For most travellers, tourism is built around freedom, choosing where to go, how long to stay, and what to explore. In many parts of the world, independent travel is taken for granted. However, a small number of countries operate very differently. In these destinations, tourism is tightly regulated by the state, visas are closely controlled, and visitors are often required to follow pre-approved itineraries, travel with authorised guides, or avoid entire regions altogether.
While travel to these countries is not impossible, it comes with limitations that can feel unusual, and sometimes challenging, for international visitors. Here are five countries where tourist travel is extremely restricted, and why.
North Korea
North Korea remains the most tightly controlled tourist destination in the world. All foreign tourists must travel on state-organised tours operated by approved agencies. Visitors are accompanied by official government guides at all times, and itineraries are fixed in advance. Independent movement, unplanned interactions, or deviation from the schedule is strictly prohibited. Photography is heavily regulated, especially around military sites, construction areas, or anything perceived as politically sensitive. Interaction with local citizens is limited and supervised.
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan allows foreign tourists but under strict administrative control. Most visitors require a government-approved guide and must submit a detailed travel itinerary in advance. Independent backpacking, spontaneous travel, or freely moving between cities is extremely difficult. Photography of government buildings, police, and infrastructure is prohibited, sometimes without clear signage. Regulations can change with little notice, making travel dependent on official guidance throughout the visit.
Eritrea
Tourism in Eritrea is limited and closely monitored. While Asmara is accessible to visitors, special travel permits are typically required to move beyond the capital. These permits must be arranged in advance and approved by authorities. Photography restrictions are common, especially around government buildings, ports, and security installations. Transport infrastructure outside Asmara is limited, and accommodation options are few.
Bhutan
Bhutan represents a different kind of restriction. Rather than political control, the country follows a high-value, low-volume tourism policy designed to protect its environment and cultural heritage. Most international tourists must book their trip through licensed Bhutanese tour operators, and pay a mandatory daily Sustainable Development Fee. Even though travellers can now move independently with a guide, most nationalities must still book their trip through a licensed operator for visa approval, with India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives exempt from this requirement.
Saudi Arabia (Restricted zones)
Saudi Arabia has opened up to international tourism in recent years, but significant restrictions remain. It’s true when it comes to Mecca. Access to the holy city of Mecca, and certain parts of Medina, is strictly limited to Muslims, with enforcement at entry points. Beyond religious restrictions, some border regions and sensitive areas require special permits. Photography of government facilities, military sites, and security infrastructure is restricted. Social behaviour and dress codes are more closely regulated than in most tourist destinations, and visitors are expected to respect local laws and customs at all times.
