Old Town Mogadishu (Hamar Weyne)
Region: Mogadishu
Historic district
Ancient quarter with white coral stone houses and Ottoman-style mosques.
Tourism in Somalia
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Laas Geel Cave Paintings
Region: Near Hargeisa
Historic site / Prehistoric art
Painted rock art depicting cattle and humans dating back approximately 5,000 BC.
Mount Shimbiris
Region: Sanaag region
Nature / Highest peak
The country's highest point at 2,416m. Features mountain vegetation contrasting with arid regions.
Kismayo Beach
Region: Lower Juba
Nature / Beach
White sand and crystal-clear Indian Ocean coastline at the fishing port city.
Arba Rukun Mosque
Region: Mogadishu
Religious architecture
Ancient stone mosque reportedly founded in 1269.
Berbera Old Port
Region: Berbera
Historic port
Port town retaining strong atmosphere from Red Sea trade era.
Zeila Ruins
Region: Awdal region
Historic site
Remains of the central city of the medieval Ifat Sultanate.
Jubba River Delta
Region: Lower Juba
Nature / River ecosystem
Downstream wetlands of one of Somalia's rare perennial rivers.
Bosaso Sea Cliffs
Region: Bari region
Nature / Terrain
Beautiful contrast of reddish-brown sandstone cliffs towering over the Gulf of Aden.
Garowe Camel Market
Region: Nugaal region
Cultural experience
One of the country's largest camel and livestock markets where nomads gather.
Suggested itineraries
Northern Coastline and Ancient Cities 6-Day Tour
Duration (days): 6
Highlights: Hargeisa, Laas Geel, Berbera Port, Mount Shimbiris foothills
An itinerary centered on the Somaliland region, following relatively stable routes to enjoy rock art sites, ancient ports, and mountain drives.
Mogadishu Historical Walk and Beach Relaxation
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Hamar Weyne Old Town, Arba Rukun Mosque, Lido Beach
Experience Islamic architecture and Indian Ocean beaches in a short capital stay. Armed security tour required.
Travel tips
- Check foreign ministry travel advisories and always arrange reliable security companies locally.
- Small denomination US dollar bills have the highest circulation and safety.
- Use armored vehicles or charter flights for long-distance daytime travel.
- Use bottled water for drinking and avoid ice.
- Do not photograph military, police, or airport facilities.
- Bring a jacket as desert nights can be cold even during dry season.
- Female travelers should wear clothing covering shoulders and knees, and carry a scarf.
- Credit cards accepted only at a few urban hotels. Mobile money service 'EVC Plus' is widespread.
- Local SIM cards available for immediate purchase from Hormuud and others.
- Prepare long sleeves, insect repellent, and mosquito nets for mosquito-borne disease prevention.