Photography & checkpoints

This is where visitors most often get into avoidable trouble. The rules are unwritten but consistently enforced, and a camera pointed at the wrong thing is treated seriously.

• Never photograph checkpoints, soldiers, military vehicles or government buildings
• Put the camera away as you approach a checkpoint, not as you reach it
• Drones are effectively prohibited; do not travel with one
• Damaged neighbourhoods are people's homes — ask your guide before photographing ruins
• Keep a phone free of anything politically sensitive; devices are occasionally inspected