Central African Republic travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary, Crime, Political, Local Travel and Road Travel sections. The overall level of the advice has not changed; there are no travel restrictions to the capital, Bangui, but we continue to advise against all but essential travel to the rest of the Central African Republic (CAR).

Travel Summary

• There are no travel restrictions to the capital, Bangui, but we advise against all but essential travel to the rest of the Central African Republic (CAR). If you must travel outside Bangui, we recommend that you check first on the current situation in the areas through which you plan to travel.
  
  
• You should avoid all travel to Vakaga and Bamingui-Bangoran provinces in the North East and Haut Mbombou province in the South East. This is due to continued rebel activity in these areas. See the Local Travel section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• There is no British Embassy in the CAR. There is an Honorary Consul, based in Bangui who will be able to assist in emergencies. The nearest British diplomatic mission is the High Commission in Yaoundé, Cameroon. See the General (British Representation) section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism in the Central African Republic (CAR). You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• We are not aware of any British nationals who required consular assistance in the Central African Republic (CAR) in 2008.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See the General (Insurance) section of this Travel Advice .

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For further information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Incidents of theft and robbery occur regularly and armed gangs are known to operate in the outlying areas of Bangui. Take sensible personal security precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places. We recommend that you avoid carrying valuables or wearing jewellery in public. You should avoid isolated or poorer areas of towns and walking alone at night.

In the past there have been strikes and demonstrations in Bangui. Even peaceful protests have the ability to turn violent. You should avoid all political rallies, demonstrations and large public gatherings.

For more information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Central African Republic (CAR) Country Profile
In May 2005, General Bozize was elected as President, having taken power in a coup in 2003. The elections were widely accepted as representative of the will of the people. An inclusive political dialogue in December 2008 between the government, rebels and political opposition led to a unity government being formed in January 2009. Despite this the security situation in CAR is unstable with sporadic fighting between armed groups and government forces across the country. There remains an absence of state authority or rule of law outside of the capital, Bangui.

Local Travel

There are no travel restrictions to the capital Bangui, though we advise against all but essential travel to the rest of the Central African Republic (CAR). If you must travel outside Bangui, we recommend that you check first on the current situation in the areas through which you plan to travel.

You should avoid all travel to the following areas:

Vakaga Province: Rebel forces are active in the North East of the country in particular around the regional capital Birao. In March 2008 a well marked NGO vehicle travelling in convoy was fired upon by armed assailants, killing one patient. In November 2009 two French aid workers were abducted from Birao at gunpoint.

Bamingui-Bangoran province: Heavy fighting broke out in November 2009 when rebel forces attacked the town of Ndele. During the course of the attack there are reports of violence against the civilian population by rebels. Ndele and the surrounding province remain unstable with fighting between rebel groups and government forces.

Haut Mbomou Province: Since March 2008, there have been credible reports of periodic incursions into South East of CAR by the Lords Resistance Army (LRA). There have been reports of LRA raids on towns and roads around the provincial capital Obo despite government troops present there. On 21st September 2009 a truck carrying aid workers was attacked on the road between Mboki and Obo and 8 passengers were killed.

You should be aware that the ability of the nearest British High Commission, in Yaounde, Cameroon, to assist you in the event of an incident would be constrained by the remoteness of the region and the lack of communications.

There is an Honorary Consul in Bangui, should you require assistance during an emergency you can contact them using the details shown under the British Representation section.

Road Travel

You may find local travel difficult in current circumstances. Roads are poorly maintained and most require a four-wheel drive vehicle. You should keep a private supply of fuel available if possible and carry supplies with you if travelling outside Bangui.

Illegal road blocks operate in remote areas, where you may be forced to hand over money or possessions in order to continue your journey. You should also be aware of indiscriminate and violent attacks on travellers in remote areas. There are reports of vehicles being fired upon and passengers killed or injured. In many of these cases victims have been robbed or taken hostage and vehicles taken or burnt.

You should seek local advice before travelling and we recommend that you do not travel after dark.

For more general information see Driving Abroad page.

Air Travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

There is a Departure Tax of 10.000 CFA per person when leaving Central African Republic (CAR) in International flights from Bangui airport.

For more general information see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

You should carry identification at all times (either a residence permit or a certified copy of your passport). Failure to produce such identification can lead to detention by the police.

Penalties for the use and possession of drugs are severe.

The purchase of diamonds or precious stones is prohibited except through those agents authorised by the government. All cultural artefacts are subject to an export tax.

Caution and discretion must be used in the taking of photographs in public places, as permission is often required. Taking photos of government property, uniformed law and enforcement Officers, military installations and personnel, may lead to detention, subsequent fines and the impounding of cameras. The taking of any photographs which the Central African Republic (CAR) authorities deem as damaging the image of Central African Republic (CAR) (such as street urchins, people with handicaps/deformities) is also not permitted. The situation is more relaxed outside of the capital, where people are generally open to having their picture taken, but it is always advisable to ask first. A permit may be obtained for the more serious photographer from the Ministry of Tourism.

Satellite telephones should be registered [fee applicable] with the Bangui or regional Agence chargée de la Régulation des Télécommunications (ART) Government Telecommunication offices.

Homosexuality is not widely accepted in Central African society and some sexual acts between members of the same sex are illegal.

For more general advice for different types of travellers see our Your trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals need a visa to visit Central African Republic (CAR). To apply for a visa and to obtain further information on entry requirements, please contact the Embassy of Central African Republic in Paris at 30 rue des Perchamps, 75116 Paris.

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate

You will be asked to produce a yellow fever vaccination certificate on arrival in the country. Failure to do so may result in a further vaccination being administered, for which a charge is made.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Embassy of the Central African Republic in Paris.

Health

Medical facilities are extremely limited and strikes by government workers have affected medical services and hospitals. You should ensure that you are covered for medical evacuation by air ambulance.

Malaria and water-borne diseases to occur in CAR and meningitis outbreaks occur during the six-month dry season that starts in December, especially in the country's north, which lies within the African meningitis belt stretching from Senegal to Ethiopia.

You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Food purchased from local street vendors may not meet adequate hygiene standards. If you suffer from diarrhoea during a visit to Central African Republic (CAR) you should seek immediate medical attention.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 140,000 adults aged 15 or over in Central African Republic (CAR) were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 6.3% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Central African Republic (CAR) and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

British Representation

There is no British Embassy in the CAR. However, there is an Honorary Consul, based in Bangui who will be able to assist in emergencies. His name is Mark Pearson and his contact numbers are:

Cell: +236 75 561 456

Tel: +236 21 618 513

Fax: + 236 21 614 639

E-mail: Mark.LindsayPearson-HonCon@fconet.fco.gov.uk

The nearest British diplomatic mission is the British High Commission in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

In an emergency, the French Embassy in Bangui may also be able to offer some consular assistance (tel +236 613 000; +236 610 584).

Cape Verde travel advice

Summary update

• Still current at:
  14 January 2016
• Updated:
  2 October 2015
• Latest update: Summary section – removal of advice about damage caused by Tropical Storm Fred

There is no British Embassy in Cape Verde. If you need consular assistance contact the British Embassy in Dakar, Senegal. See Consular assistance
An outbreak of Ebola virus disease has been confirmed in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. If you travel to this region you should follow the health advice issued by the National Travel Health Network and Centre. There have been no suspected cases of Ebola in Cape Verde. For further details about this outbreak of Ebola, see the World Health Organization website, the NaTHNaC outbreak surveillance database and this map showing the areas affected.
Most visits to Cape Verde are trouble-free, but you should take sensible precautions against petty crime. See Crime
Many British nationals have experienced serious problems when buying property in Cape Verde. Before buying property anywhere on the islands, you should seek independent qualified legal advice.
There is a low threat from terrorism. See Terrorism
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.

Travel Summary

• Reports indicate significant outbreaks of dengue fever in Brava, Fogo, Maio, and São Tiago (Santiago).
  
• There is no formal British representation in Cape Verde. In case of an emergency you should contact the British Embassy in Dakar, Senegal (see Contacts). There is a British Honorary Consul in Mindelo, Sao Vicente Island but this should be used for consular emergencies only. See the General (Consular assistance) section of this travel advice for more details.
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
• Most visits to Cape Verde are trouble-free. The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Cape Verde in 2006 was for petty crime. The main problem in 2007 was hospitalization, following minor accidents.
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Crime rates in Cape Verde are low but there have been incidents of muggings involving British nationals. You should avoid carrying valuables in public and remain vigilant at all times. For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

The political situation is stable. Legislative elections, which passed off peacefully, took place in January 2006.

Cape Verde Country Profile

Road Travel

Traffic is usually light and road conditions and driving standards are generally of a reasonable quality.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Sea Travel

Sea conditions around Cape Verde are sometimes treacherous. Mariners should take local advice. Travel by sea to the southern islands of Fogo and Brava in particular can be significantly disrupted.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Local laws and customs

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals require a visa to enter Cape Verde. Cape Verde's Ambassador to the UK is Fernando Wahnon Ferreira, based in Brussels. His address is: Ambassade du Cap-Vert, Avenue Jeanne 29, 1000 Bruxelles, tel. +32 2 64 69 025/64 36 270; fax 32 2 64 63 385, email: emb.caboverde@skynet.be.

For those travelling via Senegal there is a Cape Verde Embassy in Dakar. Specialist travel agents dealing with Cape Verde can also arrange visas.

Health

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

Reports indicate significant outbreaks of dengue fever in Brava, Fogo, Maio, and São Tiago (Santiago).

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Cape Verde and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

A (H1N1) Swine Flu

There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance before travelling. This should include cover for medical treatment and evacuation, accidents, cancelled flights, and stolen cash, cards, passports and luggage. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Consular assistance

There is no British Embassy in Cape Verde. The British Ambassador to Cape Verde resides at Dakar. Mr Antonio Canuto, the British Honorary Consul in Mindelo, Sao Vicente island, can provide limited assistance in an emergency; (tel: +238 2322830), or ask for Mr Canuto's assistant, Isabel Spencer (tel: (238) 2323512/2323123; fax: +238 2321284).

Money

The Cape Verde Escudo is tied to the Euro at CV Esc 110.27 = 1 Euro. Banks will exchange hard currencies. Main hotels and restaurants will accept the major credit cards.

Cameroon travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Health section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• We advise against all travel to the area bordering the Central African Republic and Chad. Armed banditry is a regular occurrence in these areas. We advise against all travel to the area bordering Nigeria in the region of the Bakassi Peninsula. See the Local Travel section of this Travel Advice.
  

• Travel by road north of Maroua is dangerous because of carjackers. Gendarmerie (rural police) detachments are posted along the road between Maroua and the Chadian border. British High Commission staff travelling north of Maroua only do so after taking appropriate security precautions, including an armed escort.
  

• Most visits to Cameroon are trouble-free. 7 British nationals required consular assistance in Cameroon in the period 1 April 2008 – 31 March2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (1 cases); hospitalisations (1 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (4 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (5 cases).
  

• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  

• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this Travel Advice and our Travel Insurance page.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For further information and advice see our Terrorism Abroad page.

Crime

Incidents of mugging and banditry, often armed, are a serious problem throughout Cameroon. Muggings and robberies have been reported in Douala, Yaoundé and other major towns. In the past, there have been attacks in the Mont Febe area of Yaoundé; we do not advise going there alone. You should avoid isolated or poorer areas of town (notably in Yaoundé, La Briquetterie and Mokolo), take personal security precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places. You should, for example, avoid the streets at night, and as far as possible, go out in the company of others. Ensure that car doors are locked when travelling, avoid wearing jewellery and carry the minimum in cash and valuables with you.

There have been attacks in Yaoundé where gangs of armed gunmen have held up entire restaurants or hotels where foreigners are known to be eating or staying. This occurs because foreigners are perceived locally to be wealthy.

There have been reports of criminal gangs and bandits operating in the Douala area. Close and lock all residential doors and windows, including those above ground level, particularly at night. Do not rely on elevation or fly screens for protection. Many expatriate homes up to the eighth floor (Douala) and fourth floor (Yaoundé) have been broken into. It is advised that burglar proof bars be installed in rented homes before signing contracts. Identify callers through spyholes before opening doors, especially late at night.

Petty theft is common on trains, coaches and in bush taxis. You should take precautions when using city taxis as most do not comply with basic safety procedures such as seatbelts or general road worthiness. Many taxis take more passengers and luggage than it is safe to do so. Violent assaults and robberies on taxi passengers are not uncommon. Only use known taxis even during daytime.

Car jackings and robberies, often armed and accompanied by violent acts have occurred along roads close to Cameroon’s eastern border with Central African Republic (CAR) and Chad, as well as in Douala, Yaoundé, Kribi, and Maroua. You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. You should plan your journey carefully and travel in convoy, where possible. Since mobile phone coverage is limited we advise taking a VHF radio or satellite phone.

While there were fewer incidents in 2008, there have in the past been serious incidents of car hijacking and robbery, resulting in deaths, along the Bamenda-Banyo and Bafoussam-Banyo roads in the north-west. Attacks have also occurred on the Bafoussam-Douala and Bafoussam-Yaounde roads.

Foreign visitors and residents in Cameroon are increasingly becoming targets by scam artists. The scams come in many forms, and can pose great financial loss to victims. Scam artists are also targeting individuals in the UK via websites, chat-rooms and by email with the intention of soliciting money from victims. The reasons that the scam artists give for needing cash vary but include posing as legitimate businesses importing items to the UK or posing as British citizens in distress and in immediate need of funds. Cases involving the alleged adoption of children have also been reported. You should be very cautious about sending money or travelling to Cameroon to adopt a child where the information has come from a website or through emails. Cameroon does not have adoption agencies. Many victims are persuaded to part with large amounts of money before they start to suspect anything. Schemes in operation by West African criminal networks are designed to facilitate victims parting with money, known as advance fee or 419 fraud. For further information on advance fee fraud please see Metropolitan Police Service - Fraud Alert.

If you are concerned about someone who has travelled to Cameroon you should contact the Consular Section of the British High Commission, Yaoundé: (consularenq.yaounde@fco.gov.uk).

For more general information see our Victims of Crime Abroad page.

Political situation

Cameroon Country Profile

In February 2008 there was civil unrest and rioting in Douala which spread to some other provinces in the country, including Limbe, Yaoundé, Bamenda and Bafoussam. The riots resulted in a number of civilian deaths and serious injuries. You should remain abreast of local political conditions and avoid all political rallies, demonstrations and large public gatherings.

Local Travel

You should register with the British High Commission in Yaoundé if you intend to stay longer than one month.

Bakassi: We advise against all travel to the area bordering Nigeria in the region of the Bakassi Peninsula. Cameroon and Nigeria reached an agreement on the future of Bakassi, which was handed from Nigeria to Cameroon on 14 August 2008, but the area and local feelings remain sensitive. There have been a number of armed attacks in the region and on 31 October 2008, a boat was attacked in Cameroonian waters and 10 people were taken hostage. The hostages were subsequently released.

North Cameroon: You should exercise extreme care if travelling to the north of Cameroon by road. The eastern route via Garoua-Boulai and Meiganga involves driving close to the border with CAR. The western route requires travel along the Bamenda-Banyo axis (please see crime section above). The central route via Yoko requires travel on very poorly maintained and largely uninhabited roads and requires passage over a number of bridges in a poor state of repair. There is no fuel on the route. If you must attempt this route, carry plenty of water and sufficient fuel to enable you to turn back if necessary. We advise a satellite phone or VHF radio to summon assistance if required.

Lake Chad: If you intend to visit the Lake Chad area in the Far North Province you should report to the local authorities (the Prefet or Sous-Prefet) on arrival. The local authorities advise visitors to engage a reliable guide, such as those offered by the larger hotels in Maroua.

Travel out of Cameroon: Overland travel out of Cameroon can be difficult. Travel by road north of Maroua is dangerous because of car-jackers. Gendarmerie (rural police) detachments are posted along the road between Maroua and the Chadian border. British High Commission staff travelling north of Maroua only do so after taking appropriate security precautions, including an armed escort.

Lake Nyos: Lake Nyos in the North West Province emitted carbon dioxide which suffocated about 1,700 people in 1986. There were no warning signs that this would happen. There are concerns that this could happen again at any time. There is also a concern that the wall of the dam holding back Lake Nyos is not sufficiently strong. Nearby Lake Mounoun is also saturated with CO2.

Yaoundé-Douala trunk road: We recommend you avoid driving at night in rural areas, particularly on the Yaoundé-Douala trunk road, where accidents are common.

Road Travel

UK driving licences and International Driving Permits may be used on first arrival, but you should obtain a Cameroonian licence as soon as possible after arrival. Holders of a UK driving licence can do this by filling in a form at the Delegation of Transport.

You should ensure that any car you hire is adequately insured, preferably by written confirmation from the insurance company (rather than the car hire firm). If you are hiring a driver and car, you should again ensure that you are not liable for any accident of damage.

Roads in Cameroon are generally in poor condition. Many are badly pot-holed, and street lighting, where it exists, is poor. Pedestrians and stray animals on roads are a frequent hazard. Many vehicles are poorly lit and badly driven.

Roadblocks set up by the police or gendarmerie, are common throughout Cameroon. You may be asked to show your passport, driving licence or vehicle registration documents. There are regular reports of uniformed members of the security forces stopping motorists on the pretext of minor or non-existent violations of local vehicle regulations in order to extort small bribes. We recommend that you do not pay bribes. Where possible you should request the officer to provide a ticket, detailing alleged offences of violations that can be paid at a local court.

For more general information see our Driving Abroad page.

Air Travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

There are doubts about the reliability and safety of some Cameroonian-registered aircraft operating flights within Cameroon. British Government employees do not use internal flights in Cameroon unless this is unavoidable. You should bear this in mind when making your travel plans.

For more general information see our Airline Security page.

Rail Travel

Two separate train accidents occurred in Yaoundé on 28 and 29 August 2009, which resulted in twelve deaths and over three hundred people injured. The first accident involved a cargo train which derailed near Obobogo, and the other incident involved a passenger train that crashed in the Etoudi neighbourhood. While some parts of the Cameroonian railroads are being overhauled, much of the track and many of the trains remain in poor condition.

Local laws and customs

Homosexuality is not widely accepted in central African society and some sexual acts between members of the same sex are illegal.

Penalties for the use and possession of drugs are severe and usually include a prison sentence.

You should carry identification at all times (either a residence permit or a certified copy of your passport). Failure to produce such identification can lead to detention by the police.

Photography of military sites, government buildings, airports and ports is forbidden.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are required to visit Cameroon. To apply for a visa and to obtain further information on entry requirements.

If you have a query regarding your immigration status whilst in Cameroon, you are advised to contact the General Delegation for National Security in Yaoundé, on +237 2221 2884.

Passport validity

Your passport must be valid for six months from the date of entry into Cameroon.

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate

You will be asked to produce a yellow fever vaccination certificate on arrival in the country. Failure to do so may result in a further vaccination being administered, for which a charge is made.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Health

Medical facilities in Cameroon are poor, particularly in rural areas. Emergency facilities are extremely limited. For serious medical treatment, medical evacuation to the UK or South Africa would be necessary.

Malaria and cholera occur in Cameroon, as do other water-borne diseases.

There are regular cholera outbreaks between the months of December and June with Douala city, Littoral province and the West and South West provinces the areas most usually affected. A cholera outbreak in October 2009 in the North and Far North of Cameroon is reported to have killed over 25 people. You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you suffer from diarrhoea during a visit to Cameroon you should seek immediate medical attention.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 500,000 adults aged 15 or over in Cameroon were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 5.1% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see our HIV and AIDS page.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Cameroon and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) or NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see our Travel Health and Avian and Pandemic Flu pages.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see our Travel Insurance page.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas see our When Things Go Wrong page.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Registering with the British High Commission

You should register with the British High Commission in Yaoundé on arrival in Cameroon.

British passports

The British High Commission in Yaoundé does not issue full passports and, before setting off, you should ensure that your passport has sufficient validity and a plentiful supply of unused pages. Applications for new passports are accepted in Yaoundé for forwarding to the British High Commission in Nairobi for processing, but this may take up to six weeks. If a courier is used, the cost must be borne by the applicant.

Money

Sterling travellers' cheques are difficult to exchange throughout Cameroon. Many banks will only allow you to exchange travellers cheques if you hold an account with that bank.

Cameroon is primarily a cash economy. Credit cards have limited acceptability in Cameroon and of the range of credit cards, Visa is the most widely accepted. You should confirm in advance with your hotel if you wish to settle a bill by credit card.

Some ATMs outside banks in Yaoundé, Douala and other major towns will accept major UK credit cards and supply local currency but they are often empty, particularly at the weekend.

Money transfer agencies can be found throughout Cameroon.

Burundi travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Entry Requirements section (visas must now be obtained in advance of travel to Burundi. The overall level of the advice has not changed..

Travel Summary

• We advise against all travel to Bujumbura Rural, Bubanza, Citiboke and Ruyigi Provinces as well as the border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). For the remaining Provinces we advise against all but essential travel. There are no warnings against visiting the capital Bujumbura. The security situation across Burundi has stabilised and the last remaining rebel group was officially disarmed on 21 April 2009. The threat of ambush by bandits remains high. We advise against all travel between 17:00 and 09:00 partly due to the security situation and partly due to the condition of the roads.
  

• If travelling in rural areas for essential reasons we advise that you contact the UN office in Burundi and make contact with your destination ahead of time to check on the situation. See the local travel section of this Travel Advice.
  

• There is no British Embassy in Burundi, but there is a Liaison Office in Bujumbura, which can provide you with advice. Burundi is covered from the British Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda. See the General (British Representation) section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Burundi in 2008 were for lost and stolen passports.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• If you decide to travel we recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance .

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

There is a high risk of street crime in Burundi. Muggings at gun and knife point, bag snatching, pick-pocketing, burglary, car break-ins, and armed car hijackings have all been reported. Take precautions such as not walking in the streets after dark, even in Bujumbura city centre and do not carry large amounts of money. Safeguard valuables and cash. Deposit them in hotel safes, where practical. Keep copies of important documents, including passports and visas separately.

In Bujumbura, the UN has designated the area which follows the lakeside road south of the port to the Club Cercle Nautique and then the dirt road which runs parallel to the lake from the Cercle Nautique to the southerly end of the city as a “non-recommended” area due to banditry.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Burundi Country Profile

After 13 years of civil war, the Government of Burundi signed a ceasefire agreement with the leaders of the last rebel group, the National Forces for Liberation (FNL) in September 2006. Progress was slow. But on 21 April 2009, FNL were disarmed and registered as a political party bringing hopes of real peace in Burundi. Burundi is due to have Presidential, legislative and local elections in mid 2010. The elections are likely to be hotly contested, with a risk of insecurity. The FCO will continue to monitor the situation.

The UN has a presence in Burundi (BINUB) with the role of consolidating peace.

Local travel

We advise against travel to Bujumbura Rural, Bubanza, Citiboke and Ruyigi Provinces as well as the border areas with the DRC. For the remaining Provinces we advise against all but essential travel. There are no warnings against visiting the capital Bujumbura. The security situation across Burundi has stabilised and the last remaining rebel group was officially disarmed on 21 April 2009. The threat of ambush by bandits remains high. We advise against all travel between 1700 and 0900 partly due to the security situation and partly due to the condition of the roads.

If travelling in rural areas for essential reasons we advise that you contact the UN office in Burundi and make contact with your destination ahead of time to check on the situation. See the local travel section of this Travel Advice.

If you decide to travel outside Bujumbura, we advise you to contact the UN office in Burundi (tel: + 257 22 21 93 42). The UN and the United States advise their staff to travel in a convoy of at least two vehicles. We advise that you not to travel outside of Bujumbura between 17:00 and 09:00.

Road travel

You may drive in Burundi on a full UK driving licence for the first six months after arrival, after which, you are required to obtain a Burundi driving licence. The standard of driving is poor and results in many serious accidents. Travelling on public transport or by bicycle is particularly hazardous. Great care should be taken at all times but especially at night because many vehicles do not have lights. Keep car doors locked and windows closed when driving. Roads are average within Bujumbura with large potholes but the National Routes are in quite good condition.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Air travel

Six carriers fly in and out of Burundi: Air Burundi, Rwandair, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenyan Airways, Brussels Airlines and TMK (DRC registered). Neither TMK nor Air Burundi are ICAO/IATA approved. British Government employees have been advised that there are safety concerns about Air Burundi and TMK. For advice about Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) carriers, please see Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) travel advice.

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see airline security.

Local laws and customs

Homosexual acts were criminalised on 22 April 2009. The punishment includes a prison sentence of between three months and two years, and a $41-80 fine.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are required for visits to Burundi and must be obtained in advance of travel. Further advice on visas can be obtained from the Burundi Embassy in Brussels (tel +32 22 304535) or from the Burundian Embassy in Kigali (tel +250 575512 fax +250 576418) if travelling from Rwanda.

We advise that you carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times. There are police security checkpoints across Bujumbura.

Health

Burundi’s health system is very basic and can only offer very limited medical facilities. In the event of serious accident or illness an evacuation by air ambulance may be required.

HIV/AIDS and Malaria are prevalent in Burundi.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 90,000 adults aged 15 or over in Burundi were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 2.0% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Burundi and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health and Swine Flu.

Natural disasters

On 3 February 2008 an earthquake of 6.0 magnitude was recorded in Bukavu (eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)) and a second earthquake of magnitude 5.0 struck near Cyangugu in (south west Rwanda). Both were felt in Burundi but there were no fatalities.

General

Insurance

If you decide to travel we recommend that you take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance before travelling. This should include cover for medical treatment and accidents. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see travel insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is When Things Go Wrong.

British representation

You should be aware that Burundi is covered by the British Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda. However, there is a Liaison Office (tel: +257 22 24 64 78. Address: Building Old East, Place de L'Independence, Bujumbura), which can provide advice. British nationals should register with the Belgian Embassy, (tel: +257 22 22 32 66) in Bujumbura.

Contact details of the British Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda can be found here.

Registration

If you intend to travel to, or are resident in, Burundi you should register your presence with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Or you can register at the British Embassy Liaison Office. We will also inform the Belgian Embassy of your presence as they would take responsibility if there were a need for evacuation

Their contact details are:
Boulevard de la Liberté, 9; Bujumbura
Tel: + 257 22 22 32 66 or + 257 22 22 61 76 Email: Bujumbura@diplobel.org.

See Belgian travel advice

Money

If you decide to travel to Burundi, you should take US dollars dated post-2003, as most outlets and individuals will not accept or exchange older currency. Euros may also be exchanged.

Burkina Faso travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Crime section (change of email address). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• There is no British High Commission in Burkina Faso. In case of an emergency you should contact the British Embassy in Accra, Ghana. There is an Honorary Consul in Burkina Faso, but he can only offer limited consular assistance (contact details below) – or add them in box at the side up front.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• You should avoid all travel by road from Ouagadougou to Po. See Local Travel below.
  
  
• Most visits to Burkina Faso are trouble-free. Consular services provided to British nationals in the past have been mainly assistance with lost and stolen passports.
  
  
• Before travelling, you should seek medical advice and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up to date. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You should carry some form of identification with you at all times.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and travel insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For further information and advice see terrorism abroad.

Crime

There is a risk of crime involving armed groups stopping vehicles (including public buses) to rob them in various parts of the country, particularly at night. You should avoid all travel between towns by road at night. See local travel section for further details.

Street crime poses high risks for visitors. Most reported incidents involve opportunist snatches of purses, wallets, jewellery and other valuable. Thieves are particularly active in crowds. The areas near and around the UN Circle and the former Central Market in Ouagadougou experience the highest amount of street crime. You should take precautions. Do not carry valuables in public places or walk alone at night.

British nationals resident in the UK and European nationals are increasingly becoming targets by scam artists operating in West Africa. The scams come in many forms: romance and friendship, business ventures, work and employment opportunities, the facilitation of money (for internet dating scams see below), and can pose great financial risk to victims. Relatives or friends in the UK should first check with the person who has travelled to West Africa before becoming involved in the transfer of money. If you are concerned about a British national who has travelled to Burkina Faso you should contact the Consular Section of the British High Commission, Accra (E-mail: High.Commission.Accra@fco.gov.uk). Schemes in operation by West African criminal networks are financially-motivated.

British nationals are also being targeted by West African scam artists through internet based dating sites. The scam artists assume the false identity of a foreign national (sometimes British) working and living in West Africa. In some instances the impostor has informed their foreign friend that they have been hospitalised or arrested and need money quickly. In other cases foreigners have come to West Africa to meet the person with whom they have been in contact only to be kidnapped and become the victim of financial extortion.

You should treat with considerable caution any requests for funds, a job offer, a business venture or a face to face meeting from someone you have been in correspondence with over the internet who lives in West Africa. For further information on advance fee fraud please see: http://www.met.police.uk/fraudalert.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Burkina Faso Country Profile

The political situation is generally stable.

There are occasional demonstrations in Ouagadougou about political or economic grievances; you should avoid these.

Local travel

As mentioned in the Crime section, there have been incidents involving armed groups stopping vehicles (including public buses) to rob them in various parts of the country, particularly at night. You should avoid travel between towns by road at night. This applies particularly to roads from Bobo Dioulasso to Ivory Coast, and Fada to Benin and Togo, due to a history of incidents in these areas.

You should avoid all travel by road from Ouagadougou to Po as banditry in these areas has worsened since 2007. Incidents are not confined to principal routes: Secondary roads (notably roads in the east to Benin, Bogande and Gayeri) are also affected.

You should exercise caution travelling by road between Burkina Faso and Niger. There have been reports of bandits using land mines to attack lorries travelling on the road from Ouagadougou to Niamey. You should travel in convoy where possible and seek local advice before setting out. Where possible you should follow a police patrol.

Road travel

You can drive in Burkina Faso on a UK driving licence.

Travel at night, especially outside towns, should be avoided. With a few exceptions, roads are poor with few street lights. There is the risk of banditry and also of hitting stray livestock. Road conditions off the main roads are often difficult, especially in the rainy season (June-September). Vehicles do not always have headlights and are often in unsound mechanical condition.

It is advisable to stay on clearly marked roads or tracks (and to avoid minor roads in remote areas) unless travelling in convoy. If you break down off a main road you may not be able to attract help. Carry sufficient drinking water to last you if you break down.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Air travel

You should reconfirm onward/return flights 72 hours in advance.

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see airline security.

Local laws and customs

If you commit a criminal offence, for example, drug trafficking, you can expect to be subjected to local law. Local prison conditions are harsh.

You should not photograph military or other government installations.

Homosexuality is illegal.

You should carry ID (passport or residence permit) at all times, particularly when driving or taking a taxi outside Ouagadougou, when you are likely to have to produce it.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals require a valid visa and a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Burkina Faso. Burkina Faso is represented in the UK on a non-resident basis from its Embassy. The Embassy's website provides details of visa requirements. The Honorary Consul of Burkina Faso to the UK, Mr Colin Seelig (01306 627 225), may also be able to assist with applications. It may also be possible to obtain visas from the Burkina Faso Embassy in Paris (159 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008, Paris, France; Phone: +33-1-4359-2185/+33-1-4359-9063; Fax: +33-1-4256-5007; Email: amba.burkina.faso@wanadoo.fr; website URL: www.ambaburkinafrance.org - in French).

Health

Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are very limited. For serious medical treatment, evacuation to Europe is necessary.

Malaria and other tropical and water-borne diseases are common. You should consider taking protections against malaria and using insect repellent.

Burkina Faso suffers from an annual meningitis epidemic from January to May. It spreads quickly, then is rapidly stopped by the onset of the rainy season.

Safe drinking water is scarce. You should drink only boiled/bottled water and take adequate supplies of drinkable water if travelling in rural areas.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 120,000 adults aged 15 or over in Burkina Faso were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 1.6% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Burkina Faso and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health and Swine Flu.

Pandemic Influenza

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. This should include cover for medical treatment and evacuation, accidents, cancelled flights and stolen cash, credit cards, passport and luggage. For more general information see travel insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Consular assistance and registration

There is no British Embassy in Burkina Faso. The British Ambassador to Burkina Faso resides in Accra. Our Honorary Consul, Mr Patrick de Leland, can only offer limited consular assistance in an emergency. His contact details are:

Mr Patrick de Lelande

Honorary Consulate of the UK in Burkina Faso
01 BP 6490 Ouagadougou 01 BURKINA FASO
Based at ICI, Initiatives Conseil International
Impasse Thévenoud, 330
Tel: +226 50 30 88 60
Fax: +226 50 31 25 43
E-mail: consulat-uk@fasonet.bf

The office is situated 150 metres from the Cathedral going towards City Hall on the right hand side. We recommend that British passport holders travelling to Burkina Faso register with the British High Commission in Accra using the LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Money

Visa cards are accepted by a few of the larger hotels and restaurants in Ouagadougou (as are travellers' cheques denominated in Euros). You are unlikely to be able to use them anywhere outside the capital. Other brands of credit cards are not accepted. There are a few ATMs in Ouagadougou (Visa only). Travellers' cheques are exchangeable in banks in Ouagadougou. Euro travellers' cheques are exchanged at the fixed rate prevailing between the CFA Franc and the Euro; exchange rates on other currency travellers' cheques can be poor. In general, and in particular outside Ouagadougou, you should ensure you have enough cash to cover any eventuality.

Botswana travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (power supply problems on the island of Zanzibar). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the A (H1N1) virus (Swine Flu) in Botswana. On arrival at ports of entry, including the main airports of Maun, Gaborone, Kasane and Francistown, travellers are required to complete a swine flu health form to enable the authorities to assess risk. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. Check swine flu for further information.

• Wildlife and livestock on roads make driving hazardous. Avoid driving at night.

• You should be aware of an increasing incidence of violent crime.

• You should carry some form of identification with you at all times. A photocopy of your passport is sufficient.
  
  
• Most visits to Botswana trouble-free. You should be aware of an increasing incidence of violent crime. See the Crime section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Around 5,000 British tourists visit Botswana every year (Source: Botswana Department of Tourism). 11 British nationals required consular assistance in Botswana in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (6 cases); hospitalisations (0 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (3 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (29 cases).
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and travel insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers,

For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

Attacks on tourists are rare, but petty and violent crime is increasing, particularly in the major towns of Gaborone, Francistown and Maun. House burglaries, often by armed gangs, are also increasing. There have been some cases of car jacking, particularly of four by four vehicles. If you are attacked, do not resist. Theft from parked cars does occur. Take sensible precautions. Safeguard valuables and cash. Deposit them in hotel safes, where practical. Keep copies of important documents, including passports in a separate place to the documents themselves.

There have been incidences of rape and other sexual offences. Given the high level of HIV/AIDS in the country, you should seek immediate medical advice if you are sexually assaulted or otherwise injured. Women, in particular, should not walk alone at night. For more general information see rape and sexual assault abroad.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Botswana Country Profile

Local travel

Zimbabwe

You should avoid areas where War Veterans are active or where incidents of violence are taking place. There have been a number of serious and violent incidents in rural areas and it is dangerous for farmers or agricultural workers to visit former properties or other agricultural areas. We advise against travel by journalists intending to carry out any reporting or official photography without the proper accreditation. The situation remains unpredictable and there are isolated incidents of violence across the country: it could deteriorate further, without warning.

Botswana

Game reserves and other tourist areas are generally secure, but you should be alert to unpredictable behaviour by wild animals. You should follow park regulations and wardens' advice. You should not bathe in rivers and lakes, because of the dangers from both wildlife and water-borne diseases.

If you intend travelling to remote areas plan your trip with care, make transport and accommodation arrangements in advance and seek local advice on what precautions to take. Vehicles should be stocked with emergency supplies and be properly prepared for off-road driving conditions.

In major towns taxis are generally safe to take. You should agree a price before setting off.

Road travel

UK and International driving licences are acceptable in Botswana for up to 90 days. If you intend to stay longer you should apply for a Botswanan licence.

Botswana has good tarmac roads over most of the country but you should be careful when driving off-road. The standard of driving is lower than in the UK and many drivers ignore road safety rules. Dangerous driving, including speeding (the maximum speed limit is 120kph), and drink driving cause frequent serious and often fatal accidents.

Driving, particularly outside the major urban areas, is dangerous because wildlife and stray livestock can pose a serious hazard.

For more general information see driving abroad

Air travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see airline security.

Local laws and customs

Drug taking and smuggling is an offence. The punishments can be severe.

Taking photographs or using video equipment near military and government installations is prohibited. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people in Botswana.

Homosexuality is illegal in Botswana.

You should carry some form of identification with you at all times. A photocopy of your passport is sufficient.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals do not require visas to enter Botswana and can stay a maximum of 90 days. Overstaying can cause delays on departure. If you wish to extend your stay, you should seek an extension from the Department of Immigration. For further information on entry requirements contact the Botswana High Commission, London.

British visitors do not need visas for South Africa either. But if you are planning to enter the country before, or after, you visit Botswana you must have two clear blank pages in your passport for the South African entry stamp otherwise entry will be denied.

Passport validity

Ensure your passport has no less than 30 days remaining validity after the end of your intended visit to South Africa.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact the Botswana High Commission, London.

Health

Health care in Botswana is good in the major towns but medical facilities and communications are limited in rural areas. For serious medical treatment, medical evacuation to the UK or South Africa may be necessary. Private hospitals will not treat patients unless you can pay and health care may be expensive. Outpatients must pay cash before receiving treatment. Emergency patients will only be accepted if you have full insurance cover.

There have been no reported cases of A (H1N1) - swine flu in Botswana.

There are confirmed cases of A (H1N1) - swine flu in Botswana. On arrival at ports of entry, including the main airports of Maun, Gaborone, Kasane and Francistown, travelers are required to complete a swine flu health form to enable the authorities to assess risk.

Malaria is common in the northern parts of Botswana, particularly during the rainy season (November-April). However, due to above average rainfall in February 2009, malaria transmissions may occur across Botswana. There have recently been several reported cases of cholera in the region. If you suffer from acute diarrhoea and vomiting during a visit to Botswana you should seek immediate medical attention.

There are occasional outbreaks of anthrax amongst wild animals. You should seek advice locally from park officials and not touch dead animals or carcasses. If you suspect that you have come into contact with anthrax you should seek urgent medical advice.

If you intend to camp or walk in the bush you should be aware of the risk of tick bites.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 280,000 adults aged 15 or over in Botswana were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 23.9% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Botswana and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health.

Natural disasters

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling, including cover for medical evacuation. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see travel insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Registration

You should register with the British High Commission Consular Section in Gaborone on arrival, either in person or by email (bhc@botsnet.bw) if you intend to stay in Botswana for more than a few days.

You may also register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Money

Travellers' cheques are accepted at banks, hotels and the airport. ATMs are available in the major towns, but only accept Visa cards. ATMs do not accept Maestro cards. Major credit cards are accepted at many shops and restaurants.

You cannot exchange Scottish or Northern Irish bank notes in Botswana.

Benin travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary (consular assistance) and Local Travel section (update on report of road traffic accident). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. Check swine flu for further information.
  
  
• There is no formal British representation in Benin. In case of an emergency you should contact the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos. There is a Community Liaison Officer in Benin, but this should be used for consular emergencies only. See the General (Representation in Benin) section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• We have provided consular assistance to two British nationals in 2008. One British national was killed in a road accident. See the Road Travel section of this advice.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and travel insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

There has been an increase in reported incidents of mugging, personal assault and car jacking in Cotonou and armed robberies have been reported in other areas, notably the border area with Nigeria. Highway bandits are known to operate in Benin. The high level of banditry has resulted in the vehicle-jackings in the capital resulting in two deaths and some injuries.

You should take sensible personal security precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places especially at Dantokpa market in Cotonou and around large hotels and other tourist areas. Avoid unlit side streets.

There have been reports of an armed robbery on two banks in the Dantokpa Market area on 24 November 2008, which resulted in the deaths of six people with 20 injured.

It is advisable to have a legalised copy of your passport and visa in case your passport is lost or stolen.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Benin Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

Driving standards in Benin are well below those in the UK. One British national died in Benin in a road accident in 2008.

In order to drive in Benin, you are required to obtain an international driving licence before arrival.

You should avoid driving out of the main towns at night as roads are poorly lit. Take care after dark within cities, avoiding secondary roads and areas where other traffic is light.

In the past few years, major work has been done on the roads in Benin. Plans exist for a new international airport with associated roads, and other projects are under way in the North of Benin to improve conditions in the more rural areas.

With the onset of the rainy season (March-July and September-November), recent heavy rains have caused flooding in parts of Benin, including the commercial capital Cotonou and along the southern coastline. Local reports say floods are subsiding. You should monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas.

In general, when you leave the main roads, conditions become more difficult, particularly in the rainy season when some of the smaller unpaved roads become impassable.

Public transport is dangerous. Taxis and long distance buses are poorly maintained and are often overloaded. These should be avoided. Most major hotels offer cars for hire with drivers. The reliability and serviceability of hotel drivers and vehicles is variable. If self-driving exercise caution as traffic on main roads is fast moving and ill disciplined. Cotonou has no reliable public transportation.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Swimming

Ocean currents are very strong along the coast. Many drownings occur each year. For more general information see river and sea safety.

Air travel

You are advised to reconfirm flights 48 hours prior to departure. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.

For more general information see airline security.

Local laws and customs

Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. You should respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offence and can result in lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Do not take pictures of military zones, airports or government offices.

Homosexuality is not accepted in Benin and sexual relations between members of the same sex are illegal.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

You require a visa prior to entering Benin. Benin is represented in the UK by an Honorary Consul, Mr Lawrence Landau. Visas can be obtained from the Honorary Consulate: Millenium House, Humber Road, Near Staples Corner, London, NW2 6DW; Tel: +44 (0) 20 8830 8612; Fax: +44 (0) 20 7435 0665; E-mail: l.landau@btinternet.com.

The Honorary Consulate is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays only, from 10:30-16:30.

The nearest Embassy is in Paris: Embassy of the Republic of Benin, 87 Avenue Victor Hugo, 742116 Paris, Tel: +331 145 009882, +33 142 223191 Fax: +33 145 –18202.

Visas for Nigeria, Ghana and Togo

Non-resident British nationals in Benin who wish to travel to Nigeria and Ghana are unable to obtain entry visas in Benin. Visas for Nigeria and Ghana should be obtained prior to travelling to Benin. Visas for Togo are obtainable at the Togolese Embassy in Cotonou or at the Togo/Benin border.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Benin Embassy in Paris - Embassy of the Republic of Benin, 87 Avenue Victor Hugo, 742116 Paris, Tel: +331 145 009882, +33 142 223191 Fax: +33 145 –18202.

Health

Medical facilities are poor in Benin, particularly in rural areas.

Water-borne diseases (including cholera), tuberculosis, meningitis and malaria are common in Benin. You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 59,000 adults aged 15 or over in Benin were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 1.2% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Benin and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

The World Animal Health Organisation (OIE) has confirmed that there have been outbreaks of H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in poultry at a farm in Cotonou and in villages of Adjara and Akpro-misserete, approximately 40 km north of Cotonou. No human infections or deaths have been reported.

In December 2007, outbreaks were confirmed in Porto Novo and Dangbo.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds, and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

See Avian and Pandemic Flu for more details.

General

Insurance

You should ensure that you have comprehensive travel and medical insurance, which covers a provision for medical evacuation. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see travel insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Representation in Benin

There is no UK representation in Benin. In case of an emergency you should contact the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos.

There is a Community Liaison Officer for consular emergencies only. Her name is Mrs Pauline Collins, address: The British School of Cotonou, Haie Vive, 08 BP 0352, Cotonou, Benin. Tel: (+229 30 32 65); (Fax: +229 30 61 95); Mobile phone (tel: +229 85 38 73) e-mail: address: bis@firstnet1.com.

Other contacts: French Consulate, Avenue Generale de Gaulle, 01 BP 605 Recette Principale Cotonou (tel: +229 31 26 38/80) or US Embassy, Rue Caporal Anani, 01 BP 2021, Cotonou (Tel: +229 30 06 50).

As many crimes involve the theft of British passports, we advise you to keep a photocopy of your passport separately from your passport. This will speed up the process of issuing a new one.

Registration

We recommend that if you intend to stay in Benin for three months or more you should register with the Community Liaison Officer in Cotonou, Mrs Pauline Collins. You may also register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.