Uganda Joins South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, France, Mexico, Colombia And More As Australia Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Worsening Regional Conditions

Published on
December 20, 2025

As regional conditions worsen, Australia issues a new travel advisory, and Uganda joins South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, France, Mexico, Colombia, and other countries. The advisory draws attention to Uganda’s growing security threats, political unrest, and civil unrest, all of which have prompted Australian officials to alert tourists to possible risks. This most recent alert encourages Australians to travel with caution and knowledge, reflecting larger regional issues that are impacting several nations.

Australia has issued new travel advisories for several countries, highlighting growing security concerns, political instability, and regional risks that travelers should be aware of. The following countries are affected by these advisories: Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, France, Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica. This advisory urges Australians to remain vigilant and exercise caution while traveling, especially in areas affected by civil unrest, violent crime, and other challenges. Let’s take a closer look at the situation in each country.

Uganda

Uganda is set to hold general elections from January to February 2026, and while the country is known for its natural beauty and gorilla trekking, travelers are advised to exercise caution during this period due to potential disruptions caused by political tensions. In previous years, general elections in Uganda have led to protests, violence, and disruptions, and this year, the same risks are present.

The advisory highlights that local authorities may implement curfews, restrict movement, or impose other safety measures without notice. Roadblocks, fuel shortages, and internet blackouts are possible, so travelers are advised to prepare by stocking up on essential supplies such as food, water, medication, fuel, and cash in case of travel disruptions.

There is a high degree of caution advised across Uganda, with higher levels of caution recommended near the borders with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to armed conflict and rebel activities. Uganda is also facing an ongoing threat of terrorism, especially in public spaces, hotels, bars, and tourist areas. Travelers are advised to avoid large gatherings, especially during the election period, and always follow local authority advice.

For those planning to trek gorillas, security measures are required due to the risk of armed attacks. Tourists are strongly advised not to participate in tours that cross into the DRC, which remains a high-risk area. Petty crime, including theft, and violent crime also pose risks, and travelers should remain vigilant, avoid walking in isolated areas, and be cautious of drink spiking.

South Africa

South Africa continues to experience high levels of violent crime, making it a country of concern for Australian travelers. The advisory urges a high degree of caution due to risks like armed robbery, carjackings, and violent crime, particularly in urban areas and tourist hotspots.

Protests and demonstrations are frequent in South Africa, often leading to roadblocks and disruptions. Travelers are advised to avoid areas affected by protests and to monitor media for updates. Large public gatherings can turn violent, and it is best to stay away from them whenever possible.

The advisory also highlights express kidnappings as a growing threat in South Africa. Travelers should stay alert to their surroundings and take precautions, especially when in unfamiliar areas or after dark. It is also important to remain aware of the risks related to drink spiking and methanol poisoning from consuming alcoholic beverages.

South Africa’s load shedding (scheduled power outages) further exacerbates the crime situation, as power cuts are often linked to increased criminal activity. In addition, travelers with dual South African-Australian citizenship are reminded to enter and exit the country on their South African passport, as required by law.

Kenya

Kenya faces a persistent threat from terrorism and violent crime, leading the Australian government to issue a high degree of caution travel advisory. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks, and foreign nationals have been targeted in past incidents. As Kenya remains a popular tourist destination, especially for safaris and coastal travel, travelers must remain vigilant when visiting public areas, including airports, tourist attractions, and shopping centers.

The advisory specifically mentions the high-risk border regions with Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. Armed groups from Somalia have been known to target foreigners, including aid workers, in these areas. Travelers are also warned of the risk of kidnapping, including express kidnappings and violent crime such as carjackings, home invasions, and robberies.

Protests and demonstrations can also occur in Kenya, often escalating into violence. Travelers are advised to avoid such gatherings and to follow the advice of local authorities. The advisory stresses the importance of obtaining professional security advice if planning to travel to high-risk areas near the borders.

Brazil

Brazil continues to face challenges related to violent crime, particularly in large cities and during major events like Carnival. The Australian government advises travelers to exercise high caution, especially in areas known for drug-related violence and in the country’s notorious favelas (shanty towns). Crimes such as armed robbery, mugging, and carjacking are common, and travelers are advised to avoid isolated areas and not travel alone at night.

One rising concern in Brazil is the increase in methanol poisoning cases, which is often linked to drink spiking. Travelers are urged to remain cautious when consuming alcohol in bars or clubs, as some individuals may spike drinks with toxic substances. The advisory advises that travelers avoid drinking from unattended drinks and be cautious about the risks of methanol poisoning.

Protests and large gatherings are common in Brazil, and travelers should avoid areas affected by such events. The advisory recommends that travelers monitor local media for updates and follow the guidance of local authorities.

France

France is experiencing a high terrorism threat, with the national terrorist alert remaining at its highest level. The Australian government urges travelers to exercise high caution while visiting the country, particularly in public places like transport hubs, shopping areas, and cultural events, which are potential targets for terrorism.

The advisory notes that strikes and protests are frequent across France, and these can lead to disruptions in public services, including transport. While some protests may be peaceful, others can turn violent, so it is advisable to avoid areas with significant police presence or demonstrations. Travelers should plan their journeys carefully, as public transport may be affected by these events.

Crime remains a concern in France, especially in crowded areas like tourist attractions and public transport. Pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and theft are common, so travelers are advised to take extra care with their belongings, particularly in cities like Paris.

Mexico

Mexico is another country where the Australian government has issued a high degree of caution advisory. The country has high levels of violent crime, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and carjackings. Travelers are urged to avoid certain states like Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Sonora, Colima, and Chiapas, where crime is more prevalent. It’s important to avoid traveling at night and to use major toll roads when possible, as other routes may pose security risks.

In addition to violent crime, Mexico is also experiencing issues with drug-related violence, which remains a significant risk for travelers. Kidnapping and extortion are serious threats in some regions, and travelers are advised to take precautionary measures, such as avoiding isolated areas and not drawing attention to personal wealth or business matters.

Travelers should also be cautious about drink spiking and methanol poisoning, as these are risks associated with alcohol consumption in certain areas. The advisory highlights that all travelers should complete the Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) online to avoid issues with immigration upon arrival.

Colombia

Colombia remains a high-risk destination for travelers, particularly due to violent crime and terrorism. The Australian government has issued a high degree of caution advisory, especially in areas like Catatumbo in Norte de Santander and Cauca, where illegal armed groups and criminal organizations are active. Travelers should avoid these areas due to the high threat of violence, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and assaults.

Colombia has a yellow fever risk, and travelers may be required to present a vaccination certificate if entering certain countries after visiting Colombia. The advisory recommends checking with airlines about vaccination requirements before travel.

Travelers are also cautioned about the risks of drug-related violence and terrorist activity, especially in areas near the Venezuelan and Ecuadorian borders. The government has declared a state of emergency in the Catatumbo region due to increased violence, and travelers are advised to avoid these areas.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica, known for its biodiversity and eco-tourism, is facing an increase in violent crime, including carjackings and express kidnappings. Travelers should exercise high caution due to the rise in these incidents, particularly in tourist areas, transport hubs, and popular resorts. The advisory recommends being aware of surroundings and taking necessary security precautions.

The advisory also highlights risks related to drink spiking and methanol poisoning, which have led to deaths in Costa Rica. Travelers are advised not to leave drinks unattended and to be cautious when consuming alcohol in bars and clubs. Credit card fraud is another concern, and travelers are urged to only exchange money at banks or official locations.

Due to growing security threats, political unpredictability, and civil unrest in these areas, Uganda has joined South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, France, Mexico, and Colombia in Australia’s most recent travel advisory. Due to the increasing difficulties in these nations, visitors are advised to proceed with caution.

As Australia issues these travel advisories, it is clear that regional risks continue to shape the safety landscape for travelers. Whether it’s political unrest, violent crime, terrorism, or health risks, Australians must be prepared and stay informed when traveling to countries like Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, France, Mexico, Colombia, and Costa Rica. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, avoid high-risk areas, and adhere to local government recommendations to ensure a safe journey.