Djibouti

Landmines

Djibouti is a ‘mine-safe’ country. This means landmines have been identified and marked, but haven’t been removed.

For your safety, remain on paved roads, especially in:

• northern districts of Tadjoura and Obock
• southern district of Ali Sabieh

Remote areas

Security is limited in remote areas, including regions bordering Ethiopia and Somalia.

You need permission from the Government of Djibouti to travel above the 12° north latitude line, which passes through Obock.

Avoid travel to remote areas, including the region bordering Ethiopia.

Essential services

Djibouti is in severe drought due to below average rainfalls for the past 4 years.

In certain areas, the drought may affect:

• local services
• water availability
• basic food availability

Driving permit

To drive in Djibouti, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver’s licence
• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Conditions on roads are unsafe.

Hazards include:

• narrow or poorly lit roads
• poorly maintained roads
• roaming livestock, especially at night

The standard of driving and vehicle maintenance is poor.

Police have set up wire coils as roadblocks on some major roads, which can be difficult to see at night.

In an accident, drivers must wait at the scene until police arrive.

Bandit groups are a threat outside the capital.

Before you drive:

• check you have adequate insurance
• check local traffic laws and practices
• check local information on road conditions, including security risks

To reduce your risks while driving:

• only drive outside the capital during daylight hours and in a convoy
• be alert to hazards, especially at night
• don’t drink and drive

If you’re involved in an accident as a driver, wait at the scene until police arrive.

More information

Motorcycles

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use registered taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel.

Public transport

Public transport is limited to bus and ferry services between the capital city and the towns of Tadjoura and Obock.

Don’t travel at night.

A railway between Addis Ababa and Djibouti provides freight and passenger services.

More information:

Sea travel

There’s a high risk of piracy in coastal areas. See Safety

To stay safe when travelling on the water:

• use a reputable provider
• always wear a life jacket
• exercise extreme caution
• take appropriate security precautions

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Djibouti’s air safety profilewith the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government