Somalia
East Africa · Africa
- Capital
- Mogadishu
- Currency
- Somali Shilling (SOS Sh)
- Language
- Somali and Arabic (official)
- Timezone
- UTC+3
- Safety rating
- 1.5/10
- Best time to visit
- The cooler, drier months from around December to February are most comfortable, security permitting.
Overview
Somalia has a long Indian Ocean coastline, ancient port cities and the remarkable prehistoric rock art of Laas Geel near Hargeisa in Somaliland. Its rich nomadic culture and poetry are deeply storied. Ongoing insecurity, however, makes most of the country inaccessible to travelers.
Visa requirements
Visas are required and arranged via consulate or on arrival in some cases; Somaliland issues its own separate visa for entry there.
Safety information
Somalia faces severe terrorism, kidnapping and armed-conflict risks, and most governments advise against all travel. The semi-autonomous Somaliland region is calmer but still requires armed escorts outside Hargeisa.
Travel tips
Carry US dollars in cash, as they circulate widely alongside shillings and cards do not work. Somali and Arabic are essential, and any travel requires trusted local fixers and, in many areas, armed escorts. Dress conservatively and monitor security constantly.