Central African Republic: Travel Advisory Due to Security Situation Remains in Effect

As of October 22, 2026, a comprehensive travel warning is in effect for the Central African Republic. The security situation in the country is considered extremely volatile: armed clashes resulting in fatalities are occurring nationwide, and the number of attacks involving improvised explosive devices is on the rise, including along major highways. More than one million people in the country are currently displaced. Fighting can break out at any time and anywhere, including in the capital, Bangui, which until now was considered relatively calm.

For travelers who are nevertheless considering a trip or who must stay in the country for work, the situation involves significant risks. There has been an increase in unpredictable arrests by security forces against which no legal recourse is available—this also affects individuals who are not citizens of the country and are only staying there temporarily. With the exception of the Bangui prefecture, a nationwide nighttime curfew is in effect from midnight to 5 a.m., which may be extended on short notice. In addition, restrictions on air traffic—including the temporary closure of Bangui-M’Poko International Airport—are possible at any time.

The supply situation is further deteriorating: The main access road from Douala in Cameroon to Bangui is repeatedly blocked by armed groups, interrupting the flow of goods. This is leading to rising prices, food shortages, and irregular fuel supplies. Aid convoys are also affected, and hospitals do not have a reliable emergency power supply—a circumstance that is particularly serious in the event of a medical emergency.

Anyone staying in the country despite the travel warning should limit their movements to the absolute minimum, avoid leaving their accommodations after dark, and ensure they have an escort when traveling in the evening hours. Demonstrations and large gatherings of people should be avoided at all costs, as should any behavior that could be interpreted as support for armed groups. It is advisable to carry your passport and necessary documents at all times and to follow the instructions of local security forces as well as comply with the curfew in effect.

It is particularly important to note that there is no German diplomatic mission in the Central African Republic. Consular assistance on site is therefore not possible and, to the extent it is feasible at all, is provided through the mission in neighboring Cameroon. This limited ability to provide assistance underscores how important it is to carefully prepare and assess risks before traveling to this country.

In light of this situation, it is advisable to reconsider travel plans to the Central African Republic as a matter of principle and to proceed only if absolutely necessary. Anyone who nevertheless plans to travel or needs a visa for professional reasons should obtain information about the current entry requirements well in advance. Travelers can find an overview of the different types of visas and their respective requirements in our guide before submitting their application directly to us.