Every minute, hundreds of hours of video are uploaded to YouTube, making it a fiercely competitive space. Travel channels, while popular, need to stand out. Some travel YouTubers are now venturing into dangerous territories to capture viewers’ attention.
From crime-ridden neighborhoods to conflict zones, here are ten crazy places that only a brave (or perhaps reckless) person would visit—or someone who prioritizes views above all else.
Chechnya, Russia—Bald and Bankrupt
Benjamin Rich, known as Bald and Bankrupt, is a British adventurer familiar with risky travels, including videos in the Sahara, Sinaloa, and Ukraine. But he is particularly drawn to the former Soviet Union. His travels in Belarus and Ukraine have resonated well with his audience of three million subscribers. His visits to more dangerous regions of Russia, such as Dagestan and Chechnya, highlight his fearless approach to travel.
In Chechnya, a place many travelers avoid, Bald and Bankrupt cheerfully explores the region. He wanders along roads, interacts with locals, and discovers the beauty of the land. Even encounters at Russian military checkpoints are treated as minor adventures.
Instead of portraying Chechnya as a scary place, he reveals a land of beauty and welcoming people. Ruslan, his taxi driver, even jokes about the increased pay for every adventure they encounter.
Lima, Peru—Kurt Caz
Kurt Caz, known for exploring dangerous neighborhoods, finds himself in a vulnerable situation in the Rímac ghetto of northern Lima. He walks through deserted streets, where locals warn him of potential robbery or worse.
The danger becomes apparent when a tuk-tuk driver acts suspiciously, making hushed phone calls. Kurt’s instincts tell him to leave quickly after a worrying encounter on a barren hillside.
Cameroon—PPPeter
Upon arriving in Tiko, Cameroon, via a cargo ship from Nigeria, local police insist that PPPeter should go to Nigeria, as they view it as a safer place. But Peter decides to stay, despite knowing about a recent “mass shooting” nearby.
His stay involves three days on a ship in the port, followed by a midnight escape towards the French-speaking region of Cameroon, organized by the Czech embassy. Despite his experience with food poisoning and malaria, Peter admits this was the most frightened he’s ever been.
Afghanistan—Indigo Traveler
After decades of war, Afghanistan is not a typical tourist destination. Indigo Traveler’s 2019 video shows the daily struggles of Afghan people in Mazar, while avoiding exploitation.
Through interviews with market sellers, he presents a human side often unseen in news coverage. A visit to a UNICEF nutrition clinic highlights the crucial work being done. Indigo Traveler commendably reduces his screen time to give more voice to those he interviews.
San Salvador, El Salvador—Alex Outhwaite
El Salvador, with one of the highest murder rates globally, sees few tourists. It struggles with violent crime, political corruption and street gangs.
Yet, Alex Outhwaite’s video shows a different side. Her itinerary includes a market, a microbrewery, and even an Irish pub with a Nirvana tribute band. She paints a positive picture of a country often associated with negative news.
Chernobyl, Ukraine—Shiey
Many YouTube videos cover Chernobyl, especially after the HBO series. Shiey’s videos stand out because he explores the exclusion zone without permission. After trekking through abandoned villages and rivers, he shows viewers what most tourists never see.
Avoiding security patrols, Shiey and his friends explore dilapidated buildings and sleep in an empty apartment. The most unsettling moment is when Shiey climbs the massive, Soviet-era Duga radar installation. Despite ethical questions, the video is compelling.
Mogadishu, Somalia—Drew Binsky
Somalia is often portrayed as war-torn or as a land of pirates. Drew Binsky presents a different, more vibrant picture.
His video shows contrasts: rundown buildings next to ice-cream parlors, armed militias near beaches, and modern hotels protected from attacks. While not entirely safe, Mogadishu has bustling markets and cheerful residents, offering a surprising view.
Detroit, Michigan, USA—Charlie Bo
The deprived areas of Detroit are notorious for gang crime and poverty, making them an unusual setting for a travel video.
Charlie Bo explores these areas, showing viewers a place they might otherwise avoid. Though lacking a personal touch due to recording from a car, the video provides a look into a dangerous part of America.
The Door to Hell, Turkmenistan—Fearless & Far
The Darvaza gas crater, a perpetually burning fire pit, is a top attraction in Turkmenistan. This mysterious country, ruled by an authoritarian leader, is hard to enter, especially for journalists.
Mike Corey from Fearless & Far uses his travel permit to show Turkmenistan, including its marble capital. But it’s the video of him roasting marshmallows over the crater that truly captivates.
Syria—Jacob Laukaitis
Syria is typically seen as a place to escape, but Jacob Laukaitis explores the country to reveal realities often missed. Jacob includes details of the Syrian civil war, local conversations, and beautiful landscapes.
From modern life in Damascus to the devastation in Aleppo, the video shows both the hope and horror experienced by residents. This comprehensive piece of journalism paints a warm picture of the Syrian people, contrasting negative press coverage.
These YouTubers showcase that travel knows no bounds. They risk safety to delve into cultures worldwide, providing viewers unique perspectives.
Have you been to any of these countries? Share your experiences in the comments below!
