6 Most Difficult Countries to Visit, Including North Korea

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Approaching the long mid-year holiday, many would opt for a vacation overseas. As a rule, traveling abroad requires a visa and other necessary documents. However, in some countries, the visa application may be harder for a plethora of reasons. Some countries also have strict rules about visitations from overseas. The reasons vary, from political to economic instability. Citing Every Country in the World, here are six countries that are difficult to visit:

1. Syria

Syria is a Muslim-majority country with a rich history dating back to the era of Umayyad Caliphate to the Ottomans. In fact, Syria used to be known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world because of its architecture. However, Syria has been stricken with many conflicts ever since the world wars. It is said that exiting Syria is more challenging than entering the country. The obstacle of obtaining a visa for Syria largely comes from the number of world’s nations that bar their citizens from visiting the country due to security reasons. 

2. Yemen

Yemen is another country with an unstable government due to civil wars and internal conflict within the current government. Consequently, the number of foreign visits to Yemen is very limited. These limitations are regrettable as Yemen is a country with unique nature and rich history ranging from prehistoric to modern times. Yemen’s landscape is full of highlands with mountains and vast plains of deserts. 

3. Sudan

Visiting Sudan requires a complicated visa application process where prospective tourists are asked to write down lengthy reasons for visit and the nature of their visit. Sudan is also a country with a tense political situation, but its natural beauty still tempts people to take vacation in the country. 

4. North Korea

It is expected that an isolated country such as North Korea will be one of the most difficult countries to visit. Tourists are also not allowed to wander around the country unchaperoned. Every time a foreigner is permitted to enter the country, they must book a ticket with a local agent for a state-approved tour around North Korea. 

5. Democratic Republic of the Congo

Many people long to visit this African country for its natural charms. However, as do most of the countries in this list, political instability and security concerns make it quite difficult. Ongoing conflicts between armed groups gravely affect safety, especially in the eastern regions. Traveling is restricted and the transportation options in Congo are also limited. 

6. Iran

Iran is notorious for its strict visa rules, especially for US citizens due to both countries’ prolonged tension. Regulations for international visitors are also very strict and numbers are limited between 1000 to 2000 visas each year for foreign citizens, and even fewer for foreign tourists. Visitors are also required to be accompanied by a government-approved guide for a tour.

SAVINA RIZKY HAMIDA

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