Published on
November 21, 2025
Canada has issued new travel advisories for several nations, including Peru, France, Italy, Mexico, Belgium, and Chile, due to growing regional instability and concerns about global safety. These countries are now on the list of places where visitors are urged to proceed with extreme caution. The advisories coincide with growing risks for foreign travellers, including terrorism, organised crime, political unrest, and civil unrest. While France, Italy, Belgium, and Chile deal with risks like terrorism, civil unrest, and small-time crime in major cities, Peru, in particular, faces persistent political unrest and safety issues in a number of regions.
Canada has issued updated travel advisories for several countries due to rising global safety concerns and regional instability. Among these nations are Peru, France, Italy, Mexico, Belgium, and Chile, each facing distinct risks that travelers need to be aware of. These updates reflect the evolving security landscape, with increasing concerns over crime, political unrest, and terrorism, which may impact international travel. In this article, we break down the travel advisories for each of these countries, highlighting specific regions, safety concerns, and the key measures travelers should consider.
Peru: Rising Concerns Amid State of Emergency and Regional Risks
Peru has been added to Canada’s list of high-risk destinations, urging travelers to exercise a high degree of caution. The country faces various challenges, including political instability, ongoing protests, and strikes, as well as heightened safety risks in several regions. The state of emergency declared in provinces like Lima and Callao has amplified the need for travelers to be vigilant.
Specific regions in Peru, such as the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), have been flagged as particularly dangerous. The area is notorious for terrorism, drug trafficking, and limited law enforcement presence, making it one of the most hazardous in the country. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid all travel to the VRAEM and surrounding areas.
In addition, the Upper Huallaga River Valley and the border areas with Colombia and Ecuador have been identified as regions where criminal activity, such as drug trafficking and organized crime, poses a serious risk to personal security. Travelers should also avoid non-essential travel to these areas.
Overall, Peru continues to be a destination with diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, but travelers should remain informed about the potential risks and stay updated on local conditions.
France: Heightened Security Amid Terrorism Threats
In France, the threat of terrorism continues to be a significant concern, leading Canada to issue a travel advisory urging travelers to exercise a high degree of caution. France has been a target of multiple terrorist attacks in recent years, and the threat remains elevated.
The Vigipirate plan, a national security measure, has been implemented to ensure rapid response in the event of an attack. The French government maintains a three-level public alert system, with the current level set at “urgence attentat” (attack emergency), signaling the potential for further attacks.
In addition to terrorism, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is widespread in major cities, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Paris, Lyon, and Nice. Travelers should be vigilant in crowded areas, such as metro stations, train stations, and popular landmarks, to avoid falling victim to these crimes.
In public spaces, including places of worship, cultural venues, and airports, the presence of military patrols is common as part of France’s enhanced security measures. While the risk of terrorism cannot be ruled out, travelers are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and follow official guidelines.
Italy: Risk of Terrorism and Increased Vigilance for Major Events
Italy, like many European countries, is facing the ongoing threat of terrorism. The Milan Cortina Olympic Winter Games 2026 will take place in northern Italy, heightening security concerns during the event. As the games draw near, travelers should expect increased police presence and traffic disruptions due to high demand and major crowds.
In addition to terrorism, petty crime remains an issue in Italy, especially in tourist areas. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and vehicle theft are common in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Thieves often target tourists using distraction techniques, including spilling drinks or engaging in lengthy conversations. Travelers should keep their personal belongings secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items in public spaces.
Mexico: Violent Crime and Regional Instability in High-Risk Areas
Mexico remains a high-risk destination for travelers due to the prevalence of violent crime and kidnapping. The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory urging travelers to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid non-essential travel to several states in Mexico.
Regions like Sinaloa, Chihuahua, Colima, and Guerrero are experiencing heightened levels of violence due to the ongoing cartel wars and organized crime. While major tourist destinations such as Cancún and Los Cabos have taken measures to increase security, violent clashes between criminal gangs still occur in areas outside tourist zones.
Travelers should avoid traveling at night, particularly in border areas, where shootouts, illegal roadblocks, and armed robberies are frequent. Mexico’s border with the United States and Guatemala has seen significant tension, with armed groups and law enforcement often clashing.
In urban centers, demonstrations are common, particularly in Mexico City, where protests over political and social issues may turn violent, leading to roadblocks and disruptions to public transportation. Travelers should avoid participating in protests and monitor local media for updates on any potential disturbances.
Belgium: Terrorism and Increased Security in Major Cities
Belgium, another European nation with heightened security concerns, is currently under a travel advisory urging visitors to exercise a high degree of caution. The country faces an ongoing threat of terrorism, as evidenced by several attacks in recent years, particularly in Brussels.
The public alert system in Belgium has been set to level 3, indicating an increased threat of terrorism. Military patrols are visible in key areas, including transport hubs and tourist destinations. Visitors to Brussels and Antwerp should be prepared for potential disruptions due to security measures and increased vigilance from law enforcement.
In addition to terrorism, petty crime, including pickpocketing and ATM fraud, is common in major cities. Distraction thefts often occur in crowded areas such as train stations, shopping districts, and public transportation. Travelers should keep their personal belongings secure and be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs, especially after dark.
Chile: Protests and Civil Unrest Amid Growing Crime
Chile, while known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is currently facing significant civil unrest, which has led Canada to issue a travel advisory for travelers to exercise a high degree of caution.
Protests and strikes are a regular occurrence in major cities like Santiago and Valparaíso, with political demonstrations often escalating into violent clashes. While most protests are related to political and economic issues, the potential for violence and roadblocks means travelers should avoid participating in demonstrations and remain cautious in busy urban centers.
In addition to civil unrest, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft from vehicles, is prevalent in tourist-heavy areas. Thieves often target travelers in crowded spots, including shopping malls, bus stations, and restaurants. Distraction thefts are a common tactic, where thieves work in pairs or groups to divert attention before stealing from victims.
Chile also faces challenges with violent crime, including armed assaults and carjackings, especially in areas such as Cerro Alegre in Valparaíso and the Cerro San Cristóbal park in Santiago. Travelers should be extra cautious after dark and avoid poorly lit areas.
Other Countries: Ongoing Challenges and Cautionary Measures
In addition to the countries discussed above, Canada has issued travel advisories for other global destinations facing ongoing challenges related to political instability, crime, and regional conflicts. Travelers heading to destinations with high levels of social unrest, demonstrations, or natural disasters are encouraged to stay informed and follow local authorities’ advice.
Canada’s advisory system continues to evolve as global security dynamics shift. As such, travelers should stay updated on travel advisories and remain flexible with their plans in case of sudden changes to the safety landscape. It is also advisable to monitor local media for updates and follow official recommendations to avoid high-risk areas.
Traveling to countries with ongoing security concerns requires careful planning, vigilance, and flexibility. Canada’s updated travel advisories for Peru, France, Italy, Mexico, Belgium, Chile, and other nations emphasize the need for travelers to be aware of their surroundings, follow local guidance, and avoid high-risk areas. By staying informed about the latest developments and adjusting plans accordingly, travelers can better navigate potential risks and enjoy their trips with greater peace of mind.
Canada has issued new travel advisories for Peru, France, Italy, Mexico, Belgium, Chile, and other nations, highlighting risks like political unrest, terrorism, and organised crime, in response to growing concerns about regional instability and global safety. These updates highlight the growing risks that travellers encounter globally and advise those who intend to visit these areas to exercise extra caution.
Whether it’s political unrest, criminal activity, or terrorism threats, the situation in each country requires a tailored approach. As safety remains a top priority, travelers should take proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure they are prepared for any challenges that may arise during their travels.
