In recent years, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has radically transformed various sectors, including travel. While AI travel applications promise convenience and tailored recommendations, they also pose significant risks, particularly when it comes to directing tourists to nonexistent landmarks or hazardous locations. A growing body of evidence suggests that relying on AI for trip planning, without verification, can lead travelers into perilous situations, highlighting the urgent need for caution and awareness.
The Emergence of AI in Travel Planning
AI travel tools have gained popularity, with about 24% of tourists relying on these technologies for their trip planning, as reported in a 2025 survey by Global Rescue. Many travelers find these AI applications appealing for their ability to generate quick and personalized itineraries. However, the downside becomes evident when these tools produce fabricated or incorrectly interpreted information—often referred to as “hallucinations.”
Disturbing Incidents Highlighting the Risks
Recent incidents underscore the dangers of AI-generated misinformation. For example, tourists in Peru sought a nonexistent site, the "Sacred Canyon of Humantay," and ended up in a precarious situation thanks to misleading AI recommendations. Local guide Miguel Angel Gongora Meza expressed concern, emphasizing the potential life-threatening consequences of such misinformation: “The elevation, the climatic changes, and accessibility [of the paths] have to be planned. Using a program [like ChatGPT] which combines pictures and names to create a fantasy can leave you in an altitude of 4,000m without oxygen.”
Another instance involved a couple stranded on a Japanese mountain due to incorrect timing information provided by an AI tool. Similar to the early days of GPS navigation, when small towns experienced sudden surges of traffic from motorists seeking shortcuts, the rise of AI-generated travel planning amplifies an already complex landscape of information overflow.
Underlying Challenges and Consequences
The challenges extend beyond mere miscommunication. AI systems lack authenticity checks and real-world contextual understanding. When AI "hallucinates," it can lead users astray, raising critical questions about reliability and accountability in travel. The ease of generating content also incentivizes tourists to forgo rigorous research, relying instead on fast, AI-driven answers that may be misleading.
Moreover, the travel sector faces another layer of vulnerability: scams. Fraudsters are increasingly leveraging AI technologies, using deceptive methods such as bots and deepfakes to hijack tourists’ experiences and finances. Harding Bush from Global Rescue warns that AI proliferation represents a looming threat in the travel industry, where scams can lead to severe financial and emotional distress for unsuspecting travelers.
A Call for Caution and Verification
Given these significant risks, it is paramount for travelers to exercise caution when using AI for trip planning. Here are several recommendations to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience:
Double-Check Recommendations: Always verify landmarks and travel routes suggested by AI tools. Use trusted travel websites and apps, or consult with local guides or travel experts.
Research Local Conditions: Before embarking on a trip, familiarize yourself with the geographical and climatic conditions of your destination. Always seek out reliable sources that provide updated information on accessibility, safety, and travel advisories.
Avoid Sole Dependence on AI: While AI can provide helpful insights, it should not be the sole resource for planning a trip. Combining AI recommendations with traditional research methods can lead to a more rounded understanding.
Be Wary of Scams: Remain vigilant of websites and applications that seem suspicious or offer deals that seem too good to be true. Always verify the credibility of booking platforms and agencies.
- Stay Informed about AI Developments: As AI technology evolves, so will the tactics used by scammers. Educating oneself about the potential pitfalls and developments in AI can empower travelers to make informed decisions and safeguard their experiences.
Conclusion
AI’s growing role in shaping travel experiences provides undeniable convenience but also invites significant risks. The alarming cases of tourists directed to non-existent landmarks and dangerous zones highlight the need for caution in the adoption of these technologies. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, travelers must remain proactive and informed, verifying all information sourced through AI tools. With the right approach, it is possible to embrace the advantages of AI while mitigating its risks, creating richer and more secure travel experiences.
