Things To Do
in Somalia
Somalia is a Horn of Africa country with a long Indian Ocean coastline, an ancient trading history and diverse landscapes ranging from desert plains to rugged highlands. Its culture is strongly shaped by Somali clan systems, Sunni Islam and centuries of commerce with Arabia and the Indian Ocean world. In recent decades the country has faced serious security, governance and humanitarian challenges, while parts of the territory (notably Somaliland and Puntland) have relative stability and distinct local administrations.
Visitors can find dramatic coastal scenery, important archaeological sites and warm hospitality, but travel requires careful planning and up-to-date security guidance.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Aden Adde International Airport as the city awakens under a warm sunrise. Meet your local guide and navigate bustling streets on the way to your beachfront hotel. Feel the gentle sea breeze and the scent of freshly brewed Somali coffee at a nearby café.
Savor your first Somali meal featuring bariis iskukaris and spiced goat stew in a family-run restaurant. Stroll through the restored Bakara Market, admiring colorful spices, handwoven baskets, and artisans at work. Chat with friendly vendors eager to share stories of Mogadishu’s revival.
Head to a rooftop terrace overlooking the harbor for sugarcane juice and fresh fruit. Watch the city lights sparkle on the Indian Ocean as local musicians play the oud. Unwind with a sunset walk along Liido Beach before retiring for the night.
Rise early and wander the winding alleys of Hamarweyne Market where merchants display vibrant fabrics and fragrant spices. Sample lucho, fresh Somali flatbread, paired with rich, cardamom-scented tea at a street stall. Observe the friendly bartering between locals as the market springs to life.
Taste crispy sambusas, roasted sweet potatoes, and grilled corn as you explore hidden side streets. Negotiate for handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, and traditional prayer beads. Visit a small mosque to admire intricate geometric patterns and witness the midday prayers.
As dusk falls, lantern-lit stalls cast a golden glow on carved wooden doorways. Join a communal dinner in a heritage courtyard featuring live oud music and traditional dance. Sip honey tea under string lights while sharing laughter with new Somali friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (city) | $1-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $50-150 |
| 🛵Motorbike taxi / short charter | $1-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal scenery, ancient sites (Laas Geel) and unique cultural experiences.
- Warm hospitality and strong traditions—opportunities to learn about pastoralist life and Somali cuisine.
- Less-visited destinations for adventurous travelers who prepare carefully.
- Serious security risks in much of the country (terrorism, kidnapping, piracy) and rapidly changing conditions.
- Limited infrastructure outside major towns—healthcare, reliable transport and accommodation can be scarce.
- Travel restrictions, documentation and the need for local clearance or security can complicate itineraries.
- "Salaan / Asalaamu Caleykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Mahadsanid" - Thank you
- "Fadlan" - Please
- "Imisa? / Immisa ayaa lagu iibiyaa?" - How much? / How much does this cost?
- "Soo dhawoow" - Welcome
- "Haa / Maya" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Somalia
Visit one of these nice places.
A remarkable complex of prehistoric rock shelters with well-preserved cave paintings dating back thousands of years—dramatic early-morning or late-afternoon light; visits usually require a guide and prior arrangement.
Wide sandy beach popular with locals, offering sunrise/sunset shots, fishermen at work and coastal life—security permitting, the waterfront yields strong visual narratives.
Colorful markets, frankincense stalls and everyday street life provide candid cultural photography—seek permission before photographing people.
Dramatic highland scenery in northern Somalia/Somaliland with rugged peaks, endemic flora and sweeping vistas—best for landscape photography and sunrise shots.
Historic coral-stone architecture, narrow alleys and coastal views in older port towns—photographically rich but check local security and permissions.
Food in Somalia
Somalia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant spiced rice often cooked with vegetables and served with stew (maraq) or a spiced meat/seafood sauce; widely available in restaurants and homes.
Must-Try!
A fermented flatbread similar to injera, eaten at breakfast with honey, butter or savory stews; popular across the country and at roadside vendors.
A stir-fried cubed meat (beef, goat or camel) with vegetables and spices, commonly served with rice or bread; a typical home-style dish.
Freshly caught and simply spiced grilled fish is a coastal specialty—try it in coastal towns like Bosaso, Kismayo or Mogadishu where seafood is freshest.
Muufo (a dense corn bread) paired with fresh camel milk is a traditional pastoralist staple in rural areas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest markets historically in Mogadishu (access depends on security); vendors sell spices, dried fish, produce and traditional goods—try local samosas, roasted corn and fresh fruit juices where hygiene appears good.
Bustling market in Somaliland’s capital with fresh produce, frankincense, textiles and coffee; good place for street snacks like sambusas and canjeero.
Early-morning fish auctions and grills near the port—excellent for fresh seafood but visit with a local guide and judge safety and cleanliness before eating.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Somalia is conservative and predominantly Muslim—dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees; women often wear hijab in public areas) to show respect and avoid attention.
Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful during prayer times and the month of Ramadan; do not eat or drink publicly during fasting hours in predominantly Muslim areas.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women; some locations or individuals may refuse.
Accepting offered tea or food is polite; use the right hand for eating and greetings; showing respect to elders and community leaders is important. Avoid discussing sensitive political or clan matters unless you know your hosts well.
In many areas, interactions between unrelated men and women are governed by conservative norms—follow local cues regarding handshakes and physical contact.
Safety
Tipping in Somalia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; small tips for hotel staff, guides and drivers are common. In informal markets tipping is rare, but offering slightly more for extra service is polite.
Cash is the primary payment method—Somali shilling circulates locally, but US dollars are widely accepted for larger transactions and in hotels. Mobile money services (e.g., Zaad/EVC-like platforms in some regions) are widely used in urban areas; ATMs are limited and unreliable outside major cities—carry sufficient cash and small bills.
Credit/debit card acceptance is limited to major hotels and some businesses in larger cities; always confirm before relying on cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm temperatures with increased rainfall in much of the country; roads—especially unpaved ones—can become difficult or impassable; vegetation is greener and birdlife increases.
Very hot and dry across lowlands and coast, with coastal humidity; expect clear skies but intense daytime heat—plan activities for mornings/evenings and stay hydrated.
A shorter rainy period that can bring localized flooding in low-lying areas and improved pasture for pastoral communities; travel can be affected in rural areas.
Cooler mornings and dry conditions prevail; good time for overland travel in areas where security permits and for visiting highland regions.
Somalia at Night
Hiking in Somalia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Somaliland, offering challenging hikes, dramatic views and unique flora; access requires local guides and planning with regional authorities.
A series of ridges and valleys with scenic hiking routes, endemic plant life and considerable photographic potential—best approached with experienced local guides.
Milder highland terrain near Hargeisa and surrounding areas good for shorter treks and cultural visits to pastoralist communities; bring water and sun protection.
Coastal trails and cliffs with ocean views and seabird colonies—day hikes should be planned with local guides and attention to tides and weather.
Airports
How to reach Somalia by plane.
Somalia’s main international airport serving the capital; connections to some regional hubs exist—security and entry procedures can be strict, and travel to/from the airport is usually via organized transport.
Primary airport serving Hargeisa and Somaliland with flights to regional destinations (Djibouti, Ethiopia, some Gulf hubs); used by many visitors to Laas Geel and northern attractions.
Airport in Puntland’s port city with domestic and some regional services; access to northeastern coastal areas and the Gulf of Aden.
Serves the port city of Kismayo in the south—useful for access to the Jubaland region when security permits; services are limited and often irregular.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population is ethnically Somali, organized into clan families such as Hawiye, Darod, Isaaq, Dir and others—clan identity plays an important role in social and political life.
In the northwest (Somaliland), the Isaaq clan is prominent and the region has its own administration and relative stability compared with some other parts of Somalia.
There are minority communities including Bantu, Benadiri (coastal urban communities) and others with distinct cultural identities and histories.
The vast majority of the population is Sunni Muslim, and religious practice is central to daily life and social norms.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide, played in informal settings and organized leagues; local matches draw strong community interest.
A traditional and culturally significant sport in northern regions and among pastoralist communities—events are festive and tied to social gatherings.
Running and informal community sports are common, especially among youth in urban and rural areas.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (lentil stews, vegetable rice, canjeero with honey) but many dishes center on meat; ask for vegetable versions or stick to rice, beans and salads—clear communication and patience help.
Vegan choices are more limited but possible: vegetable stews, beans, rice and some breads; clarify use of ghee/butter in preparation.
Most food is prepared according to halal standards; pork and alcohol are uncommon due to Islamic practices, though expatriate venues may differ.
Carry translations for allergies/medical diet in Somali or Arabic, avoid raw produce unless peeled, drink bottled or boiled water, and be cautious with street food.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Somalia.