TOP TOURIST DESTINATIONS AVAILABLE IN SOMALIA

 Somalia’s tourism industry, which has gone through several stages since 1960, was a major source of national income. It was also part of the tourism infrastructure that the Italian colonial regime developed while they ruled the country. The famous Juba Hotel and Shabeele Hotel were among the places that were handed over to Somalia’s civil government in 1960.

On December 29, the Ministry of Information and Tourism submitted a Somali tourism act to the Cabinet of Ministers for approval. However, it has not been approved by both houses of Parliament.

Though Somalia is still recovering from the effects of war and the Federal Government is trying to get rid of terrorist organizations that attack hotels, recently there have been people who book tours online, which are mostly those who seek to go to 193 different countries. Some of them had already visited Hargeisa, but it didn’t make sense to book tours there.
There are also many different places to visit. Somalia’s top destinations are highlighted here.

LIGHTHOUSE #1

The rich history of Mogadishu makes the lighthouse an iconic landmark. Mogadishu is the capital, the largest city, and a major port in Somalia. Its origins can be dated back to the 10th century. It had Arab settlements and later came under the control of the Sultan of Zanzibar in 1871! By the 19th century, Mogadishu was a bustling city with an international reputation as one of the most important trading ports in Africa In addition to its robust trade, Mogadishu also became known for its various cultural and religious communities that co-existed peacefully
Later on, the Italians conquered Somalia and Mogadishu in 1892. During this time, the city thrived economically as the Italian colonial government invested heavily in infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, bridges, and port improvements
The lighthouse is a symbol of colonial legacy, which is why it has become a tourist attraction in the city Despite its rich history, Mogadishu has been ravaged by conflict and war since the late 1980s  

Goobweyn #2

Goobweyn lies 10 kilometers from Kismayo City, the interim capital of Jubbaland State, and 10 kilometers from Kismayo, the coastal town. Goobweyn offers picturesque beaches and an abundance of wild game, as well as a selection of rare flora and fauna
The natural features of Goobweyn are amazing. The Jubba River is lined with coconut trees, and there are beautiful farms surrounding it. Offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere

As a result of the sea and river water, this area has been cultivated by farmers and has a variety of plants. The soil is rich and fertile, making it perfect for agriculture, with an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and spices

Kismayo is also a popular tourist spot, particularly where the Jubba River meets the Indian Ocean, where many people visit and take pictures. Kismayo is a peaceful and serene city located in the south of Somalia, at the estuary of two major rivers, the Jubba and the Shebelle

LAAS GEEL ( CAVE PAINTING)#3

In Laas Geel, you can see some of Africa’s oldest and most exquisite cave paintings. Approximately 50 kilometers outside Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital, these ancient transmissions have been inscribed onto golden, umber-colored rocks. Although they are less well known, they are no less spectacular than those at Lauscaux or Altamira. 

The inscriptions are thought to be ancient remnants left by the nomadic people of the region, who are believed to have used the rocks as a form of communication. It is also thought that they were used to mark seasonal migrations and as a representation of clan symbols.

Laas Geel is made up of about 25 decorated shelters that date as far back as 5000 BC and contain some of the earliest and most exquisite prehistoric cave paintings in all of Africa. ‘Laas Geel’ means ‘where the giraffes once drank water’. Aside from giraffe, the paintings depict antelope, possibly domesticated dogs, and perhaps cows, which lack the hump bred-in over the millennia. This suggests that the paintings were created by a hunter-gatherer people who had not yet developed the techniques for breeding and domesticating animals. It also indicates that the site was once a watering hole for giraffes and other animals, which is why it was given the name ‘where the giraffes once drank water’.

There is no highway route to Berbera, but the famous Highway 1, is in good condition until it reaches Laas Geel, where it becomes just a gravel road covered in dust due to the lack of traffic. It is recommended to have a 4×4 when visiting in the rainy season, when sudden flash floods can leave you stranded.

JAZEERA BEACH#4

Somalia’s central government has designated Jazeera Beach, a coastal area 20 kilometers from Mogadishu, as a tourist destination. With its white sand and crystal-clear waters, Jazeera Beach is a perfect destination for relaxation, swimming, and fishing

Although there are no hotels nearby, the Jazeera beach is one of the most beautiful places in Somalia. It offers visitors a unique experience, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city
Jazeera Beach was a popular tourist destination after the collapse of the central government.

EYL COASTAL CITY #5

Eyl is a historic town 240 kilometers from Garowe in the Puntland state of Somalia. Prior to the collapse of the central government, Eyl was known for its beautiful beaches and diverse culture, but due to its distance from Garowe, it has become relatively isolated and difficult to access

The city also has beautiful gardens and beaches. Museums house unique collections of Somali art and culture.

It is one of the most visited places in the country. There is also a large building built by Sayid Mohamed Abdile Hassan. Derwish headquarter, the stoned throne of Sayid Abdullah Hasan ( known as the mad Mullah), and other relics associated with the Dervish movement can be seen at this museum

COASTAL TOWN BRAVO #6  “PORTUGUESE CITY”

Barawe is one of Somalia’s oldest coastal towns. The capital of the Southwest regional government is situated in the Lower Shebelle region. It is located about 220 kilometers from Mogadishu. The town of Barawe is an important fishing port, and its proximity to the ocean also makes it attractive for traders. Barawe is not only a major fishing port, but it also acts as an important trading hub between Somalia and other parts of the world.

Barawe has many popular tourist attractions. Visitors are fascinated by the beauty of Jilani’s historic building. They can also explore the bustling markets and take in the vibrant culture of Barawe’s people

It also includes the impressive village of Ambareysa, which is part of the Barawe district. The last place to visit is the castle of Ziyad Barkash, and the place has a wonderful history. This majestic castle, built centuries ago by the Sultanate of Oman, is a sight to behold. The castle stands tall, with its impressive walls and intricate details still visible

It was one of Barkash’s main headquarters. Other interesting things to see in Barawe include camel carts, Arabian-style houses, and Barwani cuisine. Barawe is also famous for tailoring Barwani dresses, hats, and more that are widely recognized as traditional pieces of apparel.

HOBYO CITY #7

The city of Hobyo is a coastal town in Galmudug state , and it is a very beautiful city with historical buildings that are located along the Indian Ocean.

According to the Department of Tourism, it is one of the country’s most unique places for tourism and is visited by many people from the south and central regions of Somalia .

This area is now set to be modernized with the construction of new seaports, hotels, and restaurants, according to local people who are campaigning for housing development. With the growing tourism industry and housing developments, Hobyo is set to become a major attraction in Somalia. Although there are other places in the country that can be visited for tourism, it is believed that there are historical ones such as those mentioned above.

 CAPE GUARDAFUI # 8

Cape Guardafui (Somali: Gees Gardafuul, Raas Caseyr, or Ras Asir) is a headland in the autonomous Puntland region of Somalia.It forms the geographical apex of the Horn of Africa. Its shore, at 51° 27′ 52″ E, is the second easternmost point on mainland Africa after Ras Hafun. It is a remarkable place for its beauty and strategic importance, standing at the entrance of the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait linking the Gulf of Aden to the Arabian Sea, and providing access to some of the world’s busiest shipping lanes Being a prominent site for centuries, Cape Guardafui is known to have been mentioned by ancient Greek, Roman, and Arab geographers The Cape has long been the object of historical and political intrigues, with the British, French, and Italians all competing for its control at various times throughout the 19th century Although it was controlled by the British in the 19th century, the Cape was handed over to Italy after World War I until its eventual transfer to Somali hands in 1950 This fascinating history, combined with the fact that the cape is a gateway to important maritime trade routes and its unique natural beauty, has made Cape Guardafui a place of considerable geopolitical importance in recent years.

  WATERFALLS BAIDO #9

This place is called Garbadda and is located in Baidoa next to the former state house. It’s a beautiful place, and the whole area is green. It has waterfalls, so don’t miss going there for adventure. The waterfalls are a sight to behold, and one can appreciate the natural beauty of Garboody by simply walking along its paths and enjoying the scenery. It’s the most visited place; people go there to have fun and enjoy the spectacular scenery. The coolness of the waterfalls, the peacefulness of the environment, and the beautiful green landscape make Garboody a perfect spot for those looking to relax

WARSHEIKH HISTORICAL COASTAL CITY #10

Warsheikh is a historic Islamic center district in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region. It is located on the coast north of Somalia’s capital. Located in Hirshabelle State, it is almost 65 kilometers away from Mogadishu.

On Fridays, a lot of people visit Warsheik’s great beach and fantastic atmosphere. Many of these people are Somali diasporas from different countries. They spend their free time on the lovely sandy beach, walking on it while holding hands; the beach is breathtaking, whereas Mogadishu beach is crowded. Warsheik Beach is a popular destination for the Somali diaspora from all over the world and local people too.