Africa
Somalia
The UK advises against all travel except essential trips to Hargeisa, Berbera and Borama in Somaliland. Mogadishu faces al-Shabaab attacks and kidnap risk. Not a tourist destination.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa0 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencySOSUS$1 ≈ Sh571.37Details
- Price level52%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English2/5Limited
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled water; cholera is a risk.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedSame-sex acts are severely punished; there is no public scene.Details
- DrivingOn the rightDo not self-drive. Foreign licences are not recognised; use a hired driver and armed escort where required.
When to visit Somalia
Hargeisa is mild November-March. Hot and dry in summer; rains April-June and October-November.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa required for most; Somaliland issues its own e-visa and Federal Somalia issues separate visas.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
- Check which authority's visa you need; a Somaliland stamp is not recognised in Mogadishu.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing officials, soldiers or government buildings leads to detention.
- Alcohol is banned and punishable.
- Same-sex acts are criminalised.
Etiquette
- Dress conservatively; cover arms and legs.
- Do not photograph people without asking.
Tipping
Small tips are customary.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.