Travel Alert Status
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Safety and Security
Indiscriminate violence and looting followed the March 2013 overthrow of the Government of CAR, and the new transitional government has been unable to provide security in the capital Bangui or elsewhere in CAR. In the absence of basic law and order, criminality has sharply risen. Increased gunfire in the capital has led to several casualties by stray bullets.
Spontaneous demonstrations take place in the CAR from time to time in response to world events or local developments. We remind you that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. You are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. You should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Armed rebel groups, bandits, and poachers present real dangers, and the Central African government is unable to guarantee the safety of visitors in most parts of the country.
There have been repeated attacks on Central African and expatriate travelers throughout the CAR over the last 10 years. The continued presence of the Lord’s Resistance Army in eastern CAR poses a particular safety and security threat. Bandits, militias, and armed group activity throughout the country also threaten the security of residents and travelers. Travel in the interior is strongly discouraged.
Bangui itself, in addition to ongoing insecurity, also suffers from severely limited transport and medical options. Armed actors staff checkpoints throughout the city, frequently harassing local and expatriate travelers for bribes. The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to the CAR.