11 Most Dangerous Cities In The World You Should Avoid In 2023

Traveling to new places is always exciting, but it’s always a good thing to know whether the area being considered is safe. With so much happening in the world, the last thing someone should be worried about is being in danger. This list provides a general idea of cities to consider, reconsider, or avoid.

Suggested: Most Dangerous Countries In 2023

According to worldpopulationreview.com and armormax.com data, the 9 most dangerous cities in the world are in Brazil, Mexico, and Venezuela. Here are the specifics:

Belém, Brazil

Belém, Brazil, has a reputation as one of the most dangerous cities in Brazil, with high levels of violent crime and a strong presence of gangs and drug activity. Tourists are advised to exercise caution and be vigilant when visiting Belém. It is recommended that tourists avoid walking alone, especially at night, and stay in well-lit areas with a visible police presence.

Travelers should also avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carrying large amounts of cash. If you take a cab, it is important to use only licensed cabs and avoid hailing them on the street. Instead, ask your hotel or restaurant to hail a taxi for you, or use ride-hailing apps like Uber or 99.

To stay safe in Belém, tourists should also be aware of certain parts of the city that are considered high-risk areas, including areas near the city’s center. It is also recommended to take a guided tour of the city with a reputable tour operator.

This is a great way to explore the culture and history of the city while ensuring your safety. When visiting popular tourist attractions, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take good care of your belongings. All in all, while Belém is a fascinating and beautiful city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety while traveling.

10. Cape Town, South Africa

Population: 4.6 M

Many people are drawn to Cape Town, South Africa, because of its stunning scenery and top-notch attractions, but few are aware of how high the country’s crime rate is.

Even though many of these incidents are thought to be non-violent, a good deal of them have the potential to become violent at any time. You should be on the lookout for offenses such as rape, armed robbery, grab-and-run theft, carjacking, and mugging.

They could also be affected by the frequent political protests and marches that take place in the city. The existence of gangs in South Africa is another factor you should be aware of.

Gang activity is not uncommon in Cape Town, as it is the most populous metropolis in the country.

Last but not least, when planning your trip, you should be aware that human trafficking is rampant in Cape Town. Most cases are female, and in many cases young children are involved.

9. Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela

Population: 375.885

Located in the southeast of Venezuela, Ciudad Bolivar is a city and the seat of the Bolivar State. Officially given the name Santo Tomás of the New Guiana on May 22, 1764, it was renamed Ciudad Bolivar in June 1846. There are 375.885 people living there.

At this moment Ciudad Bolívar is generally a very unsafe city and we strongly discourage traveling there although in recent years crime level has fallen.

8. Fortaleza, Brazil

Population: 3,999,930

You’ll find several drug cartels in this city, and people getting robbed at any time without intervention from the police. With 69 deaths per 100,000, it’s wise to steer clear away from an area where residents are afraid to walk around.

7. Natal, Brazil

Population: 1,353,713

There are many well-known resorts in Natal, but danger lurks behind the scenes. Again, drug cartels have made their mark in this city, contributing to 75 deaths per 100,000 people. Tourists who visit the resorts should stick to that area and avoid going places alone.

Latest crime news and updates from Fortaleza:

February 14: Brazil Case Illustrates Struggle With Corrupt Police

6. Ciudad Guyana, Venezuela

Population: 758,490

This city has had gang violence for many years, with 78 deaths per 100,000 people. While crime is widespread in the country, this city has a penchant for crimes that include kidnapping and murder. Additionally, Venezuela has one of the highest murder rates around the globe.

5. Cuidad Juarez, Mexico

Population: 1,512,450

Cuidad Juarez, once a destination for loud musical entertainment and nightclubs, has seen a decline in tourism due to high crime rates. With a murder rate of 86 per 100,000 residents, it is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico, particularly for women.

While violence does not specifically target US residents, travelers should exercise caution and be aware of the risks of carjacking, theft, robbery, burglary, and murder. It is recommended to take additional precautions, such as traveling in a bullet-resistant vehicle, rather than relying solely on the police for protection.

Latest crime news and updates from Cuidad Juarez:

January 1, 2023: At least 10 people are dead and 20 escaped after a prison riot in Juárez, Mexico (Source: npr.org)

4. Ciudad Victoria, Mexico

Population: 349,688

With 86 deaths per 100,000 people, this city has been on the list for a few years. There is a very high crime rate in this city along with a lot of corruption. People are advised to stay indoors at night to ensure their safety from the drug cartels going to war with each other.

3. Caracas, Venezuela

Population: 2,682,801

Venezuela has been having a hard time economically for some time. In Caracas, the crime rate is very high with robberies and murders occurring nonstop. With 100 deaths per 100,000 people, a lot of this can be attributed to the residents having trouble finding food or being able to afford the basics. The vigilantes in this city are merciless and will take whatever they can get. This city is known around the world as somewhere to avoid because kidnappings occur daily. Caracas is also on global watch lists and travel advisories as one to stay away from if possible.

2. Acapulco, Mexico

Population: 779,566

Acapulco is a popular city but has 111 deaths per 100,000 people. How could someplace so beautiful be so dangerous? This city has a high occurrence of crime and violence with a huge police presence. Tourists love this city, so while there are beautiful places to visit, it’s wise to stay in those areas where the police have high visibility. Stepping out of that comfort zone could prove to be a dangerous decision.

1. Tijuana, Mexico

Population: 2,049,413

With a death rate of 138 per 100,000, drug cartels are well-known in this city. Crime runs rampant with kidnappings, muggings, robberies, and drive-by shootings. It’s not uncommon to hear of tourists that have gone missing or murdered while on vacation.

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