Current travel advice

The British Indian Ocean Territory is not a tourist destination. Access is restricted and a permit is required in advance of travel. There are no commercial flights and permits are only issued to yachts for safe passage. Access to Diego Garcia is only for those on pre-authorised official duty.

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Travel Advice page:

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/british-indian-ocean-territory

Current Alerts

Sea Travel

Recent piracy attacks off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden highlight that the threat of piracy related activity and armed robbery in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean remains significant. Reports of attacks on local fishing dhows in the area around the Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa continue. The combined threat assessment of the international Naval Counter Piracy Forces remains that all sailing yachts under their own passage should remain out of the designated High Risk Area or face the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom:

http://www.mschoa.org/on-shore/home

Entry Requirements for Yachts

Before travelling to the British Indian Ocean Territory, you will need a valid permit, which you must obtain from the British Indian Ocean Territory Administration. Please see the “how to apply for a mooring permit” page.