The Ultimate Guide to Visiting All 193 UN Member Countries
For a select group of extreme travelers, visiting every United Nations member country—all 193 of them (or 192 excluding North Korea for some passport holders)—represents the ultimate travel achievement. This comprehensive guide outlines visa strategies, approaches for politically challenging countries, financial planning tips, community resources, and specific advice for particularly difficult nations. The information considers perspectives of both United States and European Union passport holders, highlighting key differences where relevant.
Visa Acquisition Strategies for Difficult Countries
Securing numerous visas is essential for global travelers, with some being particularly challenging to obtain. Both American and EU citizens need careful planning:
Preparation Through Research
Thorough advance research of each country's visa requirements is crucial. Some nations demand specialized documents like medical certificates, financial statements, or Letters of Invitation (LOI). For example, Turkmenistan requires a sponsor's invitation letter which takes approximately 20 days for approval. Similarly, Chad requires an invitation from a local sponsor like a hotel, with the risk of non-refundable prepayments if the visa is denied.
Multiple Application Attempts
If your visa is rejected, don't give up. Try applying through different embassies or consulates, as processing and cooperation levels can vary significantly between diplomatic missions of the same country. When one location refuses, consider reapplying through a third country's mission or utilizing specialized visa service agencies as alternate strategies.
Utilizing Guided Tours
For countries where independent travel is impossible or restricted—such as North Korea, Iran, or Bhutan—participation in package tours through government-approved travel agencies is often the only path to visa approval. North Korean tourist visas are only available through state-approved agencies, with restrictions for American and South Korean passport holders. Iran similarly restricts independent travel for Americans, British, and Canadians, requiring government-licensed guides. Bhutan requires all tourists to book through local travel agencies and pay a Sustainable Development Fee (currently $65 daily) in advance.
US vs. EU Passport Differences
Some countries apply stricter visa policies or higher fees to American citizens. For instance, Cuba does not permit U.S. citizens to enter for general tourism, requiring them to qualify under one of 11 authorized travel categories. Americans receive pink tourist cards rather than the standard green ones. Visa fees for Americans are frequently higher—often $100 compared to $20-60 for EU nationals. Russia's visa application for Americans contains twice as many questions, including comprehensive travel history for the past decade. While Saudi Arabia introduced e-visas for many nationalities in 2019, Israeli citizens remain excluded.
Americans should budget for higher costs and longer processing times, while EU travelers enjoy more visa benefits but should note that visiting certain countries (e.g., Iran, North Korea) after March 2011 may disqualify them from the US Visa Waiver Program (ESTA).
Flexible Scheduling
Visa acquisition involves unpredictable delays and variables, requiring flexible travel scheduling. When planning sequential country visits with potentially long visa wait times (like Pakistan or Sudan), consider securing visas in advance from neighboring countries or utilizing e-visas when possible to optimize your itinerary. Recently, Libya introduced an electronic visa system in 2024, allowing online tourist visa applications with approximately one-week processing time. Stay informed about such developments through traveler communities to adapt your route accordingly.
Strategies for Politically Unstable and Restricted Countries
Visiting politically unstable or restricted countries requires exceptional preparation and caution. Most regions experiencing war, civil unrest, or high terrorist threat have "Do Not Travel" advisories from various governments, making them challenging to access without extreme preparation.
Monitoring Latest Safety Information
Stay informed about current conditions and safety information for your target country through sources like your home country's foreign ministry travel alerts, US State Department advisories, or UK FCDO travel advice. Political situations can change rapidly, so continue checking news updates until departure, potentially adjusting plans if necessary. For example, Afghanistan remains effectively inaccessible for tourism purposes following the 2021 regime change, with most governments strongly advising against travel.
Local Guides and Specialized Agencies
In extremely unstable regions, accompaniment by knowledgeable local guides and security personnel is essential. Visiting Somalia's capital Mogadishu requires hiring armed security teams for protection. Similarly, parts of Iraq and Syria are only accessible using secure routes and vehicles provided by specialized travel agencies. Renowned extreme travel agencies like Untamed Borders, Young Pioneer Tours, and Lupine Travel operate small-group tours to dangerous regions including Afghanistan, Somalia, and Syria, maximizing safety. These tours provide both enhanced security and assistance with entry permits or visa invitation letters.
Travel Insurance and Emergency Preparation
Standard travel insurance typically excludes coverage for war zones or government-designated travel-restricted areas. Consider specialty insurers offering high-risk region coverage. Develop emergency response plans: share detailed itineraries with family or friends and maintain regular contact. Americans should register with the STEP program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive embassy communications during emergencies. EU passport holders should use similar registration services if available from their countries.
Managing Entry Stamps and Travel Routes
When traveling between politically opposed countries, carefully manage passport entry stamps. While fewer countries than before refuse entry based on Israeli stamps, some nations like Iran and Syria may still raise issues. Israel addresses this by offering a separate entry card instead of a passport stamp. Additionally, EU nationals who visit Syria, Iran, or North Korea will lose ESTA eligibility for future US visits, requiring traditional visa applications instead—a factor to consider when planning multi-year travel sequences.
Building Local Networks and Contacts
Having connections with local communities or individuals in conflict zones facilitates information gathering and emergency assistance. Without personal contacts, communities like Every Passport Stamp can help find travel companions or provide first-hand accounts from recent visitors. Traveling with teams formed through such communities divides costs, reduces risks, and provides current intelligence for planning.
Financial and Logistical Planning Advice
Global travel requires substantial financial resources and meticulous logistical planning. Strategic approaches can reduce costs and optimize journey efficiency.
Travel Budget Planning
Visiting all countries can cost between tens of thousands to over $100,000. Reports suggest average expenses of $500-700 per country, totaling approximately $100,000-130,000. One British traveler reported spending about $250,000 visiting every country, though noted that $100,000 is possible with strict economizing. Americans should address tax obligations and financial arrangements before departure, while EU citizens should consider suspending or adjusting home insurance, mobile plans, and other fixed costs during extended absence. Selling or renting property and vehicles before departure can reduce financial burdens.
Regional Travel Clustering
To maximize efficiency and minimize costs, group nearby countries into regional clusters for consecutive visits. This approach is particularly valuable for regions with limited and expensive transportation connections, such as Africa, Central Asia, and Pacific island nations. For example, when visiting 5-6 West African countries where flights are costly and infrequent, enter the region once and use land transportation for consecutive visits before making another intercontinental journey. This regional clustering significantly improves overall journey efficiency and economy.
Budget Airlines and Mileage Utilization
Strategic use of global air networks can substantially reduce transportation costs. Take advantage of low-cost carrier (LCC) promotions by maintaining flexible schedules. One polar traveler reported flying Copenhagen-Africa via Italy for under $8, India-Malaysia for less than $50, and Malaysia-Perth, Australia in the $50 range. These extraordinary deals can be found through airline newsletters or platforms like Secret Flying. Additionally, leverage airline miles and credit card points, particularly beneficial for American residents who can secure large point bonuses through airline-affiliated or hotel cards to cover expensive flight segments with miles. While EU residents have fewer credit card mileage benefits, they can utilize Star Alliance or SkyTeam round-the-world fares. Combine mileage or RTW tickets for long-distance segments with LCCs and buses/trains for local transportation in a hybrid transport strategy.
Accommodations and Local Transportation Savings
Long-term global travel accumulates significant accommodation and local transportation expenses. Reduce costs by using backpacker hostels, guesthouses, and local hosting platforms like Couchsurfing. Many world travelers stay with local families through Couchsurfing, experiencing cultures while reducing expenses. Since acceptance may take time, contact multiple potential hosts and maintain flexible scheduling. For longer stays, consider Airbnb monthly rental discounts. Prioritize public transportation and use long-distance buses or trains for border crossings as cheaper alternatives to flights. In Europe and parts of Southeast Asia, unlimited rail passes or regional bus passes can reduce transportation costs. Always carry sufficient cash, as developing countries often have limited card acceptance and ATM availability. Unexpected expenses, including occasional bribes or passage fees, may arise. US dollars are widely accepted globally, so carry clean bills (preferably issued after 2006) in various denominations.
Flexible Scheduling and Contingency Planning
Global travel involves frequent unexpected situations, requiring schedule flexibility. Allow for delays when flights or buses are canceled or borders suddenly close. Maintain time buffers and alternative plans. Rather than booking all transportation between countries in advance, establish general movement patterns and purchase specific transfers locally based on current conditions. Unpredictable delays are common in developing countries, making adaptability essential. While maintaining a master itinerary is necessary to track progress toward the 193-country goal, be prepared to change sequence or adjust pace as circumstances require.
Leveraging Traveler Communities and Information Sharing
Information sharing with fellow extreme travelers is crucial for successfully visiting all countries. The internet and social media now enable various communities to exchange latest travel tips and support.
Every Passport Stamp (EPS)
This premier online community for travelers targeting all countries began as a private Facebook group in 2016. The group carefully screens members and prohibits spam, facilitating free exchange of information spanning visa application documents, remote transportation routes, and local guide recommendations. Members share logistics planning and cost-saving ideas, occasionally forming small teams for visiting challenging countries. Specific discussions like "crossing Senegal-Gambia borders" or "West African visa agency recommendations" provide current information difficult to find independently. The diverse membership includes travelers of various nationalities offering multifaceted advice, with many serving as local correspondents providing real-time updates.
NomadMania and Travel Ranking Sites
NomadMania offers a platform dividing the world into 1,300+ regions and sharing travelers' visit status as rankings. Its membership has grown rapidly to approximately 10,000 worldwide community members who participate in forums and social events. Other organizations include Travelers' Century Club (TCC) and Most Traveled People (MTP), where travelers having visited 100+ countries exchange information and socialize. While these official clubs emphasize gatherings, online communities like EPS excel in practical tip sharing.
Regional and Topic-Specific Online Forums
Utilize communities specialized in specific regions or topics. Examples include Africa Travelers Forum, Central Asia Travelers Group on Facebook or Reddit, and threads focusing on dangerous region travel information in Reddit r/Travel or TripAdvisor Forums. Previously, Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree forum served this purpose, but its closure has been filled by numerous smaller social media groups. While Korean speakers might find information in Naver Cafes or Korean overseas travel communities, specialized groups targeting all 193 countries are primarily found in English-language communities like EPS, making English-language information collection advantageous.
Records and Media from Experienced Travelers
Blogs, books, and YouTube channels from travelers who have achieved the 193-country milestone provide valuable information. Figures like Americans Lee Abbamonte and Cassie De Pecol, Norway's Gunnar Garfors, and Denmark's Henrik Jeppesen have documented their visa challenges, border crossing experiences, and financial management tips. Learning from these pioneers reduces trial and error. Media interviews with extreme travelers in global publications (WSJ, CNBC, etc.) offer insights into motivations and practical advice.
Country-Specific Tips for Particularly Challenging Destinations
Finally, here is current information and advice for several countries that are especially difficult or dangerous to visit.
Syria
Syria largely halted tourism following its 2011 civil war, but has partially resumed tourist visa issuance since 2023. 🇺🇸 For Americans, tourist visa applications became possible in March 2023 through local travel agencies or official websites. According to Syria-specialized travel agencies, Americans undergo 3-4 week background checks for pre-approval before receiving visas at borders or airports, with no charges for rejections. 🇪🇺 EU nationals (e.g., British, German) can also visit government-controlled areas, primarily through guided tours with local agencies. Security-wise, significant dangers persist, requiring itineraries limited to relatively stable areas like Damascus and surrounding historical sites, always accompanied by local guides. The Syrian government does not permit foreign tourists' independent movement, controlling all visitor routes. The US has no embassy in Syria (the Czech embassy provides protection services), requiring American travelers to prepare thorough emergency contact plans. Entry may be problematic with Israeli visit records, so manage passport stamps accordingly.
Libya
Libya's extreme instability following its 2011 civil war long prevented general visitation. Divided between western Tripoli and eastern Benghazi governments, Libya has gradually stabilized since the 2020 ceasefire and introduced a tourist e-visa system in 2024. 🇺🇸🇪🇺 Both American and EU passport holders can apply through the new electronic visa platform (evisa.gov.ly), receiving responses within approximately one week. Visa fees are roughly $60. Despite this progress, travel remains restricted. Libya officially prohibits independent travel, requiring approved agency guides to meet e-visa entrants at airports for identity registration. Travel is essentially only possible through local tour participation. Accessible regions primarily include western Libya (Tripoli and ancient Tripolitania region), with eastern Benghazi reopened in 2024 but subject to change. While targeted kidnapping risks have decreased, armed conflict dangers persist. Prepare with special travel insurance (standard policies exclude Libya), dollar cash reserves, and satellite phones for emergencies. With limited official US-Libya diplomatic relations, Americans should prepare for self-evacuation possibilities.
Yemen
Mainland Yemen remains effectively inaccessible to general travelers due to ongoing civil war. Northern Yemen (including capital Sana'a) is controlled by rebel forces, while the southern portion is only partially controlled by the internationally-recognized government. Consequently, most world travelers substitute visits to Socotra Island for mainland Yemen. This isolated Arabian Sea island remains relatively peaceful with developing ecotourism under UAE support. 🇺🇸🇪🇺 Both American and EU nationals can visit Socotra, typically arriving via charter flights from Abu Dhabi or Dubai, UAE. Visa-wise, Socotra requires a Yemen tourist visa arranged by approved travel agencies. The process is relatively simple—submit passport scan copies for visa approval within 2-3 weeks with approximately $100 fees. These visas are valid only for Socotra Island, not mainland Yemen. Realistically, mainland travel is limited to a few stable areas like capital Aden, attempted by very few adventurers with local armed escorts—not recommended for general travelers. Therefore, Yemen visits typically mean Socotra tours, with 1-2 week package costs reaching several thousand dollars including flights. Caution: The US State Department maintains Level 4 (Do Not Travel) advisory for all Yemen, stating citizen protection is impossible. American travelers should exercise extreme caution even when visiting Socotra. EU countries have withdrawn embassies, limiting emergency support to indirect assistance through diplomatic missions in neighboring countries (e.g., Oman).
North Korea
North Korea ranks among the world's most challenging destinations. Following COVID-19, it completely closed borders in 2020, suspending all tourism, and remains closed to foreign tourists as of 2025. Even when reopened, procedures will remain extremely strict. North Korean travel is only possible through government-approved agencies, with visitors limited to controlled routes under guide supervision. Special considerations for Americans: Since September 2017, the US government has invalidated US passports for North Korean travel. US passports are not valid for North Korean travel without special authorization, and violations may result in passport invalidation or legal consequences. The US State Department issues special one-year passports for exceptional humanitarian or journalism purposes only, not for general travel. American extreme travelers must essentially exclude North Korea from their official visit lists, though some circumvent regulations by acquiring expensive third-country citizenship. 🇪🇺 Other nationals including EU citizens may enter through group tourism via Beijing when North Korea reopens, but with limited travel freedom. Free conversation with locals or independent wandering is prohibited, with photography restrictions. Visitors must strictly follow travel agency regulations, avoid political statements, and be exceptionally careful about local law compliance. South Korean passport holders are legally prohibited from North Korean visits (requiring government approval in principle), making it practically impossible. Many extreme travelers now target 192 countries excluding North Korea, with some substituting brief entry through Panmunjom (JSA) tours—though this is debated as a legitimate visit. Others simply wait for potential future reopening.
This guide compiles information from current English-language sources and extreme traveler community insights. The 193-country challenge requires unprecedented patience and preparation, but remains achievable with thorough strategy and community support. Above all, maintain balance between safety and passion throughout your journey, and may the advice of previous travelers serve as a valuable guide.