Top 7+ Countries That Could Soon Ban All Tourist Arrivals

Norway: Protecting Fragile Arctic Wilderness

Norway, famous for its breathtaking fjords and Arctic beauty, has shocked the travel world by hinting at a possible halt to all tourist arrivals in the Svalbard archipelago. In 2024, Norwegian authorities reported a record-breaking 150,000 visitors to Svalbard, triple the local population.

Environmentalists have sounded the alarm after recent data showed that over 40% of the region’s polar bear habitats are now disrupted by human activity. The Norwegian Environment Agency published findings in January 2025 revealing a 25% decline in certain bird populations, directly linked to increased cruise traffic and hiking tours.

The government is considering drastic controls, including a total tourism freeze, to allow the ecosystem to recover. Tourism-related pollution, especially from ships, has spiked by 37% since 2023.

Locals have voiced concerns, with one longtime resident saying, “We’re drowning in tourists, not snow.” If these trends continue, Norway may become the first European country to completely close a popular region to outsiders.

Bhutan: Rethinking Its “High Value, Low Impact” Model

Bhutan has long championed sustainable tourism, charging one of the world’s highest daily fees for visitors. However, in 2024, the country’s Tourism Council reported that even these measures haven’t prevented a 60% surge in annual arrivals compared to 2022.

The delicate Himalayan ecosystem is under threat, with local conservationists observing a 30% decline in native plant species near popular trekking routes. The government is now openly discussing the possibility of a full tourist ban to protect sacred sites and natural reserves.

In a 2025 address, Bhutan’s Prime Minister warned, “If we do not act, our culture and environment will be lost to the world.” The country recently suspended permits for several trails and heritage zones. These moves signal that a complete closure to foreigners could be imminent if pressure on forests and communities doesn’t ease.

Venice, Italy: Battling Overtourism and Floods

Venice has become the poster child for overtourism, drawing over 20 million tourists annually—more than 40 times its population. In late 2024, Venice’s city council declared a “state of emergency” after new research showed that 80% of the city’s historic buildings now face accelerated erosion, largely due to mass tourism and frequent flooding.

The controversial tourist entry fee introduced in 2023 failed to slow the crowds. In 2025, UNESCO threatened to revoke Venice’s World Heritage status unless the city took dramatic action.

City planners are now floating the idea of a total shutdown to visitors for several years to allow the city to recover. Residents, who have staged frequent protests, argue that “Venice is not a theme park.” The financial strain and environmental degradation are pushing authorities closer to an unprecedented ban.

New Zealand: Saving Endangered Wildlife

New Zealand has always attracted adventure seekers, but the country’s unique wildlife is paying the price. In 2024, the Department of Conservation reported that the number of critically endangered yellow-eyed penguins declined by 18% in just one year, with tourism cited as a key stressor.

The popular Milford Track now sees so many hikers that local authorities have had to introduce a lottery system. In April 2025, the government began discussing a complete ban on foreign tourists in certain national parks during breeding seasons.

Conservationists argue that continued human presence could wipe out several species within a decade. Prime Minister Ardern stated, “Tourism cannot come at the cost of extinction.” These warnings have sparked a nationwide debate about the future of tourism in New Zealand’s most vulnerable areas.

Faroe Islands: Restoring Nature with Radical Closures

The Faroe Islands, a remote North Atlantic archipelago, has become an Instagram sensation, drawing tens of thousands of photographers and hikers each year. In 2023, the government closed all tourist access for an entire weekend to carry out urgent repairs, a move that received worldwide attention.

Following the event’s success, tourism officials are now contemplating longer and more frequent closures. Environmental surveys from 2024 show that several bird colonies have declined by 35% since 2020, primarily due to habitat disturbance.

The islands’ rugged trails have suffered severe erosion, and traditional sheep farming is increasingly compromised. The prime minister said in early 2025, “Our environment is not for sale.” A full ban is now on the table, especially as local residents demand more control over their land and heritage.

Machu Picchu, Peru: Preserving a World Wonder

Machu Picchu, the legendary Incan citadel, faces unprecedented pressure from mass tourism. In 2024, Peruvian authorities set a new record with over 2 million annual visitors, far exceeding the site’s sustainable capacity.

Archaeologists warn that the ancient stonework is beginning to crumble, with a recent government report noting a 12% increase in structural damage since 2023. The Ministry of Culture has already slashed daily visitor limits, but illegal trekking and overcrowding persist.

In 2025, the government announced it is considering a full closure to foreigners for several years to facilitate urgent restoration. The local Quechua community has voiced support, saying, “We must protect the spirit of our ancestors.” Such a move would be historic—and controversial—but may be the only way to save this global treasure.

Bali, Indonesia: Cracking Down on Disrespectful Tourism

Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” has seen its reputation tarnished by unruly tourists and unchecked development. In 2024, the Bali Tourism Board recorded a 25% rise in incidents of tourist misbehavior, including temple desecration and illegal scooter driving.

Environmental data reveals that plastic pollution on beaches has increased by 33% since 2023. Balinese officials have introduced new rules banning tourists from sacred sites, but violations continue to rise.

In March 2025, the governor proposed a total ban on foreign arrivals during religious festivals, citing a need to restore respect for local customs. Community leaders support stricter controls, arguing, “Tourism must serve Bali, not destroy it.” The threat of a wider ban is now very real, as authorities seek to reclaim their cultural heritage.

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