Turkey
Regional risks
This section has safety advice for regions of Turkey. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice.
Turkey-Syria border
FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the Turkey-Syria border.
Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there is a heightened risk of terrorism in the region. See Terrorism.
Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, roads in Hatay Province leading towards the border may be closed at short notice.
Hakkari province, south-east Turkey
In Hakkari province you must get permission from the local Governor’s Office to visit areas near the border with Iraq and Iran. If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit. Keep up to date with local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Mount Ararat, eastern Turkey
Mount Ararat, in Ağrı Province, is a special military zone. You must have permission from the Doğubayazıt government office and pay a fee. If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit.
Take extra care if you’re travelling to this area. Keep up to date with local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Regional escalation
Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region.
On 1 October, Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. On 26 October, Israel carried out military action against Iran.
Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on X, Facebook and Instagram. You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
Read FCDO advice if you’re affected by a crisis abroad.