If you want to visit a country that doesn’t officially exist - come with us to Somaliland! 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. From the modern capital Hargeisa to the ancient port of Berbera, from the desert communities to some of the best rock art on the continent: Las Geel - we’ll take you to a country that could not be further off the tourist trail. After visiting bustling historical towns we shall immerse in the green paradise of Somaliland - Daallo Mountains.
Our tour is for those who like their travel on the extreme side and are ready to reveal the secrets of this corner of the African Horn!
Highlights of the tour:
♦ Las Geel – the earliest cave paintings in the Horn of Africa
♦ Berbera – the old quarter
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival to 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: 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 you will be taken to your hotel. Here you can hang out on the beach and go for a swim while the sun goes down.
Day 3: Berbera – Sheikh – Burao
After breakfast you can relax on the beach and swim before exploring Berbera City. A half day trip will get you acquainted with this historical town. Especially interesting is the old quarter with its well preserved examples of Ottoman and British architecture. After this we will drive to the small town of Sheikh in the mountains. Crossing Sheikh Mountain will be a nice experience because of the view and the pleasant temperature. At the end of the day we will drive further East to Burao (or Burco in Somali), the second biggest city in the country.
Day 4 and 5: Burao – Erigavo – Daallo Mountains – Burao
In Burao you will wander around and explore the city. After that we have a very long drive to Erigavo, the capital of Sanaag Province. From Erigavo we will visit Daallo thick forest and Daallo escarpment, considered the green paradise of Somaliland. They are exceeding 2400 meters in height. Overnight stay in Erigavo in a small basic hotel and on the next day - an overnight back in Burao.
Day 6: Burao – Hargeisa
Drive back to Hargeisa (4,5 hours). Free time to explore the city. Hotel overnight
Day 7: Departure
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