Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
don't settle for peace, there will be an element of risk - borders are not terrorist-proof.
Prospective travellers should carefully monitor the situation before setting off. In late
January 2013, after French troops liberated Saharan cities in northern Mali from funda-
mentalist rebels, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued an advice against all
travel to Somaliland.
Although security has improved in previously high-risk areas such as the Sanaag
province, check the situation locally before heading there. Travel in the Sool region is cur-
rently unsafe due to conflict in Puntland, which claims this province.
AT A GLANCE
»
Currency
Somaliland shilling (SISh); US dollars (US$)
»
Language
Somali
»
Money
Bring cash (US dollars). One ATM in Hargeisa (not working at time of writing); credit cards generally
not accepted.
»
Visas
Single-entry tourist visas;
Click here
.
»
Mobile phones
Local SIM cards (and top-up credits) OK in unlocked GSM-compatible phones. Other phones
must be set to roaming.
Fast Facts
»
Area
637,657 sq km
»
Capital
Hargeisa
»
Country Code
2522
»
Population
3.5 million
Exchange Rates
Australia
A$1 US$1.04
Canada
C$1 US$0.99
