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Somaliland’s status may be unofficial, but its hidden gems are officially amazing! Having declared independence from Somalia but not yet recognized, it’s a country that’s not technically a country. From Africa’s most vivid cave paintings (to suit an archaeologist’s dreams) to ancient temples in forgotten villages to the captivating charms of a city risen from the ashes!Hargeisa, with its friendly, bustling markets of camels, money exchanges with towers of bills, and curiosities around every corner with many tales to tell. is surely one of Africa’s most unique destinations.
The cave paintings of Laas Geel (“Camel’s Well”) spread over 10 alcoves are some of the most vivid rock art in all of Africa, with depictions of horned cattle in ceremonial robes accompanied by their human herders, as well as animals as varied as giraffes and even a domesticated dog. It’s estimated that these paintings date back to 18,000 BC, or nearly 20,000 years ago!
From the low-key charms of Hargeisa to the jaw-dropping wonders of Laas Geel, Somaliland is a “country” not to be missed!
Let’s go!!!
Day 1 // Hargeisa
Meet at Dubai airport at 2 a.m. for a direct flight to Hargeisa at 4:10 a.m.
After arrival and immigration, transfer to the hotel for a quick rest before heading into town for a walking tour of the central market, war memorial, and a stop at the livestock exchange for those who want to purchase a goat or a camel with a wheelbarrow of local currency.
Afterward, we’ll head to dinner at a restaurant run by Yemeni refugees. We’ll have chai with the locals before heading back to the hotel.
Day 2 // Laas Geel + Berbera
After breakfast, drive to the caves and rock art of Laas Geel, a complex of rock shelters that feature some of the most impressive Neolithic rock art in Africa. Estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old and the second oldest in all of Africa, the paintings depict wild animals, ancient pastoralists, and other scenes from prehistoric times.
We’ll explore the colorful caves and continue to the coastal city of Berbera, where we will visit a historical Ottoman mosque and Ottoman houses. Late lunch at an Ottoman house.
Next, we'll head to the old town, where you will find more Persian and British architecture of historic significance. This will be a great chance for some amazing photographs, as well as a visit to the untouched Berbera beaches. In the evening, we head back to Hargeisa.
Day 3 // Return
Early morning flight back to Dubai. Bye-bye, Somaliland!
Activity: sightseeing, short hiking, boating.
Duration: Long weekend FRI – SUN.
Accommodation and meals: 4 star hotel, single rooms. Meals excluded.
Cost: 4900 AED including flights until MARCH 01. Past this date cost will change.
Specifically included: Letter of invitation for visa on arrival, single rooms.
Specifically excluded: fees payable on arrival, e-visa (Somalia), restaurant meals, insurance.
See yah in Somaliland x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / [email protected]
[Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)
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