Africa
Is Somalia safe?
L4Do not travel
Is Somalia safe?
The UK advises against all travel to Somalia including Somaliland, except essential travel to Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil. Fighting between al-Shabaab and the government has intensified near Mogadishu.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 4: Do not travel, updated 2026-05-20.
- Road deaths: 27.4 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Solo women: Very conservative; full covering is expected. Solo women should not travel, especially outside Somaliland.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Al-Shabaab attacks and kidnapping
- Piracy and armed robbery at sea
- Clan clashes and landmines
- Cholera, no emergency care
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing officials, soldiers or government buildings leads to detention.
- Alcohol is banned and punishable.
- Same-sex acts are criminalised.
Quick answers
Is Somalia safe for tourists?
The UK advises against all travel to Somalia including Somaliland, except essential travel to Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil. Fighting between al-Shabaab and the government has intensified near Mogadishu.
Is Somalia safe for solo female travelers?
Very conservative; full covering is expected. Solo women should not travel, especially outside Somaliland.
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Somalia
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.