Somaliland and Djibouti - A Tour Back In Time

Join us on a journey to the most exciting places in the Horn of Africa: Somaliland – a country that does not officially exist and Djibouti – one of the smallest and least known countries in the African continent. While the rest of Somalia has been a no-go zone for travelers for two decades, the self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland has restored law and order within its boundaries, the safety of Westerners is taken very seriously and foreigners are welcome. This is a tour back in time to the beginning of civilization. These two countries can rightly be considered the last true frontiers of African travel. Admire some exceptional rock paintings in Las Geel, feel the pulse of the fast growing capital Hargeisa, walk along deserted beaches, visit bustling market towns, and enjoy the jaw-droopingly impressive Lac Abbe – the geological wonder with limestone chimneys and the contrasting lush greenery and waterfalls of the Day Forest. Sitting at the edge of Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden opposite the Arabian Peninsula, Somaliland and Djibouti are the cultural melting pot of African, Arabic and Indian Ocean influences. But perhaps the most lasting impression will be the people you will meet – proud of their countries with a legendary sense of hospitality.

Highlights of the tour:
♦ Las Geel – the earliest cave paintings in the Horn of Africa
♦ Berbera – the old quarter
♦ Lake Abbe and Lake Assal – the lowest point in Africa
♦ Tadjoura – The White City

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Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive Hargeisa.
Pick up and transfer to your Hotel. Depending on your arrival time you will explore the capital of Somaliland. After a rest you can freely walk around the city center to get a sense of the people and the town.

Day 2: Arabsiyo – Dhagah Khoure - Gabiley – Borama
A full day trip westwards, visiting the town of Arabsiyo and its valleys, on the way to Gabiley. Gabiley is known as the breadbasket of Somaliland, providing almost 85% of Somalilands food supplies. We will also visit the rock art site at Dhagah Khoure and then to Borama, for the night. B/-/-

Day 3: Borama – Jufo – Hargeisa
Borama is an important education centre housing the historic Amoud University. The first post war institution of higher learning throughout Somaliland. Morning Borama sightseeing and Amoud University then back to Hargeisa. On the way back we stop at the nomad village Jufo, before returning to Hargeisa. Hotel, B/-/-

Day 4: Hargeisa – Laas Geel – Berbera
Early morning you will explore Hargeisa by visiting the Civil War Memorial and The Central Market. After this you will visit Laas Geel, the most important rock art site in Africa. The vibrant colors and well preserved paintings are estimated to be around ten thousand years old. Drive continues to Berbera where we spend the night. Here you can hang out on the beach and go for a swim while the sun goes down. Hotel, B/-/-

Day 5: Berbera - Zeila
Today we head to the North, the drive to the coastal town of Zeila taking about seven hours. Located on the Gulf of Aden coast near the Djibouti border Zeila is an ancient city, situated on a sandspit. We spend the night in a guest house. B/-/D

Day 6: Zeila - Djibouti City
Crossing the border to Djibouti and passing all formalities will take some time. The Djibouti visa will be paid in cash (USD 100). From the border it will take less than an hour to get to our hotel to check in. Sightseeing tour in the afternoon. Hotel, B/-/D

Day 7: Djibouti city - Ali Sabieh - Lake Abbé
In the morning we'll drive to Lake Abbé but first we'll pass Ali Sabieh and have a stop there. The old railway built by the French was passing through the town, but it is not functioning as there is new railway built by the Chinese, which has different route. Lake Abbé is a salt lake, lying on the Ethiopia-Djibouti border. Lake Abbé has a beautiful scenery full of so called chimneys. We spend a night in a tourist camp. The camp is a settlement of traditional Afar huts which are very basic. Sleeping liner and a headlight is recommended. B/L/D

Day 8: Lake Abbé – Tadjourah
Today we will wake up early to see the sunrise and have a walk to the lake. Lake Abbe is known for its limestone chimneys, which reach heights of 50 m (160 ft) and from which steam spews forth. These carbonate chimneys are formed by the mixing of lake water and a deeper geothermal fluid. We make a stop to visit an Affar village before continuing to Tadjourah, called The White Town. After check-in an optional tour to the famous beach of Sable Blancs (10 km) to go for a swim and enjoy the sunset. Hotel in Tadjourah, B/L/D

Day 9: Tadjourah - Lake Assal - Djibouti city
We head back to Djibouti city visiting en route one of the highlights of the tour - Lake Assal. This crater lake is encircled by dark dormant volcanoes. It is the lowest point in Africa and the scenery is spectacular to see. Especially the big salt field that makes you feel like walking in nowhere land. After visiting Lake Assal & surroundings, drive back to Djibouti city, dinner at local restaurant and overnight. B/L/D

Day 10: Departure
Airport transfer for departure. B/-/-

Visa: Both visas for Somaliland and Djibouti can be obtained at the airport upon arrival. 

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Price Includes:
7 nights standard 2** and 3*** hotels in rooms with ensuite facilities
one night in tourist camp in Djibouti and one night in guest house with shared facilities
all meals according itinerary
airport transfers and all transport and entrance fees
tour leader from Penguin Travel (at min 8 p.)
English speaking local guides
visa invitation
permission letters for the sightseeing such as Las Geel and other sites
local photo and tour permissions

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Not Included:
international flights
insurance
tips and personal expenses
drinks and meals not mentioned in the program
visa fees

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Gallery

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