Somalia

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance


CLIMATE

Somalia has a tropical but not torrid climate and there is little seasonal change in temperature. In the low areas the average temperature ranges from about 24.4°C to 31°C (76°-88°F). In the plateau region, it is cooler; in the southwest warmer. The periodic winds, the southwest monsoon (June to September) and the northeast monsoon (December to March) influence temperature and rainfall. Rain falls in two seasons of the year: heavy rains from March to May and light rains from September to December. Average rainfall is estimated at 11 inches but it is irregular and droughts are frequent.

For today's weather forecast see    CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts


LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings


VISAS & IMMIGRATION

Visas and a valid passport is required by all nationals who want to visit Somalia.


MONEY

Official Currency:    Somali Shilling=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

Credit cards are generally not accepted although some larger establishment do accept Diners Club. It is very difficult to change any form of currency that is not US Dollars.


BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:    Saturday to Thursday : 0800-1130
Shops:     Saturday: to Thursday: 0800-1230 and 1630-1900


LOCAL TIME

Somalia is three hours ahead of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:
Somali Airlines has a domestic service to between the major towns.

Sea:
Because the roads are in poor condition the coastline is a popular route for transportation of cargo and people

Public Transport:
In the south of the country, most the larger towns are serviced by a regular network of buses. Elsewhere there are very few cars and buses.


Self Drive / Hire Cars:

Map & Atlases for Sale

It is difficult to drive outside of Mogadishu by car and road conditions are poor apart from major routes. Driving is on the right hand side and an International Driving Licence is required. There are a few car hire firms in Mogadishu.


PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Electrical Power

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Somalia, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.
	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....
	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .
	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.