uk travel advice somaliland

• Countries visited: 115
• Currently in : Singapore 🇸🇬
• Partner with us
• SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS COMMUNITY

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here . Never leave without travel insurance .

Safety in Somaliland – Is Somaliland safe to visit?

I find questions about safety to be quite hard to answer as they depend not only on the facts and figures but also on everyone’s experiences, approach and tolerance levels. Whether Somaliland is safe to visit and whether Somaliland’s safety is acceptable to you is a very personal decision nobody else can make.

For example, I have been in many dangerous situations before because of my professional career in emerging markets, my time spent working across 25+ countries in Africa and the Middle East and my time living in Joburg where neighbours were tied and attacked by armed burglars twice in my eighteen months there.

It is therefore harder for me to rule out any country because of its safety record, although I do draw the line at Mogadishu, Baghdad, Sana’a and Kabul at the time of writing.

However, most of my friends would not even consider going to the majority of the Middle East or Africa because of safety, even to countries like Jordan where there have not been any attacks for years.

Most people look at travel advisories and crime data but even that is not enough to make decisions without understanding the local realities of a place . The crime rate and the threat of terrorism are two objective measures of safety but they will not tell you how much danger you will really be into.

The objective safety levels in El Salvador would keep anyone away. The country is the murder capital of the world. But when you look at the data you realise that crime happens mostly in two cities and among gang groups related to drug trafficking. As a tourist, the risk of anything happening to you is limited unless you are in the wrong place at the wrong time.

So I prefer to lay out the facts about safety in Somaliland and then talk about my personal experience so you can decide if you think Somaliland is safe enough for you.

Crime levels in Somaliland

As Somaliland is not a recognised state , there are no statistics about the level of crime, the murder rate or even the threat of terrorism. In fact, the Global Peace Index does not include Somaliland as data is not available. Instead, global figures for Somalia as a whole are commonly used by the media, the international organisations and the potential visitors.

However, there is a huge difference between Somaliland and Somalia in terms of the political situation, stability and safety.

For example, I would not consider going to Mogadishu at this time, especially after having visited Somaliland, because of the completely unpredictable security situation , the active Al-Shabab operations and the lawlessness of the place.

Over 450 people were killed in terrorist attacks in Somalia in 2017 alone. The deadliest attack ever in Somalia took place in November 2017 and killed 300 people. In Somaliland, the last terrorist attack was in 2008 and the government has managed to keep the country largely safe since then. However, the risk remains and all major foreign offices and services warn international travelers against bringing down their defenses.

Why is Somaliland significantly safer than Somalia? Because of its autonomy and independence from Mogadishu.

Somalia has not had a government one can speak of since the civil war started in 1991 whereas Somaliland took this opportunity to create its own government , parliament and rule of law, quite successfully for a country that is not recognised and has no monetary tools, budget or international aid.

The last parliamentary elections in Somaliland took place in November 2017 and were considered by international watchers as largely democratic and peaceful . People have organised themselves to provide order and peace and migrants are returning to help rebuild the nation while they await for international recognition.

However, Somaliland is not entirely free of crime risk. The dangers are mostly related to armed militia groups, kidnappings and terrorism . Petty crime is low and you should not be worried about pickpockets, especially if you have your own police escort (see next section).

Terrorism levels and the risk of kidnapping are high in Somalia but low in Somaliland as the Al Shabab is mostly active in Mogadishu and there haven’t been any cases for years. This could obviously change anytime as borders are not a deterrent to terrorism.

Police escort in Somaliland

One of the most unique parts of traveling in Somaliland is the mandatory police escort all visitors outside of Hargeisa get. It reminded me of the North Korea minders we had , although the police escort in Somaliland is not really minding you but the locals.

Because of the country’s claim to independence in 1991 and the fact that it has been seeking recognition from the international community for decades, the government is very keen on improving its image globally and portraying the country as stable and respectable.

As a result, and since the murder of three aid workers in Mogadishu in 2003 , all tourists that wish to travel outside of Hargeisa are obliged to get police escort from the elite Special Police Unit (SPU) which will come in the form of an armed guard with a knock-off copy of an AK 47, a driver and a car which will follow you around.

This is not an armoured car of any sorts but rather a small one. This service is not free and you will have to pay for it. If you wish so, you can also request for the escort to be with you for the entire trip, including Hargeisa. Our guide had made arrangements for that so we even explored Hargeisa with the police escort.

Although this should be quite reassuring, it is not as good as it sounds and it will not make you feel like you are fully protected from anything that may happen.

During our trip we had three different policemen , one for every day, and all seemed pretty useless at keeping any locals from yelling at us. They spent their time chatting away with locals instead of actually keeping an eye on us and seemed totally careless and uninterested .

One of them was so blasé that our guide had to fight with him to make sure he actually stood by our side at the livestock market when we were clearly surrounded by far too many herders.

So it is true that the escort carries a mean-looking AK 47 knock-off and wears official fatigues but not only are they not really interested in doing their job but also the level of respect for police, law enforcement and government officials in Somaliland is surprisingly low .

We saw a policeman trying to get a driver to enter the police station to pay for a road permit and the driver refused, instead intending to carry on with his day. The driver only acceded to go in when the mob of cars in the traffic jam he was creating forced him to. Our SPU escorts were regularly challenged by the locals and not actually able to impose their will.

Situations like this were repeated over and over throughout our trip. Our escort helped, but it was not like it made us feel untouchable. People still yelled at him and argued against our cameras demanding money at times.

Bottom line, the police escort provided a bit of relief and help to navigate crowded areas when we wanted to take photos (i.e. the money market, the livestock market, Berbera) but was by no means going to keep us safe should anything happen. They would probably be the first to run.

Travel advisory for Somaliland

Now that we have more clarity on the crime and terrorism figures, let’s look at the travel advisories for Somaliland.

The UK Foreign Office advises “Against all but essential travel to Somaliland”, as opposed to advising “Against all travel” to the rest of Somalia. This means that they expect no British nationals to be in Somalia and that those in Somaliland should be there only for absolutely necessary reasons like if they work for an NGO or are carrying out humanitarian missions.

The US alerts “Do not travel to Somaliland”, full stop. This goes on to provide useful tips such as “(…) 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” or “Establish a proof of life protocol” which I am sure discouraged more than one person from visiting.

If you were to take the travel advisories from either of the two you would probably not travel to Somaliland.

Lastly, let me tell you how I felt as a white woman in Somaliland not traveling alone.

My experience as a white woman in Somaliland

As I said at the beginning, everyone’s experience, looks, expectations and even dress code plays an important role in how safe we feel in a place. For example, in El Salvador , as a solo female traveler, I felt safe at all times, and this is the country with the highest murder rate in the world. You’re even accompanied by police when hiking the Santa Ana Volcano . In Somaliland, however, I did not feel safe at all and this is a first for me after 100 countries.

I have never, not even in the perceived most dangerous places in the world like Pakistan where I traveled alone, have I ever felt in danger. In Somaliland, I didn’t feel comfortable in the streets . I wasn’t scared, but I felt like something could happen anytime.

This was not so much related to the risk of terrorism but to the way people reacted to me and my friend and the comments and experiences our guide had which corroborated what we felt.

What was most surprising about my feeling of safety in Somaliland was not the real risk of crime or terrorism but the antagonising and polarising experiences we had with the locals who all had one perception or another about foreigners.

There were two types of reactions from the locals. Some of them had lived abroad , spoke English and chatted us up in a friendly manner. They approached us with a big smile, asked where we were from and talked to us about Europe and the UK.

They wanted their photo taken, they wanted to show us their goods and they wanted me to take photos with them. They also had relatives and friends in the UK, Somalilanders who had emigrated in search of better opportunities and who were sending money to their families in the country.

There were also locals at the other end of the spectrum . They would literally yell at us either because I was not wearing the traditional clothes or because I was wearing trousers (which women do not wear) or mostly because they had a very negative reaction to white people , especially Americans.

They demanded money for being there, for taking photos or for exploring the streets of Berbera. They told us to leave, they blamed us for the country’s chaotic situation . The level of animosity towards Westerners was quite unique.

We soon realised this was motivated by the fact that they thought we were American and, as soon as we qualified we were British and Spanish, some of them seemed to calm down a little and were more welcoming. I have not felt this level of hatred anywhere else .

This meant that walking around in crowded areas like the market was a rather intimidating experience . Before knowing this and shortly after our arrival, we went out for a walk in Hargeisa’s central market without the police escort or the guide and quickly realised we could be lynched if we came across someone in the wrong state of mind or who had chewed too much khat and was in the wrong frame of mind. When we returned with the police escort we felt a bit better and they helped appease a bit of the aggressiveness but the reactions were the same.

Was this an isolated experience? Were we unlucky?

I do not think so as I read the accounts of many other tourists and pretty much everyone had at least one incident similar to the ones we suffered. For some reason, we were the target of almost as many bad experiences as good ones.

Considering how many of the two we had and how polarising being a Western tourist in Somaliland felt, I expect this not to change in the near future as the country’s security and terrorism threats continue and the Western economies fail to recognise Somaliland as an independent country.

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

You may also like

Why you should visit djibouti – the country..., who are the big five animals of africa, what to pack for a safari – expert..., travel guide and things to do in somaliland, tourism in zanzibar, from the slave trade to..., top three african luxury resorts not accessible by..., things to do in djibouti and a 4..., things to do in cape town as recommended..., the best hotels in kigali and rwanda, safety in south korea.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• Destinations
• Asia (Central)
• Asia (East)
• Australasia & Pacific
• Central America
• Europe & Russia
• Middle East
• North America
• South America & Antarctica

Somalia (Africa)

Advice for all destinations, vaccinations and malaria risk.

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine and COVID-19 (if eligible), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Poliomyelitis; Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Yellow Fever.

No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water.

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher if travelling to countries where there hepatitis A is circulating in the local population, or to areas where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for those visiting more frequently, staying longer, visiting friends and relatives, children through bites, cuts and scratches and those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.
• Yellow Fever :  spread by the bite of an infected, day-biting mosquito. The disease is mainly found in rural areas of affected countries but outbreaks in urban areas do occur. Vaccination is usually recommended for all those who travel into risk areas. (View yellow fever risk areas here), and areas where there is an outbreak ongoing (check the 'news' section for outbreaks). In addition, certain countries may want to see proof of vaccination on an official yellow fever vaccination certificate - check above under Immunisations .

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Malaria risk is high throughout the year in all areas,. There is a lower, seasonal risk in the north. Risk is highest in central and southern areas.
• Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial tablets.
• See malaria map – additional information can be found by clicking on the Regional Information icon below the map.
• High risk areas : atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine is usually advised.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.
• If travelling to an area remote from medical facilities, carrying standby emergency treatment for malaria may be considered.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, dengue fever, schistosomiasis, polio vaccination exit recommendations.

If you are visiting this country for longer than 4 weeks, you may be advised to have a booster dose of a polio-containing vaccine if you have not had one in the past 12 months. You should carry proof of having had this vaccination. Please speak to a travel health professional to discuss.

• 54 additional items in the news archive for this country

back to top

• Company History
• Mission Statement
• Philippines
• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Canary Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands
• Cook Islands
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• Easter Island
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• Guinea-Bissau
• Liechtenstein
• Madeira Islands
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Norfolk Island
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Islands
• Puerto Rico
• Republic of the Congo
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Helena
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin
• Saint Pierre-et-Miquelon
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Sint Eustatius
• Solomon Islands
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Wake Island
• Western Sahara
• Travel Vaccines
• Travel Health Consultations
• Travellers’ Diarrhea Kits
• Dengue Fever Prevention
• Malaria Prevention
• Chikungunya Prevention
• Zika Prevention
• Ebola Virus
• Yellow Fever
• Hepatitis A
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Hepatitis B
• Tickborne Encephalitis (TBE)
• Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella
• Influenza (Flu)
• Blood Tests
• Vitamin Injections
• Physician Referral Program
• London Bridge Clinic
• London – Euston Travel Clinic

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Somalia

Historically, Somalia is a large commercial centre due to its location on the Horn of Africa.

After its independence in 1969, several civil wars have occurred leading into perpetual civil unrest. Somali law consists of civil law, Islamic law, and customary law.

As a result of civil war, al-Shabaab, a militant group emerged in 2006 and pledged its allegiance to al-Qaeda in 2012. Due to this threat of terrorism and ongoing violence in Somalia, it is advised to not travel to the area.

The capital city of Somalia, Hargeisa, is the largest city of Somaliland. The city is a commercial centre known for its rock art and construction. Somalia’s other major cities include Mogadishu, Bosaso, and Galkayo.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Somalia? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Somalia? What is the Climate Like in Somalia? How Safe is Somalia? Neolithic Rock Paintings in Somalia What Should I Take To Somalia? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Somalia

Do I Need Vaccines for Somalia?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Somalia. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Somalia: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , cholera , yellow fever , rabies , polio and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Recommended for travel to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a region with yellow fever. May be recommended for travel to Bakool, Banaadir, Bay, Galguduud, Gedo, Hiiraan, Lower Juba, Lower Shabelle, Middle Juba and Middle Shabelle
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Polio – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region. Required for stays over four weeks. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Malaria is present and can be a serious risk in Somalia. Antimalarials are key to ensure you stay protected during your trip. Mosquito repellents and netting will also help you avoid diseases like malaria and Dengue .

Healthcare in Somalia is extremely limited with very low stocks of prescription medicine. Ensure to bring enough prescription drugs for your stay. Most medical facilities need payment before a procedure (costs not covered by Medicare).

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Somalia?

Visas for Somalia are required and available on arrival. But, receiving your passport before travel is recommended. Passports must be valid for at least the duration of your stay. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Somalia and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Somalia?

The border with Chad tends to generally have a hot and tropical climate. Heat and humidity are to be expected.

Somalia remains hot year-round, due to its proximity to the equator.

Temperatures range from 25 to 40 degrees. Depending on the region, dryness can vary. In the northeastern and central regions of Somalia, the climate is arid. In the northwestern and southwestern regions of Somalia, the climate is semiarid.

There are four main seasons, defined by wind patterns. They include the rainy season of Gu (April-June); the dry season of Xagaa (July-September); a short, rainy season named Dayr; and the tangambili periods that are in-between the two monsoons.

How Safe is Somalia?

Due to increased terrorist activity from the al-Qaida affiliated group al Shabaab, The government of the UK strongly cautions against travel to Somalia.

There is a large threat of kidnapping of Westerners, especially in Somaliland and Puntland.

Attacks are most common at hotels, restaurants and airports (especially the Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport).

UK citizens should avoid the coasts and sailing due to the high-risk of pirate attacks.

Don’t walk alone at night, dress conservatively and don’t openly display cash or valuables whilst in Somalia. Do not eat in public during the holy month of Ramadan.

Alcohol is prohibited in Somalia.

Neolithic Rock Paintings in Somalia

In Laas Geel, you will find Neolithic rock paintings throughout a large network of caves, recently discovered in 2003. It is now a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Many travellers claim that if Somalia was more safe, this would be a popular tourist attraction.

These cave paintings on the outskirts of Hargeisa, Somaliland, are some of the earliest cave paintings in Africa. It is a good day trip from the city and would take a couple of hours to view the caves.

The paintings depict cattle, dogs and giraffes.

What Should I Take To Somalia?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Somalia:

• Prescription meds are hard to find in Somalia and when found, they could be forged.
• Bring clothing to dress like the locals. Women should pack long shirts and skirts; no trousers. They should also wear headscarves around their heads. Men should always wear long trousers.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Somalia

If you are in Somalia and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

The British Embassy in Somalia is only able to provide limited service. Travel at your own risk.

British Embassy Mogadishu Mogadishu Somalia Contact Form: Click Here

If you have any questions about travelling to Somalia or are wondering which jabs you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Ring us up at or book online now! and protect yourself today.

• Privacy Policy
• Automatic Data Collection Statement

• Travel advice

Somalia travel advice

Explore our complete guide to Somalia with the latest travel advice for travellers and holidaymakers including official updates and local travel tips for Somalia.

• Essential travel guide
• Weather & climate
• Travel health
• Covid live updates
• Travel features
• Top travel deals
• Destinations

Somalia travel guide - essential info

Below is a beginner's guide to Somalia with essential travel facts such as dominant language spoken, typical flight time from the UK and the local currency. You can also check whether visas are required and what plug adapter you need to pack.

Somalia tourist information

✝ = requirements for UK travellers.

Recommended for Somalia

Somalia deals >>

Back to top

Somalia weather

The Somalia weather guide shows long term monthly averages for Mogadishu .

Somalia destinations >>

Travel Up: Low prices on top car hire brands

• Search for cheap car hire prices from top car hire providers
• Filter car hire deals by price, car type, brand & more
• Brands include Avis, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt & Thifty

View all Travel Up offers

Check the latest travel advice on visiting Somalia from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

• UK traveller advice for Somalia - UK FCDO
• Irish traveller advice for Somalia - Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland
• Canadian travel advice for Somalia - Government of Canada
• US travel advisories for Somalia - US Department of State
• Safe travel advisories for Somalia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, New Zealand
• Smarter traveller advice for Somalia - Department of Foreign Affairs, Australia

Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around Somalia.

Note : UK FCDO - UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

FCDO travel advice

Destination Any destination France Germany Greece India Italy Portugal Spain Turkey USA Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Congo-Brazzaville Congo-Kinshasa Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Mauritania Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Falkland Islands South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China East Timor Gaza Strip Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Philippines Qatar Russia (Central Asia) Russia (Far East) Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Turkmenistan UAE Uzbekistan Vietnam West Bank Yemen Anguilla Antigua Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bonaire British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Cuba Curacao Dominica Dominican Republic Grenada Guadeloupe Haiti Jamaica Martinique Montserrat Saba Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten St Barthelemy St Kitts and Nevis St Lucia St Martin St Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands Belize Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jan Mayen Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Turkey Ukraine British Indian Ocean Territory Comoros Madagascar Mauritius Mayotte Reunion Seychelles Bermuda Canada Greenland Mexico St Pierre and Miquelon USA Australia Federated States of Micronesia Fiji French Polynesia Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Pitcairn Island Samoa Solomon Islands Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Wallis and Futuna Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela

Somalia travel health

Find out more about staying safe when travelling to Somalia with the latest guidance on required vaccinations and recommended medication to take with you.

• Vaccines & medicines for Somalia - CDC
• Health & vaccinations for Somalia - TravelHealthPro, NaTHNac
• How to stay safe & healthy in Somalia - Fit for Travel, Public Health Scotland

Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in Somalia, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

Note : CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Somalia covid live updates

Check the latest live updates on Covid-19 in Somalia with the vaccination requirements, current available statistics and up-to-date travel advice from government agencies.

• Travellers' health for Somalia - Ministry of Health, Somalia
• Coronavirus timeline in Somalia - Our World in Data

Somalia travel features

Do you want to learn more about Somalia? Read our latest features covering travel tips and insider destination guides on where to go and what to do in Somalia.

We don't currently have any travel features on Somalia. Discover more about holiday destinations around the world with this selection of general travel articles.

Somalia FAQs

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to Somalia including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to Somalia due to Covid-19?

Somalia is open for tourism from the UK. There are no special entry requirements for Somalia. Check out Ministry of Health, Somalia for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from Somalia?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from Somalia. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the time difference between Somalia and the UK?

The time difference between Somalia and the UK is UK time+3 hours .

What is the main language spoken in Somalia?

The main languages spoken in Somalia are Somali and Arabic . Learn a language for Somalia with Rosetta Stone * , Mondly * and Busuu * .

What is the currency in Somalia?

The currency in Somalia is the Somali Shilling ( SOS ). Send money to Somalia with World Remit * .

Which plugs are used in Somalia?

Somalia uses electrical plug type G (220 Volts) .

Which side of the road do they drive on in Somalia?

They drive on the right side of the road in Somalia.

Do you need a visa for Somalia?

Yes, UK passport holders do need a visa to enter Somalia. Check Somalia visa requirements for all passport holders with VisaHQ * and iVisa.com * .

Travel advice by country

Country name All countries - summary Algarve Balearic Islands Barbados Canary Islands Croatia Cyprus Egypt Faroe Islands France Germany Greece Ireland Italy Jamaica Madeira Maldives Malta Portugal Spain Turkey UAE UK USA Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Congo-Brazzaville Congo-Kinshasa Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Mauritania Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Swaziland Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Antarctica French Southern and Antarctic Lands South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China East Timor Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Philippines Qatar Russia (Central Asia) Russia (Far East) Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Turkmenistan UAE Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Anguilla Antigua Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bonaire British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Cuba Curacao Dominica Dominican Republic Grenada Guadeloupe Haiti Jamaica Martinique Montserrat Puerto Rico Saba Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten St Barthelemy St Kitts and Nevis St Lucia St Martin St Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Virgin Islands Belize Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Isle of Man Italy Jan Mayen Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Turkey UK Ukraine British Indian Ocean Territory Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Comoros Madagascar Mauritius Mayotte Reunion Seychelles Bermuda Canada Greenland Mexico St Pierre and Miquelon USA American Samoa Australia Cook Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Midway Island Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Palau Papua New Guinea Pitcairn Island Samoa Solomon Islands Tokelau Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Wake Island Wallis and Futuna Algarve Azores Madeira Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Balearic Islands Canary Islands England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut D.C. Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Be inspired

Get your weekly fix of holiday inspiration from some of the world's best travel writers plus save on your next trip with the latest exclusive offers

We promise not to share your details

Explore holidays in the sun for less

• Beach holidays
• Family holidays
• City breaks
• Summer holidays
• Winter sun holidays
• Holiday offers
• Top travel brands
• Airlines & flights
• Discount hotels
• Airport parking deals
• Jet2holidays
• easyJet holidays
• Love Holidays
• British Airways

More holidays

Airport parking

• Manchester Airport
• Stansted Airport
• Bristol Airport
• Luton Airport
• Birmingham Airport
• Edinburgh Airport
• Gatwick Airport
• Glasgow Airport
• Newcastle Airport

More parking

Airport lounges

• Heathrow Airport

More lounges

• Pinterest (1 share)

• Latest Articles
• Privacy Policy

UK pledges support for vulnerable communities in Ethiopia

Minister for foreign affairs presents a certificate of a cultural envoy of mongolia to ms. bayartsetseg, a producer of mongol khaan play – ministry..., uk statement to 2024 osce alliance trafficking conference session on targeting vulnerabilities, 60, 16 april 2024, regarding the visit of h.e. mr. hakan fidan, minister of foreign affairs of the republic of türkiye, to qatar /..., minister joly meets with belarusian opposition leader sviatlana tsikhanouskaya, somalia travel advice.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advises against all but essential travel to:

the whole of Somalia based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks

In addition and for security reasons the FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Somalia, including Somaliland

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• the cities of Hargeisa and Berbera

Any British nationals in areas of Somalia to which the FCDO advise against all travel should leave. Any British nationals in Hargeisa or Berbera whose travel is not essential should leave.

If you visit Hargeisa or Berbera, exercise a heightened level of vigilance and take care in public places where people gather. Monitor local and international media to avoid any demonstration or disturbance taking place. Leave any area of unrest quickly and don’t attempt to watch or photograph it.

Travel to Somalia is subject to entry restrictions

• COVID-19 tests have been required for incoming passengers and you will need to self-isolate for 14 days after arrival.

Travel to Somaliland is subject to entry restrictions

• If you’re arriving into Somaliland by air then you will not need to quarantine if you have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours (4 days) of arrival
• If you don’t have this evidence then you may have to spend 14 days in quarantine at your own expense in a government appointed facility

See Entry requirements for more information before you plan to travel.

Preparing for your return journey to the UK

If you’re returning to the UK from overseas, you will need to:

Check our advice on foreign travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and sign up for email alerts for this travel advice.

If you’re planning travel to Somalia , find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section .

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance .

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Somalia. There is a high threat of kidnap throughout the country. Terrorist groups have made threats against westerners and those working for western organisations. There is a constant threat of terrorist attack in Mogadishu and terrorists continue to plan attacks against westerners in the rest of Somalia, including Somaliland. Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in crowded places, high-profile events, events involving government officials and in places visited by foreigners. Due to their use by government officials, hotels are considered legitimate targets by terrorist groups. See Terrorism

There is a high threat of maritime crime in the territorial and international waters off Somalia and attack remains a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. See Sea travel

Conflict and environmental problems such as drought and flooding have displaced hundreds of thousands of people, in all areas of the country. See Local travel

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 . You should not cross the border without the correct documents.

Consular support is severely limited in Somalia. The British Embassy in Mogadishu does not provide consular services. If you’re in Somalia (excluding Somaliland) and need urgent help from the UK government (eg if you’ve been arrested or you’re concerned about forced marriage), contact the British High Commission in Nairobi . If you’re in Somaliland, you should contact the British Embassy in Addis Ababa . If you’re in the UK and are concerned about a British national in Somalia (including Somaliland), call the FCDO on 020 7008 5000.

Editor Picks

Guterres welcomes creation of transitional council in haiti to choose new leaders, nigeria first country to introduce ‘revolutionary’ meningitis vaccine, rape, murder and hunger: the legacy of sudan’s year of war, latest news, popular categories.

• India 10143
• United Nations 7619
• United States 4920
• European Union 3527
• United Kingdom 3038
• Canada 1852
• Turkey 1844
• Greece 1741
• El Salvador 1339
• Saint Lucia 1247
• Panama 1158

© ForeignPolicyWatchdog.com. All Rights Reserved.

Amendment to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements...

Tips and how to travel to Somaliland in 2024

By Joan Torres 41 Comments Last updated on September 27, 2024

Wanna travel to Somaliland with Against the Compass?

Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Somaliland on:

November 7th to 18th, 2025 (Eritrea + Somaliland)

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

In this travel guide to Somaliland you will find:

Table of Contents

• 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

our recommended travel insurance for Somaliland

IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Somaliland.

🪪 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.

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.

✍️ How to sign up for a tour in Somaliland

Depending on where you travel to in Somaliland, the authorities will force you to hire an armed escort, which will go with you everywhere you go to.

If you want to avoid any potential headaches, Against the Compass has 1 scheduled expedition to Somaliland:

• November 14th to 18th, 2024 – SOLD OUT
• November 7th to 18th, 2025 (Eritrea + Somaliland) – APPLY NOW

A short, budget tour that includes all the country’s highlights.

🛫 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.

⛅ 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 Somalia

Most travel insurance companies don’t cover for travel in Somalia, except for IATI .

I recommend it because:

• Only travel insurance company that covers Somalia
• They have different plans for all budgets
• 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

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.

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.

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.

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 :

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.

People in Somaliland

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.

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.

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.

⚠️ 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].

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 🙂

💻 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:

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

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).

🛺 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.

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.

❗ 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 .

41 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

Hey Joan! Very nice to read this report. I’m thinking about going to Djibouti and Somaliland in August. Yeah, I know it will be HOT, but there is no other time of the year for me.

I have a few questions:

– So you did everything by yourself, right? Did you hire any local guide at some point to help you out with anything? I do not mean TOURS, but a personal guide indeed. Tours companies are charging me like 1500 EUR for a 5-day tour. Not only I prefer to do things by myself, I prefer to avoid tour companies due to strict itineraries and expensive costs. However, a local guide at some point would be nice to have a deeper understanding.

– About escort: at which point are you assigned an escort? Could it happen at any moment you leave the capital? How does that work? Do you have to pay? How much?

– I read on a Somaliland government website that Brazilians can also go for VOA. Do you know anything about this? I’m Brazilian and to have access to VOA would be wonderful.

– What about leaving Somaliland? What are the best options? Just get a 4×4 back to Djibouti? Is it OK to enter Ethiopia by land from Somaliland?

Hey man, kindly allow me to answer your questions – I did everything by myself and I never hired a guide. – I never had a escort. However, my experience seems to differ with many traveler’s. If you need a escort, they’ll tell you no worries. – Unfortunately, I don’t know what’s the visa policy for Brazilians but my guess is that it’sd be like everyone else – From Hargeisa, I took a bus to Wajale and then crossed on foot

You’re welcome!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Join our Expeditions

From Syria to Iraq in Pakistan, Against the Compass is finally running expeditions to the most epic and off-the-beaten-track countries.

We have scheduled expeditions for every month of the year.

Latest posts

• Tips for traveling Kazakhstan in 2024
• How to visit the Nenets in Yamalia (Arctic Russia)
• Russia Travel Guide (2024)
• Things to do in Eritrea in a 11-day itinerary
• How to travel by train in Kazakhstan (with map)

Introducing Somalia

About somalia.

• Images of Somalia
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Somalia
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

Somalia travel guide

Think Somalia and what springs to mind? Pirates, Civil War, Islamic militants? Suffice to say it’s not your average holiday destination. Until 2012 the country had been without a government for two lawless decades and, although the fractured nation has witnessed a period of relative stability recently, it remains highly dangerous.

Travel is possible in the northern districts of the self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland, a quasi-independent state that has broken away from the rest of Somalia. Travellers, however, should avoid visiting other areas.

And that's a shame, because behind the turmoil lies a destination of considerable beauty. Somalia has a varied landscape of mountains, deserts, tropical rainforests, undiscovered beaches and coral reefs. Sadly, much of it is under threat from unregulated logging, drought and the ongoing civil war.

Modern day Somalia developed from a string of Arab sultanates, which were scattered along the northeast coast of Africa. As Arab influence waned during the late 19th century, the British, French and Italians designated these territories as protectorates. These were the subjects of various treaties, forged amid frequent clashes between the colonial powers and the neighbouring Ethiopians, and between the European powers themselves.

The problems Somalia experiences today were sown in 1960, when the British and Italian Somalilands were merged. Inherited tribal rivalries and territorial disputes have dominated the country's history since.

Years of fighting between rival warlords and an inability to deal with famine and disease have led to the deaths of up to one million people. The area is still extremely volatile, with attacks taking place, especially in the capital of Mogadishu.

Those keen on travelling to the region would be well advised to visit neighbouring Ethiopia or Djibouti instead. But if you are set on Somalia, there are a handful of attractions to see including the Laas Geel cave complex, which offers exquisite Neolithic art and stunning rock formations

Gorgeous beaches and beautiful coral reefs can also be found along the coast, but you’d have to be one dedicated beach bum to seek them out.

637,657 sq km (246,201 sq miles).

11,079,013 (UN estimate 2016).

16.6 per sq km.

Federal republic. At the Arta Peace Conference in 2000, an interim parliament was established. The northern part of the country considers itself independent as the Republic of Somaliland with Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud as president since 2010, although it has not achieved international recognition.

President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed since 2017.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre since 2022.

Travel Advice

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. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

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 you 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.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, who choose to travel despite FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Somalia’s current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Somalia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Somalian Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Somalia, including Somaliland.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Somalia, including Somaliland, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to enter Somalia, including Somaliland.

You can get a single-entry visa, valid for one month, for 60 US dollars when you arrive at:

• Mogadishu International Airport
• Hargeisa International Airport

It is not clear if you’ll be given a visa on arrival at other points of entry. Get confirmation from local authorities or your sponsoring organisation.

You may also need to provide a letter of invitation when you arrive, outlining the reason for your visit. You can usually get this from your place of work. Without this letter, you may not be allowed to enter.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Somalia guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Somalia, including Somaliland. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Khat is a legal drug in Somalia, but it is an offence to take it out of the country. Officials regularly search bags at Hargeisa and Mogadishu airports, and anyone found to be in possession of khat is likely to face criminal prosecution.

Taking money into and out of Somalia (including Somaliland)

In Somaliland you must declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 US dollars or more.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Somalia, including Somaliland .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Somalia

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Somalia, including Somaliland.

The terrorist group Al Shabaab, and other groups opposed to the Somali government, continue to carry out frequent attacks, including in the capital Mogadishu. Terrorist groups operating in Somalia have made threats against westerners and those working for western organisations in Somalia, including Somaliland.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur at any time, including in places visited by foreign such as:

• government buildings
• military bases
• hotels and restaurants
• transport hubs including the international airport
• crowded places
• at high-profile events

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. The Somali government regularly carries out counter-terrorist operations against Al-Shabaab, mainly in central and southern Somalia.

Examples of previous significant attacks include:

• in August 2024, there was an attack on Lido Beach in Mogadishu with many civilians reported killed and injured
• In July 2024, there was an attack on Top Coffee Restaurant in Mogadishu with many civilians reported killed and injured
• in June 2023, there was an attack on the Pearl Beach Hotel at Lido Beach in Mogadishu with at least 9 civilians reported killed and 10 injured
• in 2022, 2 large improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were used to attack the Somali Ministry of Education, with over 100 civilians reported killed and 300 injured
• in 2022, there was an attack on the Tawakal Hotel in the city of Kismayo, with 13 people reported killed and 47 injured
• in 2022, there was an attack at the Hayat Hotel in central Mogadishu with 21 people reported killed and 117 injured
• in 2022, there was a bomb attack at the Pescatore Seafood Restaurant in south Mogadishu, with 8 people reported killed and 27 injured
• in 2022, there was a bomb attack inside Hassan Dhiif restaurant in the city of Beledweyne, with 18 people reported killed and 30 injured
• in 2021, there was a bomb attack on a minibus travelling between Mogadishu and Jowhar, with at least 17 people reported killed and many injured
• in 2020, there was an attack on the Elite Hotel in central Mogadishu, with 15 people reported killed and at least 15 injured

While attacks occur less frequently in Somaliland, terrorists are still very likely to try to carry out attacks.

The risk of attacks in Somalia, including Somaliland, may be further heightened during religious holidays.

Terrorist kidnaps

There is a high threat of kidnapping throughout Somalia, including in regions bordering Kenya and Ethiopia, and in Somaliland. Terrorists and criminal groups, including piracy groups, are involved in kidnapping. A number of western nationals, including British nationals, have been kidnapped in Somalia and some have been killed. 

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

If you are working or travelling in Somalia, including in Somaliland, you should be aware of the risk of kidnapping. You should maintain a high level of vigilance at all times, including:

• when travelling and at transport hubs
• in crowded public places
• in camps for displaced people
• at religious gatherings and places of worship
• in markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars and restaurants

Make sure you have carefully considered the threat and have reasonable, proportionate mitigation measures in place.

Somaliland elections 

Presidential and parliamentary elections are to be held in Somaliland on 13 November. Avoid large public gatherings and areas where demonstrations or protests are taking place.

Political situation

Political and community-based violence is common across Somalia, including Somaliland, and can flare up with little warning. Take care in public places where people gather. Monitor local and international media to help you avoid areas where demonstrations, protests, large crowds or disturbances are taking place. Leave any area of unrest quickly and do not attempt to watch or photograph it.

Military activity in the Red Sea area      

There is a military response to Houthi militants’ attempts to disrupt international shipping in the Red Sea. The military activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, but travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should monitor travel advice and follow instructions from local authorities.

There is a dangerous level of criminal activity by armed militia throughout Somalia. There have been murders, armed robbery and criminal kidnaps.

The humanitarian situation in Somalia has led to a large displacement of people, and a growth in refugee camps which are overpopulated. Food and health insecurity has led to an increase in crime, particularly around the refugee camps.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id .

Always carry your passport and visa with you as ID. The Somali government in 2023 introduced a National Identity card, which is being rolled out across the country. Somali nationals should consult local authorities in Somalia on personal ID requirements.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
• be patient and show tolerance

Public offences

Somalia has adopted Sharia law but is yet to implement it throughout the country. Al-Shabaab and other insurgent groups often have an extreme view on how to apply Sharia law.

It’s illegal for Somali Muslims to convert to another religion or promote any religion other than Islam.

Alcohol laws and bans

The drinking and sale of alcohol is banned in Somalia.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Drug offences, including drug use, possession and trafficking, are treated seriously in Somalia and are punishable by law. Possible punishments include a lengthy prison sentence without bail.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Somalia. LGBT+ partners should not show affection in public.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Somalia and it is not possible to get currency advances using a credit card. You should take cash with you into the country. The US dollar is the main currency for exchanging in Somalia.

In Hargeisa you can withdraw US dollars from ATMs using international credit and debit cards.

Transport risks

Road travel.

Travelling by road in Somalia is dangerous and you should get advice from a security firm or a sponsoring organisation. Government forces, militias and other armed groups operate checkpoints on roads across Somalia. Exercise extreme caution when passing checkpoints and closely follow the instructions given by police and military personnel.

There is still a significant risk of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean , where piracy has been reduced but not fully prevented. Pirates can attack up to 1,000 nautical miles from the Somali coast or more. The threat assessment of the combined international naval counter-piracy forces is that sailing yachts should not enter the  designated high-risk area, due to the risk of hijacking. 

Maritime crime and security incidents are also a risk in the Southern Red Sea area.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

The main rainy season in Somalia takes place between April and June, followed by lesser rains in October and November.

Localised flooding may prevent you from getting to some parts of Somalia, including Somaliland.

Flooding increases humanitarian need by forcing people to move or cutting them off from possible support. The end of 2023 saw widespread flooding in south-western Somalia, leading to significant internal displacement and disruption to travel.

This section has safety advice for regions of Somalia. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Togdheer, Sanaag and Sool

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advises against all travel to the regions of Toghdeer, Sanaag and Sool in eastern Somaliland. The situation remains volatile, so if you do travel, exercise extreme caution.

Renewed violence broke out between the Somaliland army and clan militias in Las Anod, Sool Region, on 6 February 2023 and the situation remains tense.

On 9 August 2023, a clan militia carried out activities in Dabagorayaale, close to Oodweyne town in Toghdeer region. Protests also took place in Burao, Toghdeer, and Erigavo in the Sanaag region.

Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil

On 11 August 2023, violent clashes occurred between the clan militia based in Ga’an Libah and the Somaliland security forces in Go’da Yar near the mountain.

Border areas

Check with local authorities before travelling to the border, and monitor travel advice for your destination: Ethiopia, Kenya or Djibouti. If you try to cross the border without the correct documents, officials may stop you.

Land borders with countries neighbouring Somalia may close at short notice. You may get a fine or detention for illegally crossing borders. The land border with Kenya is currently closed due to recent cross border terrorist activity. There have been reports that foreign nationals have been prevented from crossing the Djiboutian border into Somalia, though the border remains open.

The rest of Somalia

FCDO advises against all travel to the rest of Somalia. There is ongoing, serious violence between opposing factions in many parts of the country. Civilians of all ages have been killed in fighting, which often involves heavy weapons.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

If that number does not work, call the Somali Red Crescent on 445 for emergency services.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest information on vaccination recommendations in TravelHealthPro’s Somalia guide
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Somalia , including:

The humanitarian situation in Somalia has led to a large displacement of people, and a growth in refugee camps which are overpopulated. This has led to health insecurity and an increase of exposure to disease, particularly around the refugee camps.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Somalia

There are basic hospital facilities in Hargeisa. Elsewhere, medical facilities are extremely limited and often at great distances. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, evacuation by air ambulance and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Somalia where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Somalia

Ambulance: 999

Police: 888

These emergency numbers can be unreliable. The Somali Red Crescent operates a free number for all emergency services on 446.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers and translators and interpreters
• dealing with a  death in Somalia
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Somalia
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Somalia and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Mogadishu .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

• Sign in / Join

President Bihi Unveils Somaliland Airline and Initiates Major Aviation Development Projects

NEC receives last batch of assorted elections materials

Somaliland Government Grants Official Recognition to the Somaliland Teachers’ Association (SOLTA)

President leads Somalilanders in observing three decades since the inception of…

The President lays foundation stone for new Central Bank of Somaliland…

Somaliland warns the “failed regime” in Somalia to prioritize stabilizing its…

Somaliland calls on UN to ‘urgently re-evaluate’ decision to lift Somalia…

Former Somalia top official statement confirms Mogadishu’s symbiotic relationship with al…

Somalia reveals that they are behind the perpetrated allied war in…

Somalia admits that Somaliland successfully controls its own airspace and part…

Somalia’s Envoy for Somaliland Affairs Meets with Djibouti President

Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya agree on joint offensive against Al-Shabaab

Security tight as Djibouti President is due visit Mogadishu

The Government of Djibouti calls on its pensioners to report to…

President Leaves for Djibouti on working visit

Uk government- somalia travel advice..

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to Somalia, including Somaliland except for the cities of Hargeisa and Berbera to which the FCO advise against all but essential travel. Any British nationals in areas of Somalia to which the FCO advise against all travel should leave. Any British nationals in Hargeisa or Berbera who are not on essential travel should leave.

Any British national visiting Hargeisa or Berbera should exercise a heightened level of vigilance and take care in public places where people gather. Monitor local and international media to avoid any demonstration or disturbance taking place. Leave any area of unrest quickly and don’t attempt to watch or photograph it.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Somalia. There is a high threat of kidnap throughout Somalia. Terrorist groups have made threats against westerners and those working for western organisations. There is a constant threat of terrorist attack in Mogadishu and terrorists continue to plan attacks against westerners in the rest of Somalia including Somaliland.

On 14 October 2017 a large truck bomb exploded in central Mogadishu (Hodan District). This was Somalia’s deadliest ever terror attack with over 300 killed and hundreds more injured. Attacks continue to occur in Mogadishu and elsewhere in Somalia

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in crowded places, high-profile events, events involving government officials and in places visited by foreigners. Due to their use by government officials, hotels are considered legitimate targets by terrorist groups. See  Terrorism

There is a high threat of maritime crime in the territorial and international waters off Somalia and attack remains a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. See  Sea travel

All areas across Somalia are suffering food shortages resulting in the displacement of thousands of Somali people including those caused by Tropical Storm Sagar in the north and flooding in the south. See  Local travel

Consular support is severely limited in Somalia. The British Embassy in Mogadishu does not provide consular services. If you’re in Somalia (excluding Somaliland) and need urgent help from the UK government (eg if you’ve been arrested or you’re concerned about forced marriage), contact the  British High Commission in Nairobi . If you’re in Somaliland, you should contact the  British Embassy in Addis Ababa . If you’re in the UK and are concerned about a British national in Somalia (including Somaliland), call the FCO on 020 7008 1500.

Take out comprehensive  travel and medical insurance  before you travel.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Latest News

President leads Somalilanders in observing three decades since the inception of...

The President lays foundation stone for new Central Bank of Somaliland...

President issues executive orders to facilitate free and fair elections and...

National Electoral Commission launches Voter Awareness Campaign

Ballot papers arrive in the country, as NEC once again pledges...

Official campaigns kicks-off in the country with Barwaqo having its field...

Police chief calls for the safeguarding and maintaining of peaceful stability

President receives members with hearing loss fraternity

Somaliland signs crucial agreement with EIL for establishment of industrial lab

President inaugurates new mounted drill rig truck acquired by HWA

Uphold and safeguard peaceful stability, Speaker Suleiman urges as senate goes...

President hails the private sector for catalyzing development

Police serve the community with justice and equality, says Police Chief

Editor picks.

SOMALILAND HAS UNDERTAKEN FORMIDABLE TASKS TO ACHIEVE THE ASPIRATIONS OF ITS...

President of Somaliland: We as two governments, recognized by Ethiopia, shall...

Somaliland’s political support to Taiwan elicits mixed feelings by China

Popular posts.

Should Ethiopia recognize Somaliland?

Homecoming Somaliland: Khadra Ali

Somaliland seeks investors

Popular category.

• Somaliland 5453
• Somalia 2212
• Ethiopia 1074
• Opinion 640
• Djibouti 221
• Business 138

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Somalia travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: September 24, 2024 12:14 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.

Back to top

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 - 20 August, 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 level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause 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.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention 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 available in Canada to prevent dengue. 

Learn more: Dengue Insect bite and pest prevention

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.

Health and safety outside Canada

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+ persons

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

2SLGBTQI+ persons 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 .

Dual citizens

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 Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

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.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Foreign travel advice

Get advice and warnings about travel abroad, including entry requirements, safety and security, health risks and legal differences.

Countries or territories

226 Countries or territories

Countries starting with A

• Afghanistan
• Antarctica/British Antarctic Territory
• Antigua and Barbuda

Countries starting with B

• Bonaire/St Eustatius/Saba
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso

Countries starting with C

• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Czech Republic

Countries starting with D

• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic

Countries starting with E

• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea

Countries starting with F

• Falkland Islands
• Federated States of Micronesia
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia

Countries starting with G

• Guinea-Bissau

Countries starting with H

Countries starting with i, countries starting with j, countries starting with k, countries starting with l.

• Liechtenstein

Countries starting with M

• Marshall Islands
• Myanmar (Burma)

Countries starting with N

• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia

Countries starting with O

Countries starting with p.

• The Occupied Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Pitcairn Island

Countries starting with Q

Countries starting with r, countries starting with s.

• São Tomé and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Martin and St Barthélemy
• St Pierre & Miquelon
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland

Countries starting with T

• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands

Countries starting with U

• United Arab Emirates

Countries starting with V

Countries starting with w.

• Wallis and Futuna
• Western Sahara

Countries starting with Y

Countries starting with z, get updates for all countries, is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .