a volcanic eruption, the explosion in the lake could kill millions of human and animal life.

Although the government is trying to remove the gasses from the lake, the place is still very dangerous.

5.  Skeleton Coast, Namibia: The Land God Made in Anger

Named by locals as “The Land God Made in Anger,” this place has claimed a number of shipwrecks.

The coast has a dense ocean and little rainfall throughout the year. This makes the climate completely inhospitable.

Throughout the beach skeletons of animals including seals, and a number of ship wreckages can be seen.

6.  Chihuahua, Mexico: Danger Lurking at Every Corner

Although Mexico has many beautiful places to explore, not all of the country is safe. Chihuahua is one of the most infamous cities for drug-related crimes.

Although the violence has reduced in the last few years, cartel-related violence and crime are not uncommon.

If you are visiting Mexico, I would recommend sticking to safer places such as Mexico City.

7.   K2 or Mount Godwin Austen, Pakistan Occupied Kashmir: One of the Most Dangerous Mountains to Climb

K2, the second-highest peak in the world, lies in the disputed area between India & Pakistan. However, this is not what makes it one of the deadliest natural places on earth.

K2 is considered to be one of the most dangerous peaks to climb. The foul weather and comparatively greater height from the base make the ascent on the peak deadly. 

You can imagine how dangerous the climb is just by the fact that till now, only about 300 people have climbed K2. Compare it to Mount Everest which over 5000 people have managed to scale till now.

8.  North Sentinel Island, India: The Native Tribe Doesn’t Appreciate Visitors

If you have been updated with the recent news, you might have heard of the North Sentinel Island in Andaman. In late 2018, an American man was killed by the native Sentinelese tribals. He had supposedly reached the remote Island secretively and was trying to preach Christianity to the isolated natives.

Located in the Indian Ocean, the natives of North Sentinel Island have been isolated from the main island for ages. Any efforts to make the natives a part of the mainland have met resistance.

 In 2006, the Indian government has prohibited travel within 3 miles of the Island to prevent any further casualties and to protect the native inhabitants. This is thus one of the most forbidden places in India.

9.   Zone Rogue, France: Ravaged by WW I, the Area is Dangerous & Uninhabitable

Also called the Red Zone, Zone Rouge constitutes a chain of uninhabited areas in North-eastern France which is one of the most dangerous places in the world.

The area contains a huge amount of human and animal remains, along with unexploded weapons that have contaminated water and land.  

The area was sealed off after World War I as it is believed to be completely damaged by war. The French government prohibits any activity in the zone including agriculture, forestry, settlements, etc.

10. Lake Monoun, Cameroon: At a Danger of Explosion

Just like Lake Nivu, this is also an exploding lake.

The lake is situated in the Oku Volcanic Field and is susceptible to eruptions.

In 1984, the eruption of Carbon Dioxide gas from the lake ended up killing 37 people.

11. Haiti, North America: Marred by Violence, this is one of the most Dangerous Places on Earth

Another country that is considered one of the most dangerous places in the world is Haiti.

Safety is a major issue in Haiti. The country has a high incidence of crimes related to the illicit drug trade, murders, armed robbery, kidnapping, rapes and brutal mob violence.

It is, therefore, inadvisable to visit a country which otherwise is blessed with a lot of natural beauty.

12. Mount Sinabung, Indonesia: Constant Volcanic Eruptions

Mount Sinabung is located in Sumatra and is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia. This makes it one of the most dangerous places in the world.

The eruptions are very frequent and the most recent one happened in June 2019.

The eruptions disrupt the lives of thousands of people living around the area. The past eruptions have covered entire villages in lava and killed many humans and animals.

13. Runit Island, Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean: A Dangerous Radioactive Waste Repository

This island is located between Australia and Hawaii in Enewetak Atoll in the Pacific Ocean.

This beautiful island is the home to ‘The Dome.’ The United States conducted a series of nuclear tests here between 1946 and 1958. It holds the radioactive waste repository.

Off late, radioactive waste from the dome is seeping out and deteriorating the water and land quality making the place one of the most dangerous places on earth.

14. Danakil Desert, Ethiopia: Beautiful Yet Deadly

This oddly beautiful desert in Ethiopia is one of the hottest and most lifeless places on Earth.

The desert is dangerous because of its air and extreme heat. The air here is filled with poisonous sulphuric gases; therefore, people visitors can stay here for a very short time without risking their lives.

Another reason why this place is among the most dangerous places in the world is that the area is under a border conflict with Eritrea and there is a risk of getting kidnapped. If you do go here, please take a guided tour with a professional only.

15. Miyake-Jima, Japan: Restricted to People who have Gas Masks

Miyake-Jima is home to one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. The frequent eruptions have made the Island a dangerous territory.

The island is known for its high concentration of Sulphur. Therefore, the law forbids any visitor to enter the island without a mask.

Although in 2005, the original residents have been allowed to resettle on the island, they are still required to carry gas masks at all times.

16. Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan: Constantly on fire since 1971

Known as the “Gates of Hell,” the crater is a natural gas field that has been burning since 1971.

The football-sized crater releases immense heat, boiling mud and fumes. Also, the road leading up to the crater is quite rough. A small mistake might prove fatal.

If you want to visit this dangerous place, I would strongly recommend taking a guided tour.

17. Death Valley, California, USA: DOn’t Visit Without Adequate Precautions

The valley has this dubious name for a reason. This beautiful yet dangerous desert valley lies on the border of California and Nevada.

Death Valley is marred by extreme heat and prone to dangerous flash flooding. It’s one of the hottest places in the world which makes it one of the deadliest natural places on earth

Many tourists have died in the valley because of extreme heat and exhaustion. If you have this place on your wish list, make sure you exercise adequate precautions.

18. Bermuda Triangle, Pacific Ocean: The Triangle of Mystery 

Also known as the devil’s triangle, this area lies in the North Pacific Ocean between San Juan, Puerto; Miami, Florida; and Bermuda.

Many ships and aeroplanes have been said to be disappeared in this region under mysterious circumstances.

This has fueled many theories. One explanation is that the lost city of Atlantis exerts its magnetic force that causes ships & aircraft to disappear. Other theories blame it on the violent weather.

19. Morgan Island, USA: Monkeys on this Island can be Deadly

Morgan Island is an uninhabited island in South Carolina that is home to thousands of Rhesus monkeys.

The monkeys on the island are said to be infected by the Herpes B virus.  They were moved here from Puerto Rico as they were passing the disease to the native population.

Therefore, it is completely restricted to visitors for their own safety and the safety of the monkeys.  However, researchers with special permissions are permitted to enter the island.

20. Southern Tunisia, Tunisia: A Dangerous Territory

While the Northern part of Tunisia is considered safe, its Southern part is one place that is definitely what a visitor needs to avoid.

Southern Tunisia and some western areas are very dangerous due to military operations and violence. The region has frequent terror attacks which makes travel highly unadvisable.

The tourist areas are especially at risk of terror activities and therefore many countries advise their nationals to keep away from the region.

21. Lake Natron, Tanzania: The Deadly Lake that kills all living creatures, except one

At first look, the lake looks beautiful with its pink-red hues. However, this is one of the deadliest places on earth.

The lake is highly alkaline with a huge concentration of salts. This makes the waters very dangerous. Any living creatures die after coming in contact with it. Also, the strong hydrogen sulphide fumes make it impossible to stay near the lake for long.

The lake does not support much life. The only creatures that can be seen here are flamingoes. They visit the lake every year for breeding. Their leathery skin is adapted enough to withstand the high salt levels.

22. San Pedro Sula, Honduras: Until Recently the ‘Murder Capital of the World’

This Central American city was till recently called the ‘murder capital of the world.’

The city has a very high homicide rate because of the rivalry of the brutal street gangs, illegal firearms and arms trafficking.

This is definitely one of the places that are not going anywhere near my travel bucket list.

23. Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, Madagascar: Not for the Fainthearted 

The Tsingy de Barmaraha Strict Nature Reserve is definitely a place not for the fainthearted.

The terrain of the reserve is quite unique. The sharply pointed limestone formations and sleek cave passages are quite dangerous and a fall could hurt you really bad.

If you plan to hike this reserve, it is best done with an experienced guide. You must be extra cautious, especially during the dry season when climbing becomes all the more difficult due to heat.

24. Mailuu-Suu, Kyrgyzstan: Dangerous Radioactive Town 

Once an elite Soviet Union town, Mailuu- Suu today is one of the most dangerous places on earth.

The town is one of the most polluted sites in the world. The town’s pits contain huge quantities of poisonous radioactive waste.

It is estimated that the Soviet Union dumped 2 million cubic metres of radioactive waste across the 23 pits around the town. Any leakages will have extremely bad effects on health and the environment.

25. Cape Denison, Antarctica: The Windiest Place on Earth

This is an uninhabited region in the world for natural reasons.

The place is said to be the windiest place on earth. So, much so that the winds can gain a force more powerful than hurricanes.

Therefore, this is another place I would definitely not recommend visiting.

26. Lake Nyos, Cameroon: An Exploding Lake that Killed Thousands

Lake Nyos is one of the three known “exploding lakes,” located in an area of volcanic activity in Cameroon.

The lake is positioned right above a magma pocket. The carbon dioxide and other gases leak into the water to form carbonic acid.  This makes the lake highly volatile and susceptible to eruptions.

In 1986, the eruptions killed 1,746 people and 3,500 livestock due to asphyxiation caused by the leaked gases.

27. Blue hole Dahab, Egypt: The Deadliest Magnet for Divers

A blue hole is a deep marine sinkhole and Blue Hole Dahab is one of the World’s largest.

It is considered to be one of the most dangerous places on earth as more than 200 divers have lost their lives attempting a dive in the hole.

The place attracts a lot of visitors and adventurers from around the world attempting to dive into the infamous hole.

28. Dallol, Ethiopia: Locals call it the ‘Gateway to Hell’

Dallol is located in the Afar region of Ethiopia. Being the hottest inhabited place on Earth, locals righty call it the gateway to hell

The place has an extreme desert climate.  To make things worse, Dallol has hypothermal springs that release acidic fluids.  

The place attracts visitors as the springs produce beautiful colours. However, the place is not safe because of the toxic fumes, and volatile conditions in the region.

29. Somalia, Africa: The Epicentre for Crime & Violence

Somalia is one of the worst places to visit right now. The country has become the epicentre for crime and violence.

While some places in Somalia are safer than others, Violent crime, such as kidnapping and murder, is common throughout Somalia. Illegal roadblocks are also widespread. 

Apart from the danger of violence, the country is also battling diseases, famine, and ineffective governance.

30. North Korea, Asia: One Wrong Move Can Land You in Detention

If you are thinking of travelling, North Korea is probably not one of the safest places to visit.

The US government especially advises its citizens to avoid travelling to the country for the fear of arrest and long-term detention.

Tourism in the country is tightly controlled by state-owned tourism companies. Interaction with the locals, disrespect to the leaders, etc. are some of the things that are seen as offensive and can lead to detention.

31. Yemen, Asia: Hit Hard by Terrorism

Another dangerous country that is definitely not worth the risk in Yemen.

The country is hit hard by acts of terrorism, kidnappings and other forms of violent crime. Many countries have issued an advisory to their nationals to avoid travelling to the country.

The constant bombings, random terror attacks make the country one of the most dangerous places on earth.

32. Burkina Faso, Africa: Plagued by Violence & Terrorism

Located in Western Africa, Burkina Faso is a small landlocked country.

What makes Burkina Faso dangerous is the high rate of terrorism and violent acts.  The capital Ouagadougou is relatively better than other parts of the country.

Many governments advise against visiting the country.

33. Bikini Atoll, Marshall Islands: Dangerously High Level Of Radiation

Bikini Atoll is one of the small islands in the Marshall Islands. The island was turned into a radioactive island after it was used for a number of nuclear testing programs.

23 nuclear tests were conducted by the United states inside the atoll, in the air, and underwater till 1958. The island is contaminated with a high amount of radioactive material.

The high level of radiation on the island makes this place dangerous to all living organisms.

34. Verkhoyansk, Russia: One of the Coldest Place on the Planet is Not Easy to Live in 

Verkhoyansk in Siberia is one of the coldest places on earth which also makes it a dangerous place on earth to live in.

The temperature can fall below -50 degrees Celsius in winter! This is not all, the air is too dry which sucks out all the moisture.

In the last couple of decades, the number of people living here has halved as people moved away to regions with better living conditions.

35. Mount Merapi, Indonesia: A Spurting Active Volcano whose fumes can be Dangerous

Indonesia is home to many active volcanoes and one such volcano is Mount Merapi.

Mount Merapi, also called fire mountain has the reputation of spurting out fumes even when it’s not erupting.

The mountain has erupted a number of times in the last few years. The most recent eruption happened in March 2020.

36. Lake Karachay, Russia: Standing Near this Lake Can Kill You

Lake Karachay is the most polluted place on the planet. The lake is so polluted that even standing near the lake for an hour or so can kill you.

The Soviet Union used the lake as a dumping site for radioactive substances from their nuclear weapon facilities.

The lake is all dried up and is filled with concrete blocks to avoid any movement of radioactive substances from the lake bed.

37. La Oroya, Peru: One of the World’s Most Poluted Places

This city in Peru is infamous for being one of the worst polluted places in the world which makes it a very dangerous place.

La Aroya is a mining town that has high levels of pollutants including arsenic, cadmium and lead. The levels of these pollutants are much higher than what is considered safe by the WHO.

The residents of the city have been found to have alarmingly high concentrations of lead in their blood and many are reported to have bronchial troubles.

38. Minqin County, China: An Oasis That is Fast turning into a Desert

Minqin County is a small oasis town located between two deserts Badain Jaran and Tengger.

The oasis is afflicted by violent sandstorms that are covering up the green areas of the county with sand and dust. This makes the conditions very uninhabitable for the local population.

The increasing sand has taken over grasslands, freshwater sources, forests, and forced tens of thousands of people to flee the area.

39. Liberia, Africa: A Dangerous Country with a History, and Present full of Violence

Liberia is one of the worst places to choose if you are planning a holiday in Africa.

Incidents involving violent crimes can occur throughout the country. The place is especially unsafe for women as the incidences of sexual assault are quite high.  If that hasn’t scared you enough, did you know the warlords of Liberia were cannibals?

Liberia has many dangers lurking around. From petty thefts to robbery, it is one of the most dangerous places on earth.

40. Saltstraumen Strait, Norway: Strongest Tidal Currents on Earth

The strait is known to have the strongest tidal currents on Earth, making it an extremely dangerous place.

The strait witnesses the strongest whirlpool called maelstrom every 6 hours.

If you do visit the strait, make sure to remain at a safe distance and not attempt to get into the water without guidance.

41. Fraser Island, Australia: An Island with Some Unlikely Dangerous Inhabitants

While Australia has a lot of beautiful beaches, this is the one you should definitely avoid. Fraser Island is known to have one of the deadliest beaches.

The island is home to aggressive wild Dingo dogs and deadly spiders. That is not all, the waters near the island are infested with dangerous marine life including venomous jellyfish and sharks.

If you do plan to pay a visit, take extreme precautions and stay away from those dogs.

42. The Eiger, Switzerland: One of the Most Difficult Mountains to Scale in Europe

Scaling mountains is difficult and some mountains are more dangerous than others.

The Eiger in Switzerland is considered to be one of the most dangerous climbs. Its north face is especially considered deadly and called the “the murder(ous) wall”

In recent times, the north face is being considered even more dangerous because of the melting ice fields.

43.  Australian Outback, Australia: Dry, Arid Land that can Kill you if you Lose the Way

The Outback is a vast, remote region in the interiors of Australia which is considered to be one of the most dangerous natural places on earth.

The region is one of the most inhabitable places in the world owing to its arid and dry conditions. The Outback is also dangerous because of the dangerous wildlife found here including poisonous snakes and spiders.

The conditions get even worse during summers. Getting lost in the outback can be deadly and there have been cases of people dying in the area.

44. Burundi, Africa: Another African Country Marred by Violence

Burundi is another African country that is one of the most dangerous places on earth.

The country suffers from a number of problems including gang wars, kidnappings, instability of the government.

Governments including the USA, Canada, France, etc. advise their citizens to avoid travelling to this country and rightly so.

45. Amazon Rainforest: Beautiful Thick Jungles that are Home to some of the Most Dangerous Creatures

The Amazon rainforest is on the bucket list of a lot of travellers. However, it is also a very dangerous place.

Spread over 9 south American countries, the forest is home to some of the most dangerous flora and fauna. Some of the most dangerous dwellers of the rainforest are anacondas, electric eels, spiders, jaguars, etc.

If you do plan a visit, make sure you are in a group headed by a knowledgeable guide.

46. Matanza River basin, Argentina: The ‘Slaughter River’

The Matanza river is also referred to as the “Slaughter River” is one of the most polluted rivers in the world.

It is estimated that around 15,000 industries release their wastes into the river. The stream is highly contaminated by heavy metals, oils and petrochemicals.

The pollutants make it immensely dangerous and are responsible for a number of diseases affecting the population that lives on its banks.

47. Naica Crystal Cave, Mexico: Beautiful Caves that are too Dangerous to Step Into

The caves are home to World’s biggest crystals, mainly made up of gypsum. However, this is not the place you should be visiting, if you could.

The cave is extremely hot because of the magma flowing underneath the surface. Also, the humidity levels are extremely high, which can damage the lungs.

Although you are not allowed to venture into the cave, a few people have been able to enter.

48. Yungas Road, Bolivia: Kills 200-300  People Annually

Also known as the death road, the 69 km long road connects Coroico to La Paz.

The road is said to be the deadliest in the world killing 200-300 people annually. The road is made dangerous by fog, landslides, cascades, and cliffs and also because the road is very narrow.

A number of adventure seekers go on this road every year to test their cycling skills. I am definitely not going to be one of those people.

49. Mount Everest, Nepal: Not an Easy Task to Climb

The tallest mountain on the planet is not the easiest to climb and is considered to be one of the most dangerous places on earth.

Mount Everest had a 5 % death rate. The mountain is prone to avalanches, falling rocks, whiteouts, not to forget the chances of getting lost, frostbites, etc.

Irrespective of the dangers associated with the ascent, hundreds of travellers visit Nepal each year to try to conquer the mountain.

50. Juarez Valley, Mexico: Marred by Death & Violence

This is a border area between Mexico and the United States and is considered to be one of the deadliest places on earth.

Known as the murder valley, the area is plagued by death and violence. The area is the operating ground for drug cartels which makes killings and kidnappings very frequent in the area.

The valley is lined with a number of ghost towns as people are too scared to live in the area for the fear of violence.

51. Gobi Desert: Absurd & Extreme Temperature Variations Make the Region Extremely Hostile

The Gobi is a cold desert that covers parts of Northern China and southern Mongolia.

What makes the Gobi one of the most dangerous places to live in, is the absurd and extreme temperature variations.

With extreme windy conditions and extreme cold deserts and low rainfall, it is one of the least hospitable places in the world.

52. Erta Ale Volcano, Ethiopia: An Active Volcano in an Earthquake Prone Area

This active volcano is located in the Afar depression in Ethiopia.

Reaching the volcano is a task in itself because of the high temperatures, rough terrain and constant fear of earthquakes.

If you do plan to pay a visit, make sure you are well prepared and in a group.

53. Valley of Death, Russia: One of the Deadliest Places on Earth

The valley of death lies at the base of volcano Kikhpinych in the Kamchatka region in Russia

Although extremely beautiful, the valley is one of the deadliest places on earth. The concentrated volcanic gasses can kill all living creatures as soon as they enter the valley.

The gas emission comprises gases such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, carbon Sulphur, etc.  The poisonous fumes can kill smaller animals instantly and are also capable of harming larger beings.

54. Praia de Boa Viagem, Brazil: Home to SOme of the Most Aggressive Sharks

At first look, the beach in Brazil might look like no other, but a closer look will reveal its true nature.

The waters near the beach are home to some of the most aggressive sharks. The attacks can be fatal if you do not follow the rules.

Having said that, if you take proper caution and respect the rules and indications of the lifeguards, you are going to be fine.

55. Congo, Africa: Home to some of the Amazing Wildlife, this place is Dangerous for Other Reasons

Congo has a number of places that will interest travellers especially those interested in wildlife. However, the country is a dangerous place to visit.

Due to poor economic conditions, a lot of regions in Congo are affected by petty to violent crime, which makes it unsafe for visitors.

A few tourist places like Virunga National Park are still considered safer for visitors if they are travelling with a tour company.

56. Mount Washington, USA: The Most Dangerous Small Mountain in the World 

Mount Washington is said to be the most dangerous small mountain in the world and for good reasons.

Although the mountain is only about 6000 feet tall, the mountain experiences dramatic drops in temperature and fierce winds that aggravate the temperature drops.

Most incidents on Mt. Washington include cases of hypothermia and visibility issues.

57. Gouffre Berger Cave, France: Rightly Called the ‘Cave of Death’

The cave is known as “The Cave of Death” and is one of the most dangerous places on earth.

The cave is more than 3000 ft deep and it can become a dangerous trap because of rainfall and flooding

In recent years people have lost their lives trying to explore the cave. Only the most skilled climbers can go down the cave as it may take 15-30 hours to return from the bottom of the cave back to the surface.

58. El Camino Del Ray, Spain: The  Most Dangerous Walkway in the World

Also known as The King’s Little Path, this 7.7 km route is known as the most dangerous walkway in the world.

The pathway is over 100 years old and 350 feet high and around 3 feet wide. It takes more than 2 hours to transverse this path.

After a few deaths in 1999-2000, the path that has been repaired is now considered safe (although dangerous) for visitors.

59. Boiling Lake, Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica

The boiling lake is actually a cavity in the earth’s crust that collects water from the rivers nearby. The lake is known for sudden bursts of hot water which can be very dangerous.

The lake is filled with bubbling greyish-blue water that is usually enveloped in a cloud of vapour. The temperature of the water remains anywhere

In 1900, two people died due to asphyxiation by a sudden release of volcanic gases. Therefore, if you plan a visit here, be extra careful.

60. Dzerzhinsk, Russia: Dumping Ground for the Dangerous Chemical Wastes & Neurotoxins

This is yet another place that is highly dangerous because of the severe level of pollution.

During the cold war, the place was used as a chemical weapons manufacturing site. It is the dumping ground for tons of deadly chemical wastes including neurotoxins.

The serious amounts of chemical pollutants in the area put the natives at a very high risk of diseases.

61. Libya, Africa: One of the Most Troubled Countries in the World

There are a lot of troubled countries in Africa, and Libya is another one of them.

Due to civil unrest, the incidents of crime, terrorism, armed conflict remain high in many areas across the country.

Most countries, highly advise citizens to avoid travelling to this disturbed nation. Westerns are especially at a high risk of being kidnapped.

62. South Sudan, Africa: One of the Most Disturbed African Countries

Another African country that is really dangerous is South Sudan.

Armed conflict and violent crimes including shootings, assaults, robberies and kidnappings are common throughout South Sudan.

Even if you are the bravest of souls, I would definitely recommend you to stay as far away from this country as possible.

63. Norilsk, Russia: One of the Most Polluted Cities in the World

Norilsk is one of the most polluted cities in the world, all thanks to its metallurgical complex.

The city is extremely polluted because of the smelting of nickel. This results in acid rain and smog that envelopes the entire city.

The amount of heavy metals in the city is so high that even the soil can be now be mined for metals.

64. Port Moresby, New Guinea: Constant Infights make this place highly Dangerous & Unsafe

The city is the capital of New Guinea and is considered to be one of the most dangerous places in the world.

The city is steeped in constant fights between rival gangs and robberies which makes it very dangerous for travellers and visitors.

The danger of getting trapped in a difficult situation is quite huge, so it’s best to avoid the city. The city has also been historically associated with cannibalism.

65. Mindanao Island, Philippines: A ‘Must-Avoid’ Dangerous Place

Once a favourite among travellers, Mindanao island is now among the most dangerous places on earth.

The clash between major separatist groups and the government has made Mindanao a troubled place. There is an extreme risk of attacks, bombings and kidnappings on the island.

Therefore, if you have any plans of travelling to the Philippines, make sure you avoid this place.

66. Reunion Island, Indian Ocean: Prone to Shark Attacks

The island is known for its extreme beauty and is a popular travel destination.

However, late, shark attacks on the coastlines of Reunion island have made it one of the most dangerous places in the world.

If you have plans to visit, make sure you abide by the rules and stay clear of troubled areas.

67. Ozyorsk, Russia: Hazardous levels of Pollution

Ozyorsk is a closed city located in the Chelyabinsk Oblast in Russia. What makes the city so dangerous is the hazardous amount of pollution.

Ozyorsk is a closed town because of its proximity to the Mayak plant. Mayak was the centre of plutonium during the Cold War, and it is now a Russian facility for processing nuclear waste and recycling nuclear material.

Due to immense radioactive exposure, the local population has experienced major deformities and many health issues.

68. Syria, Asia: Violence & Terrorism Make the Country Highly Unsafe

If you follow the news, you must be aware that Syria is one of the world’s most troubled states.

Ongoing violent conflicts and the constant threat of terrorism has made the life of the people miserable in the country.

The situation in the country is not improving which makes it one of the most dangerous places on earth.

69. Caracas, Venezuela: Dangers Everywhere

Caracas is the capital of Venezuela and is one of the most dangerous cities in the world.

The city is plagued by violence between drug gangs, Street crimes, thefts and robbery are also fairly common.

It is highly unadvisable to visit this Venezuelan city.

70. Baghdad, Iraq: One of the Most Dangerous Places on Earth

The constant war has made Iraq one of the most dangerous places on earth.

Terrorism, bombings, gun fires mar the entire city and make it extremely dangerous for visitors and locals alike.

The city is unlikely to become travel-friendly any time soon.

71. Afghanistan, Asia: One of the Most Dangerous Countries in the World

War-torn Afghanistan is definitely one of the most dangerous places on the planet right now.

The security situation in Afghanistan is extremely volatile and unpredictable. Terrorist attacks, including many bombings, are common all around the country.

The situation of the country is unlikely to get better anytime soon.

72.  Karachi, Pakistan: Prone to Violence

Pakistan is not one of the safest countries when it comes to travelling. Karachi is infamous for having one of the highest crime rates in Asia.

The political unrest, crime and terrorism in Karachi and other parts of Pakistan have made it a dangerous place.

Many countries advise their citizens to avoid travelling to this part of the world.

73. Wittenoom, Australia: This ‘Asbestos Town’ is very Deadly

Known as the asbestos town, Wittenoom was built on an asbestos mine.

The town is officially classified as a contaminated site. Many of its former residents and visitors have died here from asbestos exposure.

The town is located the way to the popular Karijini National Park, and a few daredevils try to visit the area despite warnings. This is a deadly place and all those visiting nearby must stay clear of it.

74. Centralia, USA: One of the Most Dangerous Places in the United States

A ghost town, Centralia is located in Pennsylvania is one of the most dangerous places on earth.

A coal mine fire has been burning beneath the borough in Centralia since 1962. The gases from the mine fire can be dangerous if breathed in.

Although over the years, the dangers have reduced but they haven’t subsided completely.

75. Annapurna Massif, Nepal: One of the Most Deadly Peaks

Annapurna mountain is considered to be one of the most difficult mountains to climb in Nepal and in the world.

Annapurna mastiff is set in one of the most avalanche-prone areas, which makes the climb very difficult. The unpredictable weather and limited help available also make the task harder and fatal.

Around 60 people have died trying to climb the mountain and only 157 have been able to reach the summit.

76. Vanuatu, Pacific Ocean: World’s Most ‘At-Risk’ Country for Natural Hazards

I have put Vanuatu on the list of most dangerous places on earth because it is considered to be the world’s most ‘at-risk’ country for natural hazards.

The country faces natural disasters including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and severe Cyclones.

The susceptibility of the island to natural disasters puts the life of its residents at very high risk.

77.  Snake Island, Brazil: A Dangerous Island Inhabited by World’s Deadliest Snakes

This is one of the most dangerous and most restricted places on earth. The entire island is covered with snakes. It’s believed that the snakes became trapped on the island when the rising sea levels disconnected the island from the mainland.

For the safety of visitors and snakes alike, visitors are completely barred from entering the island. Only selected researchers and the Brazillian Navy are allowed to visit the island.

The main highlight of the island is the critically endangered snake species called the golden lanceheads.  There are about 4000 lancehead snakes on the island.

I hope you enjoyed reading my blog on the most dangerous places on earth. Let me know in the comment section if you know of any other such dangerous places.

About the Author

I, Divya Sarjolta, am a die-hard traveller. Academically, I am a Gold Medalist and PhD in Economics. I hail from the beautiful town of Shimla and am a Himachali by birth. I enjoy exploring life to the fullest and have pursued quite a lot of backpacking trips around India, Two things I crave more than anything else are good food and travel. I try to lead my life by my favourite lines from Game of Thrones. As Oberyn Martell puts it, “It is a big and beautiful world. Most of us live and die in the same corner where we were born and never get to see any of it. I don’t want to be most of us.” So, explore while you can. You can reach out to me on Instagram or Quora.

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