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Is Somalia Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Somalia

Somalia is situated on the Horn of Africa and is squeezed in between Ethiopia to the west, Djibouti to the north-west, and Kenya on its south-west.

Somalia has a complicated history and troubling past and political situation.

Civil war, military coups, and border disputes are all regular occurrences in this country, and it has been that way until the Ethiopian Army withdrew in 2007 after defeating an Islamist government.

However, since then violence has been on the rise due to the re-emergence of Islamist-extremist groups.

Somalia is currently run by a coalition government that comprises the Internationally recognized Transitional Federal Government and the former Islamist government.

However, the Islamic factions are affiliated with Al-Qaeda, and the atmosphere in the country is extremely tense, which is a shame since the country has the longest coastline in all of Africa and would probably be a desirable tourist destination if it weren’t for all the terrorism in the country.

  • Warnings & Dangers in Somalia

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Somalia is currently a very dangerous destination for potential travelers. Governments in several countries have even issued warnings against traveling to this country, for reasons such as terrorism, kidnappings, and other types of violent crime. Visiting Somalia can end in you getting seriously hurt or killed.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

Given that Somalia has been without an effective government for 17 years, it has naturally taken a toll on its roads and transportation. The roads are bad, and there are only two ways to get around Somalia: buses and taxis. As you can imagine, neither is safe, especially buses that can get road blocked and people inside robbed, mugged, or worse.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Crime levels are high in Somalia and this goes for both petty and violent crime. Expect petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag stealing, camera stealing, and other forms of theft. Avoid crowded places, if you must leave your accommodation.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Excluding the warfare, as it's a man-made disaster, the two main natural hazards that have been known to happen in Somalia are droughts and floods.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Violent confrontations like muggings, armed robberies, and kidnappings are the norms in Somalia so it is recommended that you take extra care on the streets of this country, avoid dark streets and deserted areas. Bear in mind that risks increase after dark.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in Somalia. The biggest threat is coming from Al Shabaab and other groups opposed to the Somali government that persists in carrying out deadly attacks in and around Mogadishu on an almost daily basis.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

This country is so dangerous at the moment that scams are the least of your problems. But yes, there are scammers that will try and take advantage of travelers, so double check your change, never pay anything upfront, and negotiate everything in advance. Be very careful around ATMs and be wary of anyone trying to distract you.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Somalia is not a safe destination for women. Do not go alone anywhere, and keep in mind that it is best not to move around Somalia at all, except if you're in a car with windows rolled up.

  • So... How Safe Is Somalia Really?

Somalia is a seriously dangerous country to travel to, and traveling there is not recommended.

The US State Department and most Western nations advise their citizens against going to Somalia, even if their visit there is of essential importance.

Al-Qaeda and the affiliated terrorist group, al-Shabaab persist in their activity across the country, kidnapping people, carrying out suicide bombings, and generally causing fear and chaos.

There is a particular terrorist threat to foreigners in places where they tend to gather, like airports, government buildings, hotels, and shopping areas.

In fact, in 2016, there were 14 reported attacks in hotels, restaurants, and the international airport in Mogadishu, while the latest attacks in autumn 2017 resulted in the deadliest incident ever in the capital of the country, with over 350 people killed.

The only disputably safer place in Somalia is the semi-autonomous region of Somaliland where the situation is much better than in the rest of the country.

Terrorism, however, isn’t your only problem in Somalia as you have to be wary of violent crime that exists in this country.

Although there is a police force established, keep in mind that corruption is on a high level, which is why crime rates are high.

Do not leave your accommodation, beware when traveling, there is a high chance in this country to be kidnapped and held for ransom.

Again, Somalia is a dangerous country for tourism, traveling to Somalia is not encouraged.

  • How Does Somalia Compare?
  • Useful Information

Most countries do need a visa in order to enter Somalia, but it can be acquired on arrival at the Bosaso Airport and it lasts for 30 days. If you are not sure about your visa status, check your country's requirements for Somalia before you come to visit.

Somali shilling is the official currency in Somalia. ATMs aren't widespread but you can find some, mostly within Somali banks.

The climate in Somalia is tropical but not torrid, characterized by little seasonal variation in temperature. In the low areas of the country, the average temperature ranges between 22° C to 32° C. The plateau region of the country is cooler while the southwest is warmer.

Aden Adde International Airport, formerly referred to as Mogadishu International Airport, is the main international airport in Somalia. It is located in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Somalia, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Somalia Weather Averages (Temperatures)

  • Average High/Low Temperature
  • Where to Next?

410874fba-1

4 Reviews on Somalia

anyone travel to here before ?

Nah, Somalia is more unsafe han Afghanistan and other countries

Somalia is very safe the capital Mogadishu is amazing there is a beautiful lighthouse and beautiful beach. Somalia is truly a must travel.

Thick Biscuits

Went to Somalia last summer for a few months, and there are baddies everywhere. Not pirates, but women. I’m talking 10/10 biracial slam pieces everywhere. It’s definitely worth a visit!

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Article Contents

  • Overall Risk
  • Transport & Taxis Risk
  • Pickpockets Risk
  • Natural Disasters Risk
  • Mugging Risk
  • Terrorism Risk
  • Women Travelers Risk
  • Weather Averages (Temperatures)
  • User Reviews
  • Share Your Experience

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Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Somalia - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Do not travel to Somalia due to  crime ,  terrorism ,  civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping,  and  piracy .

Country Summary :  Violent crime, such as kidnapping and murder, is common throughout Somalia, including Puntland and the Somaliland region.  Illegal roadblocks are widespread. Some schools and other facilities acting as “cultural rehabilitation” centers are operating throughout Somalia with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight.  Reports of physical abuse and people being held against their will in these facilities are common.

Terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia. They may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting airports and seaports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other areas that attract large crowds and are frequented by Westerners, as well as government, military, and Western convoys.  Methods of attack can include car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and mortar fire, among others. While some areas have experienced less severe terrorist activity, such as the Somaliland region, where there have been no major terrorist attacks since 2008, terrorist attacks involving the indiscriminate use of explosive devices and other weapons can take place anywhere in Somalia at any time without warning.  The U.S. Embassy heavily restricts the movement of its employees in Mogadishu based on the critical threat environment.

Civil unrest occurs throughout Somalia and can sometimes be violent.

Medical facilities across Somalia have limited capacity and are often nonexistent in rural areas.

Pirates are active in the waters off the Horn of Africa, especially in the international waters near Somalia.

The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Somalia due to the lack of permanent consular presence in Somalia, including the Somaliland region.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Somalia, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation.  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Somalia.

If you decide to travel to Somalia:

  • Review your personal security plan and visit our page on  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
  • Avoid sailing near the coast of Somalia and review the  Live Piracy Report  published by the International Maritime Bureau.
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.   Find a suggested list of such documents here .
  • Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business) or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
  • Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business), so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas.  This plan should specify whom you would contact first, and how that person should share the information.
  • Identify key sources of possible assistance for you and your family in case of emergency, such as the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, FBI, the State Department, your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends/family in the high-risk area.
  • Be sure to appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are taken hostage or detained.
  • Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones can know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
  • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
  • Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups.
  • Leave your expensive/sentimental belongings behind.
  • Enroll your trip in the State Department's  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Somalia.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

6 months from date of entry

Yellow fever vaccination is not required, but most countries transited by airlines flying in and out of Somalia require proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Embassies and Consulates

The U.S. Embassy in Somalia is unable to provide consular services at this time. The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi covers Somalia’s consular district.

For American Citizens Services please contact:

U.S. Embassy Kenya

United Nations Avenue Gigiri, Nairobi, Kenya Telephone: (254) (20) 363-6451 (Monday through Thursday, 7:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 7:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (254) (20) 363-6000 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for entry:

o   Obtain before traveling or obtain a 60-day tourist visa upon arrival in Mogadishu for $60)

o   Visit the Permanent Mission of the Somali Republic to the United Nations website, the Somali Department of Immigration and Naturalization website, or the nearest Somali embassy or consulate for visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Somalia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Somalia due to the lack of a permanent consular presence in Somalia, including the Somaliland region. U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya. In an emergency, you will have to rely on your own resources or journey to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate outside of Somalia.

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by foreigners 
  • Places of worship 
  • Schools 
  • Parks 
  • Shopping malls and markets 
  • Public transportation systems (including buses and scheduled commercial flights)  
  • Checkpoints

Terrorist organizations and armed groups in Somalia attack government authorities and facilities; African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) personnel and bases; and civilian and non-governmental targets, including but not limited to hotels, restaurants, airports, seaports, and shopping areas. Inter-clan and factional violence are also regular occurrences throughout Somalia.

Al-Shabaab, an al-Qa’ida-affiliated foreign terrorist organization based in Somalia, has repeatedly attacked Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport (AAIA) and other locations in Somalia with mortars, small arms and light weapons, and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs). The group’s recent attacks include a March 23, 2022, small arms and mortar attack at the AAIA compound in Mogadishu, where the U.S. Embassy, several other diplomatic posts, and the UN offices are based, which killed seven people. Later the same day, two attacks in Beledweyne killed 48 and wounded 108. On January 12, 2022, a VBIED motorcade attack approximately four kilometers from the U.S. Embassy injured two U.S. citizen contractors and killed five non-U.S. citizen employees providing security and killed an unconfirmed number of bystanders. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for all of these attacks. While some areas have experienced less severe terrorist activity, such as the Somaliland region, where there have been no major terrorist attacks since 2008, terrorist attacks involving the indiscriminate use of explosive devices and other weapons can take place anywhere in Somalia at any time without warning.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Violent crime such as kidnapping, bombings, indirect fire attacks, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, and illegal roadblocks by armed individuals in uniforms occur throughout Somalia, including the self-declared autonomous region of Somaliland. Somali authorities have limited capacity and resources to investigate and prosecute criminal activity.

U.S. citizens should:

  • Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
  • Avoid displaying cash and valuable personal property.
  • Dress conservatively.
  • Carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa. Keep original documents in a secure location.
  • Maintain caution in areas frequented by foreigners.
  • Be cautious when traveling in major cities and along border areas.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

  • Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
  • Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

Cultural Rehabilitation Centers: Some schools and other facilities acting as “cultural rehabilitation” centers are operating in Somalia with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight. Reports of minors and young adults being held in these facilities against their will and physically abused are common.

Somalia-Kenya Border: Cross-border violence attributed to al-Shabaab and skirmishes between the Somali and Kenyan armies occurs periodically, including large-scale attacks against civilians, government security forces, and AMISOM troops. Kidnapping, IED, and grenade attacks targeting international aid workers and civilians occur. Al-Shabaab actively operates in border areas, including Kenya’s Lamu and Wajir counties.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kenya for assistance. Report crimes to the nearest local police and contact the U.S. Embassy in Kenya at (254) (20) 363-6451 during business hours or (254) (20) 363-6000 outside business hours. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
  • Provide information on victim assistance resources in the United States .
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
  • Help you find accommodation in Kenya and arrange flights home from Somalia or Kenya.
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport at the U.S. Embassy in Kenya.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kenya for assistance.

Tourism: No formal tourism industry infrastructure exists in Somalia. Tourists participate in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment are not available in Somalia. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. You may be taken in for questioning by the police if unable to produce an acceptable form of identification. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs result in long prison sentences and heavy fines.

Local courts operate under a combination of Somali customary and Islamic law, some of which may be hostile towards foreigners.

Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the relevant local authorities prior to practicing a profession or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : Somali law enforcement officials routinely block access to foreign and dual nationals in detention. The U.S. Embassy in Kenya may not receive notification or be allowed access to you if you are detained. Furthermore, dual U.S.-Somali citizens are recognized as Somali citizens by authorities, which impedes our ability to provide any consular assistance. If you are arrested or detained, ask Somali police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Kenya immediately. The U.S. government’s ability to provide consular services across Somalia is severely restricted due to ongoing security concerns and the lack of a permanent consular presence in Somalia, including the Somaliland region See our  webpage  for further information.

Photography:  Do not take pictures of government buildings, military installations, or key infrastructure such as airports and border controls. You could be detained or arrested, fined, and have your equipment confiscated. Do not take photos of people without their permission.

Phone Service:  Cellular phones are used extensively. SIM cards can be purchased locally and used with a compatible cell phone.

Currency:  The Somali shilling is the unit of currency except in the Somaliland region, which uses the Somaliland shilling. Be advised that most Somali shillings in circulation are believed to be counterfeit. U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards and traveler's checks are generally not accepted, and you are advised against using your credit card in Somalia, even if accepted. It is not possible to obtain currency advances against a credit card. ATMs are increasingly available in Mogadishu. ATMs in Somalia disburse U.S. dollars.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
  • Human Rights Report  – see country reports
  • Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI+ Travelers:  Same-sex sexual contact is punishable by three months to three years in prison. Anti-discrimination provisions do not apply to LGBTI individuals. Society considers sexual orientation a taboo topic, so there is no known public discussion of this issue. Severe societal stigma typically prevents LGBTI individuals from making their sexual orientation publicly known.

See our  LGBTI travel information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The provisional constitution prohibits the state from discriminating against any person on the basis of disability. However, it makes no reference to discrimination in the private sector. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Few government buildings, schools, banks, or grocery stores have accessible facilities, including in Mogadishu. Some hospitals and clinics are equally inaccessible to people with disabilities and lack wheelchair ramps or lifts, including some of the hospitals travelers commonly use. Expect accessibility to be very limited in transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, and largely absent outside of major cities. 

Much of the disability equipment for sale locally is refurbished rather than new. Replacement parts can be found in local informal markets and are also generally refurbished parts. Imported higher-end equipment such as electric wheelchairs and lifting equipment can be purchased from a very limited number of medical equipment suppliers in the major cities. Almost all supplies must be purchased and imported from overseas.

Students:  See our  students abroad  page and  FBI travel tips . We are aware of allegations that some boarding schools in Somalia engage in abusive practices such as corporal punishment, physical restraint, and confiscation of travel documents.

Youth: We are aware of cases of forced marriage. Some facilities involved in “cultural rehabilitation” (“dhaqan celis,” meaning “returning to Somali culture”) engage in abusive practices such as corporal punishment, physical restraint, and confiscation of travel documents.

Women Travelers:  There are no laws against spousal violence, including rape. There are documented patterns of rape perpetrated with impunity, particularly of displaced women and members of minority clans. Authorities rarely use formal structures to address rape. Survivors suffer from subsequent discrimination based on the attribution of “impurity.” Domestic and sexual violence against women remain serious problems, despite the provisional federal constitution provision prohibiting any form of violence against women. See our travel tips for  women travelers .

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C):  Although the provisional federal constitution prohibits the circumcision of girls, FGM/C is almost universally practiced throughout the country. Up to 98 percent of women and girls have reportedly undergone FGM/C, primarily between the ages of 5 and 14 years.

Water, health, and electricity systems in Somalia are poor.

Medical care and services are extremely limited. Medicines are in short supply, and many pharmacies stock ineffective or counterfeit medications. Most care providers expect payment in U.S. dollars/Somali shillings prior to treatment.

Ambulance services are not present or are unreliable in most areas except Mogadishu. Somalia Red Crescent Society services may be available in some areas in case of disasters/emergency.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Medical evacuation services in Somalia are extremely limited, and services responding from outside of the country will take more than six hours to respond.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Somali Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Somalia. 

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you will be in Somalia for more than four weeks, the Somali government may require you to show proof of polio vaccination when you are exiting the country. If you were vaccinated against polio as a child but have never had a polio booster dose as an adult, or if you were not completely vaccinated as a child/do not know your vaccination status, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated. To meet this requirement while in Somalia, you should receive a polio vaccine between 4 weeks and 12 months before the date you are leaving Somalia. Talk to your doctor about whether this requirement applies to you.

Further health information:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. embassies and consulates. 

Health facilities in general 

  • Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
  • Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is generally unavailable. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
  • Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
  • Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
  • Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions. 

The following diseases are prevalent:

  • African Tick Bite Fever
  • Chikungunya
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Leishmaniasis
  • Leptospirosis
  • Schistosomiasis
  • Tuberculosis (TB)
  • Yellow Fever

Food-borne and water-borne illnesses are common. 

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about resources for travelers regarding specific issues in Somalia .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions are poor. Night driving is particularly dangerous due to the absence of lighting and terrorist- or militia-operated checkpoints. Other risks include lack of traffic lights and pedestrians and animals in the road. Refer to our road safety page for more information. The U.S. Embassy prohibits its employees from traveling outside the AAIA compound or using public transportation due to safety concerns.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Somalia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Somalia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

The FAA has issued a Notice to Air Mission containing information on the U.S. prohibition against U.S. civil aviation operations in airspace over Somalia. For background information and advisories consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

The U.S. Embassy prohibits its employees from using commercial airlines originating from or arriving in Somalia due to safety concerns.

Maritime Travel: Information may be posted at U.S. maritime advisories and alerts , the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration , the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

Port Security:  The Commandant of the Coast Guard is unable to determine if effective anti-terrorism measures are in place in Somalia ports as required by 46 U.S. Code § 70108.”

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Be aware of current health issues in Somalia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

  • Global Polio January 05, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

  • Updated   Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (influenza)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is  widespread  in Somalia. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Somalia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Somalia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Somalia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Somalia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Somalia poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Somalia are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Somalia who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Somalia. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Somalia, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

  • Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
  • Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
  • Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Somalia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Generally not recommended for travel to the regions of Bakool, Banaadir, Bay, Galguduud, Gedo, Hiiraan (also spelled Hiran), Lower Juba (also known as Jubbada Hoose), Middle Juba (also known as Jubbada Dhexe), Lower Shabelle (also known as Shabeellaha Hoose), or Middle Shabelle (also known as Shabeellaha Dhexe). Not recommended for travel to areas not listed above.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

  • Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

  • Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
  • Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
  • Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
  • Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

  • Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

  • Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

  • Mosquito bite
  • Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

  • Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

  • Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
  • Bite from an infected rodent
  • Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
  • Avoid rodents and areas where they live
  • Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

  • Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Somalia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

  • Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
  • Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
  • Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
  • Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Somalia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanone
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Somalia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Somalia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Somalia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Somalia. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Somalia may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Somalia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Somalia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Somalia travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:08 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, somalia - avoid all travel.

Avoid all travel to Somalia. If you are currently in Somalia despite this advisory, you should leave immediately.

The security situation in Somalia is extremely volatile and the threat of domestic terrorism is high, particularly in south-central Somalia and in the capital, Mogadishu.

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There is no resident Canadian government office in Somalia; therefore, the Government of Canada can’t provide consular assistance to you if you are in distress in Somalia. If so, you will have to make your way to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate or rely on your own resources.

The rule of law is virtually non-existent. Violent demonstrations, suicide bombings, attacks and military activity occur regularly. The current situation represents a very serious threat to travellers. Be aware that anti-Western sentiment may at times be strong. Foreign travellers, including journalists, human rights activists and humanitarian workers, are at very high risk of kidnapping, murder and arrest without notice or apparent cause. 

If you choose to travel to Somalia despite this advisory, you may have difficulty in departing the country.

Political situation

The political situation is unpredictable, especially in Mogadishu.

Clashes between security forces and protesters have occurred. There has also been an increase in attacks within the capital, resulting in civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.

Similar incidents could occur without warning. Demonstrations could also occur and turn violent at any time.

If you are in Somalia:

  • monitor the local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
  • follow the advice of local authorities

There is a threat of terrorism, particularly in south-central Somalia and in the capital, Mogadishu. Fighting over the control of these areas between the government (supported by international troops), and terrorist groups has been ongoing. Attacks against government targets involving the use of heavy weapons are frequent, particularly in Mogadishu. Civilian casualties are not uncommon. Further attacks are likely.  

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

High-profile events could also be targeted

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Somaliland and Puntland

Somaliland (a self-declared republic seeking independence) and Puntland (an administrative region in the northeast) have remained more stable than the south-central part of the country. Nonetheless, violent attacks on foreign targets have occurred in these regions.

Inter-clan conflicts often erupt into fighting in the Sanaag and Sool regions of Somaliland along the border with Puntland. Tensions and violence in the south of the country could spread to Somaliland and Puntland at any time.

Kidnappings

Foreigners are at very high risk of being kidnapped throughout Somalia, including in Somaliland. Several Westerners, including humanitarian workers, have been kidnapped.

There are high levels of crime conducted by armed militias throughout the country. Armed robberies, carjackings and murders occur regularly.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place frequently and can turn violent at any time.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Border closures

The land border between Kenya and Somalia remains closed and air traffic between the two countries is subject to special procedures by the Kenyan government.

Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport is often closed with little or no warning due to fighting.

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are not available.

Electricity and water provisions are not assured.

International telephone services and Internet access are limited to larger cities, where services are unreliable.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Somalian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid upon entry.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

You need a visa to visit those areas under the authority of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG), Somaliland and Puntland.

To visit areas under the authority of the TFG : you should obtain, in advance, a visa from the Embassy of Somali Republic in Kenya.

To visit Somaliland and Puntland direct your visa inquiries to the person/organization you will be visiting, as there is no office in Kenya to issue these visas.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
  • Polio: Advice for travellers - 4 January, 2024
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.

Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.   Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
  • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

 If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is low potential for yellow fever exposure in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination may be recommended depending on your itinerary.
  • Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

  • Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
  • One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

  • visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
  • visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Visceral  leishmaniasis   (or kala azar) affects the bone marrow and internal organs. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly. It can also be transmitted by blood transfusion or sharing contaminated needles. If left untreated it can cause death. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

  • In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

There are virtually no health facilities or medicines available in Somalia. You must be completely self-sufficient.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Somalian law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Somalia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Forced marriage

Forced marriage affecting foreigners occur. It sometimes occurs without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.

Parents, relatives and the community may use relentless pressure and emotional blackmail, threatening behaviour, abduction, imprisonment and physical violence to coerce young people to enter into marriage. While both men and women experience forced marriage, it is a form of violence most commonly perpetrated against women and girls. People have been unable to return to Canada because their passports and money have been withheld by family members.

  • General information and advice about forced marriage
  • Safe travel guide for women

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Somalia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Somalia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Somalia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Somalia by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Somalia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Travelling with children
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency is the Somali shilling (SOS), except in Somaliland, which uses the Somaliland shilling. U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards and traveller’s cheques are not accepted in Somalia, and there are no automated banking machines (ABMs).

The climate in Somalia is very hot and dry. However, a monsoon season extends from May to October in the southwest and from December to February in the northeast. There are also short rainy seasons in other parts of the country. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Local services

There is no centralized number to reach emergency services. Research and carry contact information for local police and medical facilities.

Consular assistance

There is no resident Canadian government office in Somalia. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the High Commission of Canada in Kenya, in Nairobi.

Burundi, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Kenya, in Nairobi, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Somalia due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of armed conflict, terrorism, kidnapping and violent crime.

Somalia

Somalia (PDF 704.25 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Advice levels

Do not travel  to Somalia.

Do not travel  to Somalia due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of armed conflict, terrorism, kidnapping and violent crime.

  • Do not travel to Somalia. If you're in the country, leave as soon as possible. If you decide to stay, get professional security advice. Our ability to provide consular services is severely limited. 
  • Terror attacks frequently occur in Somalia. Possible targets include Aden Adde International Airport, government officials and buildings, hotels, restaurants, foreigners and foreign interests, and UN workers. The most recent incidents have caused hundreds of fatalities and injuries. 
  • The kidnapping risk is very high in all parts of Somalia. This includes Puntland and Somaliland. Several active terrorist groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners.  Make sure your movements aren't predictable.

Pirate attacks  in and around Somalia's waters, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden are a serious threat. This includes far off the Somali coast.

  • Residential areas and markets in south-central Somalia have experienced shootings and grenade attacks. Avoid areas of conflict and large public gatherings.
  • The Australian High Commission in Kenya has received reports that some schools and institutions acting as 'cultural rehabilitation’ centres operate in Somalia without oversight. The reports claim that minors and young adults may be abused or held against their will in these facilities.
  • Somalia has extreme weather, including severe droughts, heatwaves and floods. It's also prone to tsunamis. During a natural disaster, monitor local and international media. Follow local advice.

Full travel advice:  Safety

  • Malaria occurs across the country. Consider taking anti-malaria medication. Other insect-borne diseases include dengue, yellow fever, filariasis and leishmaniasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated against yellow fever before you travel.
  • Somalia continues to have cases of polio. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel. Carry proof of vaccination.
  • There are cases of HIV/AIDS in Somalia. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities. If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get medical help as soon as possible.
  • There are foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases in Somalia. This includes cholera, hepatitis and meningococcal disease. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
  • Medical facilities in Somalia are extremely limited. If you're ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation out of the country. This is expensive and difficult to organise.

Full travel advice:  Health

  • Courts operate under both Somali and Sharia law. In areas under al-Shabaab control, sentences include flogging and the death penalty. Get local legal advice, especially on matters such as divorce, child custody and child support.
  • Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include prison sentences and heavy fines.
  • Same-sex relations are illegal in Somalia. Under sharia law, punishments include flogging and death.
  • It's illegal to preach a religion other than Islam in Somaliland and Puntland.
  • Some Australian laws apply overseas. It's illegal to support military activities in Somalia without permission from the Australian Government.
  • Australian-Somali dual nationals are treated as Somali. Consular help may be limited.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

  • Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Somalia for the latest details.
  • Land borders with countries neighbouring Somalia may close at short notice. You should check with local authorities before travelling to the border. You should also monitor Travel Advice for Ethiopia, Kenya or Djibouti. Don't cross the border without the correct documents.
  • Visa conditions and validity can change. Your visa might not be recognised in areas where the central government's authority is challenged.
  • If you travel to Somalia despite our advice, you'll need proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Unvaccinated travellers must have a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test certificate with a QR code taken within 72 hours before arrival.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

  • The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
  • Australia doesn't have a diplomatic mission in Somalia. For consular help, contact the  Australian High Commission in Kenya .
  • The ability of the Australian Government to provide consular help to Australians in Somalia is severely limited.
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terror attacks frequently occur in Somalia. Terror attacks can take place anywhere, at any time. Many recent attacks have targeted Somali government officials, foreigners and UN workers. Recent attacks have occurred in Mogadishu, Beledweyne, Baidoa, Galkayo and Kismayo and have resulted in hundreds of fatalities and injuries. 

  • In October 2022, two car bombs exploded near the Ministry of Education building in Mogadishu, resulting in 121 deaths and more than 300 injuries. 

Somali militants have threatened attacks throughout the country. 

Aden Adde International Airport is a high-priority target because of the large number of foreigners present. 

Common targets

Deadly attacks against government targets, including buildings, are common.

Foreigners and local people working for international organisations and the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) are also targeted.

Attacks could involve explosions, car bombs and armed gunmen.

Other possible targets for attacks include:

  • hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars and other commercial and public areas visited by government officials and foreigners 
  • foreign interests, including embassies, oil companies, oil infrastructure and oil fields
  • places of worship, schools, markets, shopping areas, tourist areas, historic sites, outdoor recreation events and other public spaces
  • transport and transport infrastructure, including airports and aircraft
  • residential areas

There have been more attacks during days of national significance and religious festivals, including Ramadan.

Somalia isn't safe. It doesn't have an effective police force.

Do not travel to Somalia. If you're already there, leave Somalia as soon as possible.

If, despite our advice, you decide to stay, you should:

  • get professional security advice
  • arrange personal security measures
  • plan for uncertainty and stock up on essential items (water, food, toiletries, fuel and prescription medication)
  • limit your movements, especially around days of national significance and religious festivals
  • be alert at all times
  • have a clear exit plan.

If there's an attack, you should:

  • leave the area straight away if it's safe to do so
  • avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks
  • monitor the media for any new or emerging threats.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped while travelling overseas. Kidnapping can occur anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically considered at lower risk.  The  kidnapping  risk is very high in all parts of Somalia, including Puntland and Somaliland.

Several active terrorist groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners.  Many foreigners, including those of Somali descent, have been kidnapped in Somalia.

Kidnappers may be motivated by crime or terrorism. Armed groups in Somalia have held foreigners kidnapped from Kenya.

Do not travel to Somalia. If you're already in Somalia, leave as soon as possible.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, you should be aware that our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited.

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

  • keep a low profile
  • always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
  • vary your routines, so your movements don't become predictable to observers.
  • get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
  • check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
  • avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
  • notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
  • avoid talking about your money or business affairs
  • always use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
  • avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

Civil unrest and political tension

The political situation is unpredictable, particularly in Mogadishu. Demonstrations can occur and turn violent without warning.  

Armed conflict

Residential areas and markets in south-central Somalia have experienced shootings and grenade attacks.

If you're in Somalia despite our advice:

  • avoid areas where conflict is ongoing or political tensions are highest
  • avoid all protests, rallies, demonstrations and other public gatherings.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

  • Demonstrations and civil unrest

Pirates are heavily armed, have attacked vessels and held foreigners hostage for ransom in the Gulf of Aden.

Attractive targets for pirates include:

  • local fishing dhows
  • commercial boats
  • pleasure crafts
  • luxury cruise liners.

Don't travel in Somali waters or surrounds, or you face the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom. 

If you need to  travel by boat  in Somali waters or surrounds, you should:

  • stay out of the  designated High Risk Area
  • travel in groups or convoys
  • always stay in close contact with convoy members
  • arrange personal security.
  • Advice for sailing vessels  (Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa)
  • Piracy reports  issued by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).

Cultural 'rehabilitation' facilities and schools

The Australian High Commission in Kenya has received reports that some schools and institutions acting as 'cultural rehabilitation' centres operate in Somalia without oversight. The reports claim that minors and young adults may be abused and held against their will in these facilities.

Violent crime

There's no effective police force in Somalia. There's a breakdown in law and order. Lawlessness, clan violence and looting are common.

Anti-Western attitudes are strong in some parts of Somalia. Foreigners are sometimes violently harassed, including people of Somali descent.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

  • Cyber security when travelling overseas

Other factors

Extreme weather conditions in southern and central Somalia have added to the unstable security environment. Areas bordering Ethiopia and Kenya are also affected.

Food shortages and population displacements have left thousands of people without a home and vulnerable. This has led to more disease and more crime.

If you're in Somalia despite our advice, you should:

  • always travel with your vehicle's doors locked and windows up
  • lock the doors and windows of your accommodation
  • be alert at all times.

There are cases of HIV/AIDS in Somalia. If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Climate and natural disasters

Somalia experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including  tsunamis .

If, despite our advice, you travel to or stay in Somalia and a natural disaster occurs:

  • store your passport in a safe, waterproof place
  • monitor local media and the  World Meteorological Organization Severe Weather Information Centre
  • check other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
  • keep in touch with friends and family.

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised to by local authorities, or if you:

  • see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
  • hear loud and unusual noises from the sea.

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, check local media.

Severe weather

Somalia's weather can be extreme. There are regular droughts and floods.

Because of severe weather, many areas of Somalia suffer from food shortages. Thousands of people are left without a place to live, leading to more disease and higher security threats to foreigners.

Somalia is often very hot. The average maximum temperature can be more than 45˚C.

Stay out of the sun and drink water to avoid dehydration.

The monsoon season runs from May to October in the south-west. It's from December to February in the north-east.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Somalia.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

  • what activities and care your policy covers
  • that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Somalia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

  • what the medication is
  • your required dosage
  • that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria  occurs throughout the year in all parts of Somalia. Current treatments aren't effective against some strains.

Other insect-borne diseases also occur. These include:

  • yellow fever
  • leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

  • ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
  • use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing.

Get vaccinated against yellow fever before you travel.

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

  • Infectious diseases

Outbreaks of  polio  have occurred in countries across the Horn of Africa.

Check your polio vaccination status with your doctor or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you travel. You may need a booster dose.

If you aren't vaccinated, complete the full course of vaccinations before you leave.

If you're staying in Somalia for longer than 4 weeks, you'll need to show proof when you exit that you've had the polio vaccine or a booster within the past 12 months. If you don't, you may need to be vaccinated before leaving Somalia.

  • Polio surveillance program  (Australian Department of Health and Aged Care) 
  • Australian Immunisation Handbook

There are cases of  HIV/AIDS  in Somalia.

Protect yourself from infection if engaging in activities that expose you to risk.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get medical help as soon as possible.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

  • meningococcal disease
  • tuberculosis
  • rift valley fever

To protect yourself from illness:

  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
  • avoid ice cubes
  • avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
  • don't swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to waterborne diseases.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities in Somalia are extremely limited.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with suitable facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. It can also be difficult to organise.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Consular help

Somalia hasn't signed the Vienna Conventions on diplomatic and consular relations.

If you're arrested or detained, you may not be able to contact the Australian Government or access consular services.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They may include prison and heavy fines.

  • Carrying or using drugs

Courts operate under both Somali and Sharia law.

Strict sharia law is in force in areas under al-Shabaab control. Sentences include physical punishments such as flogging and the death penalty.

Get professional advice on local legal matters, particularly about:

  • child custody
  • child support.

Be aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Criminal laws are inconsistently enforced in Somalia. Due process isn't always followed.

Same-sex relations are illegal in Somalia. Punishments under strict Sharia law include flogging or death.

It's also illegal to preach a religion other than Islam in Puntland or Somaliland.

  • Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

It's illegal to support military activities of any armed group in Somalia without permission from the Australian Government. This includes:

  • funding, training or recruiting someone to fight
  • supplying or funding weapons or military equipment.
  • Staying within the law and respecting customs
  • Forced marriage
  • Female genital mutilation

Dual citizenship

If you're an Australian-Somali dual national, Somali officials will treat you as Somali.

You may not be able to contact the Australian Government if you're arrested or detained. Consular help may be limited.

  • Dual nationals

Local customs

Cultural sensitivities.

Somalia has strict conservative standards of dress and behaviour. If in doubt, ask for local advice.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Somalia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit requirements can change. Contact an Embassy or Consulate-General of Somalia  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Consulates and other diplomatic missions of Somalia have connections with the central government. However, the central government's authority isn't recognised everywhere.

Visas might not be valid in areas where the central government's authority is challenged.

Permanent Representative of the Somali Republic to the United Nations 425 East 61st Street, Suite 702 New York, 10021, United States Phone: (+212) 688 9410/5046 Fax: (+212) 759 0651

Border measures

International and domestic flights are operating. If you travel to Somalia despite our advice, you'll need proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued by a legitimate and competent authority. Unvaccinated travellers must have a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test certificate with a QR code taken within 72 hours before arrival.

Check requirements with local authorities before making any travel arrangements.

Passengers must arrive at the border checkpoint at least 3 hours before departure for health and safety procedures.

Land borders with countries neighbouring Somalia may close at short notice. Check with local authorities before travelling to the border. You should also monitor Travel Advice for  Ethiopia ,  Kenya  or  Djibouti . Don't cross the border without the correct documents.

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You may need a valid  yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Somalia.

Find out about returning to Australia if you've been  exposed to yellow fever .

  • Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

  • In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
  • If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier  

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

  • LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Somali Shilling (SOS). US dollars are widely accepted.

The government regulates currency transfer and exchange. 

Australian currency, credit cards and traveller's cheques aren't accepted.

ATMs aren't usually available.

Local travel

Landmines are a danger throughout Somalia.

Road travel

Road travel in Somalia is dangerous.

Hazards include terrorism, poor road conditions, landmines and criminal activity.

Illegal roadblocks are common. See  Safety

If you need to travel by road:

  • get local advice on routes
  • seek professional security advice
  • take steps to protect your safety
  • make backup plans.
  • Driving or riding

Aden Adde International Airport is a high-priority target for attack due to the presence of foreigners.

Other airports and aircraft are also possible targets for terror attacks.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Somalia's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Consular contacts.

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

The security situation in Somalia limits the ability of the Australian Government to provide consular help.

Australia doesn't have a diplomatic mission in Somalia. Contact the Australian High Commission in Kenya for consular help.

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Limuru Road, Rosslyn Nairobi, Kenya  P.O Box 3008 - 00 Phone: +254 20 427 7100  Email:  [email protected] Website:  kenya.highcommission.gov.au   Facebook:  Australian High Commission, Kenya Twitter:  @AusHCKenya

Instagram: @AusHCKenya

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia

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  • 1.1.1 Darawiish sultanate of Diiriye Guure
  • 1.1.2 After independence
  • 1.2 Climate
  • 3.1 Puntland
  • 3.2 Southern and central Somalia
  • 3.3 Khatumo / Maakhir
  • 3.4 Somaliland
  • 4.1 By plane
  • 4.4 By boat
  • 5 Get around
  • 9.2 Shopping
  • 14 Stay safe
  • 15 Stay healthy
  • 16.1 Social etiquette
  • 16.2 Home etiquette
  • 16.3 Religion
  • 16.4 Photography

Somalia ( Somali : Soomaaliya ; Arabic : الصومال‎ aṣ-Ṣūmāl ) is a country on the Horn of Africa. Once the centre of many powerful sultanates and an Italian colony, the country has been in a state of chaos and turmoil since the 1980s. The country suffers from a myriad of social problems such as warfare, terrorism, corruption, political instability, and general lawlessness, and it isn't exactly your typical family destination.

However, under less extreme circumstances, this country has a lot to offer to the adventurous, thrill-seeking traveller. There are a number of historical sites, beaches, waterfalls, mountain ranges, and national parks. The Somalis are generally very friendly and down-to-earth, and they are happy with what they have. Tourists might find themselves being treated like celebrities here; in fact, they might be showered with a lot of hospitality and care, even if they unintentionally make a few cultural blunders.

Since 2012, the situation is gradually getting better and the country is seeing some form of political stability. However, the country is still too volatile for travel, especially in the SSC-Khatumo region of northern Somalia, particularly Las Anod , which regularly experiences shelling of population centres by secessionist forces. Some have been brave enough to enter and leave without incident, but anything can happen in this volatile country.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

somalia tourism safe

The history of the Somali people dates back many centuries. The first time the word Somali was mentioned in a history book was 3,500 years ago, when the queen of Egypt Hatshepsut sent a fleet of 5 large ships and a crew of 250 men to Somalia which the Egyptians called The Land of Punt. Punt means “the land of spices” from the aromatic plants that grow there. The Egyptians wanted to trade and they brought jewels and glass beads that they exchanged for gold, elephant tusks, myrrh, ostrich feathers, spices and different beads. Some of these items, especially the aromatic ones, were used by the Egyptians in their religious festivals and celebrations.

Between the 7th and 9th centuries, immigrant Muslim Arabs and Persians established trading posts along the Somali coast. Over the next two centuries, a string of trading empires arose along the northeast coast.

In the 14th century, Ibn Battuta, the great Berber traveller, visited Mogadishu and wrote about the people, their food and clothing and how they ruled themselves. In his book he mentioned that the people in the city were very fat and everybody ate as much as they could. The Mogadishans wore very nice white clothes and turbans and their sultan was very powerful.

Somalia was an unknown country for European explorers until the Portuguese explorers reached the coastal cities of Somalia on their way to India. They called it Terra Incognita , which means an unknown land. These new discoveries encouraged many other European navigators to sail on the Somali coasts.

Darawiish sultanate of Diiriye Guure [ edit ]

British, Italian and French imperialism all played an active role in the region in the 19th century. In 1884 at the European powers' conference in Berlin, Somalia was divided into five parts to dilute the homogeneity imposed by its language, religion, and ethnicity.

The colonial powers divided Somalia into British Somaliland in the north, Italian Somalia in the south, the French Somali coast in Djibouti, Ogaden or Huwan in the west and the Northern Frontier District of Kenya (NFD). In the late 19th century a Dhulbahante sultanate called the Dervish State or Darawiish Sultanate of Diiriye Guure in the Khatumo region emerged in 1895 with Diiriye Guure remaining as Somalia's sole extant independent king. Its sultan was Diiriye Guure who established a government called xarunta or haroun and whose elite were called Shiikhyaale, Dooxato, Golaweyne, and Miinanle. Its initial capital was in Xalin, Sool, whilst its latter capital was Taleex. In 1901 the fighting started between British and local Darawiish forces which culminated in 1920 in the air raids against the Dhulbahante garesas (forts).

After independence [ edit ]

In 1969, General Siad Barre seized power in a coup d'état, and the country was under a military government when the previous president was assassinated. The military government established large-scale public works programs and successfully implemented an urban and rural literacy campaign, which helped dramatically increase the literacy rate. In addition to a nationalization program of industry and land, the new regime's foreign policy placed an emphasis on Somalia's traditional and religious links with the Arab world, eventually joining the Arab League in 1974. Somalia's initial friendship with the Soviet Union and later partnership with the United States enabled it to build the largest army in Africa. However, this ended in a complete collapse in the 1980s when the Somali people became disillusioned with the government. The government was weakened further as the Cold War drew to a close and Somalia's strategic importance was diminished.

As a result, General Barre was ousted, and a civil war started in 1991 following Somaliland's declaration of de facto independence. The civil war saw the breakdown of centralized government and anarchy in regions outside the capital, causing Somalis to leave the country in large numbers to settle in safer parts of the world. The economy, however, improved during the transitional period, as the lack of government led to decreased corruption in some areas.

Following the establishment of a new federal government in 2012, security improved somewhat. Al Shabaab, the Islamist opposition to the regime of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has been pushed out of some cities in the south of the country and reduced to guerrilla warfare. However, spectacular terrorist attacks still occur in Mogadishu and government troops have been accused of committing widespread rapes with impunity, so with the exception of northern regions such as Puntland and Somaliland, Somalia should still be considered a dangerous place and not appropriate for tourism.

Climate [ edit ]

Somalia is principally desert. Major climatic factors are a year-round hot climate, seasonal monsoon winds, and irregular rainfall with recurring droughts. Mean daily maximum temperatures range from 30°C to 40°C (85–105°F), except at higher elevations and along the east coast. Mean daily minimums usually vary from about 15°C to 30°C (60–85°F). The southwest monsoon, a sea breeze, makes the period from about May to October the mildest season at Mogadishu. The December-February period of the northeast monsoon is also relatively mild, although prevailing climatic conditions in Mogadishu are rarely pleasant. The "tangambili" periods that intervene between the two monsoons (October–November and March–May) are hot and humid.

  • Somalia Department of Tourism website

Regions [ edit ]

somalia tourism safe

Cities [ edit ]

Puntland [ edit ].

  • 8.4 48.483333 1 Garowe – dry, windy city, major education hub and the capital of Puntland.
  • 11.283333 49.183333 2 Bosaso

Southern and central Somalia [ edit ]

  • 2.039167 45.341944 3 Mogadishu – A major port city, varied and thriving commerce, the national capital, and generally the preeminent metropolitan city in Somalia.
  • -0.360278 42.548889 4 Kismayo – Gedo Region's most important port city and the second largest city in Somalia proper. Too dangerous for travel.
  • -0.360278 42.548889 5 Galkacyo - An important city in central Somalia.

Khatumo / Maakhir [ edit ]

Somaliland [ edit ].

  • 9.565556 44.060556 8 Hargeisa – the capital of Somaliland and, by Somali standards, a fairly safe place.
  • 10.433333 45 9 Berbera - The safest place for beach getaways in northern Somalia.

Get in [ edit ]

Foreigners and overseas Somalis will need a visa. This can be arranged in three ways:

  • The Somali embassy in your home country can easily arrange it for US$40-50.
  • Visa on arrival: if you have the right documents, you can easily get a visa on arrival; the whole process takes about 40 minutes.
  • The most secure way is to arrange your whole journey through a local luxury hotel, which will arrange everything from visa processing, picking you up from the airport, providing protection, sightseeing, and everything you need.

By plane [ edit ]

somalia tourism safe

Plane travel may be problematic to and from Somalia. However, air may be the safest means of travel to and from the country.

The most reliable way to get in seems to be with African Express Airways, which has connections in Dubai , Nairobi , and other smaller Middle Eastern and East African ports of call. Tickets can be reserved in advance, but not purchased unless you are at their ticketing office – check back in to ensure you have a seat reserved if you will not be in the city you fly out of before your flight!

  • African Express Airways is a Kenyan airline that flies to Berbera , Bossaso , Galkacyo and Mogadishu primarily from Nairobi and Dubai , but also less frequently from smaller locations such as Sharjah , Entebbe or Jeddah . Major routes use MD-82 jets, shorter hops may be on a DC-9 or 120-ER.
  • Jubba Airways is a Somali airline that operates to Mogadishu from Dubai , Bossaso and Jeddah . Flights also may be available to/from: Galkayo, Hargeisa and Sharjah . They use a Soviet-made Ilyushin-18 aircraft. They are the only airline to Somalia that accepts online booking reservations, but confirm with them 7 days in advance before flying.
  • Daallo Airlines , the national carrier of Djibouti. 2–3 services per week from Djibouti also using an Ilyushin-18 aircraft.

Flights arrive at Aden Abdulle International Airport ( MGQ  IATA , formerly Mogadishu International Airport), a few kilometers southwest of the center of Mogadishu. The airport is on the Indian Ocean beach, and the Turkish government has put up funds to renovate the airport and its security, control tower, and navigational systems. Passenger flights are operating.

There are 100 flights every day to and from MGQ airport in Mogadishu as of 2016.

By car [ edit ]

Don't travel to Somalia through driving by car. Though this may be possible if you wish to cross into Somaliland, borders are generally sealed, and always dangerous.

By bus [ edit ]

Armed robbery and killings are common on buses in Somalia including Somaliland. However, it is possible, and relatively safe for you to take a series of buses and shared cars from Ethiopia into Somaliland .

From Jijiga in Ethiopia, ask for the bus to Wajaale. Once there, cross the border (have your Somaliland visa ready to go) and take a shared 4x4 car to Hargeisa .

To leave via the same route, you will need a multiple-entry Ethiopian visa (no longer true as Ethiopian visas can be obtained at the Ethiopian Trade Mission in Hargeisa). These are not issued at the airport and must be received in advance of your journey. Somaliland requires a visa as well (see the "Getting In" section on its page for more details).

From Djibouti , 4x4s leave from Avenue 26 in Djibouti City every afternoon at around 17:00 and drive across the desert through the night to reach Hargeisa around 08:00 the next day.

As noted above, the borders around the rest of the former Somalia are closed and extremely dangerous.

By boat [ edit ]

There are ports in Mogadishu , Berbera , Kismaayo , and Bosaso . The waters outside of Somalia, especially the Gulf of Aden, are unsafe due to pirates; extreme caution is advised.

Get around [ edit ]

Somalia was without an effective government for 17 years; this has had a negative effect on the roads and transit.

Traffic is dangerous in Somalia. There may be landmines in different parts of the country. Roads are in poor condition and dangerous, especially in the Mogadishu and Jowhar regions. The main roads in the north-west from Hargeisa to Borama, Berbera and Sheikh have been resurfaced and demined.

There are two different modes of public transportation that you can use in Somalia: buses and taxis. The common rule of the road that seems to still be in force is that Somalis generally drive on the right. Little ride hailing app works in Somalia.

See [ edit ]

Liido Beach and Gezira Beach near Mogadishu are very beautiful. Families usually go on weekends. Women must swim fully clothed, but resort investors provide a special place for couples, as Somalia is a Muslim country, and does not permit women to show much of their bodies or to mingle with men. Although improvements have been made, caution is advised.

It is not clear as what the situation is now. In other circumstances, the beach would make for an ideal destination; however, the general threat of banditry and piracy along the coast make this, along with every other option in the country, risky, and caution is usually advised.

Visit some of the Dhulbahante garesas built during the era of Darawiish sultan Diiriye Guure, including:

  • Taleh Dhulbahante garesa
  • Las Anod Dhulbahante garesa

Do [ edit ]

somalia tourism safe

In Mogadishu, security guards must accompany foreigners. Do not go alone if you are a foreign tourist.

  • Old Shanghai City
  • Liido Beach, Mogadishu
  • Mogadishu Governor's House
  • Mogadishu Fish Market
  • Gezira Beach
  • Mogadishu Fruit Market
  • Gezira Livestock Market
  • Bakara Market
  • Black Hawk down crash site
  • Liido Marine Life Academy

Talk [ edit ]

The two official languages of Somalia are Somali and Arabic . Many Somalis are multilingual.

Somali is the mother tongue of the Somali people, the nation's most populous ethnic group, and Arabic is a secondary language for most people. Like Arabic, Somali is an Afro-Asiatic language (but not Semitic like Arabic) and it has plenty of loanwords from Persian and Arabic, e.g. albab-ka (door) is from Arabic.

Somali uses the same alphabet as English; however, some letters are pronounced differently. For instance, 'x' is pronounced as "ch" as in "loch", and 'g' is usually pronounced as "g" as in "gargle". Some diphthongs (e.g. "sh") found in English are actually a part of the Somali alphabet.

Any attempts to learn or speak Somali will be warmly received by the locals since very few people make the effort to learn it.

Although it has no official status, English is widely taught in Somali schools and many Somali universities conduct classes in English. You should not have problems getting around using only English.

The use of Italian has diminished drastically since independence. Very few people (apart from the elderly and the well-educated) speak Italian.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

somalia tourism safe

The currency used in Somalia (except Somaliland ) is the Somali shilling ( shilin ), denoted by the symbol Sh.So. , or in Arabic, شلن‎‎. The ISO currency code is SOS . Only the SOS1000 note is used, and doesn't go far... a glass of (unpotable) water will cost SOS1000. Exchange rates are extremely volatile and in March 2017, US$1 on the free market rate would get you Sh.So. 25,000. Much more useful are goods with which you could barter.

Shopping [ edit ]

The Bakaara Market (Somali: Suuqa Bakaaraha ) is a Mogadishu open market and the largest in Somalia. Bakaara Market is in the heart of Mogadishu. The market was created in late 1972 during the reign of Siad Barre. Proprietors sold and still sell daily essentials (including staples such as maize, sorghum, beans, peanuts, sesame, wheat and rice), petrol and medicine. Despite a new Coalition government taking control, Somali markets continue to operate largely in the absence of regulations. A wide array of weaponry is also sold, with guns sometimes being the only thing for sale at some markets. 80% of Somali males own a weapon. Be very cautious, as customers will often test their new weapons by firing into the air. In the markets, an automatic rifle is usually available for purchase for around Sh.So.1,000,000 or USD30. even if you think it is macho, don't buy one. You are a lot more likely to use a weapon if you have it, and this would be seen as very bad in the eyes of the law, and could lead to your execution.

There are many things to buy here but be wary of cheap pearls as they may not be real. There are many good tailors in Somalia and it is a good place to have clothes made to measure and copied.

Eat [ edit ]

somalia tourism safe

Somali meals are meat driven; vegetarianism is relatively rare. Goat, beef, lamb or sometimes chicken is fried in ghee, grilled or broiled. It is spiced with turmeric, coriander, cumin and curry and eaten with basmati rice for lunch, dinner and sometimes breakfast.

Vegetables appear to largely be side dishes, and often are woven into a meat dish, such as combining potatoes, carrots and peas with meat and making a stew. Green peppers, spinach and garlic are among the most commonly eaten vegetables. Bananas, dates, apples, oranges, pears and grapes are among some of the more popular fruits (a raw, sliced banana is often eaten with rice). Somalia has a much larger selection of fruits - like mango and guava - from which they would make fresh juice. Somali stores, therefore, carry among the widest selection of fruit juices in the various cities where Somali emigrants live, both Kern's juices as well as imports from India and Canada. And there is also a selection of instant juice: frozen or available as a powder.

The overriding characteristic of the Somali diet is that it consists of halal foods (Arabic for "allowable" as opposed to haram : "prohibited"). Somalis are Muslims and under Islamic Law (or Shar'1ah), pork and alcohol are not allowed.

Other common foods include a type of homemade bread called canjeero/laxoox (like a large, spongy pancake) and sambusas (like the Indian samosas ), which are deep-fried triangular-shaped pastries filled with meat or vegetables.

The cuisine of Somalia varies from region to region and consists of a mixture of native Somali, Yemeni, Persian, Turkish, Indian and Italian influences. It is the product of Somalia's rich tradition of trade and commerce. Despite the variety, there remains one thing that unites the various regional cuisines: all food is served halal.

Drink [ edit ]

Somalis adore spiced tea. A minority of Somalis drink a tea similar to Turkish tea which they brought from Middle Eastern countries to their homeland. However, the majority drink a traditional and cultural tea known as shah hawaash because it is made of cardamom (in Somali, xawaash or hayle ) and cinnamon bark (in Somali, qoronfil ).

Islam forbids alcohol and Somalia follows this rather strictly. If you do find some, don't show it or drink it in public, as there's a strong chance that you could offend and be fined. Abdalla Nuradin Bar offers alcohol for foreign tourists.

As for the coffee ( kahwa ), try miraa , made in the Somali style. Sometimes spiced with cardamom, it's strong and tastes great, particularly drunk with fresh dates. Tea ( chai ) usually comes with dollops of sugar and perhaps a few mint leaves ( na'ana ).

Sleep [ edit ]

Bosaso and Hargeisa have some Western-level hotels. Hotels are also available in Mogadishu , typically with security as a top priority.

Work [ edit ]

There are not many opportunities to work for foreigners, beyond working for NGOs or similar organizations.

Notably the telecommunications industry has been booming, and it has managed to get foreign investments to come into the country. The telecommunications industry has benefited from its ability to provide services, such as money transfers, that had greatly suffered from the war.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Las Anod and Hargeisa are among the safest cities in what is nominally Somalia. They are quite well-guarded and welcome foreigners more than any other places in Somalia. If you're planning to go to Somalia, it's better to go to Somaliland or perhaps Puntland instead of southern cities. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the easiest method for staying safe in Somalia is not to go in the first place . Kidnappings, armed clashes, piracy, and warlording are not as common in Somalia as before, but do not let that give you peace of mind. In June 2016, at least 15 tourists were killed in a hotel attack in Mogadishu.

somalia tourism safe

A federal government was established in 2012. This government is fighting a military campaign against radical al-Qaeda backed insurgents based in rural areas, with the support of an African Union peacekeeping force. Other entities rule other parts of Somalia, though: Somaliland and Puntland are essentially separate countries, as well as Ximan in the middle and a Kenyan-installed state in the south called "Azania". Pirates may control various coastal towns. Be wary of areas where you see armed men, or from where you hear gunfire or explosions. They might be soldiers, but not always. Somali insurgents also launch mortar attacks onto civilian population centres and government compounds. Somali government forces have also launched artillery attacks against insurgents positioned in urban areas, which have resulted in civilian casualties. Shells could start raining down at any moment, especially if there are any signs of fighting nearby; you will have but seconds to start running or take cover if you hear the tell-tale sound of an incoming shell. See War zone safety .

Also, be wary of violent crime. Although the Somali government has established a police force, it is still developing, and crime rates are still high. Be aware that there are warlords and criminals in Somalia who will try to kidnap a foreigner and hold him or her for ransom. While arranging your trip, it is advisable to request that you be accompanied by hired Somali armed escorts, or bring along bodyguards.

Driving is on the right. While Somali drivers have something of a reputation for bad driving, the reality is slightly more nuanced. Risks are taken, particularly in Mogadishu, which would not normally be taken in other places, but the locals expect this to happen and compensate accordingly.

As of 2014, nine nations had embassies in Mogadishu: Djibouti, Ethiopia, Iran, Italy, Libya, Sudan, Turkey, Uganda, the United Kingdom and Yemen with six more nations planning to re-open their embassies soon. However, there are no embassies in Hargeisa; therefore, in most cases, no representative of your home government will be able to assist you if you get in trouble in Somaliland. The closest consular services for most countries are in neighboring Djibouti, Ethiopia, or Kenya, and further afield in Sudan and Egypt.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Water is mostly contaminated in certain parts of Somalia. Stick to sealed, preferably non-Somali, bottled fluids. Do not drink out of wells. Most are filled with harmful bacteria that most foreigners are unaccustomed to. If you have a guide, they will probably provide you with food and water.

Hargeisa and Mogadishu have hospitals providing basic services, while health services in the rest of the country are mostly very poor.

somalia tourism safe

Respect [ edit ]

Somalis, in general, are humble, hospitable, and welcoming. They consider it shameful to not give a guest a warm welcome, which is why you, as a tourist, will be showered with hospitality, even if you end up making a few blunders here and there.

If you're dining with a Somali, don't expose the bottoms of your feet to them. Don't eat with your left hand either, since the left hand is seen as the 'unclean hand'. Similarly, don't attempt to shake hands or hand a package with your left hand.

If your Somali friend insists on buying you something — a meal or a gift — let them! Somalis are extremely hospitable, and typically there are no strings attached. It is generally a custom to argue for the bill.

Staring is quite common in Somalia; children, men and women are likely to stare at you simply for being a foreigner, especially if you travel off-season and in out-of-the-way places. This is not meant as an insult; it rather shows an interest, and a friendly smile will leave the kids giggling and showing off, and the adults happily trying out their few English phrases.

Homosexuality is absolutely unacceptable. It is common for Somali men to walk hand in hand as a sign of friendship, but it would be unwise for Western men to attempt the same. Sharing a hotel room as a way of cutting costs is normal, but don't even think about asking for one bed for two.

Social etiquette [ edit ]

As is the case throughout Africa , Somalia is a hierarchial society. It is obligatory to show respect to elders as they are traditionally viewed as wiser and more experienced.

It is common for Somalis to ask you personal questions. There's a degree of informality; Somalis often treat everyone they meet as a friend and it is completely normal to ask about someone's lifestyle, their family, and so on.

The terms "brother" and "sister" are often used to address people. They are not considered offensive.

Do not presume that Somalis are "fundamentalists"; it is extremely rude. Levels of conservatism vary across the country.

Home etiquette [ edit ]

The following tips will come in handy when visiting a Somali home:

  • If you've been invited to a Somali home, you may be given snacks, refreshments, or both. Refusing any of these would offend your hosts.
  • It is completely normal to turn up to someone's house unannounced.
  • Utensils are not used when eating. People tend to eat with their right hands. The left hand is considered unclean.

Religion [ edit ]

The dominant religion in Somalia is Islam.

  • Religion is a huge deal to many Somali people. Criticising religion or discussing religion from an agnostic point of view is likely to anger Somalis or be met with total incomprehension.
  • Dogs are considered dirty and unclean in Somalia. Be mindful of this if you have a pet dog.
  • If you're a man, don't shake hands with or touch local women. Put your hand on your heart and bow slightly to greet them.
  • During Ramadan, you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public in the day. Not refraining would be seen as very disrespectful.
  • The Al-Shabab Islamist militia can be found in many inhabited areas. They absolutely do not take kindly to any kind of violation of Sharia law, and as they are not affiliated with any kind of government, they do not have to abide by any kind of laws except their own. They will feel free to punish any aberrant behavior any way they please, often by floggings, amputations, or even executions.
  • The Islamic "call to prayer" happens five times daily and can be heard loudly almost everywhere you go. If you aren't Muslim, it is not expected for you to participate, but you should always sit quietly and respectfully until the prayers end.

Photography [ edit ]

Be mindful of where you point your camera. While there are many great photo opportunities in Somalia, do not take photographs of Somali people without their consent. As is the case in all Muslim-majority countries, Somalis place a huge emphasis on personal privacy. Don't take pictures of women or girls without their consent, even if you're a woman yourself. This is can result in more than a few harsh words.

Don't try to take pictures of anything that looks as if it could be of any strategic importance ( i.e. , anything with a soldier, policeman or, more likely, armed militiaman guarding it).

Dress [ edit ]

It is absolutely acceptable for any person, regardless of their nationality, to wear traditional Somali clothes. Men wear trousers or a flowing skirt locally called, among other words, 'macawi' and shawls. On their heads they may wrap a colourful turban or wear a koofiyad (embroidered cap). Due to its Islamic heritage, many Somalis wear long dresses known in the Arab and Islamic worlds as khameez/thobe. Many men in Somalia choose to wear suits and ties to look more modern. This western dress code is dominant amongst members of the Somali upper class and the government. Women usually wear one of the following dress: Direh , a long, billowing dress worn over petticoats; coantino , a four-yard cloth tied over shoulder and draped around the waist. They also wear an abaya , a long and loose black robe.

Connect [ edit ]

The public telecommunications system was almost completely destroyed during the civil war. Local cellular telephone systems have been established in Mogadishu and in several other population centres. International connections are available from Mogadishu by satellite. International outgoing connections also work from the cellular infrastructure. Somalia has the cheapest cellular calling rates on the continent, with some companies charging less than the equivalent of one US cent per minute. Competing phone companies have agreed on interconnection standards, which were brokered by the United Nations funded Somali Telecom Association.

Wireless service and Internet cafés are available, but do remember that the .so domain is not operating in Somalia right now.

  • GSM Cellular Operators in Somalia
  • Somafone (GPRS 2G network)
  • Nationallink
  • Hormuud Telecom
  • Telsom Mobile
  • Golis Telecom Somalia

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Somalia Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

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Tourism in Somalia is an emerging yet often overlooked sector, offering a blend of historical sites, pristine beaches, and unique cultural experiences. Despite the challenges the country has faced, Somalia boasts a rich heritage with ancient ruins such as the ancient port city of Zeila and the historic town of Mogadishu. The country’s picturesque coastline along the Indian Ocean showcases beautiful beaches and the potential for water-based activities. While security concerns persist, efforts are being made to revitalize and promote tourism, inviting intrepid travelers to explore Somalia’s hidden gems and contribute to its evolving narrative.

What’s the Best Time to Visit? 📅

Determining the best time to visit Somalia as a tourist involves considering factors such as weather conditions and safety. It’s important to note that travel to Somalia comes with significant challenges, including security concerns and a lack of established tourism infrastructure. Travelers should exercise caution and stay informed about the current situation.

That said, if one were to consider weather conditions, the most suitable time to visit Somalia would generally be during the dry season, which typically occurs from November to April. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, with lower chances of rainfall and more comfortable temperatures. This could be particularly advantageous for exploring historical sites, enjoying the coastline, and engaging in outdoor activities.

Before planning any travel to Somalia, it is crucial to stay updated on travel advisories, consult with local authorities, and ensure comprehensive safety measures. Additionally, check the latest information regarding the country’s security situation and travel restrictions. Travelers should consider consulting with official government travel advisories and seeking guidance from experienced travel agencies with expertise in the region.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around? 🚌

Traveling around Somalia as a tourist presents unique challenges due to security concerns and the lack of well-established tourist infrastructure. However, if you find yourself in the country and need to move within certain areas, here are some general considerations:

  • In urban areas, you may find taxis and local buses as means of transportation. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and ensure that the transportation is reputable and safe.
  • For longer distances between major cities, domestic flights may be available. Check with local airlines for schedules and safety considerations.
  • Arrange private transportation with trusted and reputable providers if necessary. This could include hiring a private car or using transportation services recommended by reliable sources.
  • In certain areas, especially those with security concerns, it may be advisable to travel with security escorts or under the guidance of local authorities.
  • Seek guidance from local residents, your accommodations, or local authorities regarding safe transportation options and the current security situation.
  • If possible, avoid traveling at night, as visibility may be limited, and security risks could be higher.

Always prioritize your safety and adhere to any travel advisories or restrictions in place. Due to the challenging security environment, it’s crucial to plan and coordinate your travel carefully, taking into account local advice and guidance. Additionally, stay informed about the latest security updates and be flexible with your plans based on the evolving situation. Traveling with a reputable local guide or a reliable travel agency with experience in the region can provide added safety and assistance.

What’s the Official Language?

The official languages of Somalia are Somali and Arabic. Somali is the most widely spoken language and serves as the official language used in government, education, and daily communication. Arabic is also used in certain contexts, particularly in religious and academic settings.

Here are a few basic Somali phrases that might be useful for tourists:

  • Hello – As-salamu alaykum (السلام عليكم)
  • Goodbye – Ma’a as-salama (مع السلامة)
  • Thank you – Mahadsanid (مهادسنيد)
  • Please – Fadlan (فضلًا)
  • Yes – Haa (ها)
  • No – Maya (مايا)
  • Excuse me / Sorry – Waxaan ka xumahay (واكسان كا خوماهاي)
  • How are you? – Sidee tahay? (سيدي تهاي؟)
  • What is your name? – Maxaa magacaa? (ما هو اسمك؟)
  • My name is… – Magacaygu waa… (مغاكايغو وا…)
  • Good morning – Subax wanaagsan (صباح وناجسان)
  • Good afternoon – Galab wanaagsan (غلاب وناجسان)
  • Good evening – Fiid wanaagsan (فيد وناجسان)
  • Good night – Habeen wanaagsan (هبين وناجسان)

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your travel experience and foster positive interactions with the local population. Keep in mind that English is also understood in certain urban areas and may be used in tourist-related services.

Where to Stay? 🏨

Tourism infrastructure in Somalia is limited, and the security situation is challenging. Travelers considering a visit should exercise extreme caution and stay informed about the current conditions. The availability of accommodations is limited, and choices may vary depending on the specific location. Here are some general considerations:

  • Mogadishu, the capital city, may have a few hotels that cater to international visitors. However, due to security concerns, it’s crucial to choose accommodations carefully, possibly consulting with local authorities or reputable sources for the latest safety information.
  • Hargeisa, in the self-declared republic of Somaliland, may offer a slightly more stable environment. Some hotels and guesthouses may be available, but it’s essential to confirm their status and reliability.
  • Seek guidance from local authorities, trusted contacts, or official travel advisories regarding safe accommodation options. Local advice can be invaluable in making informed choices.
  • Some international organizations and diplomatic missions may have secure compounds with accommodations. These facilities are often reserved for official personnel, but it’s worth exploring whether they offer any arrangements for tourists.
  • Online travel platforms may provide information about available accommodations, but it’s critical to verify the current status and reviews. Keep in mind that the information available online may not always reflect the on-the-ground reality.
  • Check with your embassy or consulate for guidance on safe accommodations and any travel restrictions in place. They can provide valuable insights based on the latest information.
  • Given the fluid situation, it’s advisable to keep travel plans flexible. Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on the evolving security conditions and local advice.

Before considering travel to Somalia, ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the security risks and adhere to any travel advisories or restrictions. Engaging with local authorities and obtaining up-to-date information is crucial for making informed decisions about accommodations and ensuring your safety during your stay.

What to Eat? 🍽️

Somali cuisine reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and nomadic traditions. While tourism infrastructure is limited, if you find yourself in Somalia, here are some traditional dishes you might want to try:

  • A popular dish, hilib ari features marinated and grilled goat meat, often served with rice or flatbread. It is a staple in Somali cuisine and showcases the nomadic influence on food.
  • Sambusas are savory pastries filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or lentils. They are a common snack and are often enjoyed during special occasions.
  • Canjeero is a type of flatbread that resembles Ethiopian injera. Made from fermented batter, it is a staple accompaniment to many Somali meals and is often served with stews.
  • Bariis iskukaris is a flavorful spiced rice dish, often prepared with aromatic spices, vegetables, and meat. It is a festive dish served on special occasions.
  • Muqmad is a traditional Somali dish where meat, often camel or beef, is dried and then rehydrated before cooking. It is typically served with rice or bread.
  • Maraq is a hearty and flavorful soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices. Variations may include goat meat, chicken, or fish, and it is often accompanied by bread or rice.
  • Camel meat is a significant part of Somali cuisine, and hilib geel refers to dishes made with camel meat. It can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled or stewed.
  • Rooti is a type of flatbread commonly consumed with tea, and xalwo is a sweet dessert made from sugar, butter, and sometimes nuts. It is a popular treat during celebrations.
  • Laxoox are Somali pancakes made from a batter of flour, water, and a pinch of salt. They are thin and can be eaten with honey, butter, or stews.
  • Mishkaki consists of marinated and grilled skewers, often made with meat such as beef or chicken. It’s a popular street food and a flavorful option for those who enjoy grilled meats.

Remember that the availability of specific dishes may vary depending on the region and the local resources. Somali cuisine is diverse, and trying these traditional dishes can provide a flavorful introduction to the country’s culinary heritage.

What to See? 🔍

Tourism in Somalia is challenging due to security concerns, and travelers should exercise extreme caution. However, for those who might consider visiting certain areas under stable conditions, here are a few places that showcase Somalia’s rich cultural and historical heritage:

  • The capital city, despite its challenges, has historical sites such as the Arba’a Rukun Mosque and the Mogadishu Cathedral. The Bakara Market provides a glimpse into daily life, and the Liido Beach offers a scenic retreat.
  • Located near Hargeisa in the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, the Laas Geel Caves house some of the world’s oldest known rock art, dating back thousands of years. The vibrant cave paintings depict scenes of daily life and wildlife.
  • A coastal city in Somaliland, Berbera boasts beautiful beaches and historical sites, including the Ottoman-era old town and the Sheikh Yusuf Al Kowneyn’s tomb. The city provides a glimpse into Somalia’s maritime history.
  • In the northern part of Somaliland, Zeila is a historical port city with well-preserved ancient structures such as the Fakr ad-Din Mosque and the Zeila Fort. The city has a rich history as a trading hub.
  • The capital of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, Hargeisa is known for its vibrant markets and cultural sites. The Independence Monument and the War Memorial are prominent landmarks.
  • For those seeking adventure and cultural exploration, the semi-autonomous region of Puntland has unique landscapes and historical sites. Bosaso, the commercial hub, offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime activities.
  • Despite security concerns, Jazeera Beach in Mogadishu was once a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters make it a picturesque spot.
  • Xamar Weyne Market, also known as Black Market, is one of the largest markets in Mogadishu. It provides an insight into local commerce, and visitors can experience the hustle and bustle of daily life.

It is crucial to emphasize that travel to Somalia involves significant risks, and tourists should stay informed about the current security situation and adhere to travel advisories. Additionally, consult with local authorities, travel agencies with experience in the region, and embassies or consulates for the latest information and guidance.

What to Do? 📸

Traveling to Somalia as a tourist presents unique challenges, and the security situation should be a primary consideration. While tourism infrastructure is limited, and traditional tourist activities may not be readily available, here are some general suggestions for those considering a visit:

  • Engage with local communities and immerse yourself in the rich Somali culture. Participate in traditional ceremonies, visit local markets, and interact respectfully with residents.
  • Visit historical sites such as the Laas Geel Caves near Hargeisa, which house ancient rock art, and explore the historical remnants in cities like Mogadishu and Zeila.
  • Sample Somali cuisine, including dishes like hilib ari (grilled goat meat), sambusa (samosa), and bariis iskukaris (spiced rice). Local markets may offer an authentic taste of Somali flavors.
  • If security conditions permit, explore the coastal areas such as Jazeera Beach in Mogadishu or Berbera in Somaliland. Enjoy the scenic beaches and witness the maritime history of the region.
  • Explore local arts and crafts, including traditional Somali textiles, jewelry, and handcrafted items. Support local artisans and learn about the cultural significance of their work.
  • If there are cultural events or festivals taking place, attend and witness traditional dances, music performances, and other cultural celebrations.
  • Somalia has a rich nomadic heritage. If possible, gain insights into nomadic traditions, including herding practices and the importance of livestock in Somali culture.
  • Explore local mosques, which often serve as important cultural and community centers. The architecture and religious practices provide a window into Somali Islamic traditions.
  • If photography is allowed and safe, capture the beauty of landscapes, historical sites, and cultural activities. Always respect local customs regarding photography and seek permission when necessary.
  • If there are community or conservation initiatives in place, consider supporting them. This could involve contributing to local projects or engaging in responsible tourism practices that benefit the community.

It’s crucial to approach travel to Somalia with caution, conduct thorough research, and stay informed about the current security situation. Consult with local authorities, embassies, or reputable travel agencies for guidance. Prioritize safety at all times and be prepared for a unique and potentially challenging travel experience.

Culture and Safety 🦺

Culture in Somalia:

  • Somali culture places a high value on hospitality. Visitors are often warmly welcomed, and it is customary to show respect to hosts and elders.
  • Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Women are advised to cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid walking around shirtless.
  • Greetings are an essential part of Somali culture. Common greetings include “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you) to which the response is “Wa alaykum as-salam” (And upon you be peace).
  • Somali society often has well-defined social hierarchies. Elders are highly respected, and it’s essential to show deference to them.
  • Family plays a central role in Somali culture. The concept of extended family is significant, and familial ties are crucial in social interactions.
  • Somalia is a predominantly Muslim country, and conservative Islamic values influence daily life. It’s essential to be respectful of religious customs and practices.

Safety in Somalia:

  • Somalia has experienced political instability and security challenges. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation, adhere to travel advisories, and exercise extreme caution.
  • Certain areas may have travel restrictions or advisories. Consult with local authorities, your embassy, or reputable travel agencies for the latest information and guidance.
  • In urban areas, be cautious in crowded places, and stay informed about the security situation. Avoid demonstrations or large gatherings.
  • Seek guidance from local authorities and your accommodations regarding safe areas, transportation, and activities. Local insights can be invaluable for navigating the current conditions.
  • Traveling at night may pose additional risks. It’s advisable to plan your activities during daylight hours and avoid unnecessary travel after dark.
  • Regularly check for updates on the security situation. Follow news from reliable sources and be prepared to adjust your plans based on the evolving conditions.
  • Choose accommodations carefully, considering security measures and recommendations from local authorities. Some accommodations may have security features in place.
  • Save emergency contact numbers, including the local police, medical services, and your embassy or consulate. Be prepared with a plan for emergencies.
  • Respect local customs and traditions. Being culturally sensitive can contribute to positive interactions and enhance your safety.
  • Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers potential risks, including medical emergencies and evacuation.

Before considering travel to Somalia, carefully assess the security risks and consult with official travel advisories, local authorities, and experienced travel agencies for guidance. Traveling to Somalia requires thorough preparation and adherence to safety measures at all times.

In conclusion, while Somalia possesses a rich cultural heritage and historical significance, it remains a destination fraught with security challenges. Tourists contemplating a visit must prioritize safety, staying well-informed about the current situation, and adhering to travel advisories. Cultural experiences, warm hospitality, and unique landscapes exist but are intertwined with complex geopolitical realities. Travel to Somalia demands careful consideration, thorough planning, and a commitment to respectful engagement with local communities. Given the dynamic nature of the region, potential visitors should approach the prospect with caution, flexibility, and a deep understanding of the risks involved.

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Is Somalia Safe to Travel in 2024? Must-read Safety Guide

a blue flag on a pole

You’re an intrepid traveler, always looking for the road less traveled. Somalia, a land of stark contrasts, has piqued your interest. But you’re asking the million-dollar question: Is Somalia safe to visit?

Safety is subjective and can vary greatly depending on many factors. It’s important to stay informed and aware. While Somalia has had its share of challenges, it’s also home to a rich history and vibrant culture that’s worth exploring.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the safety concerns, provide up-to-date information, and give you the tools to make an informed decision about your travel plans. Let’s embark on this journey together, and discover what this intriguing destination has to offer.

Is Somalia Safe for Travelers?

a view of a city at night from the top of a building

When considering a trip to Somalia, an important question arises: Is Somalia safe for travelers?

Crime Rates and Statistics in Somalia

The first thing to check – is the national crime statistics. This data offers insight into crimes occurring in a location, such as violent robberies, kidnappings, and other felonies. However, understand that these numbers are often subject to local reporting standards and practices – they may not always reflect the full picture.

Somalia, for instance, has the highest crime index in Africa with 79.65 and safety index of 20.35 according to data from Numbeo. Mogadishu , the country’s capital, is indeed infamous for crime rates.

Don’t let these numbers panic you — they’re not to suggest that every trip to Somalia will be fraught with danger. Rather, they serve to underscore the need for caution and preparation.

Local Laws and Regulations to Consider

Equally crucial is understanding local laws and regulations. In Somalia, codes of conduct can be quite different than what you’re accustomed to in your home country. It’s vital that you brush up on local legislation and social norms.

Some laws in Somalia that can trip up uninformed travelers involve:

  • Dress code : Somali society is predominantly Muslim, so dress modestly to respect local customs and laws. Avoid revealing clothing in public, especially in rural areas and during the holy month of Ramadan.
  • Photography : Be wary about taking photos. It’s illegal to photograph government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure such as airports and bridges.
  • LGBTQ+ rights : Homosexuality is criminalized in Somalia. LGBTQ+ travelers must be fully aware of these laws before deciding to visit.

For a safer journey, it’s highly recommended to stay informed and respect the local customs and regulations. In fact, part of the respect comes from recognizing that different places have their unique practices, and in stepping on foreign soil, you agree to observe and honor these differences.

Acting wisely, being prepared, and staying vigilant can help mitigate risks. However, it’s also crucial to remember that safety experiences can vary vastly from one person to another, so it’s all about doing your due diligence and making decisions that suit your comfort level.

Is Somalia Safe for Families?

smiling boy and girl during daytime

Delving into the specifics of safety issues, one question that frequently arises is whether Somalia is a safe destination for families.

Investigating safety in terms of family visits involves so much more than solely evaluating crime statistics. Factors such as health risks, quality of local amenities, accessibility to emergency services, and the country’s infrastructure, all play integral roles.

Unfortunately, Somalia’s healthcare facilities aren’t up to international standards . Emergency services are limited and, in some areas, non-existent. In an instance of illness or injury, access to medical assistance of approved standards can be extremely challenging.

Apart from healthcare, there can be problems related to accommodation. While there are high-quality accommodations in the capital city of Mogadishu, options tend to diminish as you move away from city centers to more rural areas. Further, it can be challenging to locate amenities that meet Western standards in many parts of the country.

Sad to say, child-friendly attractions are considerably sparse, and infrastructure such as parks, playgrounds, or family-centric activities are also limited in Somalia. This scarcity can pose difficulties when trying to keep youngsters entertained during your stay.

Another critical factor to consider is the dress code. Adhering strictly to this code, especially for women and young girls, is crucial for maintaining the local customs’ respect. It is essential that you inform your family about these customs before your trip.

To recap, while there are no specific laws preventing families from visiting Somalia, a range of practical elements may interfere with a standard family vacation.

Although the prevailing circumstances in Somalia might seem challenging, with sufficient preparation, understanding of the local customs, and properly managing expectations, a visit here can still be an enriching experience. However, the decision to travel rests solely with you . Assess the risks, weigh the pros and cons, and make an educated decision on whether or not a visit to Somalia is right for your family.

Safety Landscape in Somalia

Let’s dive into some specifics now, focusing on the neighborhoods you should avoid and the safest places to visit in Somalia. The country bears a complex landscape with areas of relative safety contrasted by others marked by intense conflict and crime. Understanding this topography is vital to making informed safety decisions while exploring Somalia.

Dangerous Neighborhoods to Avoid in Somalia

Highlighting dangerous neighborhoods in Somalia is not about casting a broad stroke of negativity, but instilling awareness. Avoidance of certain areas can visibly enhance your safety experience in Somalia.

  • The volatile region of Lower Shabelle is infamous for its repeated clashes. Particularly, the outskirts of Mogadishu, Afgooye, and Marka are susceptible to frequent attacks that pose chronic dangers.
  • Bay and Bakool region’s harbor areas are considerably unsafe due to regular conflicts. Baidoa town in these regions witnesses protection incidents pretty often.
  • Areas near the Ethiopian border are reportedly risky, with rampant violent incidents.

Remember, staying clear of these hazardous regions significantly improves your safety prospects while roaming in Somalia.

Safest Places in Somalia to Visit

Contrary to what one might feel, there are safe regions in Somalia, soothing to your safety anxieties. They provide remarkable experiences filled with local culture and history.

  • Hargeisa , despite being unrecognized internationally, is relatively safe, offering a unique insight into Somaliland’s history at the national museum.
  • Despite its historical turmoil, Mogadishu , the capital city of Somalia, is seeping back gradually with parts of the town propelling towards a peaceful environment.
  • Berbera Beach is a serene retreat, brimming with clear waters, untouched sand, and history, accommodating the Ottoman Empire’s aging ruins.

It’s worth noting to monitor the security situation continuously, even in the safer regions, as conditions in Somalia can change rapidly.

Emergency Services and Support in Somalia

blue office rolling chair beside white wooden desk

Traveling to Somalia comes with its unique set of risks. However, having knowledge of where and how to access emergency services and support can make your experience less worrisome.

Healthcare Facilities in Somalia

Critical to understand is that healthcare in Somalia is limited . In rural areas, it often remains difficult to find a healthcare facility that is equipped with an array of medical resources. Despite the existence of hospitals in major cities like Mogadishu and Hargeisa these often lack trained staff, advanced medical equipment, and necessary medical supplies. It’s beneficial to have an understanding of private clinics too as they are often better equipped and their service is more reliable. Remember too to always have your own comprehensive travel insurance that’ll cover any possible medical emergencies.

Availability of Police and Medical Services

The Somali Police Force (SPF) is in charge of ensuring public safety. They’re visible particularly in the capital city, Mogadishu but their effectiveness varies greatly. Due to the country’s complex security challenges, their ability to respond quickly and effectively to incidents is not always guaranteed. When it comes to medical services, ambulances aren’t common and their response time can be slow. Therefore, planning and preparation are key. Engage with local contacts or consular services to understand the best measures to take should you find yourself in an emergency situation.

List of Emergency Phone Numbers in Somalia

Here are a few key numbers you should keep on hand. Save these numbers in your phone and memorize them if possible.

( Please note: Actual emergency numbers can vary depending on the region. )

How to Access Consular Assistance

Most countries have missions or embassies in Somalia that can offer consular help. However, the level of assistance varies between countries and there may be some limitations because of the unpredictable security climate. As a rule of thumb, familiarize yourself with the location of your country’s embassy or nearest consular office. Remember to register your trip with them – it’s an extra layer of safety for you.

Anticipate the specific risks related to travelling in Somalia which include limited healthcare facilities, varying quality of police response, and occasional difficulty in accessing consular assistance. Being thoroughly informed, prepared, and cautious will help maximize your safety. Remember, stay vigilant and keep reviewing your safety plans when in Somalia.

Safety Tips for Nightlife

Since you’re aware of the fluctuating security conditions in Somalia, let’s delve into the specifics of venturing out after dark. Remember, exploration isn’t off-limits, but exercising caution is key.

Venturing out at night can prove risky, primarily due to insufficient street lighting and the prevalence of check-points, often manned by armed groups. So, it’s essential to remain aware of your surroundings and stay within known, secure areas. Mogadishu’s nightlife can be vibrant, reflecting a city striving to regain normalcy amidst chaos.

Talking about places, popular spots like The Village, Jazeera Palace Hotel, and Shabelle — all in Mogadishu — light up at night with locals and tourists alike. These locations can offer eye-opening experiences, but it’s crucial to have a local guide or established contacts before heading out.

Here’s a quick rundown of the basic precautions to keep you safe in Somalia’s nightlife:

  • Make sure you’re with trusted company
  • Keep emergency contacts at hand
  • Abide by the local cultural norms
  • Know the local language or have a translator at hand
  • Don’t flaunt valuables in public
  • Beware of unsolicited attention

Just remember, while your personal safety is paramount, you also need to respect the culture and customs of the land. This includes adhering to appropriate dress codes and refraining from public displays of affection. Somalia is predominantly a Muslim country, and you’re expected to respect its Islamic traditions.

As the sun goes down, make sure to use marked taxis. Using app-based services provides an added layer of safety due to their accountability measure. Also, avoid walking around deserted areas or taking shortcuts through unknown neighborhoods. If you must travel after dark, it’s wiser to use a private vehicle. So, if you have rented one, keep your doors locked and windows rolled up.

Perhaps the most crucial aspect in all of this is having a clear line of communication . Keep your contacts, embassy, or hotel aware of your whereabouts. Never hesitate to call them if you sense danger. Also, always use your phone’s GPS to stay on track, especially during night travel. Enabling the Share My Location feature with trusted contacts will also ensure someone back home can keep tabs on your safety.

Safety Tips for Public Transportation

When traveling in Somalia, your safety hinges heavily upon understanding how to best navigate the complexities of the public transportation system. While it’s true that most journeys take place without incident, it’s wise to know some essential strategies, along with tips to avoid problematic areas.

Keep in mind that Somalia’s public transportation isn’t standardized. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are the prevalent modes available, but their reliability and safety can vary significantly.

Somalia’s bus system, while being a popular method of transportation, does have its inconveniences. Some buses can become overcrowded and make unauthorized stops that may expose you to unexpected threats. Taxis, on the other hand, offer a more flexible and controlled approach to travel. However, only select taxis are marked with identifiable insignias, heightening the need for vigilance.

Consider these tips for a safe and fruitful journey:

  • Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Keep your possessions close and avoid displaying high-value items.
  • Stick to well-lit areas while waiting for public transportation.
  • Before you hop in a taxi, make sure it’s marked. These vehicles adhere to established norms, ensuring a safer experience.
  • Try to travel during daytime hours when visibility is high. Night trips in unrecognized vehicles can be risky.

Next, the aspect of private vehicles – they’re certainly a blessing for those desiring customized travel plans. However, the lack of credible rental agencies and unmarked vehicles might pose security risks.

If opting for a private vehicle:

  • Always establish the reputation of your car rental agency.
  • Keep a local contact informed of your travel itinerary.
  • Avoid driving after dark as road conditions and signage are often inadequate.

The volatile security scenario calls for a robust travel plan. Keep abreast with updates from well-renowned travel advisories such as the U.S. Department of State and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) .

Continual monitoring of the current security climate is crucial. The landscape of safe travel can change within hours, and having timely information ensures you’re better prepared to deal with unexpected developments.

Up next, let’s delve into the safety concerns regarding food and water in Somalia. The aspect of health often takes a backseat when planning a trip. However, understanding the do’s and don’ts of local cuisine is paramount to ensuring your travel remains unhampered.

Local Customs to Stay Safe

While exploring the fascinating cultural landscape of Somalia, there are local customs that you should be aware of. These not just ensure you have a seamless trip but also significantly contribute to your safety.

Somalis pride themselves on their hospitality. So, you’ll often find locals inviting you to share a meal with them. While your insider instinct might tell you to always be on your guard, this is an integral part of the Somalian culture. However, it’s crucial to stay cautious and use your best judgment. Accepting invitations from trustworthy locals can enhance your Somalia experience.

In Somalia, community and family connections carry profound significance. It’s common for people to ask about your family within the initial stages of a conversation. When prompted, it’s respectful to reciprocate the inquiry. Building rapport with Somalis can aid your safety efforts, considering the close-knit nature of communities here.

Somalis like to connect over qat a local herb. But beware! Qat is a stimulant that can have effects similar to amphetamine and might not align with your travel health goals. Use moderation if you decide to partake or, better yet, cordially decline the offer.

The locals’ attire also reflects the conservative Islamic culture. Women usually wear long dresses called dira and headscarves, while men don traditional white tunics. While as a visitor you’re not expected to wear the local attire, dressing conservatively is seen as a sign of respect and can prevent unwanted attention.

Being aware of these local customs can help navigate this culturally rich country safely. Now, you’re equipped to blend in seamlessly with the communities, presenting yourself as a well-informed traveler rather than an easy target.

Next, let’s turn our attention to staying safe while partaking in the vibrant food scene and ensuring access to clean water in Somalia.

Common Tourist Scams and How to Avoid Them

Even in one of the world’s most challenging countries to navigate like Somalia, it’s not just the security situation that tourists should be wary of. Tourist scams can also be an issue, looking to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Awareness is your best ally against these deceptive tactics. Let’s delve into some common scams and how you can pre-empt them.

Fake Cash Exchange is one such scam that operates under the premise of offering higher exchange rates than the bank. They’ll persuade you to make a cash exchange then give you counterfeit or old, unusable notes. To keep yourself safe, only exchange money at banks or authorized money changers. Here’s a quick reference:

Another common sham involves Unlicensed Tour Guides engaging you with attractive sightseeing packages. Often, they will provide a shoddy service, or worse, lead you into more dangerous scenarios. Always do your homework before signing up for tours. Stick with well-reviewed tour companies and keep in mind that no tour is worth compromising your safety.

The Fake Police Officer scam is another potential risk. Impersonators may demand to see your paperwork and insist on immediate fines for fictional offenses. Know your rights and keep the contact of your country’s embassy or consulate handy. Never hand over your passport or pay a fine without proper verification of the officer’s identity.

Overpriced Items at local markets are also a common tourist trap. The prices of goods, especially at markets frequented by tourists, can sometimes be significantly inflated. Always negotiate and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price seems too high.

By learning about these scams, you’re already ahead of the game. Remember the old saying, “if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.” Keep this in mind, stay alert, and you’ll be better equipped to travel safely in Somalia.

Our discussion continues in the next section, where we’ll be tackling safety concerns around food and water in Somalia.

Preparing for a Safe Trip to Somalia

The journey to a safer trip to Somalia starts before you even board the plane. It involves doing your homework, staying informed, and taking necessary precautions.

Traveling Checklist for Somalia

In efforts to ensure safety when visiting Somalia, there are several essential items and practices to keep in mind. This includes:

  • A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
  • Up-to-date vaccinations as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • Essential travel insurance , preferably one that includes coverage for medical evacuation
  • Multiple cash sources, including credit and debit cards , and a small amount of US dollars
  • Emergency contact numbers for your embassy or consulate in Somalia, along with local emergency services
  • Stick to belongings that are not flashy or expensive to avoid drawing attention
  • Local knowledge can go a long way. Do your research, learn some basic Somali phrases , and understand their cultural norms before stepping foot in Somalia.

Weather and Travel Advisories in Somalia

Erratic weather patterns in Somalia can drastically impact traveling. The months of April to June see heavy rainfall, while from July to September, the weather is hot and dry. Always check Somalia’s weather forecast before planning your itinerary to avoid disruptions.

More so, frequently check travel advisories provided by your home country’s foreign affairs department. These advisories provide up-to-date information about potential risks and threats in Somalia. They can be a valuable resource for identifying areas to avoid and precautions to be taken, effectively helping you stay one step ahead in terms of safety.

Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

Solo traveling in Somalia presents its own set of challenges, and attentiveness becomes even more critical. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings. Blend in with the crowd , dress appropriately and respect cultural norms, which helps in not attracting unnecessary attention.

Another tip for solo travelers is to trust your gut instinct . If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Choosing a trustworthy local guide can also improve your safety and understanding of the lay of the land in Somalia.

Remember, a well-prepared traveler stands a better chance against potential risks and hazards. The key is to stay informed, vigilant, and respectful of the local culture and people.

Conclusion: Is Somalia Safe to Travel in 2024?

You’ve learned how to navigate public transportation and avoid tourist scams. You know the importance of staying informed about the security situation and monitoring travel advisories. You’re aware of the precautions needed when using private vehicles and the potential safety concerns regarding food and water.

You’re prepared with a checklist of essential items and practices. You understand the significance of checking weather advisories and have safety tips for solo travel. So, is Somalia safe to visit in 2024? The answer depends on your preparedness, vigilance, and willingness to adhere to safety tips.

Remember, your safety is paramount. So, if you choose to visit Somalia, make sure you’re well-prepared and informed. Stay vigilant, stick to well-lit areas, and avoid traveling at night. With the right approach, you can experience the beauty and culture of Somalia while ensuring your safety.

Q1: What are the safety concerns of using public transportation in Somalia?

Safety concerns of using public transportation in Somalia include staying vigilant, ensuring taxis are marked, and sticking to well-lit areas. It is advised against traveling at night.

Q2: How can one avoid falling victim to common tourist scams in Somalia?

To avoid falling victim to scams, do thorough research on tourist scams in the region and adopt practices to safeguard your interests. Avoid unprotected transactions and exercise caution when too-good-to-be-true offers are presented.

Q3: What should be kept in mind while using private vehicles in Somalia?

It emphasizes researching rental agencies thoroughly and informing a local contact whenever using a private vehicle. It’s also vital to stay aware of the current security situation in Somalia.

Q4: What are some advised preparations for a safe trip to Somalia?

Before heading to Somalia, prepare a checklist of essential items, stay updated with the weather forecasts and latest travel advisories, and have safety measures in place, especially for solo travelers.

Q5: What are the upcoming safety topics related to traveling to Somalia?

The upcoming safety topics for traveling in Somalia include safety concerns regarding food and water consumption, highlighting essential preparations for a safe trip to Somalia.

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Africa.com

Somalia Travel Guide

Travel & tourism.

Even though strife with political upheaval, the tourism industry in the Somaliland region of Somalia has been blossoming. Somaliland has recently been attracting an influx of tourists, signifying a change in the global perception of the region.

Since gaining its independence after the merging of two territories in 1960, the republic of Somalia has undergone many hardships. Challenged by civil war and the absence of a trustworthy centralized government, the people of Somalia have had to rely on their own steadfastness to move forward and leave the country’s troubled past behind.

While Somalia struggles, one territory in the country has been able to achieve something that had been deemed nearly impossible. In Somaliland, a region in the northwestern corner of the country, peaceful, fair, and organized national elections have taken place since 2003. Since Somaliland is not recognized as being independent from Somalia, as it wishes, the territory is setting an example not only for Somalia but also the rest of the continent to follow.

What to Do in Somalia

1. Laas Gaal Cave Paintings:  A French archaeological team discovered these ancient artifacts in 2002. In order to preserve the cave, there’s currently a restriction on the number of tourists allowed to visit the site at a time.

2. Sheikh:  This historic town is home to many British colonial buildings, untouched for some 40 years.

3. Zeila:  Formerly a part of the Ottoman Empire, Zeila was also a dependency of Yemen and Egypt, as it served as a major trading city in the 19th century. There one can view old colonial landmarks, coral reefs, towering cliffs, and beaches.

4. Freedom Arch of Hargeisa:  The arch and the war memorial in this city’s center are worth visiting. Both sites offer commentary on Somalia’s remarkable progress.

5. Naasa Hablood Hills:  Located on the outskirts of Hargeisa, these twin hills are considered by native Somalilanders a majestic natural landmark.

6. Kismayo National Park: One of the most popular parks is Kismayu National Park in the southwest region. Kismayu is one of the only parks which is home to many animals that are native to the East African region, like the Somali sheep and the Somali wild ass.

7. Berbera Seaside: The Berbera Seaside area boasts gorgeous beaches which are not yet spoiled by tourism and overdevelopment, the bluest waters, and the softest sands. This region is not only easy on the eyes, but is perfect for water sports, including scuba diving, fishing, snorkeling, and surfing.

8. National Museum of Somalia: The museum holds many culturally significant artifacts, including ancient weaponry, traditional artwork, coins and bartering tools, and items of pottery. Interestingly, the building in which the museum is housed is an historical artifact.

9. Shanghai Old City: Located in the heart of Mogadishu, Shanghai Old City is one of the most popular landmarks in the city and is best known for its interesting and unique Chinese architecture.

10. Sa’ad ad-Din Island: Having only recently become one of the country’s rare national parks, this one’s got everything from sparkling coral reefs to bays of turquoise water, ivory-coloured beaches to craggy peaks of sandstone rock. You can expect to see kaleidoscopic schools of fish under the water, where the exotic creatures of the Red Sea mix with the larger animals of the Indian Ocean to create a real show of marine life.

Getting In and Around

Visas:  All who wish to visit the country require a visa.

Transportation:  Very few major airlines from the U.S. or the U.K. fly directly to Somalia. Traveling through the Middle East is the best way to get to Somalia.

Safety and Security

Concerned about your safety as you plan travel to Somalia? We at Africa.com, together with our friends, family and colleagues, travel extensively throughout the continent. Here are the resources we consult when thinking of our safety in Somalia:

•  UK Government Somalia Travel Advice Guidance

Africa.com comment: Very timely and frequently updated. Perspective assumes that you ARE going to travel to Somalia, and seeks to give you good guidance so that you understand the risks and are well informed.

• U.S. State Department Travel Advisory on Somalia

Africa.com comment: Can sometimes be considered as overly conservative and discourage travel altogether to destinations that many reasonable people find acceptably secure. On the other hand, they have the resources of the CIA to inform them, so they know things that the rest of us don’t know. See what they have to say about Somalia.

Local Advice

1. Be sure to pay very close attention to local customs and rules. If you’re able to travel with a well-versed guide or handler, we’d suggest that you do so.

2. Dress appropriately, conservatively, and light, as the country can get extremely hot.

3. If there are curfews where you are staying, adhere to them and stay clear of areas where tourists are discouraged.

4. Be safe, but allow yourself to have fun.

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Is Somalia Safe to Visit? Somalia Safety Travel Tips

Modified: Jun 17, 2022 by BasicPlanet · This post may contain affiliate links ·

Also known as the Horn of Africa , Somalia is a country with a very troubled past. Over the years, border disputes, civil war, military coups, and warlordism were things that characterized it. At the moment, the coalition government that rules Somalia is on a military campaign against the factions that refused to merge with it. These factions are backed by al-Qaeda.

On the other hand, looking into what Somalia has to offer, it has the longest coastline of the African continent – and, therefore, has many beaches. The country is mainly a desert, in terms of climate. It is also characterized by some major and diverse climatic factors, such as seasonal monsoon winds, generally hot climate, irregular rainfall, and recurring droughts.

The country is split into four regions , out of which only one has some areas that can be visited by tourists. Southern Somalia is where the capital, Mogadishu, can be found, and it is also the place where most of the disputes are taking place.

Somaliland is the true independent northern region and has a functioning government, as well as a tourist sector, being the region we mentioned earlier as having the capability to host tourists.

However, with all of Somalia’s unrest, you might wonder if is Somalia safe to visit – and we are here to answer all of your questions!

Highest Risks You Expose Yourself to When Visiting Somalia

somalia tourism safe

Overall Risks in Somalia : VERY HIGH

At the moment, all of Somalia is advised against all travel. Two exceptions are Berbera and Hargeysa, which can be found in the Somaliland region – however, it is recommended that only essential travel is made here.

We don’t even have to mention petty crime, as the level of serious crime itself is pretty high. Moreover, terrorist groups such as Al Shahaab make the law in many parts of Somalia – and they are above any jurisdiction or law. The Gulf of Aden has such a high threat of piracy, that the authorities have advised ships to stay out of the areas of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean that surround the country.

The risk has increased as on the 14 th of October, a truck bomb made out of homemade and military-grade explosives exploded in Mogadishu, killing at least 300 people and injuring 100 others. It reportedly targeted the foreign ministry of Somalia and has destroyed the Safari Hotel and damaged the premises of the Qatar Embassy.

Pickpocketing and Theft Risks in Somalia : HIGH

somalia tourism safe

The reason Pickpocketing and Theft Risk is not marked as having a very high threat on our Somalia safety guide is that it is more likely that you would end up caught in something more serious than just a robbery if you are approached by strangers.

  • How to avoid pickpocketing and theft in Somalia?

If you do decide to travel to Somalia, it is recommended that you take all of the required precautions before leaving your hotel. This means that you should not come into notice/ attract attention, by any means – no extravagant clothing, no display of gadgets, technology, money, or jewelry.

Moreover, make sure that you do not travel into any remote areas and remain in those that are meant for tourists. You should keep an eye on your surroundings at all times and be alert to any suspicious movements, as well.

In case something unfortunate happens, remember that the aggressors might be armed and dangerous, so it is better that you do not put up a fight.

Scam Risk in Somalia : MEDIUM

In a country that’s so devastated by terrorist conflicts and not only, scams are pretty much worthless – as people will just try to take something they want from you, instead of trying to scam you.

Nevertheless, you should get informed and prepared for any type of scam there’s out there. You can never be too safe when visiting Somalia.

  • How to avoid getting scammed in Somalia?

As a rule of thumb, it is recommended that you avoid any contact with locals/ strangers - it's true, they would rather just rob instead of scam you, but a simple scam attempt can result in something more serious if the aggressor gets angry. Let's say you encounter some of the pacifists, so to say, criminals of Somalia - they'll ask for fees or such, try to scam you and what not and, if they don't get what they want, they will most likely assault and rob you.

You should not be traveling alone, especially in remote and highly-populated areas of the country.

Kidnapping Risk in Somalia : VERY HIGH

somalia tourism safe

As you already know, terrorists will most likely take prisoners if they have the chance to do so. Moreover, the terrorist groups that pretty much control Somalia have made it clear that westerners or people that work in Western organizations won’t have an easy time in this country.

Most of the people that are being kidnapped in this country are not locals, but foreigners, which is why the kidnapping risk here is extremely high. The risk stays as high even in the Somaliland region of the country – meaning that no place is safe for a tourist.

  • How to getting kidnapped Somalia?

We have to mention that most western nations are not to make any substantive negotiations with terrorists or hostage-takers – therefore, it is in your interest that you take all the required precautions.

One of our Somalia safety travel tips recommends that you do not leave your accommodation alone – when you want to do so, it is better if you are with someone else, a guard if possible.

Moreover, you should definitely avoid large crowds or demonstrations, especially if these are taking place near official buildings or such, as those are likely to be targeted by terrorists.

Terrorism Risk : VERY HIGH

somalia tourism safe

Terrorists rule over almost the entire Somalia. This means that they can set up attacks in all sorts of places, including high-profile events, crowded places, official buildings, events that have government officials as guests, and even places that are usually visited by foreigners, such as restaurants and hotels.

Reportedly , multiple terrorist groups, including Al Shabaab, carry out attacks targeting Mogadishu and its surrounding areas on a daily basis. Therefore, our Somalia safety guide is now telling you that there are little to no chances for you to see the capital of the country.

  • How to avoid terrorism in Somalia?

Terrorists use various means of attack, such as explosions, car bombings, armed assaults, suicide bombings, mortar attacks, and many more. These are usually set up in places that are likely to get crowded – therefore, places you should avoid.

Also, keep an eye out for any suspicious activity, and if you see anything that doesn’t seem right to you, it is better that you flee the area and return to your accommodation. As always, keep calm and think straight in such situations.

Risks for Women Traveling Alone in Somalia : VERY HIGH

somalia tourism safe

Well, so far, you’ve got an answer to how safe is Somalia for tourists – and the answer was a clear no. Therefore, if you are a woman traveler and consider making a trip to this country, then you should either change your mind or come prepared accordingly.

You can’t just ask yourself if is Somalia safe for solo women travelers anymore – even large groups of tourists can’t be sure that they’ll come out of this country unscathed.

The increased crime and rape rate make out of this country a big no-no even for some of the most courageous world explorers , so to call them. Add to that the continuously increasing terrorist threat and you get a country you want to visit only if you really have to.

Definitely, Somalia is not recommended if you are a solo woman traveler.

  • How to avoid crime as a solo woman traveler in Somalia?

Somalia is not meant for solo traveling - it doesn't matter if you are male or female, you should not be traveling alone throughout this country. However, if you do want to travel alone, we recommend you employ a travel guide or a personal security guard in order to avoid having any kind of issues. Even if you are an experienced traveler and such, traveling all alone is advised against by most governments - you could try and group up with other tourists or such if you want to avoid being approached, harassed, or assaulted.

Rape Risk in Somalia : HIGH

somalia tourism safe

How safe is Somalia for tourists ? Well, clearly so far, the answer is no – mainly due to the heightened terrorist threat in the country. Most of the locals may be peaceful, but all of the terrorist groups have made a habit of relying on sexual violence.

  • How to avoid getting raped in Somalia?

This is why you should never travel alone and go into any remote areas. It is recommended that you do not go out of any region that’s deemed safe, even if you really want to explore more.

Keeping yourself safe is paramount and you can do so by staying as close to your accommodation or guard as possible.

Risks for People Traveling With Children in Somalia : VERY HIGH

somalia tourism safe

Even if you have a person in charge of the children in your group, things can go downhill very fast. For example, let’s say that you want to cross the desert into Somaliland.

First of all, the road conditions are very bad, as Somalia is mostly a desert – you will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you want to be able to cross it. Moreover, the borders of different countries and even regions of Somalia are usually sealed and very dangerous.

Bandits can be found on the isolated roads of this country – they are usually connected to terrorist organizations – and they will try to chase you down and rob you.

  • How to avoid unwanted scenarios?

If you want to travel safely through Somalia while having your children by your side, it is recommended that you take the necessary safety measures - still, we strongly advise you to not bring your children with you to this country, unless its situation dramatically changes by the time of your trip.

In terms of safety measures, you should be able to keep an eye on your children at all times. Moreover, equip them with a sound alarm as well as with a GPS tracking device, to make sure that, in case something goes wrong, you know exactly where they are. However, if you abide by the first safety trip - keeping an eye on them -, they should be out of trouble.

Obviously, traveling with children is not recommended for solo travelers. You should be part of a group of experienced travelers or of one that's under the protection of a security team.

This is why our Somalia safety guide urges you not to stray away from any of the main cities you might be accommodated in, especially if you are traveling with children – they will get scared and panic easily if something unfortunate happens.

Natural Disaster Risks in Somalia : HIGH

somalia tourism safe

When it comes to natural disasters, Somalia is usually ravaged by drought, with a frequency of 14.6%, flood (4.2%), storm (4.2%), earthquake , extreme temperatures, and wildfire. Out of these, drought has the highest mortality rate, at 86.3%, followed by floods with only 11.3%

Given that Somalia is mostly a desert, drought is bound to occur. You should check the news and weather reports every time before leaving your accommodation, to make sure that you are prepared accordingly for what’s waiting for you outside.

Also, bottled water is always a great addition to your backpack, as you might face pretty high temperatures while traveling through this country.

Transportation Risks in Somalia: HIGH

Before traveling to Somalia, keep in mind the fact that all foreign officials living in this country live in guarded accommodations and, in case they have to travel, they are accompanied by close protection teams. In this respect, you should take the same safety measures when traveling through Somalia - avoid vehicles for hire or for rent, or public transportation if you manage to find any.

Moreover, due to the overpopulated refugee camps and their food insecurity, Somalia comes with a great risk of diseases, crime over food security - all of these combined mean an increased risk to the tourists'/ foreigners' safety.

You should avoid traveling too far away from your accommodation - if you plan to do so, consult yourself with the authorities and make sure that everyone in your group understands the risks that come with a long trip. If in doubt, it is better to enjoy the local view and not venture too far away from the city you will be accommodated in.

Night-Clubs, Pubs, and Bar Risks in Somalia: HIGH

somalia tourism safe

You will most probably not find any nightclub, pub, or bad that you'd wish to spend your time in - criminals are almost everywhere and assaults happen every single day. It is strongly advised that you avoid any of the aforementioned facilities. If you want to party a bit with your group of friends/ fellow travelers, it is better to do so within your accommodation.

Other than that, you should stay away from any kind of facilities that serve alcohol - drinks may be spiked in order to facilitate robberies and violent acts and there are also chances that you encounter armed individuals in bars or pubs. When it comes to Somalia, it all boils down to seeing the scenery this country has to offer - you should not have late-night parties, drinking, or other dangerous activities in mind.

Health Risks in Somalia

Medical facilities throughout Somalia are either extremely limited or nonexistent - a couple of basic hospital facilities can be found in Hargeisa though. It is recommended that you avoid engaging in any dangerous activities and that you have a first-aid kit with you at all times, as you can not rely on receiving medical assistance, especially if you are in a remote area.

Naturally, it is advised that you travel with proper travel health insurance and with enough money to cover the costs of any medicine or treatment that you might be subject to, including evacuation by air ambulance and repatriation.

In terms of health risks, there have been some confirmed cases of Acute Watery Diarrheal Syndrome in Somalia's Lower Shebelle Region and of Cholera in the Banaadir region. You should take the required safety measures in order to prevent contracting the aforementioned diseases.

It is strongly advised that you visit your doctor and check the country-specific health advice at least 8 weeks before your trip to Somalia.

List of Vaccines You Need in Somalia

somalia tourism safe

Next, on our Somalia safety travel tips list we have all the vaccines, immunizations, and precautions that you have to take in order to ensure your good health.

  • Routine Vaccines (MMR, polio, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis)
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Yellow Fever

Most Dangerous Areas in Somalia

  • Gulf of Aden

Concluding Remarks: Is Somalia Safe to Visit?

As we’ve mentioned at the beginning of our article, Somalia is a very troubled country. Of course, it has its hidden beauties, but they are hard to see behind the terrorist threat and the overall condition this country has.

For the moment, you don’t have to ask yourself if is Somalia safe to visit , hoping that you may still enjoy it – as you will have to be on your toes and in danger at all times. Therefore, it is recommended that you postpone this journey until Somalia’s situation improves, drastically.

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Magma eruption

Ancient rock art at Laas Geelcave complex.

Eric Lafforgue

A few decades ago Somalia was a magnet for travellers and, with a bit of luck and a following wind, it could be again. But right now the country is still unsafe for foreigners, with its people, places and infrastructure still recovering from over 25 years of brutal civil war. The situation is not insurmountable. There are increasing signs of hope and Mogadishu, the capital, is experiencing an urban boom thanks to massive investments from returning Somalis. And amid chaos, there is a success story: the self-proclaimed nation of Somaliland, north of the country, which has managed to retain something close to peace and stability. If Somalia does open up for travel, visitors will again be able to experience its fascinating culture and enjoy its natural attractions, bask on pristine beaches and trek across arid mountains.

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Tips and how to travel to Somaliland in 2024

By Joan Torres 39 Comments Last updated on January 4, 2024

Somaliland travel

Everybody knows about Somalia, but not many know about Somaliland, a territory within Somali boundaries that declared self-independence in 1991 but, since nobody in the international community recognized it as such, it became one of those self-administered ghost countries.

Legally, it belongs to Somalia but, from a tourism point of view, traveling to Somalia is like visiting a new country, a very intriguing and weird one.

Camel markets, medieval mosques and ancient rock art painted by some of the oldest pastoralist societies, Somaliland is a truly off the beaten path – and very safe – destination which you can’t miss in your trip to the Horn of Africa .

I spent 10 days backpacking in Somaliland and this guide contains tips and everything you need to know to travel there , from visa tips to top experiences, approximate budget and more.

This is the most up-to-date Somaliland travel blog available on the internet but also, don’t forget to read my tips for traveling to Eritrea

travel to Somaliland

In this travel guide to Somaliland you will find:

Table of Contents

  • COVID-19 travel restrictions
  • Travel insurance
  • Top experiences
  • Somalia & Somaliland
  • Somali people
  • Solo female travel
  • Police escorts
  • Currency and credit cards
  • Moving around
  • Accommodation
  • Books about Somaliland
  • More Information

😷 COVID-19 travel restrictions for Somaliland

Travelers visiting Somaliland are required to have either a vaccine certificate or negative PCR test (72 hours).

Travel Insurance for Somaliland with COVID-19 coverage

IATI Insurance  is one of the few providers that offers full Coronavirus coverage, not only when it comes to treatment, but also cancellations costs in case you tested positive before departure.

Moreover, IATI is one of the few insurance providers that gives coverage for traveling to Somaliland.

Readers of Against the Compass can get an exclusive 5% discount .

🪪 How to get a visa for Somaliland

The first thing you need to know is that, despite being legally bound to Somalia, Somaliland acts like an independent country, so different immigration rules apply, similar to what happens with Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan (read my travel guide to Iraqi Kurdistan ).

This means that a valid tourist visa for Somaliland doesn’t allow you to travel to Somalia, and a valid visa for Somalia doesn’t allow you to travel to Somaliland.

Therefore, in order to get your visa, you can’t apply at a Somalia Embassy, but you need to find a specific Somaliland Mission .

However, since Somaliland isn’t an official country, this makes things particularly challenging, as they don’t have more than a few missions around the world.

somaliland missiom djibouti

How to get a visa for Somaliland via the mission

If you are entering Somaliland overland from either Ethiopia or Djibouti, you must arrange your visa in advance.

Getting a Somaliland visa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Most travelers travel to Somaliland as part of a multi-country trip around the Horn of Africa , so getting a visa at the Embassy in Addis Ababa seems to be the most common choice.

According to travelers, these are the requirements:

  • It costs $100, and they only accept USD
  • 2 passport photos, 1 passport copy
  • You get it on the same day

Here you can find more information about the process .

Getting a Somaliland visa in Djibouti City, Djibouti

This is where I got mine. Very easy and cheaper than in Addis.

Since Djibouti is rather a small city, getting to the Mission was fairly quick and these were the requirements:

  • It cost $60, paid in local currency
  • 2 passport photos, 1 passport copy, 1 Djibouti visa copy
  • You are supposed to pick it up after 24 hours, but some travel reports suggest that you can also pick it up on the same day.

Getting a Somaliland visa in another country

If you aren’t traveling in the Horn of Africa, you may as well get the visa in your home country or any other where you find a Somaliland Mission.

Here you can see an updated list of Somaliland representative offices but I am not sure if you can get a visa in all of them, you will have to figure it out by yourself.

As far as I know, however, anyone can apply at the Missions in London and Washington D.C and, apparently, getting one in London costs £30.

Somaliland Visa on Arrival

If you are flying in, you can also get a VOA and since 2022, you don’t need to pre-arrange it with a hotel in Hargeisa, but you just pay the respective fee at the immigration area.

Note that only citizens of the EU, UK, USA, Canada, China, and a few other Asian countries can apply for a VOA.

A VOA costs $60, plus potential hotel fees.

visa for Somaliland

🛫 How to get to Somaliland

Tips on how to travel to somaliland by air.

Hargeisa has an International Airport with flights from Addis Ababa, Djibouti, and even Dubai and Jeddah.

I recommend you check on Ethiopian Airlines, Daallo Airlines, Fly Dubai and Air Djibouti.

You can also check directly on Skyscanner.

Tips on how to travel to Somaliland by land

  • How to travel to Somaliland from Djibouti – I used this option and it was easy. In Djibouti City, there is a departure point for 4×4’s heading to Somaliland and I am specifying 4×4 because, once you cross the border there are no roads until Borama – almost 300km after – but just desert and sand. It was quite an adventure.
  • How to travel to Somaliland from Ethiopia – Very easy. I used it to get out of Somaliland. The closest, most famous city is Harar, but you may not find direct transportation to the border; but you should first go to Jijiga, the capital of Ethiopian Somalia.
  • How to travel to Somaliland from Oman – That’s right. You can enter Somaliland via Berbera from Salalah (Oman) by boat, and it’s completely legal and doable. I actually met a tourist couple who did it, on a cargo ship, but they had to wait in Salalah for almost 3 weeks for the ship to depart. Read my Oman travel guide .
  • How to travel to Somaliland from Somalia – This border is closed to foreigners.

how to travel from Dijibouti to Somaliland

⛅ Best time to visit Somaliland

I don’t know how well you handle the heat, but I can’t and, as you may imagine, Somaliland can get pretty hot in summer, especially the coastal part, with temperatures averaging 45ºC.

Hargeisa sits at an elevation of 1300m, so the weather might be slightly cooler there, but still, summer isn’t a great time to go. 

Therefore, the best time to visit Somaliland is from November until March .

I visited it at the end of January and the weather was great, especially in Hargeisa, where the temperature never reached above 25ºC, and we even had some rain one day.

🚑 Travel insurance for Somaliland

Since any government will consider it a conflict zone most travel insurance companies won’t cover you for this trip.

The only one which does, however is IATI Insurance and I recommend it because:

  • Budget travel insurance that covers Somalia + COVID-19
  • Valid for any type of trip and nationality.
  • All types of plans: from families to backpackers
  • Covers senior citizens too
  • Readers of this blog can get an exclusive 5% discount.

🛖 5 Top experiences in Somaliland

Getting high on khat.

Khat is a drug, literally, a plant with amphetaminic effects typically consumed in the Horn of Africa and Yemen , and extremely popular across all Somalia.

If you are traveling in Somaliland, you must spend at least one afternoon eating khat with locals.

If you get to taste good quality stuff, it can be quite an experience.

Read my post: Fear & loathing in Somaliland

can you vi Somaliland

Feeding gazelles

What was the highlight of your trip to Somaliland? Some people asked me.

Difficult to say, my trip was great overall, but what surprised me the most was going for breakfast to a random café in Berbera and suddenly being surrounded by gazelles.

I won’t enter into the ethical issue of having wild animals in your garden, but several cafés have gazelles roaming around freely in their garden and, if you get some leaves from a tree, they won’t hesitate to approach you.

somalia tourism safe

Visiting livestock markets

Somaliland is a very traditional country where livestock markets abound, and I strongly recommend you visit the one in Hargeisa, which takes place every single day.

visit Somaliland

Meeting Somalis

Backpacking in Somaliland is one of those trips where, honestly, there isn’t much to do, but the highlight is meeting new people.

Expect loads of smiles, people asking you for photos and endless chewing-khat invitations, like this funny Somali dancing:

Checking epic rock art sites

The only proper touristic thing as such to do is checking out a few caves containing some 5,000-old rock art paintings which apparently, are some of the most impressive and well-preserved of this particular kind in Africa, and ONE of the highlights of my visit to Somaliland.

Somaliland travel blog

Differences between Somaliland and Somalia

I believe the story between Somaliland and Somalia is a complicated situation that goes beyond my understanding, but let me just give you my 5 cents.

During colonialism, today’s Somalia was split into 2 different regions: the western part was under British rule, while the eastern part was under Italian rule.

Check this map from Wikipedia :

somalia tourism safe

Like happened with most colonies, at the end of the colonial times, the British and the UN drew the borders as they pleased, this way unifying the 2 Somalias into a single one.

Here you can check more unrecognized countries I visited

Therefore, Somaliland has always had a feeling of being an independent nation, and, for many reasons, mainly conflicts and political problems, in 1991, Somaliland decided to self-declare independence from Somalia.

However, as I highlighted in the introduction, nobody recognized it as such, and, when I say nobody, I mean nobody, not even its former colonizer (the UK), the Olympic committee, FIFA or the World Bank.

Somaliland is on its own, abandoned and, even though they have full right to become independent, they never will, as this decision has been delegated to the African Union and they don’t want to recognize them because this could lead a massive African revolution, as hundreds of minorities across the continent might claim the same thing.

Yet, do you know what is the main difference versus Somalia? While Somalia is an authoritarian regime immersed in a Civil War and, basically, a failed state, Somaliland is a peaceful, safe democracy and this is why, despite all the internal problems, especially economical, Somalilanders will never regret gaining their independence.

how to visit Somaliland

People in Somaliland

Get travel insurance for Somaliland IATI is one of the very few that covers travel in Somaliland 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Somaliland is mostly composed of Somalis, a massive ethnic group spread across Djibouti, Eastern Ethiopia, northern Kenya, and of course, Somalia.

Somalia is the most homogenous African country, ethnically speaking.

how to travel to Somaliland

It is a very patriarchal society – very conservative Muslim – where I believe women have very few rights, and I don’t recall seeing a single woman not wearing a hijab, in the areas I visited at least.

Other than that, Somalis are nice, warm and welcoming people but, of course, this is an extremely poor country and sometimes you do meet people who, at first, seem as if they just want to have a conversation, but then they ask for money.

This is something I have noticed a lot in Africa. While in Asian Muslim countries, such as Iran or Pakistan , people are always willing to offer their help for free, some people I when backpacking in Somaliland (not all, of course) then asked for a tip.

You also need to be careful with your camera, and always ask first, because many Somalis don’t like cameras, and they can get very angry, even if you take a shot from far away, and I am talking from my own experience.

In any case, most interactions and experiences with the local people are truly great.

Chewing khat Eating khat is kind of a lifestyle in Somaliland. All men eat it and basically, life in the country stops after lunchtime until the evening. Regardless of all the social issues khat has brought to the Somali society, it’s an interesting event to see and experience. Khat gets you high (if you get good-quality leaves, which cost from $10) but you need to chew it (and swallow) for a couple of hours at least, washing it down with soda or any sweet drink because khat is extremely bitter.

somalia tourism safe

All Somalis speak Somali a Cushitic language , the family of many languages spoken in northeastern Africa.

It’s difficult to describe what it sounds like, but what I can tell you is that they use some Arabic words, as Arabs have been trading in this region for centuries and in fact, Arabic is widely taught in schools.

For their script, they use the Latin Alphabet.

Do they speak English?

Since this used to be a British colony, you meet many Somalilanders speaking impeccable English and most people will know some basic words.

In fact, they use many English words in their language, like numbers for example.

The language shouldn’t be a barrier when traveling in Somaliland.

🍲 Cuisine: what are you going to eat when visiting Somaliland?

Fact: nobody ever visits Somaliland for the food.

Actually, this is one of the worst countries I have been to when it comes to food.

All right, it’s not that bad, but it’s just boring, basic, and there’s nothing memorable to bring back home, except for some fresh fish I had in Berbera. That was good.

Their star dish, which they eat throughout the day is a lentil stew called ”penis”, and literally pronounced like ”penis”, no kidding.

When you walk in a café, you just say you want a ”penis” and they will bring you these lentils.

Other than that, pasta with tomato sauce is also the staple but, as you may imagine, it is not good pasta.

They always eat with their hand, even a dish of spaghetti with tomato sauce.

Alcohol is illegal in Somaliland It is only available on the black market but some locals do make their own at home and you are likely to see some drunk people at night. I arrived in the city of Boroma at 3am and, while looking for a hotel, there was this creepy local who approached me holding a plastic bottle with some weird matt white liquid in it. He was massively wasted, drooling, and trying to hug me or something, but it was very easy to push him away. After a few days, a young, well-educated local told me that home-made alcohol is a big deal in Somaliland, but most of it is just so strong and basically, very dangerous, so seeing people fucked up like that guy from Boroma is very normal.

Somaliland cuisine

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Somaliland?

In short: Somaliland is safe but Somalia is not.

All the negative things you see in the media about Somalia referring to pirates, bombs, or Al Shabab, happen in Somalia mainland.

There have been some terrorist attacks in Somaliland, yes, but the last one was back in 2008 , a long time ago and, since then, nothing has happened so far, plus the country enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in the world.

Can it happen again or, could there be potential kidnappings?

Look, I am no expert, and the FCO advice claims that the whole country is a massive NO-GO, but you already know that their judgment is very biased and all I can tell you is that so far, all travelers have had a great time traveling in Somaliland.

Just apply common sense and travel safe!

Check this video from this very isolated, hence very safe place in Somaliland:

💃 Solo female travel in Somaliland

I have only talked to one lady about her trip to Somaliland and all she told me was that she had a great time there, with no further details, but she was a woman with a large traveling experience in traditional Muslim countries, and I believe the experience in Somaliland as a solo woman shouldn’t differ much from the one in Sudan or Pakistan .

If you are a woman who traveled to Somaliland (solo or accompanied) let me know if you’d like to write a guest post for Against the Compass or just send your experience to [email protected].

somali women

Do you need a police escort for traveling independently in Somaliland?

Before traveling to Somaliland, I heard that in some areas, basically anywhere outside Hargeisa, a police escort was mandatory, and they would assign you one upon your arrival in that destination.

This wasn’t my case (and I visited many places and went through a lot of checkpoints).

In the beginning, I thought that might have been an old rule which didn’t apply anymore but I heard there was a solo female traveler who visited Somaliland just a few weeks before me and the police did assign her an escort.

This means that it might just depend on the policeman’s mood and perception and, since Somalis are an extremely patriarchal society, you might have a higher chance of getting a police escort if you are a solo female traveler.

In any case, your experience regarding this topic is very welcome in the comments section 🙂

somalia tourism safe

💻 Internet and connectivity in Somaliland

All hotels I stayed at had Wi-Fi, not very fast, but it worked reasonably well.

Outside of my hotels, except for a fancy restaurant in Hargeisa, I never saw Wi-Fi.

I got my SIM Card in a street stall right at the Djibouti-Somaliland border.

I got Telesom and I think I paid like $3 for a SIM Card with 1GB internet and calls. It’s so cheap.

Get a VPN for traveling in Somaliland

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Somaliland. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Need to know about money: currency, exchange, credit cards

Somaliland has its own currency, which is the Somali Shilling and, approximately:

1 USD = 8500 SOS

Their currency has suffered a massive devaluation and today, their biggest is note worth 5000Sh, which is barely 60 cents.

On the other hand, USD are widely accepted, to the extent that in most places, you can even pay for a bottle of water in USD and get the change in Somaliland Shillings.

Exchanging money

Theoretically, if dollars are accepted everywhere, you would not need to exchange, but getting some local currency is more comfortable as, in traditional places, you will always get the price in shillings, so you don’t need to do unnecessary calculations.

You can easily change money in many places but I recommend you go to the money market in Hargeisa , which is an attraction in itself, as you get to see locals loaded with hundreds of cash bricks but, in fact, most bricks are composed of 1000 notes, which means that they aren’t carrying much money in their hands.

Credit cards

International credit cards are not accepted, but there are a few ATMs in Hargeisa from where you can withdraw some USD at a 3% commission.

I could cash out a few hundred with my Mastercard.

These banks are Premiere Bank and Dahabshil Bank and you can find their ATMs in downtown Hargeisa.

Check the money market of Hargeisa:

my visit to Somaliland

How much does it cost to travel to Hargeisa?

Somaliland is the cheapest country I visited in the Horn of Africa , not only because prices are low, but also because there is nothing to spend money on.

Price of the most typical things:

  • Meal in a local place (penis): 10,000Sh
  • Meal in a local place (with meat): 20,000SOS
  • Meal in mid-range place: 30,000-40,000SOS
  • Main course in a top restaurant: $8-$12
  • Fresh juice: 10,000SOS
  • Water 1L: 2,000-3,000SOS
  • Local bus to pretty much any town: 20,000-40,000SOS
  • Budget accommodation: $10-$15
  • Mid-range accommodation: From $25

Average daily budget for backpacking in Somaliland

somalia tourism safe

Other than that, the only expensive things I had to pay for were the entrance to Las Geel ($35 with guide included) and the 4×4 trip from Zeyla to Borama ($50).

somaliland Shillings

🛺 How to move around: transportation

Moving around the country is very easy and cheap.

Most towns are connected by bus, including Boroma, Berbera, or Burao and you just need to go to the bus station and ask for departure times. In Hargeisa, the bus station is in the city center.

Moving around is slow though, as the roads are not in very good condition.

If you want to go south of Boroma, to Zeyla and the Djibouti border, you need a 4×4 but you can share it with other locals if you go to the station.

🏨 Where to stay in Somaliland: accommodation

Somaliland is surprisingly well-sorted for hotels.

There is actually some domestic tourism, especially among foreign Somalis who are visiting the country. I met a few of them in 2 different hotels.

Hotels I stayed at:

  • Zeyla: Kaboode Guest House – There is only 1 guest house and paid $20 for one night. Extremely overpriced (it’s a rudimentary shack), but it can be negotiated if staying more nights.
  • Borama: Oslo Hotel – Basic but clean, and I paid $15.
  • Hargeisa: Maamu Hotel – Super value-for-money, around $20-$25 per night, but they have many different rooms.
  • Berbera: Barwaqo hotel – Basic but clean and paid $10 for a private room with its own bathroom. The hotel restaurant serves amazing fish.

📚 Books about Somaliland

Somaliland travel guide by Bradt – The only proper travel guidebook to Somaliland is the one from Bradt, published in December 2018, so it is quite up-to-date and gives a great overview of the country. I love Bradt.

somalia tourism safe

Becoming Somaliland by Mark Bradbury – Great analysis for understanding the story of Somaliland, from declaring independence to becoming a democracy in one of the most turbulent regions on Earth.

somalia tourism safe

❗ More information for traveling to Somaliland

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Somaliland destination

  • Fear and Loathing in Somaliland
  • Somaliland Itinerary

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

  • Ethiopia Travel Guide
  • Eritrea Travel Guide
  • Travel Guide to Sudan
  • Travel Guide to Egypt
  • Libya Travel Guide
  • Mali Travel Guide
  • Travel Guide to Mauritania
  • Tunisia Travel Guide

You might also like our Haiti travel guide .

Somaliland travel guide

39 comments

Great stuff – thanks for this! I’m really enjoying reading about the Horn of Africa. Fantastic advice as always. Looking forward to reading the next instalment already – keep ’em coming

cheers man, my pleasure!

Hello Joan How did you get to Las Geel rock art? All I can see is a bus to Dhubato – and the site is about 6km from there? Can you walk – or do you need to get a taxi and pick up a guide/guard? Cheers mate

Hello Andy, yes, I took a bus to Dhubato and from there I walked. I guide is mandatory and they will assign you one at the checkpoint, before starting walking the 6km

Hello! I’m seeing a lot of people saying they paid up to $250 for Las Geel – how did you manage to only pay $35?? Thanks!

Hi Emily, if you go there by yourself, at the entrance they will charge you 35USD. Those who paid 250 was because they booked a tour most likely

Very interesting,and I am very happy to read my country,thanks you more dear for proving many thing about my country,come and enjoy again,second trip i will invite and i will show you more places that you were not seen before.

Thx for all the good detailed info! So my partner regularly goes to Somaliland and I clarified with him that the dish is not ‘penis’ but rather beans! The issue is that some local Somalilanders can not pronounce a B so it comes out like P or F. So beans is pronounced bean-us or ‘penis’ 🤣🤣🤣. Vélo is felo etc! So they were basically asking you if you wanted beans!

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Hilarious. That’s the best comment anyone ever posted on this site 🤣

I certainly enjoyed reading this guide. Travelled to Somaliland back in 2009 from Ethiopia by land. Stayed in the Oriental Hotel in Hargeisa. The manager there arranged for a permit, from the local police ‘Somaliland Scouts’, allowing us to travel to Berbera without the obligatory security. We still have it. No fee to pay at Las Geel then. As you say, friendly and peaceful place. The only danger seemed to be land mines. Food consisted of red spaghetti, with tomato sauce, & white, no tomato sauce plus some fresh fish in Berbera. There was also porridge for breakfast. This must be a legacy of British rule. We paid £30 for a visa at the Somaliland consulate in London back then. Glad to see somethings have not changed.

Hey Joan, thank you for making such a detailed and informative guide! What did you do about malaria prevention while you were out there? Are malaria and the mosquitoes that transmit the disease a high risk in Somaliland, particularly the Hargeisa area?

Hi Calum. I didn’t do any malaria prevention. There is malaria in that area indeed, but given the desert, dry weather, there are not as many mosquitoes as in other parts of Africa.

Hey Joan, I’m looking into the feasibility of cycling from Djibouti to Somaliland. The main question I can’t seem to find an answer for is the road surface; and I can’t easily make this out from Google Earth either. Did it look to you like you could ride a mountain bike on the roads there? Thanks!

Hi there, On Djibouti side, there’s no problem, but on Somaliland side, there are many long sections where roads are basically made of sand. I remember driving through the sand for hours. No sure if there are alternative paths.

OK thanks, then I need to decide if it’s feasible to go with thick enough tyres for the sand. My initial thought is it won’t make sense, unless I can find a way to change tyres there. I’ll give this some thought. Thanks!

Hi Joan! Do You know situation about Ethiopian visas in Hargeisa? Does embassy issue visas? I’ll be there in November and plan to come back to Ethiopia overland, so I can’t just get VoA. Greets Matt

Hi Matt, they don’t. Ethiopian visa is available on arrival, including landborder

Hi Joan! Congrats on all your work, truly inspiring. I plan on visiting Somaliland in about 2 months. Do you happen to have any contacts of local people whom it would be cool for me to meet up with? I travel mostly to meet local people from wherever I go and in such an isolated country as Somaliland anyone whom I could connect beforehand would be awesome. Many thanks in advance!

Hello dear I read your guide it’s quite interesting and helpful. I have been hired for a project as a geologist. I am going to join it in the coming week. I am worried about food and security. Thanks

Hello, I want to say that this is a nice travel guide that will definitely help others who want to go to Somaliland and what they can expect and important rules to follow. I do want to say regarding the food, that yes currently (because of the food shortage, drought) the food is not great, as in diverse or elaborate enough but in general Somali food is very diverse and offers a lot of variety, from different pasta and rice dishes with options like with coconut to the rice and different sauces ranging from mild to very spice, to different flatbreads like muufo, laxoox/canjeero and sabayad and more, fish dishes, soups (maraq), stews other than the lentil ones, lots of different and delicious desserts (xalwo, doolsho which is a sponge cake, different types of biscuits like kac kac and dozens more), fruits, vegetarian options, lamb dishes, snacks like sambusa or khamiir/mandazi which can be best described as doughnuts, beans dishes etc. Many of the dishes that i have mentioned are more common and originated in the south (aka Somalia) but for the most party Somalilanders also eat it. I hope that in the future the food situation will become better as there’s lot of potential to be made since currently the best Somali dishes can be found in restaurants across the west and Middle Eastern countries.

Thank you so much for this Sara, looking forward tpo going back and tasting some of the dishes you mention!

No problem. I have heard from family members and friends that there’s lots of different restaurants being opened, especially Yemeni and Syrian ones since lots of them have fled to Somaliland (and Ethiopia) so there’s more food variety available than Somali restaurants but even then they said that the quality and variety of the food and restaurants (customer service) is getting better as more people from the diaspora in the West are moving back home and bringing their expertise with them. Not to mention many people from the South (aka Somalia) are also moving to Somaliland since it is a lot safer and bringing their regional dishes with them.

I really enjoyed reading about your experience in Somaliland. As a first-generation Somali living in NA. I hope we as Somalis look to improve our agriculture development and set a new standard for high-quality food. Technology is on our side in today’s age. And as a member of the diaspora community. Going back to Somaliland and investing in my land is my dream goal. I hope in the next 50 yrs we become one of the best countries in Africa. Education, agriculture, & infrastructure should be the country’s 3 biggest areas for improvement and main focus.

Thanks a lot for your experience, I also hope you become one of the top countries in the continent 🙂

A few things – I imagine the Somaliland Office in Djibouti closes some days. Don’t supppose you remember which? How did you travel from Hargeisa to Jijiga, and then on to Harer? Is it relatively safe? Time from Hargeisa to Harer + /- ? You said you got the Visa for Ethiopia at the border…paying in dollars? Many thanks. Great blog, a reference for travel in a number of countries in the region and beyond. Et felicito!

Hi Chris, thanks a lot for your comment! My answers: – I really can’t remember which days, but probably Friday and Saturday? – Just regular bus, easy and safe – Pretty much the whole day with border crossings, etc – I did, but this has changed now and I don’t have the latest update

Thanks for this guide; it’s really great. Of course, as you point out, all government organisations state blankly that all of Somalia is a no-go area, so it’s good to get an experience of someone who has actually been there. I’ve always wanted to visit and your guide has really inspired me. I intend to cycle there and down the continent, so I sincerely have to hope that they don’t impose an escort on me. I saw the reply further up where you said the roads are sandy; which is kind of the worst surface for bikes, but I was planning on bringing fairly fat tyres anyway. Thanks again, I’m going! Daren

Cheers, Daren, I wish you the best of luck! The road was sandy from the border to Djibouti until Cabdulqaadir, more or less 🙂

Hi, I planning on entering Somaliland overland via Djibouti. I plan on re entering Djibouti afterwards to head into Ethiopia. I am wondering do I need 2 different visas for Djibouti? Thank you

Hi Do you think it’s possible to go to Berbera and hire a fisherman and his boat for a day? I have all the tackle, just need some local knowledge. Thanks!

Everything can be possible i guess, with a little money, I am sure many fisherman will gladly take you for a trip!

Dear Joan TORRES thank you for your guiding visitors and tourists coming my country Somaliland I HOPE YOU GOOD LUCK 👍

Is there any Djibouti embassy/consular where I can get Djibouti visa? Entering Djibouti by land border is not possible with djibouti evisa. So I need an embassy.

Thanks for this super helpful guide on Somaliland, I’m visiting in a couple weeks! As a data point, I got my visa for GPB 50 from the London Somaliland mission, issued on the same day. Instructions and application form are on their website.

amazing Matt, thanks for the info!

Great article with very helpful information. Hoping to get to Somaliland from Ethiopia, but I’m wondering if you have further information on the boat passage from Oman to Somaliland? You mentioned a couple was able to come via boat from Salalah and it is possible to go the other way. I want to get to Oman from Somaliland if possible. I’d appreciate any insight, thanks!

Great post!

I am planning to visit very soon but a little bit confused aboutthe Visa process. I plan on getting a VOA but some people say you must have an invitation letter and some people say you dont need to pre arrange anything. Could yyou clarify what they actually require from you at immigration?

If you fly in you don’t need to visit a consulate but if you’re overlanding, yes you do

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SomaliaTravel Guide A-Z

Somalia travel guide, safety and security. These Somalia travel tips and advice will help you travel more. The first thing that springs to mind when you think of Somalia is probably with bustling cities, pristine beaches , colorful hill towns, ancienst ruins and natural wonders . 

Where is Somalia?

Somalia , officially the Federal Republic of Somalia The name sparks emotions in the hearts of people who have heard its tale. It is a country located towards the east of Africa, also known as the horn of Africa.

The country is bordered by Ethiopia to the west, Djibouti to the northwest, the Gulf of Aden to the north, the Indian Ocean to the east, and Kenya to the southwest. Somalia has the longest coastline on Africa’s mainland.

Somalia Travel Advice?

The world is beginning to open back up again following the pandemic, and your travel dreams are about to become reality once again. Looking for a unique travel experience in the  beautiful country of Somalia ? We are here to help.

Founded with a mission to bring authentic travel experiences to tourists that are influenced by local knowledge, our Somalia travel experiences showcase the incredible beauty this country has to offer. 

Boasting the longest coastline on the African mainland , our beautiful country offers plenty of stunning beaches, plateaus, highlands and plains. 

Discover Somalia

By choosing to discover Somalia by researching through us, you will receive up-to-date advice and information that is curated from knowledgeable, passionate locals.

We want to help you have an incredible holiday experience in Somalia. We offer premier Somalia travel advice that will ensure you will have a holiday that is unforgettable. It doesn’t matter what you’re looking for in a holiday, our beautiful country has plenty to offer you.

History of Somalia

Somalia has a wealth of history , and the world Somali was first mentioned in a history book over 3500 years ago. The Egyptians termed Somalia the ‘Land of Punt,’ wherein Punt refers to spices. This is because Somalia grew a variety of aromatic plants that the Egyptian used in their religious festivals.

The climate of Somalia is always hot. The average daily maximum temperature ranges from 30*C to 40*C, which means the country is always beautifully warm. Mogadishu , which is the period from May to October, is marked by the southwest monsoon sea breeze. This is the coolest time of the year for Somalia. The two monsoon periods are October – November and March-May, with Tangambil being the hot, humid periods in between.

Travel to Mogadishu – Capital City Of Somalia

Mogadishu is our capital city , and is incredibly beautiful. The extensive beach is a family favourite on the weekends. Sharia law is strictly enforced in Mogadishu, so women need to swim fully clothed in order to abide by local customs. This beach is incredibly beautiful and has a calm swell. The lovely climate means its beach weather here year-round.

Mogadishu Tourist Attractions

Other popular tourist attractions in Mogadishu include Dhagaxtuur ,  Shanghai Old City ,  and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier “Daljirka Dahsoon”. Shanghai Old City Somalia is no longer open to the public, but is still incredibly scenic and a worthwhile stop on your travels. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier “Daljirka Dahsoon” is an iconic picture spot within Mogadishu, and is definitely worth stopping for.

Although Somalia may not be your first choice of destination within Africa , it offers a unique, diverse travel experience that will result in lifelong memories. Our website “ We Somalia ” aims to curate in-depth local knowledge in order to allow you to plan the Somalian trip of your dreams.

Somalia offers a unique culture and is currently experiencing an urban boom due to the returning Somalis following a period of civil unrest. Somaliland , in the north of the country, has returned to a peaceful and stable life, which makes it an incredible travel destination.

Somali People & Culture

Somali culture  differs from many African nations. It’s a unique, homogenous ethnic group that share a uniform language, religion and culture. The universal language in Somalia is Somali . The vast majority of the population is Muslim and as a result, Arabic is the second most common language. Sharia law is practiced within the country, so tourists need to be aware of this and abide by local customs as the law is enforced.

Culturally, male and females do not touch each other in public. This is deeply found upon. A common greeting is salam alechem or “iska waran”. It is important to research Somali culture before travelling to this unique destination in order to ensure you abide by cultural norms.

Somali culture is very community-oriented. Working mother’s often have flexible working hours and a wealth of community support in raising their children. Men are seen to be the head of the household, and it is unacceptable for the man to not be seen as the leader of the household. Family is very important, and the culture is focused on the family being more important than the individual in many aspects of life. 

In times of sickness, resources are pooled and it is understood that your belongings are shared. This unique culture makes the Somali people a very welcoming group. We are avid to share our beautiful country and culture with tourists, and this is the motivation behind creating this website.

Somalia Travel Advice: Safety 

If you are looking to plan an incredible Somali adventure , look no further than our website. We offer a wealth of curated knowledge that is provided by locals who live in Somalia in order to give you the best holiday experience. Whether you want to know about tourist attractions or some hidden local spots, our website offers everything you need to know about creating your Somali adventure today.

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Galmudug Travel

Hirshabelle travel, jubbaland travel, mogadishu travel.

Mogadishu is a huge city in Somalia. It’s a busy place and there are lots of people and noise. It’s also hot and muggy.

There are a lot of interesting things to see and do in Mogadishu. The city is full of mosques, church, and other buildings from different periods. There are also a lot of markets and restaurants .

Puntland Travel

Somaliland travel, south west travel, beaches in somalia.

Somalia beaches are a must-see for tourists. The beaches are beautiful, with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. The beaches are also a great place to relax, and many tourists come to Somalia to enjoy the beaches.

Banks of Somalia

Banks of Somalia are a source of stability and growth in the country. They are a vital part of the economy, providing services such as lending, deposits, and money transfers. They are also an important part of the country’s infrastructure, helping to keep the economy running smoothly.

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The official languages of Somalia are Somali and Arabic. Most people in the country are Muslims, the majority of them Sunni.

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How Captains And Harbor Pilots Safely Guide Ships Into Port

An aerial view of a large cargo ship stacked with shipping containers after running into a bridge. The bridge is collapsed into the water.

Details are still emerging about the disaster that happened in the early morning of March 26, 2024, when the Dali, a large cargo ship on its way out of the port of Baltimore,  hit a major bridge and caused it to collapse .

The Conversation’s senior politics and democracy editor, Naomi Schalit, spoke with Captain Allan Post, a veteran ship’s officer, about the role a ship pilot plays in bringing a large ship in and out of a harbor.  Post, who now directs  Marine Education Support and Safety Operations at Texas A&M University at Galveston and is also deputy superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy, said the disaster was “absolutely” every crew member’s nightmare.

What was your first thought when you heard about the accident?

Post: My first thought was, thank God it happened at night, because of the low amount of traffic on the bridge. If that had happened during the daytime, casualties would be in the thousands. My heart aches for those lives lost.

There were two ship pilots aboard the ship as it left its berth in the Port of Baltimore. Can you tell us what ship pilots do?

Post: Ship pilots are brought on board in what are considered restricted maneuverability or navigation areas. They are local experts who are usually certified by the state or federal government  to provide advice to the master of the vessel as to how to control the vessel , safely and adequately, through the pilotage waters, which in this case would be down the river from the Port of Baltimore.

Pilots are well practiced in close-quarters maneuvering, especially with tugboats and docking the vessel alongside the assigned berth.

But a pilot doesn’t come aboard the ship and take control of it, do they?

Post: They are just  advisers to the captain , who is known as the “master.” The master still has full responsibility for the safe navigation of the vessel. So the pilot will meet the ship out at sea or at the dock if it’s in port and leaving to go to sea. They proceed up to the bridge. Usually they exchange greetings, and usually a little bit of ship’s swag is given, either a hat or something else, or at least a cup of coffee.

They then set up their gear. With the electronics that we now have, they plug into the ship’s electronic chart data information system. And then they conduct the pilot exchange with the master of the vessel, where the master of the vessel describes where they are going, what the characteristics of the ship are, who’s on the bridge, what their first language is and the air draft of the vessel, which refers to how high out of the water the vessel is, so that you know whether you can take the ship under a bridge safely.

Once that’s completed, the pilot then starts instructing the officer of the watch or the captain – those are usually the same person – in how to get to where they need to be to dock the ship, or undock the ship and bring it to sea. This instructing is done during complex maneuvers, not all the time. The pilot can also say he’s not going to do it, and can shut down their operations if conditions are unsafe or if they feel that the vessel is not in condition to be able to transit safely. That happens a lot, especially in fog.

The ship pilot also interacts with the Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service and other ships in the area, and coordinates with the tugboats and line handlers to be able to safely maneuver the vessel close to the pier or when a ship is leaving the berth.

Can you describe the training of a ship pilot?

Post: Most of them start out at a maritime academy and have to spend many years at sea in command or as a bridge watch-stander on a vessel. From there, they start into the pilot apprentice program that each one of the pilot associations has, and those programs last years. What they do in those programs is use simulators and real, actual hands-on training, so that they can see how the different ships maneuver, how different places along the route have different currents and tides, and how the channels affect the ships.

It’s not something that you can go to a sea school for three weeks to learn and then come out and be a pilot.  It’s many years long . They’re really the surgeons of the sea.

So when a ship’s pilot shows up, they’re going to be someone with a minimum of how many years training before they even get onto your ship?

Post: Many have 10-plus years before they are allowed to work on their own.

They have to be specialists in the place where they work, don’t they?

Post: Most of them are ship’s officers licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard, and they’re licensed for unlimited tonnage vessels. But that’s not the end of training. From there, they are hired into the pilot apprentice programs for the area in which they’re going to gain their pilot endorsement or credentials. One pilot may not be credentialed in another area. They spend many years under the guidance of senior pilots who teach them basically everything that they need to know about the local waterways, about the navigation, current tides, where all the berths are. They become absolute experts in how to do this. And then, when most of them end up taking the pilotage exam, they have to draw the charts that they would be using in the pilotage waters – from memory.

Are there legal requirements for ship pilots to be present both going out of and coming in these restricted areas?

Post: Yes, there are – state law, federal law or both.

This is an almost 1,000-foot-long vessel. Is that big, small or medium?

Post: That’s about standard size these days. Ship sizes have absolutely grown monstrous over the years. But 1,000 feet is just about normal.

Has ship piloting been around for a long time?

Post: It’s been around for almost as long as man has been using the sea for commerce. In the early years of sea travel, and even now, a captain is not going to know every port, so he would bring on a person with local knowledge. It started out a lot of times as local fishermen. In the U.S., the  Sandy Hook Pilots Association  has been piloting ships  in and out of New York Harbor for about 300 years .

Was what happened in Baltimore every captain, pilot and crew’s nightmare?

Post: Absolutely. My initial assumption is that I think it’s going to come down to an electrical fault on the ship that was just terrible timing.

This article originally appeared on The Conversation .

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April 2024 total solar eclipse guide: How to watch, understand and stay safe on April 8

The surreal midday darkness of a total solar eclipse will pass over the United States on April 8, 2024 , and there's plenty you should know before the big day, which won't happen again for about two decades .

Of all the celestial sights , there's none quite like a total solar eclipse , when the sun, moon and Earth align and a narrow stretch of land is plunged into the moon's shadow. Millions of people are expected to travel to see the spectacle, which will also attract scientists from across the country to study its unique effects .

But seeing the sight for yourself requires some planning: You'll want to know where the path of totality is, how to get protective glasses, how bad traffic will be and many other things.

Read on for answers for all your eclipse questions, including how to watch the eclipse , understand the eclipse and stay safe during the eclipse .

WATCHING THE APRIL 2024 ECLIPSE

How do i watch the 2024 solar eclipse.

There are a few ways of watching the eclipse:

  • Get the full experience in person : If you're in a narrow band of U.S. land that spans from Texas to Maine, you will see the moon block the sun and its shadow cast a night-like darkness over Earth for a few minutes. You'll briefly be able to look up without eye protection and see the moon block the sun.
  • Watch from outside the path of totality : Much of the U.S. will get a partial view of the eclipse that isn't nearly as impressive as being in the path of totality. Earth won't be plunged into complete darkness and you'll have to wear protective eyewear to see the moon partially block the sun.
  • Watch a livestream : Check back on April 8 for a video feed from the path of totality. It's not the same as being there in person, but hey, at least you won't have to sit in traffic .

What time is the solar eclipse on April 8?

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.

You can search by zip code to find the exact time for your location.

Where will the April eclipse be visible?

All of the lower 48 U.S. states will see the moon at least clip the sun, but that sight is a trifle compared to being in the path of totality.

Because the narrow path includes or is near some of the nation's largest cities, expect millions of people to crowd into a band of land a little over 100 miles wide that spans from the Texas/Mexico border to the Maine/Canada border.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

  • Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
  • Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
  • Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
  • Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
  • Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
  • Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
  • Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
  • Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
  • Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
  • Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
  • Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
  • Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
  • Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Will clouds block the April 2024 eclipse?

It's too soon to say for sure, but history offers some clues.

Chances of cloudy skies are pretty high along much of the eclipse's northern path, and some areas such as Buffalo have about a 1-in-3 chance of clear skies in early April.

Skies are usually more clear to the south. Right along the Texas/Mexico border, chances of a clear sky can be nearly 75%.

Keep in mind that clouds don't always ruin an eclipse. High, wispy clouds won't spoil the show in the same way that low thick clouds would. In that case, you wouldn't be able to see the moon pass in front of the sun, but you would still notice a sudden darkness in the path of totality.

Where is the best place to watch the eclipse?

Texas is considered the best state for eclipse viewing . There's a good chance the skies will be clear and its location along the southern path of the eclipse means totality will last a little longer.

A few lucky travelers will also have a front-row seat with unobstructed views — from a plane .

Will traffic be bad?

Most likely, yes — especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then many will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours. Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the study said .

Also worth noting: The eclipse is expected to have impacts for air travel as well.

UNDERSTANDING THE 2024 ECLIPSE

What is a solar eclipse definition explained..

A total solar eclipse happens when three celestial spheres — the sun, moon and Earth — line up in a specific way in space.

According to NASA, a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. That alignment casts a moving shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun's light in some areas. This leads to a period of partial or full darkness on a narrow stretch of Earth. 

The path is so narrow because of the huge distance and size of the sun — as well as the moon's distance from Earth. That focuses the moon's shadow on an area of land much smaller than the moon itself. The movement of the shadow across the land happens as the Earth's rotation interacts with the orbit of the moon.

A total eclipse only happens occasionally because the moon doesn't orbit in the exact same plane as the sun and Earth do. In addition, a solar eclipse can only happen during a new moon.

What's special about a total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse on April 8  is causing such a stir because the rare event is an astronomical experience like no other that will be unusually accessible to millions of people.

April's total solar eclipse will fall over more places in the U.S. than the total eclipse before and after it. And the broad length of the path of totality – where Americans have the best shot of getting a clear view – is "much wider"  than it was for the eclipse in 2017 , according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

A total solar eclipse is also far more impressive  than a lunar or an annular solar eclipse. During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the Sun but leaves an outside ring some call a "ring of fire" — it darkens the sky instead of plunging Earth into a night-like darkness, which is what happens during a total solar eclipse. And a lunar eclipse – the appearance of a red moon – happens when the moon passes into the Earth's shadow, according to NASA.

Total solar eclipses can have spiritual significance, too . Ancient cultures viewed as a sign of the gods' anger or impending departure. Some religions today are hosting eclipse viewings and services.

Historically, eclipses have left major marks on religious and spiritual civilizations. In Christianity, an eclipse has been associated with the darkness that accompanied Jesus' crucifixion and in Islam, the passing of the Prophet Muhammad's son Ibrahim.

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

The  next visible total solar eclipse  to cross over the U.S. after April will come in more than two decades on Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

And that eclipse won't be as accessible as the 2024 one: The path of totality in 2044 will only touch the states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. Another total eclipse  will pass over the U.S. in 2045  that will be more accessible to Americans, including for people who live in California, Florida and Nevada.

ECLIPSE GLASSES AND SAFETY

What kind of glasses are needed for the eclipse.

Gazing at the bright rays from the eclipse without  protective eyewear  can cause serious damage the retina of the eye, so wearing a pair of safe glasses is important.

There's a technical standard for eclipse glasses, which are designed to block out most light and let you safely see the moon pass in front of the sun: It's called ISO 12312-2 after the International Organization of Standardization.

While there's concerns that not all glasses marketed as eclipse glasses live up to that standard, experts say usually the shortcomings aren't significant .

How can you tell if eclipse glasses are real?

NASA shared an easy method to vet eclipse glasses at home.

Buyers should put on their glasses and look at a bright light, like a flashlight. If the light is "extremely dim," or doesn't appear at all, the glasses are safe, Susannah Darling, of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in an instructional video. Viewers should be able to see the filament of the lightbulb, not the glow surrounding the bulb.

Can you really go completely blind watching a solar eclipse?

No, but you could severely damage your eyes . Directly staring at the sun before and after the total eclipse, or watching a partial eclipse outside the path of totality without proper eye protection, can result in permanent damage including blurred and altered vision.

While rare, eye damage from watching a partial eclipse happens because a person's natural response to squint when looking at sunlight does not get triggered. In the leadup to the  April 8 solar eclipse ,  doctors and a rare set of eclipse watchers are warning about  watching this planetary event without adequate eclipse glasses or with the naked eye.

It’s hard for experts to know or even estimate how many people experience eye damage from solar eclipses. Since looking at an eclipse does not cause complete blindness, people with permanent damage may not know they have it or report it to a doctor. The  2017 eclipse , which passed from Oregon to South Carolina, is thought to have caused about 100 cases, according to the  American Astronomical Society .

How can I watch the eclipse without glasses?

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses do not use regular sunglasses — You need a more creative solution for safe viewing, like a pinhole projector .

Contributing: Ramon Padilla, Karina Zaiets and Janet Loehrke

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8 Incidents in 2 Weeks: What’s Going on With United’s Planes?

While no one was injured, most of the mishaps required emergency landings or diversions. One safety expert said the incidents were not the result of “systemic problems.”

Two blue-and-white commercial airplanes with the word “United” painted on their sides sit on the tarmac at an airport.

By Christine Chung

An engine fire sparked by plastic packaging wrap , a tire lost shortly after takeoff and a plane veering off the runway : These are among the eight incidents that have occurred over the past two weeks on flights operated by United Airlines. While no injuries — or worse — have been reported, the mishaps have generated headlines and stoked rising anxiety about aviation safety among federal officials and passengers alike.

All of the incidents happened on flights that took off from or were headed to airports in the United States, and five involved airplanes made by Boeing, a manufacturer already under intense scrutiny. In January, a door plug blew out of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jetliner in mid-flight, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing.

United, one of the world’s largest airlines, flies aircraft manufactured mainly by Boeing and Airbus. In an email United began sending to customers on Monday, the company’s chief executive, Scott Kirby, wrote that while the recent incidents were unrelated, they were “reminders of the importance of safety.”

“I want you to know that these incidents have our attention and have sharpened our focus,” he continued, adding that every case was being reviewed by the airline and would influence its safety training and procedures.

Here’s what travelers should know about the latest in airplane woes.

What exactly happened on or to the planes?

Most of the incidents reported in the last two weeks required emergency landings or diversions.

March 4: A Boeing 737-900 departing from George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston returned to the airport to make an emergency landing after one of the plane engines ingested and burned plastic wrap .

March 7: A Boeing 777 leaving San Francisco for Osaka, Japan, made an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport after the aircraft lost a tire .

March 8: A Boeing 737 Max 8 veered off the runway upon landing at George Bush Airport in Houston and tilted onto the grass .

Later that day, a flight leaving San Francisco for Mexico City was diverted to Los Angeles after the Airbus A320 experienced issues with its hydraulic system.

March 9: An Airbus A320 heading to Salt Lake City turned back to Chicago O’Hare International Airport after it reported maintenance issues .

March 11: A Boeing 777, flying from Sydney, Australia , to San Francisco, turned back after takeoff because the plane had a hydraulic leak.

March 14: An Airbus A320 that departed from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport had a hydraulic leak shortly before it landed in its scheduled destination, San Francisco.

Later that day, a Boeing 737-800 that took off from San Francisco landed at Rogue Valley International Medford Airport in Oregon missing an external panel .

Are the recent issues typical, or cause for concern?

The mishaps were not the result of “systemic problems,” said Robert Sumwalt, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board who now heads a new aviation safety center at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

“Some of these issues are things that happen occasionally, but often don’t get reported in media,” Mr. Sumwalt said, though he emphasized that none were acceptable.

Kyra Dempsey, who writes about aviation accidents in a blog called Admiral Cloudberg, said that United’s recent issues were being “falsely conflated with Boeing’s troubles.”

“While it’s bad luck that United had so many incidents in such a short period, in general such incidents happen frequently around the world and they aren’t on the rise overall,” Ms. Dempsey said.

How has United responded?

Mr. Kirby’s 270-word message to United customers, including to members of the airline’s frequent flier program, started to be sent on Monday morning, said Josh Freed, a spokesman for United.

Starting in May, United pilots will have an extra day of in-person training, a change that was already planned before the incidents, Mr. Kirby wrote. The airline will also use a “centralized training curriculum for our new hire maintenance technicians” and will dedicate additional resources to the carrier’s supply chain.

What government agencies oversee these issues, and how are they responding?

The Federal Aviation Administration regulates the country’s aviation system and investigates safety incidents on U.S. airlines, while the N.T.S.B. investigates the causes of accidents, collisions and crashes involving planes flown by U.S. carriers, in addition to other accidents involving commercial and mass transit operators. Both agencies have discretion on what they investigate, Mr. Sumwalt said.

Currently, the N.T.S.B. is investigating the incident that occurred on March 8 in Houston, when the plane veered off the runway, an agency spokesperson said. The N.T.S.B. is also looking into a Feb. 10 Los Angeles-to-Newark flight , operated by United, that experienced severe turbulence, leading to injuries among more than a dozen passengers. (The Boeing 777 landed normally, but the flight was met by medical personnel.)

Safety experts said some issues don’t necessarily rise to the level of an investigation by either agency.

For example, partial loss of some of an airplane’s multiple hydraulics systems is common, said Michael McCormick, an assistant professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a former F.A.A. control tower operator. The F.A.A. may or may not get involved for this kind of issue, unless there’s a pattern, Mr. Sumwalt said.

The January episode involving the blown door plug aboard the Alaska Airlines jet is under investigation by the N.T.S.B. and the Justice Department.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Boeing: A Company in Turmoil

Boeing is weathering a particularly difficult period: two fatal crashes, a loose panel that blew out during a flight, quality concerns and production slowdowns..

A Major Reshuffle : Boeing said that it was overhauling its leadership  amid its most significant safety crisis in years, announcing sweeping changes that included the departure of its chief executive, Dave Calhoun , at the end of the year.

United’s Planes : An engine fire sparked by plastic packaging wrap, a tire lost shortly after takeoff and a plane veering off the runway: These are among several recent incidents that have occurred  on Boeing flights operated by United Airlines.

Alaska Airlines Flight 1282: After a section of a plane blew out  10 minutes after it took off , there was increased scrutiny  on the plane’s manufacturer: Boeing . The Justice Department has since launched a criminal investigation .

Quality Control Issues: An audit that was initiated by the Federal Aviation Administration after the Alaska Airlines incident found dozens of problems  throughout Boeing’s manufacturing process and one of its key suppliers.

At Fault: A report released in February by the F.A.A. said that Boeing’s safety culture remains flawed , despite improvements made after two fatal crashes  in 2018 and 2019.

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Warnings and insurance

somalia tourism safe

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Parts of somalia, including eastern somaliland  .

FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia, including the 3 eastern regions of Somaliland – Togdheer, Sanaag and Sool – and excluding the 3 western regions of Somaliland – Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil. This is due to the threat from terrorist groups and continuing violence.

Western Somaliland

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the 3 western regions of Somaliland – Awdal (including Boorama), Maroodijeh (including Hargeisa) and Sahil (including Berbera).

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Support from FCDO

Support from FCDO is severely limited in Somalia, including Somaliland, with no support in person from staff at the British Embassy Mogadishu or the British Office Hargeisa.

If you need urgent help from the UK government, for example if you’ve been arrested or you’re concerned about forced marriage, contact:

  • the British High Commission Nairobi, Kenya if you are in Somalia, excluding Somaliland
  • the British Embassy Addis Ababa, Ethiopia if you are in Somaliland

If you’re in the UK and are concerned about a British national in Somalia, including Somaliland, call FCDO on 020 7008 5000.

People of Somali descent, including Somaliland descent

The government of Somalia and the authorities in Somaliland will consider any British national of Somali (including Somaliland) descent to be a dual national. FCDO can offer only limited consular support in these cases. 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

  • women travellers
  • disabled travellers
  • LGBT+ travellers
  • solo and independent travel
  • volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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  2. SURVIVING my first day in SOMALIA! (EXTREME TRAVEL)

  3. Somalia’s Airspace Safe and Secure, Aviation Authority Says

  4. Flooding crisis exacerbates food insecurity in east Africa

COMMENTS

  1. Somalia Travel Advisory

    Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to Somalia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy.. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as kidnapping and murder, is common throughout Somalia, including Puntland and the Somaliland region.Illegal roadblocks are widespread. Some schools and other facilities acting as "cultural ...

  2. Is Somalia Safe for Travel RIGHT NOW? (2024 Safety Rating)

    Written by Travel Safe Team. Safety Index: 16. * Based on Research & Crime Data. User Sentiment: 55. * Rated 55 / 100 based on 4 user reviews. Somalia is situated on the Horn of Africa and is squeezed in between Ethiopia to the west, Djibouti to the north-west, and Kenya on its south-west. Somalia has a complicated history and troubling past ...

  3. Somalia travel advice

    If you're in the UK and are concerned about a British national in Somalia (including Somaliland), call the FCDO on 020 7008 5000. Latest FCDO travel advice for Somalia including on entry ...

  4. Somalia International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  5. Safety and security

    FCDO travel advice for Somalia. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

  6. Somalia Travel Alert

    Somalia Travel Alert. Do not travel to Somalia due to COVID-19, crime , terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy. Read the Department of State's COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a level 3 Travel Health Notice for Somalia due to COVID-19.

  7. Somalia

    If your travel plans in Somalia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid ...

  8. Travel advice and advisories for Somalia

    Safety and security. There is no resident Canadian government office in Somalia; therefore, the Government of Canada can't provide consular assistance to you if you are in distress in Somalia. ... If you choose to travel to Somalia despite this advisory, you may have difficulty in departing the country. Political situation. The political ...

  9. Somalia Travel Advice & Safety

    Pirate attacks in and around Somalia's waters, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden are a serious threat. This includes far off the Somali coast. Residential areas and markets in south-central Somalia have experienced shootings and grenade attacks. Avoid areas of conflict and large public gatherings.

  10. Travel advice help and support

    Travel advice help and support. If you're abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. If you need urgent help ...

  11. Somalia

    3 Mogadishu - A major port city, varied and thriving commerce, the national capital, and generally the preeminent metropolitan city in Somalia. 4 Kismayo - Gedo Region's most important port city and the second largest city in Somalia proper. Too dangerous for travel. 5 Galkacyo - An important city in central Somalia.

  12. Somalia Travel Guide

    Travel Guide on Best-Time to Visit, Must-See Places, Must-Do Things, Must-Try Food, Local Language for Travellers, Local Cultures and Safety

  13. Is Somalia Safe to Travel in 2024? Must-read Safety Guide

    Conclusion: Is Somalia Safe to Travel in 2024? You've learned how to navigate public transportation and avoid tourist scams. You know the importance of staying informed about the security situation and monitoring travel advisories. You're aware of the precautions needed when using private vehicles and the potential safety concerns regarding ...

  14. Somalia

    US Embassy/Consulate. Mogadishu, Somalia (reopened October 2019 on the grounds of the Mogadishu Airport); US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the embassy in Kenya; [254] (20) 363-6000; US Embassy Nairobi, United Nations Avenue Nairobi, PO Box 606 Village Market, 00621 Nairobi, Kenya; Kenya ...

  15. Somalia Travel Guide

    4. Freedom Arch of Hargeisa: The arch and the war memorial in this city's center are worth visiting. Both sites offer commentary on Somalia's remarkable progress. 5. Naasa Hablood Hills: Located on the outskirts of Hargeisa, these twin hills are considered by native Somalilanders a majestic natural landmark. 6.

  16. Is Somalia Safe to Visit? Somalia Safety Travel Tips

    When it comes to natural disasters, Somalia is usually ravaged by drought, with a frequency of 14.6%, flood (4.2%), storm (4.2%), earthquake, extreme temperatures, and wildfire. Out of these, drought has the highest mortality rate, at 86.3%, followed by floods with only 11.3%. Given that Somalia is mostly a desert, drought is bound to occur.

  17. Somalia travel

    Somalia. A few decades ago Somalia was a magnet for travellers and, with a bit of luck and a following wind, it could be again. But right now the country is still unsafe for foreigners, with its people, places and infrastructure still recovering from over 25 years of brutal civil war. The situation is not insurmountable.

  18. Tips and how to travel to Somaliland in 2024

    Get travel insurance for Somaliland IATI is one of the very few that covers travel in Somaliland 5% discount if purchasing via this link. In short: Somaliland is safe but Somalia is not. All the negative things you see in the media about Somalia referring to pirates, bombs, or Al Shabab, happen in Somalia mainland.

  19. Somalia Travel

    Somalia travel guide, safety and security. These Somalia travel tips and advice will help you travel more. The first thing that springs to mind when you think of Somalia is probably with bustling cities, pristine beaches, colorful hill towns, ancienst ruins and natural wonders.

  20. MoICT

    There are many tourist attractions in Somalia, including the ancient city of Baidoa, the beaches of Eyl, Berbera and Adale, and the coral reefs of Bosaso. Discover More. Visit Garowe. The town was known as "Garowin" during the Middle Ages, and was the site of a major battle between the Majeerteen Sultanate and the Portuguese in 1591.

  21. Shabab Gunmen Penetrate Heavy Security to Besiege Hotel in Somalia

    Five assailants with the terrorist group Al Shabab stormed a hotel in a highly fortified area close to Somalia's presidential palace on Thursday night, engaging security forces for about 12 ...

  22. How Captains And Harbor Pilots Safely Guide Ships Into Port

    In the early years of sea travel, and even now, a captain is not going to know every port, so he would bring on a person with local knowledge. It started out a lot of times as local fishermen. In the U.S., the Sandy Hook Pilots Association has been piloting ships in and out of New York Harbor for about 300 years .

  23. Security Alert: France Elevates Its Security Alert System (25 MAR 2024)

    Following the March 22 terrorist attack in Moscow, Russia, the French government elevated its Vigipirate national security alert system to the highest level. As a result, residents and visitors throughout France may see heightened security in public areas, including airports; public transport; places of worship; tourist sites; schools; major sports venues; and large commercial centers.

  24. April 2024 total eclipse guide: How to watch, understand and stay safe

    What time is the solar eclipse on April 8? The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.

  25. 8 Incidents in 2 Weeks: What's Going on With United's Planes?

    The Federal Aviation Administration regulates the country's aviation system and investigates safety incidents on U.S. airlines, while the N.T.S.B. investigates the causes of accidents ...

  26. Flying is getting scary. But is it still safe?

    Air travel safety See all topics The area of the fuselage of a Boeing 737-9 Max where a door plug blew out on a January 5 Alaska Air flight. The incident has sparked increased attention to air ...

  27. Coronavirus

    Coronavirus travel health. Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Somalia on the TravelHealthPro website. The Entry Requirements section has advice for travellers on proof of ...

  28. Terrorism

    Latest FCDO travel advice for Somalia including on entry requirements, safety and security and local laws and customs.

  29. Boeing CEO to step down amid ongoing safety issues

    CNN's Pete Muntean reports.

  30. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun to step down in wake of safety issues

    Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will leave his position at the end of this year, the company announced Monday.. Why it matters: It's the latest fallout for the company, which has faced intense scrutiny over quality and safety issues in recent months after one of its 737 MAX 9 jets experienced a mid-flight door plug blowout in January. Driving the news: In a message to the company's employees Monday ...