The Most Spectacular Places to visit in Somalia

Many interesting and beautiful places to visit in Somalia. Some of the best places to visit include the city of Kismayo, the beaches of Puntland and Somaliland, the ancient city of Mogadishu.

Ranging from the urban sprawl of Barawe to the cloud-toped, camel-spotted peaks of Daallo ranges in the north, this country is untouched and undeveloped; a picture of what Africa once was before the onset of mass safari-going.

History, culture, and natural beauty perhaps best describe the essence of vacationing in Somalia. With its many historic cities and small towns, along with an abundance of forests and mountains, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a unique place to visit.

Those wanting to sightsee or experience the arts should head to the metropolitan areas such as Mogadishu, Hargeisa, or Bosaso . For those looking for recreational activities, consider a visit to places such as the top 10 best beaches in Somalia, the Calmadow Mountain, or the Dhagaxtuur Monument.

The Most Spectacular Places to Visit in Somalia

There are many places to visit in Somalia. Some are historical, while others are interesting for nature lovers. Lovely old mosques, and grand palaces are everywhere, and in the smaller towns and villages – some with their original medieval Old Towns still intact – many centuries-old traditions, including traditional Hamar Weyne markets, festivals, and fairs, continue to this day. At the cultural heart of Somalia is the capital, Mogadishu, home to many fine museums and galleries, while nature lovers will find a world of possibilities in Somalia’s great outdoors.

For ideas to help plan your travels, read our list of the Most Spectacular Places to Visit in Somalia.

Places to visit in Somalia: Mogadishu

Mogadishu is the capital of Somalia and is a popular tourist destination. The city has a rich history and is well known for its architecture and for the Battle of Mogadishu, which was one of the first major engagements of the Somali Civil War.

The are many unique tourist attractions in Mogadishu that you can visit today. We recommend Liido Sea Beach, the Union Mosque, Bakara Market and Old Mogadishu Lighthouse as these location showcase Mogadishu’s picturesque landscape and vibrant history.

Bakaara market is a famed open marketing in Mogadishu that has been operating since 1972. This market sells everything from trinkets to daily essentials, and also has a wealth of other unique goodies available to purchase.

It is recommended that tourists visit hotel restaurants as these offer the unique traditional cuisine of Mogadishu in guaranteed safety. Two great places to stay include the Peace Hotel and the Sahafi Hotel.

The Somali people are kind and love to share their culture with tourists. A strong belief in love states is what sets the Somali people apart. They are willing to share their culture, food and language with you and are excited to see more tourists coming to the nation following the pandemic.

Many Somali’s living in Mogadishu rely on tourism income to support their families. Because of this, it’s important to use local tour guides and services when you are visiting Mogadishu. This means you can support the local Somali people who are focused on making you trip a memorable one.

Read more: The Most Romantic Beaches in Mogadishu

Places to visit in Somalia: Hargeisa

Hargeisa is the capital and largest city of Somaliland. It is located in the southern region of the country, on the Gulf of Aden. The city has a population of around 1,033,000 people.

Hargeisa was founded in the early 17th century by the Ajuran Sultanate. It served as the capital of the Ajuran Sultanate from 1668 to 1887. After the collapse of the Ajuran Sultanate, Hargeisa became the capital of the British Somaliland protectorate. It subsequently became the capital of the independent Somali Republic in 1960.

Hargeisa is a trade and commercial centre. It is the second-largest city in the country, after Mogadishu. The city is home to the University of Somaliland and several other colleges. Tourism is a major industry in Hargeisa, and the city is known for its traditional architecture and for its beaches.

Places to visit in Somalia: Kismayo

Kismayo is a port city in the southern Lower Juba province of Somalia. It is the commercial capital of the autonomous Jubaland region.

The city is situated 528 kilometres (328 miles) southwest of Mogadishu, near the mouth of the Jubba River, where the waters empty into the Indian Ocean. According to the United Nations Development Programme, the city of Kismayo had a population of around 89,333 in 2005.

Keep reading: Incredible Photos of Kismayo City!

Kismayo beach is a beautiful and tranquil beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views. The sand is soft and the water is crystal clear, making it the perfect place to spend a day. The beach is located just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Kismayo, making it a convenient and easy place to visit.

Places to visit in Somalia: Garowe

Garowe is situated in northeastern Somalia, in the heart of the Puntland region. Garowe is a city and capital of Puntland region of Somalia.. The city has a population of around 485,760 (2019). Garowe is a commercial center for the region. Garowe has a long and rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age.

The town was known as “Garowin” during the Middle Ages, and was the site of a major battle between the Majeerteen Sultanate and the Portuguese in 1591. It was subsequently captured by the Ottoman Empire, and became the capital of the Puntland region.

Places to visit in Somalia: Barawe

Barawe is a city located in the South West Region of Somalia. It is the capital of Koonfur Galbeed. The city has a population of around 100,000 people and it is known for its fruit and vegetables, which are exported to other parts of the country. It is also a center for dairy products. The city has a number of schools, hospitals and marketplaces. The city is also home to a number of religious and cultural institutions.

Places to visit in Somalia: Jowhar

Jowhar city is located in the Middle Shabelle region of Somalia. It is the capital of Hirshabelle. It lies 90 km (50 mi) along a major road north of the national capital of Mogadishu.

Jowhar has a population of about 520,000 residents. The city is served by Jowhar Airport. The city is known for its ancient ruins and for its spring, which is used to produce handicrafts. The city has a variety of shops and restaurants. Jowhar is also home to a number of important mosques and gardens.

Planing to visit Jowhar? Ask your questions to experienced travellers and people living the city: Somali Community

Conclusion

Somalia is a great place for tourists. The landscape is beautiful and the people are friendly. There are many tourist attractions in Somalia, including the ancient city of Baidoa, the beaches of Eyl, Berbera and Adale, and the coral reefs of Bosaso.