Published on
October 4, 2025
Australia’s recent alerts on travel to Mexico, The UAE, Uganda, France, Brazil, Indonesia, The Bahamas, and Peru highlight growing geopolitical threats and natural disasters affecting these countries. Political unrest, civil strife, and terrorism, coupled with flooding and hurricanes, are unstable conditions prompting negative travel advisories. Brazil and Mexico have violent criminal threats, and Indonesia and The Bahamas have flooding and hurricanes, respectively. The Australian Government strongly recommends exercising extreme caution to these travel destinations as conditions for public security and personal safety are in constant flux.
Australia has issued new travel warnings for various countries across the globe, urging its citizens to exercise heightened caution when visiting specific regions. The updated advisory includes Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, France, Brazil, Indonesia, The Bahamas, and Peru, with each country presenting its unique set of challenges ranging from political instability and violent crime to terrorism threats and natural disasters. Here’s a breakdown of each country and the specific risks identified by the Australian authorities.
Mexico
Australia continues to advise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to the prevalent risk of violent crime, including kidnapping, extortion, and armed robbery. Several regions are considered high-risk, including the states of Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Sonora, Colima, and Chiapas. However, there are certain safer areas within these states that travelers can consider, such as Palenque (if accessed by highway from Villahermosa), San Cristobal de las Casas (via Tuxtla-Gutierrez), and Manzanillo (if accessed by air).
The Australian government strongly advises against traveling at night outside major cities and recommends using toll roads for greater security. Air travel is also advised for access to cities where road transport presents a higher security risk. The risk of violent crime is especially high around major tourist destinations and in areas affected by drug cartel activity.
Additionally, travelers should be aware of the immigration requirements. If you have an ordinary passport with a chip, you can use the e-gates at airports such as Mexico City, San Jose del Cabo, and Cancun, where a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) will be printed, allowing Australians to stay for up to 180 days for tourism purposes. For those without a chipped passport, a visa on arrival is required.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE, including the cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, is also under increased scrutiny due to the threat of terrorism. While the crime rate remains low, the Australian government advises travelers to stay alert, as physical and verbal harassment, including sexual assault, may occur in certain areas, particularly at night.
The security situation in the Middle East is unpredictable, with the potential for airspace closures, flight cancellations, and other travel disruptions in the event of further regional instability. Australia advises against participating in protests or demonstrations, as they are illegal and rare unless authorized by local authorities. If you do encounter such events, avoid them entirely.
Crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, remains uncommon but possible in tourist areas, and drink spiking incidents have been reported. It’s also important to avoid walking alone after dark, particularly in isolated places.
Uganda
Uganda is facing growing instability, especially in the border areas with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Australian government continues to advise a high degree of caution in Uganda due to terrorism threats and the risk of violent crime. The situation is particularly tense in the border regions, where travelers are advised not to venture within 50 kilometers of the South Sudan border due to armed banditry and cross-border rebel attacks.
Uganda will hold general elections from January to February 2026, and while the country has increased its security measures in anticipation of these elections, there is a higher risk of politically motivated incidents and civil unrest during this period. Terrorist attacks have previously targeted foreigners, including hotels, bars, restaurants, and public spaces. Travelers should avoid large gatherings, protests, and political events, which could quickly escalate into violent situations.
The Australian government also highlights health risks, including the ongoing outbreak of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in parts of Africa, including Uganda. While not widespread, travelers should be aware of the potential for infection in crowded or public spaces.
France
France remains a country of concern for travelers due to the continued threat of terrorism. The Australian government has raised its advisory to a high degree of caution, especially as the national terror alert remains at its highest level. Public areas, tourist hotspots, schools, shopping centers, and places of worship are all considered potential targets for attacks.
The situation in France remains tense, with the country frequently experiencing strikes and demonstrations, which can lead to significant disruptions in transportation and public services. These protests have occasionally turned violent, with clashes between demonstrators and police, sometimes involving the use of tear gas and arrests. Travelers should avoid demonstrations and stay updated on local news to avoid any areas of heightened unrest.
Additionally, the upcoming implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) starting 12 October will require all non-EU nationals, including Australians, to register at the borders, including biometric scanning, which may cause longer border queues and delays.
Brazil
Brazil continues to be a high-risk destination for travelers due to the prevalent threats of violent crime. Muggings, armed robberies, and carjackings are common, particularly in large cities and during major events such as Carnival. Travelers should avoid traveling alone at night and refrain from visiting isolated areas, including many beaches.
The Australian government specifically advises against entering favelas (shantytowns), even with a tour group, as crime rates are significantly higher in these areas. Petty crime, such as street theft of mobile phones, is also prevalent, and tourists should be vigilant, keeping their belongings close and valuables out of sight.
Brazil’s political landscape can also be volatile. Protests and strikes occur regularly, often resulting in public disturbances and road blockages. Travelers should monitor the local media, avoid protests, and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure their safety. It’s also recommended to use only official taxis or rideshare services like Uber and to verify vehicle details before entering.
Indonesia
Indonesia poses several risks for travelers, especially in the provinces of Papua and its surrounding regions. The Australian government advises against travel to these areas due to the risk of violent protests and security incidents, which can quickly escalate. There’s also a risk of terrorist activity, particularly in popular tourist destinations, with past attacks targeting hotels and public areas.
The Australian government also issues warnings about the dangers of natural disasters, such as floods, which can disrupt travel, particularly in cities like Jakarta and Bali. Heavy rains can cause significant flooding, and travelers should remain cautious in affected areas.
For those planning to travel to coastal regions, particularly popular tourist beaches like Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands, there is an increased risk of drowning due to strong rip currents and rough seas. Many of these beaches are unpatrolled, and local rescue services may not meet the same standards as those in Australia.
Drink spiking is also a concern in Indonesia, with methanol poisoning incidents being reported in places like Bali and Lombok. Travelers should never leave their drinks unattended and remain cautious when consuming alcohol.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas has become a growing concern for Australian travelers due to an increase in violent crime, particularly in tourist areas. Armed robberies, sexual assaults, and theft are common in destinations like Freeport and Nassau. Tourists are advised to stay alert, especially after dark, and to keep their valuables out of sight.
Crime is not limited to urban areas; remote beaches and secluded spots also pose risks. Sexual assault is a frequent issue, and it is highly recommended that travelers avoid deserted beaches and walk in groups, especially after sunset. Drink spiking in tourist resorts has also been reported, and travelers should never leave their drinks unattended.
In addition to crime, natural disasters like hurricanes are a constant threat in the Bahamas. Travelers should stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared for possible evacuation if necessary.
Peru
Peru’s safety situation is compounded by political unrest, particularly in Lima and the surrounding regions. Protests and strikes are common and can lead to major disruptions in travel, including the disruption of transport services to and from popular tourist destinations like Machu Picchu. In some cases, these demonstrations have turned violent, with authorities using force to manage crowds.
Violent crime, including robberies and muggings, is prevalent in many of Peru’s major cities, including Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Travelers are advised to avoid traveling alone, especially after dark, and to be cautious with their belongings in public areas. Street theft, including phone snatching, has become increasingly common.
There are also specific areas in Peru where travelers should reconsider their visit, such as those within 20 kilometers of the Colombian border and the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM). These regions are affected by terrorism and criminal activity and should be avoided for safety reasons.
Australia has updated its travel advisory for Mexico, the UAE, Uganda, France, Brazil, Indonesia, The Bahamas, and Peru for political instability and civil unrest, terrorism, and natural disasters such as floods and hurricanes, advising travelers to take care in these areas.
Australia’s updated travel advisory highlights significant safety concerns for travelers visiting Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, France, Brazil, Indonesia, The Bahamas, and Peru. From violent crime and terrorism threats to political unrest and natural disasters, travelers must exercise caution, stay informed, and carefully consider their travel plans before heading to these regions. By following the safety guidelines provided and taking necessary precautions, travelers can help mitigate risks and have a safer journey
