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Located in the Horn of Africa, Somalia is one the least developed and stable countries in the world. For a long time now, it struggles with an unfriendly climate and civil war but recently, due to global warming, the waves of droughts and floods are even bigger than before.Among the most Godforsaken places on this planet, Mogadishu is way up there. Known as the capital city of the “failed state” of Somalia, it has been plagued by pirates, civil war and sectarian violence for years. So, it’s no wonder that it is the least annually visited tourist destination, worldwide. And if it wasn’t for the brave journalists who venture into these parts, the world wouldn’t actually know the extent of the volatility taking place.
The constant presence of rickshaws on the rough roads creates a somewhat perfect blend of Sudan and Bangladesh.
So yes, although not exactly a coveted holiday destination, visits are possible – and worth it – for the most daring of travelers. Most of the buildings that line the streets of Mogadishu, some would say, look like swiss cheese because of the sheer amount of bullet holes in them. While shop signage is literally spray painted on, graffiti style. And the multi-coloured, cardboard-shaped facades almost symbolically emphasize the fragility of the reconstruction of Somalia, as the seeds of commercialisation make an appearance on a shot-up canvas.
Somaliland’s status may be unofficial, but its hidden gems are officially amazing! Having declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but not yet recognized, it’s a country that’s not technically a country. For over three decades, Somaliland has now established many embassies worldwide, but remains unrecognized by the UN.
Hargeisa, the capital of a non-existent state, still makes an impression. It doesn't have spectacular monuments, but it has its own ambience. The buildings are mostly white, looking like they have been scorched by the sun, as the temperature here reaches up to forty degrees in the summer.
With curiosities around every corner, there are many tales to tell here: from friendly bustling camel markets to money exchanges with towers of bills, it’s surely one of Africa’s most unique destinations.
The cave paintings of Laas Geel (meaning “Well Camel”) spread over 10 alcoves are some of the most vivid rock arts in all of Africa. With depictions of horned cattle in ceremonial robes accompanied by their human herders with animals as varied as giraffes and even a domesticated dog. It’s estimated that these paintings originate nearly 20,000 years ago!
From the jaw-dropping wonders of Las Geel, to fish-heavy Mogadishu, horn of Africa holds many surprises, waiting for your curiosity to be unveiled!
Let’s go!!!
Day 1 // Somaliland :: Hargeisa
Meeting at DXB T1 at 2am for a flight to Hargeisa via Addis. After arrival and immigration, transfer to hotel for a quick rest before heading into town for a walking tour of central market, war memorial, and a stop at livestock exchange for those who want to purchase a goat or a camel. Afterwards we’ll head to dinner at restaurant run by Yemeni refugees. We’ll have a chai with the locals before heading back to hotel.
Day 2 // Somaliland :: Laas Geel + Berbera
After breakfast drive to the caves and rock arts of Las Geel. We’ll explore the colourful paintings estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old and the second oldest in all of Africa! Continue to Berbera and Batalale beach. Return to Hargeisa.
Day 3 // Somalia :: Mogadishu
Short flight to Mogadishu, immigration clearance and check in to the hotel in Green Zone. After lunch we ll head to the roof of Sahafi hotel for a view of metropolis. From here we ll head for Makka Almukarama Road, one of the busiest street followed by city highlihgts: Daljirka Dahsoon and city monumnets. Short break for coffee and head to Lido beach for a boat trip and interaction with local or two. Back to Green Zone for overnight.
Day 4 // Somalia :: Mogadishu
Today we start with fish market for some day catch of sharks, tune and perhaps a turtle. Follow to Mogadishu lighthouse and old port with Ottoman buildings, where fisherman unload the tuna on their backs. Followed by Shanghai old city, we will make a stop at Bakara market, Black Hawk Down site for a selfie with remaining tank. Quick look at camel market, as Somalia is a home to 20% of worldwide population of 35m. Souvenir shopping and flight back in the evening with memories of a lifetime!
Activity: sightseeing, short hiking, boating.
Duration: Long weekend FRI – MON.
Accommodation and meals: 4* hotels, single rooms. Meals excluded.
Cost: 9700 AED all incl. flights and visas.
Specifically excluded: arrival fees in Somaliland ~60 USD, restaurant meals, insurance, photography fees if any.
See yah in Horn of Africa x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Dubai International Airport, ستاربكس, مطار دبي الدولي دبي, الإمارات العربية المتحدة,Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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