A quick check of Canada's travel advisories could be the difference between a trip to remember and one to forget. So, here are some of the latest countries that could use a closer look, each with its own set of reminders and warnings to consider before you finalize your plans:
Iceland
Lava flowing during a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland.
Sigurbjornragnarsson | Dreamstime
Risk level: Take normal security precautions
Why: On January 14, 2024, a volcanic eruption occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula near GrindavÃk, southwest Iceland, prompting evacuations of the area, including GrindavÃk and the Blue Lagoon, due to dangerous lava flows. Icelandic authorities have closed all access to the eruption site and are monitoring the potential for volcanic gas clouds to affect Reykjavik's air quality. Those in areas possibly impacted by volcanic gases should keep windows closed, avoid using ventilation systems, and stay away from low-lying areas prone to gas accumulation. Fortunately, Keflavik International Airport remains unaffected, and flights are operating as normal.
Argentina
People shop in the colourful La Boca area of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Risk level: Take normal security precautions
Why: A nationwide strike scheduled for January 24, 2024, by the General Confederation of Labour Unions is expected to cause significant disruptions across Argentina. Public transportation, public services, and both domestic and international flights may be affected, with potential roadblocks complicating travel.
Travellers to the Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Rosario should exercise a high degree of caution due to heightened risks of petty crime, such as theft and muggings, as well as organized and drug-related crime and violence. Visitors are advised to check their travel plans for January 24, monitor local news for updates on the strike and demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure safety.
Equador
Cyclists and pedestrians on a street in Quito facing the Basilica del Voto Nacional.
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Ecuador's government declared a nationwide state of "internal armed conflict" on January 9, 2024, after escalating gang violence, in Guayaquil and Quito. The declaration, following a state of emergency announced on January 8, aimed to empower security forces to tackle the surge in violence, marked by small explosions, attacks on businesses, and car burnings.
A nationwide curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. has also been instituted. During curfew hours, individuals are required to remain indoors, except for travellers heading to or from the airport for scheduled flights. Those caught travelling during curfew hours should be prepared to present ID and flight details to authorities.
The state of emergency grants security forces enhanced powers, including the ability to restrict gatherings, enter homes without warrants, and monitor prisoners' communications. Despite these security concerns, airports remain operational, though some flights have been affected. Travelers should contact their airlines to check for any potential delays or changes to their flights. Bus travel may also face disruptions; thus, verifying itineraries and schedules at bus terminals is advised.
For those currently in Ecuador, expect to see a heightened security presence, particularly near prisons. It's crucial to carry identification at all times and adhere strictly to the directives of local authorities.
Guatemala
Plaza de la Constitucion Constitution Square in Guatemala City.
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Following the presidential transition in Guatemala on January 14, 2024, there's a heightened possibility of demonstrations across the country, notably in Zone 1 of Guatemala City. These demonstrations could disrupt travel, affecting access to major roads and possibly leading to safety concerns for travellers. Foreign participants in any demonstrations risk detention, deportation, or being barred from future entry into Guatemala.
Due to very high levels of violent crime, non-essential travel is also discouraged to specific parts of Guatemala City (Zones 3, 18, 19, and 21) and certain municipalities including Amatitlán, Chinautla, Escuintla, San José del Golfo, San Raymundo, and Villa Nueva. The advisory extends to the departments of Chiquimula, Jutiapa, and Zacapa, along with highways RN-7E, CA-11, CA-12, CA-13, and PET-13, where safety concerns are significant.
Kenya
An Eastleigh street with merchants in Nairobi, Kenya.
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)
Why: In Nairobi, travellers should be cautious in neighbourhoods like Eastleigh, Kibera, and Pangani due to high crime rates. Along the coast, areas within 50 km of the Tana River County coast and the coast in Kilifi County pose a heightened risk for kidnapping and attacks.
Counties bordering Somalia, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu, are no-go zones due to the threat of kidnapping and terrorist activities. Likewise, Turkana and Marsabit counties, adjacent to South Sudan and Ethiopia, pose risks of armed banditry and cross-border violence.
For those planning to view wildlife, use a reputable safari service and keep a safe distance from the animals. Kenya's rainy seasons, running typically from late March to mid-June and from October to November, often cause flooding and mudslides, potentially disrupting travel plans and access to essential services.
Comoros
Boats in the harbour of Moroni on the Island of Comoros.
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: After the presidential elections on January 14, 2024, Moroni experienced a series of demonstrations characterized by vandalism, clashes between protesters and police, and disruptions to telecommunications. To manage the unrest, authorities imposed a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting January 17, 2024, with stricter measures in the Moroni area, where the curfew runs from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
It's important to remember that even peaceful demonstrations have the potential to escalate into violence unexpectedly and can disrupt traffic and public transportation. Travellers are advised to steer clear of areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are occurring to ensure their safety.
​Réunion
Cars on Tamarin Road in Saint Paul, Réunion Island.
Risk level: Take normal security precautions
Why: Tropical Cyclone Belal recently swept through Réunion, causing disruptions to transportation, power, water and food supplies, as well as telecommunications. Travellers heading to the affected area should reach out to their airlines or tour operators to assess how disruptions could impact their plans.
The situation underscores the broader risks associated with the cyclone season, which lasts from November to April in Réunion. During that period, even minor tropical storms can escalate rapidly into major cyclones, posing significant safety risks and potentially affecting essential services.
If you're considering traveling to Réunion during cyclone season, be ready to adjust your travel plans, including possibly cutting your trip short or canceling altogether, based on the latest weather forecasts and local advisories.
South Africa
View of Cape Town from Voetboog Road.
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Certain areas near Cape Town International Airport have been identified as less secure, with an increased risk of attacks on secondary roads. To mitigate risks, it's recommended travellers stay on highways and main roads, avoid shortcuts, plan trips in advance, verify travel itineraries with trusted local sources, and consider arranging for an airport transfer.
In addition to crime concerns, South Africa is grappling with nationwide power shortages, which occur regularly multiple times a day, often stretching over several hours. The outages are expected to persist into 2024. While the chance of a complete nationwide blackout remains low, the consequences of such an event would be severe. South Africa has already faced blackouts lasting up to 12 hours within a single 24-hour period. With increased power demand during the winter months of June and July, blackouts may become even more prolonged, leading to expectations of a particularly dark and cold season.
Côte d'Ivoire
Footballs fans in Côte d'Ivoire.
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)
Why: With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled from January 13 to February 11, 2024, travellers should be prepared for potential demonstrations. An increased security presence is anticipated during that time. Visitors are encouraged to stay clear of areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are expected.
Travellers are also warned against all travel to areas within 50 km of the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, including the regions of Bagoué, Bounkani (which encompasses Comoé National Park), Folon, and Tchologo, because of the risk of terrorist activity. Similar caution is urged for regions near the Liberian border — Cavally, San Pedro, Guémon, and Tonkpi — where non-essential travel should be avoided due to crime, insecurity, and recurrent inter-community conflicts.
More at travel.gc.ca
