Côte dIvoire travel advisory 2026 : Northern border now off - limits

masslive.com · Feb 19, 2026 · Collected from GDELT

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NewsPublished: Feb. 19, 2026, 12:18 p.m.The U.S. just issued a new travel alert for a popular destination, warning tourists of terror and kidnapping risks. Sebastian RestrepoThe U.S. Department of State has released an updated travel advisory for a popular African destination. The advisory has continued to list Côte d’Ivoire as a Level 2 advisory, meaning that travelers should “Exercise Increased Caution” if they wish to visit.However, on Feb. 18, the department updated its advisory to state that people should “not travel to the northern border region of Côte d’Ivoire for any reason.”This is because of concerns over the country’s crime, terrorism, unrest, health and piracy issues, according to the advisory. CrimeViolent crime, including carjacking, robbery and home invasion, is common in some areas within Côte d’Ivoire. Local police often lack the resources to respond to serious crimes. The department advises tourists to stay aware of their surroundings in urban areas and crowded markets.TerrorismThe Department of State also warns of a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity. The main terrorist threat to Côte d’Ivoire is from a group called Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), which is linked to al-Qa’ida and mostly operates in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali.In the past, JNIM has crossed the border from Burkina Faso to conduct attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire. Attacks have occurred in the Savanes and Zanzan Districts, including Comoé National Park. These attacks have targeted security forces and sometimes civilians.Terrorist attacks may occur without warning in the following locations:Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the countryNight clubsSchoolsHotelsRestaurantsPlaces of worshipInternational diplomatic missionsLocal security forces and civiliansIn an effort to protect the region, the government has established a Counterterrorism Operational Intelligence Center (CROAT) and an International Counterterrorism Academy (AILCT). The department said no recent known incidents of violent extremism have occurred in the region. However, risks remain along the northern border and in the northeast corner of Côte d’Ivoire.UnrestTravelers are also told to avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies and large crowds. This is because the events can become violent if demonstrators and security forces suddenly clash. Police could use tear gas or other force to break up crowds. HealthThe Department of State said that health facilities are available in major cities; however, medical services for routine and emergency procedures may be limited. Health infrastructure in rural areas of Côte d’Ivoire is also considered less adequate. Additionally, health services, including routine and emergency procedures, are often unavailable or do not meet U.S. standards of care. Hospitals and doctors may also require payment up front prior to service or admission, the advisory states. Tourists should also know that there are often shortages of medicine, medical supplies and basic resources in public and private health facilities. The department added that pharmacies are not well-regulated and that locally available medications may be unsafe. PiracyShips at sea near Côte d’Ivoire are at risk of major threats from piracy, armed robbery and kidnapping for ransom, the advisory warns. U.S. citizens on vessels in the Gulf of Guinea off West Africa should stay alert. How to prepare for your tripTravelers who wish to visit Côte d’Ivoire are told to take the following precautions: Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on the U.S. Give your itinerary to a family member or friendDevelop a communication plan with family, your employer or host organizationCarry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotelDo not show off wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry Do not physically resist any robbery attemptMonitor local media for breaking newsKeep your travel documents up to date and easily accessibleU.S. travelers going to Côte d’Ivoire can also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. embassy.Why Holyoke’s last Cold War air‑raid siren is now silentWinter Olympics recap: US beats Canada in OT for women’s hockey gold medal, Stolz stunned in 1,500Red Sox’ Wilyer Abreu on doing interviews in English: ‘It took me time ... it means a lot’1 hospitalized after shooting in Braintree prompts large police responseFenway Insider: What to expect as spring training games beginLiesel Nygard is a regular MassLive contributor focusing on local and national trending news.