Countries with Restrictions on Drones, Satellite Phones, and Cameras: What You Need to Know

When it comes to traveling the world and capturing stunning footage and photos, there are some things you need to be aware of to avoid getting into trouble. From drones to satellite phones and cameras in the wrong places, there are certain restrictions in various countries that you need to be mindful of.

St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan, Niagara Falls, lava flows in Iceland, Morocco’s Sahara dunes, and wildlife in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater are just a few of the breathtaking locations that would make for incredible drone footage. However, countries like Morocco, Bhutan, and Egypt have strict regulations against drones, and flying one in these countries could lead to your drone being confiscated or even landing you in jail.

In fact, in 2019, two Australian bloggers found themselves in hot water in Iran when they flew a drone near a military installation. They ended up spending over 10 weeks in jail before being released in a prisoner exchange. This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of not following the rules when it comes to drone usage.

Satellite phones are another communication tool that can land you in trouble in certain countries. Due to their ability to make and receive calls from virtually anywhere on the planet, they are seen as a threat to government control over communication channels. Countries like Cuba, China, and North Korea have outright bans on satellite phones, while others like Russia, India, and Iran have restrictions in place.

When it comes to cameras, certain places are off-limits for photography. Bridges, airports, railway lines, and dams are considered strategic assets in some countries, and photographing them is strictly prohibited. Military facilities and personnel are also sensitive subjects, and taking photos of them can lead to trouble. For example, the Pentagon in the United States is a no-go zone for photography, except within designated areas like the Pentagon Memorial Grounds.

While there are restrictions on certain devices and activities, there has been a turnaround on GPS devices. Once viewed with suspicion, GPS devices are now widely accepted, especially since smartphones can provide accurate geographic coordinates. However, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of where you are using these devices to avoid any misunderstandings.

So, when you’re planning your next travel adventure, make sure to do your research on the rules and regulations regarding drones, satellite phones, cameras, and GPS devices in the countries you plan to visit. By staying informed and following the guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and trouble-free journey while still capturing the beauty of your surroundings.