Somalia is currently marked as a “Do Not Travel” destination by the U.S. Department of State due to a multitude of serious risks. These include widespread crime, active terrorism, ongoing civil unrest, significant health concerns, high risk of kidnapping, piracy, and the limited availability of routine consular services. This guide provides a detailed overview of the risks involved and offers advice for those considering travel despite these warnings.
Violent crime is a pervasive issue throughout Somalia, with kidnapping and murder being common occurrences. Illegal roadblocks further exacerbate the security situation. The U.S. government’s ability to assist citizens in Somalia is severely limited, as there is no permanent consular presence in the country, including the Somaliland region. This poses significant challenges if a traveler’s passport is lost, stolen, or expires, or if they become destitute.
De-westernization camps and facilities operating under the guise of “rehabilitation” also exist throughout Somalia with little or no licensing and oversight. Reports of physical abuse are common in these facilities, and individuals have reported being held against their will.
A disturbing trend involves family members confiscating the passports of U.S. citizens, preventing their departure from Somalia. This often happens when U.S. citizens travel to Somalia to visit family or attend an event. Some adult U.S. citizens are then unable to leave the international airport without explicit consent from their family.
Terrorist groups continue to actively plan and execute kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks throughout Somalia. These attacks can occur with little to no warning and may target airports, seaports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other locations frequented by large crowds and tourists. Government, military, and tourist convoys are also at risk. Attack methods include car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and rocket fire. While some areas, like the Somaliland region, have experienced less severe terrorist activity, attacks can occur anywhere in Somalia at any time.
Map indicating areas with elevated security risks. Staying informed about regional threats is critical.
Civil unrest, characterized by protests and demonstrations, is frequent throughout Somalia and can escalate into violence. Medical facilities in Somalia are limited in capacity and often nonexistent in rural areas. Pirates are active in the waters off the Horn of Africa, particularly off the coast of Puntland.
If You Decide to Travel to Somalia: Precautions and Planning
Despite the serious risks, if you decide to travel to Somalia, it’s crucial to take the following precautions:
- Review your personal security plan: Consult resources like the Travel to High-Risk Areas page.
- Develop an exit strategy: Create a plan for leaving Somalia if the situation deteriorates. Identify multiple exit options and understand the entry requirements for U.S. citizens in neighboring countries.
- Avoid sailing near the coast of Somalia: Check the Live Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.
- Prepare legal and financial documents: Draft a will, designate insurance beneficiaries, and assign power of attorney.
- Communicate with loved ones: Discuss plans for care/custody of children, pets, property, and funeral wishes. Share important documents, login information, and contacts with loved ones.
- Establish a security plan with your employer or host organization: If traveling on business, work with your employer or a professional security organization.
- Create a communication plan: Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer, specifying contact protocols and information sharing procedures.
- Identify key sources of assistance: Identify potential sources of support in case of emergency, including employers, local contacts, and family outside Somalia.
- Appoint family representatives: Designate a family member to be the point of contact with hostage-takers, media, and government agencies if necessary.
- Establish a proof-of-life protocol: Agree on specific questions and answers with loved ones to verify your well-being in a hostage situation.
- Leave DNA samples with your medical provider: In case it is needed for identification purposes.
- Erase sensitive information from electronic devices: Remove potentially controversial content from social media, cameras, and laptops.
- Leave valuables behind: Avoid bringing expensive or sentimental belongings.
Navigating crowded spaces requires heightened awareness and caution.
Additional Resources
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Register your trip with the U.S. Department of State at Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Follow the Department of State: Stay updated on travel advisories and safety information via Facebook and X.
- Review the Country Security Report: Access detailed security information for Somalia at Country Security Report.
- Prepare a contingency plan: Review the Traveler’s Checklist for emergency situations.
- Check Travel Health Information: Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Conclusion
Traveling to Somalia carries substantial risks. Potential travelers must carefully weigh these risks and take comprehensive precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Staying informed, planning meticulously, and maintaining constant communication with loved ones are crucial for anyone considering travel to this high-risk destination.
