Somalia Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Somalia ports of entry.
Spanish citizens can technically obtain a visa on arrival in Somalia. However, due to terrorism, conflict, piracy, and lawlessness, all travel to Somalia is strongly advised against except for the relatively stable Somaliland region.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, visa fee in cash, travel with organized security.
Potential serious complications in an already dangerous environment.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies, Cholera
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Somalia faces extreme security challenges including Al-Shabaab terrorism, clan violence, kidnapping, piracy, and lack of effective government control in many areas. Most foreign governments advise against all travel. Somaliland (self-declared independent) is notably safer and some adventurous tourists visit. Even in Somaliland, caution is essential.
Money & Costs
Currency
S Somali Shilling (SOS)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $80 · Mid: $150 · Luxury: $300+
Tipping
Not a normal consideration given the context.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
No reliable emergency services in most areas.
Getting There
Main Airports
Mogadishu (MGQ) · Hargeisa (HGA)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Somalia's climate varies by region. The least dangerous weather periods would be December to March (jilaal dry season). However, security, not weather, is the primary consideration. Somaliland in the north has a cooler highland climate.
Cultural Notes
Somali culture is based on clan identity, pastoralism, and Islam. Poetry is highly valued in this oral tradition society. The Somalis have a strong sense of national identity despite political fragmentation. Traditional crafts include weaving and woodwork. The ancient port city of Mogadishu was once a prosperous trading hub.
Insider Tips
Somali and Arabic are official languages. The Somali Shilling is the currency; USD is widely used. The only relatively safe tourism exists in Somaliland, which has its own visa and is functionally separate. Any travel requires extensive security arrangements. Mobile money (Zaad/EVC) is ubiquitous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is any part of Somalia safe to visit?
Somaliland, the self-declared independent region in northern Somalia, is notably safer than the rest of the country. It has its own government, currency, and relative stability. Some adventurous tourists visit Hargeisa and Laas Geel cave paintings. However, the border areas and eastern regions still carry risks. Standard Somalia remains extremely dangerous.
What is Somaliland and can I visit?
Somaliland declared independence in 1991 (unrecognized internationally) and has maintained peace while the rest of Somalia collapsed. It has functioning government, elections, and security. Tourists can obtain a visa on arrival at Hargeisa airport. Attractions include Laas Geel cave art (5,000+ years old) and the Gulf of Aden coast. Visit at your own risk with updated information.
What are the Laas Geel cave paintings?
Laas Geel is a remarkable site of prehistoric cave paintings in Somaliland, dating back 5,000-11,000 years. The vivid images of cattle and humans are among the best-preserved rock art in Africa. The site is accessible from Hargeisa (about 1 hour) when security conditions permit. This is the main tourist attraction in the region.
Why is Somalia so dangerous?
Somalia collapsed into civil war in 1991 after dictator Siad Barre fell. Decades of clan conflict, warlordism, and lack of central government followed. Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist group, controls significant territory. Piracy off the coast peaked in 2011. While Mogadishu has improved slightly, violence and terrorism continue across most of the country.
Can I get travel insurance for Somalia?
Standard travel insurance policies do not cover travel to Somalia given government advisories. Some specialty insurers offer "hostile environment" coverage at extremely high premiums with many exclusions. Travel to Somalia without organizational support and professional security is not insurable in any meaningful way.