Reconsider travel to Madagascar due to crime and unrest.
Advisory Summary
Unrest
Protests occur throughout the country, and they can turn violent without warning. Protesters have also engaged in rioting, looting, vandalism and destruction of property. Police responses to protests and large gatherings can quickly become violent.
U.S. citizens should stay in place and avoid areas with protests or demonstrations. Sporadic protests may develop quickly, especially after dark.
- Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
Crime
Violent crime occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark. This includes armed robbery and assault. It can happen in remote areas, and along major national roads in the country’s south and west.
Violent confrontations are on the rise in Madagascar. The Dahalo, criminal gangs known for stealing cattle, are clashing more with security forces. This is happening mainly in areas south and west of the capital.
- Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
If you decide to travel to Madagascar:
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
- Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
- Do not travel on the roads between cities after dark.
- Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Thefts of items from vehicles is common and may involve ruses or distraction, particularly when stuck in traffic.
- Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
- Review the Country Security Report for Madagascar.
- Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Madagascar.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Exercise increased caution
in Sierra Leone due to crime, unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure.
Crime
- Violent crimes, such as robbery and assault, occur frequently in Sierra Leone, especially in Freetown. Police struggle to respond to serious crime in most places due to limited resources.
- Do not travel outside the Freetown peninsula after nightfall. There are increased safety hazards and security concerns at night. U.S. government employees in Sierra Leone are prohibited from travel outside the capital after dark. The U.S. Embassy in Freetown cannot offer emergency services outside Freetown at night.
- Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
Unrest
- Demonstrations and protests occur in Sierra Leone and occasionally result in violence. Protests can happen with little to no warning. They often develop around political issues, large events, or holidays.
Health
- Sierra Leone’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health facilities, services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.
- Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Be sure to bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip. Review our information on Travel Insurance.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to North Macedonia.
If you decide to travel to North Macedonia:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for North Macedonia.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler's Checklist.
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.
Exercise normal precautions in Slovakia.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Slovakia.
If you decide to travel to Slovakia:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Slovakia.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.