Somalia travel advice

The Somali President declared a state of emergency on 22 June 2009. Insurgent activity and political tension remains high. Reporting indicates a likely major confrontation in the coming weeks of March 2010.

All travel to Somalia is advised against because of the dangerous level of criminal activity and internal insecurity. Fighting between the Islamic Courts' militias and those loyal to the warlord in Mogadishu, Balad, Jowhar and Beletweyne earlier in 2006 has now ceased. But tensions remain high. Westerners and those working for western organisations have also been targeted.

Polio remains a major problem in Somalia. With cases occurring outside of the capital there remains the risk of continued spread of wild polio both in Somalia and to neighbouring countries.

Piracy has been a major problem along the Somali coastline.

There is a high threat from terrorism in Somalia against Western interests. Those foreign nationals deciding to remain in or visit Somalia despite advice to the contrary, should take strong security precautions.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel