Somaliland Highlights

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


Price Includes:
6 nights; standard hotels incl. breakfast
airport transfers
all transport and entrance fees
English speaking local guide
visa invitation
permission letters for the sightseeing such as Las Geel and other sites; local photo and tour permissions; SPU (Safety Protection Unit) escort

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

Additional Services:
single room supplement: 90 EUR


Gallery


Somaliland Highlights (Rated 4.75 / 5 Based on 426 Reviews.)
Group Size
6-12
Senegal and The Gambia: A Cultural and Wildlife Odyssey 1350 , 10 Days

Senegal and The Gambia: A Cultural and Wildlife Odyssey

Desert lands, tropical forests and magnificent coasts. On this unique holiday in West Africa...
The 5 Stan-s - Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan 2390 , 21 Days

The 5 Stan-s - Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan

Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan as you delve into the vast deserts, rolling steppe, fertile...
Rila-Pirin Mountain Trek (Bulgaria), guaranteed departures 740 , 8 Days

Rila-Pirin Mountain Trek (Bulgaria), guaranteed departures

A unique mountain hike above the clouds in the highest mountains on The Balkan...

View all» What people say about us

Great
Penguin Travel on Trust Pilot
Based on 86 reviews
Trust Pilot
Binky's Review Verified review Verified
Great caucus Explorer trip
Caucus Explorer( Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan ) was a great trip . Even though our Van is fully...
Beth, 5 May
Daniel's review Verified review Verified
8 day Caucasus trip
5/5 for the Caucasus trip in apr/may 2024. Everything was well planned and executed.
Haris, 3 May
Maribeth's review Verified review Verified
Excellent and Amazing Tour
Excellent tour. My highlight of the tour is Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid and more places. I like the itinerary...
Arnold, 6 April
View all»

Blog

13.08.2024 16:52

5 Unique African Festivals and Traditions for the Bold Explorer

Travel, at its most meaningful, isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about connecting with the cultures that breathe life into those places. Africa, with its vast landscapes and myriad traditions, offers unparalleled opportunities for explorers who yearn for authentic experiences. Below, you will find 5 of our favorite festivals and traditions you can experience while traveling in...


30.07.2024 18:38

Gabon: Where Eco-Friendly Adventures Meet Stunning Wilderness

At Penguin Travel, we believe in the power of authentic experiences, and there are few places as untouched and awe-inspiring as Gabon. Nestled on the west coast of Central Africa, Gabon is a sanctuary for nature lovers and a testament to the beauty of unspoiled wilderness. Our tours are designed to immerse you in Gabon's incredible landscapes and wildlife, offering a truly unique adventure. Gabon...


09.07.2024 16:01

Photo Diary: Afghanistan Tour (Kabul, Herat, Bamiyan, Band-e Amir, Mazar-I-Sharif and Other)

In today's article, we will take you on a virtual journey to a misunderstood land where ancient civilizations have left their mark on rugged mountains and sweeping valleys. Afghanistan, a land often overshadowed by conflict, unveils a strikingly different side to those who dare to look beyond the headlines. It's a place of profound beauty and cultural richness, a stark contrast to its war-torn...


27.06.2024 17:45

Everything you need to know about travelling to Afghanistan: Essential travel information (Q&A with our tour leaders and local guides)

Traveling to Afghanistan in 2024 is an adventure like no other. Despite its rocky past and current political situation, more tourists are starting to explore the country, thanks in part to the Taliban's push for tourism. Penguin Travel is leading the way, having successfully organized a few trips in the last year. Must-see spots include the stunning Bamyan Valley, the gorgeous Band-e-Amir...