Though the USA, UK, and Canadian Governments deem Somaliland as an unstable country to visit, it has come a long way regarding its neighbors.
Somaliland is on its way to recovery after suffering terribly during the wars, and for travelers who practice a bit of extra caution, it is an excellent place to visit.
Things To Do In Somaliland
Las Geel Caves
The one site you must visit in Somaliland is the Las Geel Caves, which is a series of Ancient Rock Paintings. It’s a complex of caves and rock shelters that contain some of the earliest known art in Africa, dating back to 9,000 BCE.
Ancient cave paintings
Try Khat
After your busy day taking in the unique Somaliland taste the typical Somaliland Chewing Gum – Khat (which is a narcotic leaf).
Khat or Qat is a flowering plant native to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Khat contains the alkaloid cathinone, a stimulant, which is said to cause excitement, loss of appetite, and euphoria.
Among communities from the areas where the plant is native, khat chewing has a history as a social custom dating back thousands of years analogous to the use of coca leaves in South America and betel nut in Asia.
Live Stock Market
Do not, and we say DO NOT miss the Live Stock Market, where you see Goats and Camels making friends.
Top Cities
Hargeisa
The capital city of Somaliland, and perhaps the safest city in the entire region. It’s rather cosmopolitan and with a rich history and culture.
When you step out on the streets and start exploring the busy marketplace, you might attract locals. But it is all in good curiosity, so be friendly.
Berbera
The nicknamed beach city is a major port and, apart from expatriate remittances, the economic lifeline of the Somaliland economy.
Other Cities of Interest
- Borama
- Burao
- Erigavo — High altitude, with mild temperatures in the evening
- Laascaanood
- Zeila — a historic city near Djibouti and the stunningly beautiful Zeila Coast
How To Get To Somaliland
There are two airports in Somaliland- one is in Berbera, and the other one is in Hargeisa. It caters to flights mostly from Dubai.
You can get tickets from Eastern countries to Somaliland, but the price is much higher. An average one-way ticket costs you $125. The safest and cheapest airlines are Ethiopian Airlines which flies to Hargeisa.
Best Time To Visit Somaliland
The climate is different all the year-round. In Rainy months the temperature is high and makes staying outside uncomfortable. So, avoid the months of July and August.
On the other hand, traveling in December is great as the temperature is low, and there is very little form of precipitation to hinder you.
Electricity & Plug Type
In Somaliland the voltage used is the same as in Somalia – it is 220 V. Devices working on a lower range need adapter (appliances with dual voltage can work fine).
The Socket is of Type C (two round pins) which fits Plug E and F nicely.
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March 13, 2020 12:17 pm
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