Unexpectedly Difficult Countries to Visit in 2025

6. Algeria: The Near-Impossibility of a Tourist Visa

Algeria is a vast, culturally rich country, but securing a tourist visa is notoriously difficult for most foreign nationals. The process is opaque, requiring a letter of invitation from a local contact, a detailed itinerary, and a hotel booking confirmation. Even with all documents in order, visa applications are frequently denied without explanation. The difficulty lies in a deliberate policy of limited tourism, making it one of the most challenging countries to visit for independent travelers seeking to explore its stunning Sahara landscapes and ancient Roman ruins.