Travel Alerts & Updates

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed an outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EBOD) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with imported cases in Uganda and declared this a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

At this time our groups in Rwanda are not affected by this outbreak, but our Customer Safety Team are closely monitoring the situation and will be in touch with any groups affected if the advice changes.

Last updated: 05/20/2026

There is a lot in the news right now about jet fuel prices, the availability of jet fuel and what this may mean for traveling.

We don’t want people to worry about their upcoming tours – travel is still going ahead, with holidaymakers getting away as normal. We’re not aware of any flights being cancelled due to the availability of jet fuel. This is due to airlines sourcing fuel from a diverse range of places, rather than one specific region.

Some European airlines have been reducing flights to some destinations to save money on fuel, but this is only happening where they have multiple flights going to the same place on the same day. This is a small proportion of flights when you consider the number that depart each day.  In these cases, customers will be moved onto the next available flight, likely to be on the same day. So, even if flights are cancelled, it doesn’t necessarily mean that people will have difficulty getting to their destination.

Travel Insurance:
Wherever you are traveling and whatever the circumstances, it is essential that you take out travel insurance. Policies vary, so you should check yours carefully to make sure you know what is covered, some policies may provide ‘cancel for any reason’ cover which in some cases might be helpful.

Last updated: 05/18/2026

Israel and the United States of America launched attacks on Iran at the end of February, and Iran has retaliated with missile attacks affecting the region. This is is a fast-moving situation which we are carefully monitoring. Several airspaces have been closed in the region, but major hubs such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Muscat are starting to reopen their airports with reduced schedules.

At Flash Pack, we have a full safety team and your safety remains our priority. We are closely monitoring the situation through our local teams on the ground, as well as official government travel advisories. If your trip is affected we will be in touch by email.

All customers should continue to follow the guidance of their own government’s travel advice and check with their airlines for updates regarding possible flight disruptions. Travellers transiting through major Middle Eastern hubs (including Doha, Dubai, or Muscat should contact their airline or booking agent for more information.

If you need any further information from us about your departure or you have any questions please email us: [email protected].

This page will be updated if / when there are developments that may affect countries where we have tours running. If you tour is directly affected please be assured we will be in contact by email – Head of Customer Safety, Emma Bennett

The British FCDO has strengthened it’s advice for British citizens travelling abroad who want to drink spirits.

Travelers are advised to purchase sealed drinks from licensed establishments, avoid homemade alcohol and be particularly cautious of pre-mixed spirits, cocktails and drinks served in buckets or jugs.

Travelers are also advised to watch out for warning signs of methanol poisoning, which include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusion. Though in the early stages methanol poisoning can resemble alcohol poisoning, distinctive symptoms of methanol poisoning – such as vision issues – can develop between 12-48 hours after consumption. Anyone showing any signs of methanol poisoning should seek urgent medical attention immediately.

The FCDO has added methanol poisoning guidance to travel advice pages for 8 new countries:

• Ecuador
• Kenya
• Japan
• Mexico
• Nigeria
• Peru
• Uganda
• Russia

The FCDO previously only included guidance on methanol poisoning in places where British nationals have been affected. These countries are:

• Cambodia
• Indonesia
• Turkey
• Costa Rica
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Laos
• Fiji

While it is not possible to completely remove the risks from methanol poisoning when drinking alcohol, travelers can take steps to minimise the risk:

• Avoid consuming streetside or homemade alcohol.
• Purchase sealed or bottled drinks from licensed establishments.
• Be cautious of consuming pre-mixed, spirit-based drinks, such as cocktails, shots or drinks served in “buckets” or jugs.
• Be aware of the symptoms of methanol poisoning, which can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusions, followed by blurred vision, blindness or difficulty breathing within 12-48 hours.
• Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

You can find more advise and links to further information on the Safer Tourism Website.

Last updated: 04/28/2026

Tensions along the Thailand – Cambodia border have recently increased due to political unrest and localised military activity. At present, the situation remains contained to specific border regions and has not impacted major tourist destinations or travel infrastructure in either country.

All Flash Pack trips in Thailand and Cambodia are continuing as planned.

Your safety is our top priority. We are closely monitoring developments through trusted sources, including the FCDO and the US Department of State, and remain in regular contact with our local teams and Pack Leaders on the ground. All necessary precautions are being taken to ensure your wellbeing throughout your trip.

As always, we’re committed to keeping you informed and will make any necessary adjustments to our plans should the situation change.

Last updated: 04/28/2026

The FCDO are currently advising against all but essential travel to two regions of Rwanda: the Rubavu district and the Rusizi district.

Our team in Rwanda are in constant contact with the high commission in Rwanda and we have updated our itinerary to ensure we do not go into these districts. We are still able to offer the same incredible activities without straying into these areas.

Last updated: 04/28/2026

Ecuador:

From 12 May, travelers entering Ecuador from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission will need to show proof of yellow fever vaccination, if they have spent 10 days or more in one of those countries prior to arrival.

This requirement is unlikely to impact most of our UK or US-based travelers. However, if you’re planning to travel to Ecuador via another country, it’s worth checking whether that country is on the risk list.

📌 If you’re unable to receive the vaccine for medical reasons, you must carry a doctor’s certificate stating this.

🔗 For a list of affected countries and more information, please visit this fact sheet.

Colombia:

There has also been an increase in Yellow Fever cases in Colombia. Vaccinations are not advised for most traveler’s but may be considered for those with prolonged exposure or difficulty avoiding mosquito bites. Currently there is no advice to get a yellow fever vaccine to travel on our trips.

Key Considerations:
Vaccination: Not recommended for cities like Barranquilla, Cali, Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá, or areas above 2,300m and San Andrés y Providencia.
Mosquito Protection: Wear long trousers and sleeves at sunrise and sunset, and use strong mosquito repellant.

Evolving Situation:
We will continue to monitor the situation for any updates and advise travelers to stay flexible and follow local advisories.

For the latest updates:
US: Enrol in STEP.
UK: Check the FCDO website.

Last updated: 04/28/2026