Overview

The Republic of Somalia is a country located in the Horn of Africa. It is bordered by Djibouti to the northwest, Kenya to the southwest, Yemen to the north, and Ethiopia to the west. Somalia as it is presently constituted was formed in 1960 after centuries of fighting off British and Italian rule. The best time to travel to Somalia is generally between December and March, when the temperature is relatively mild.

Activities & Attractions

Somalia has several great attractions that are sure to entertain tourists. Its sandy beaches are quite alluring and the capital city of Mogadishu offers a splendid view. Other Somalian attractions include Bakara Market and Shanghai Old City. Bakara Market is an open-air street market that displays an array of food items, clothes and ornaments. People looking to pick up a souvenir unique to Africa are sure not to be disappointed. Shanghai Old City is a very important landmark and one of Somalia's major tourist attractions. It is very popular for its scenic beauty and distinguished architecture. Sinbusi Beach is another popular tourist attraction outdoor lovers will love.

Lodging

A variety of lodging facilities are available in Somalia. For those looking to be pampered, there are luxury hotels and resorts available that provide good service at affordable prices. However, be aware that all of them may not necessarily be at par with international standards. A couple notable hotels in the country are Ambassador Hotel and Maan-Soor Hotel.

Several other options are available for budget travelers and backpackers. There are many campsites, inns, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and other small residential units. Also, a variety of lodges are available in the National Parks area.

It is recommended to stay at accommodations suggested by the Embassy of your country to ensure your personal safety. For more information on hotels in Somalia, visit the Web sites found below in the resources section.

Transportation

A cheap and easy way of getting around Somalia is by using buses. Of course, taxis are available for travelling around the country as well. However, it is suggested to use transportation that is recommended by your native country's embassy. It is also advised to hire a guide to help you explore the country.

For travel by air, there are many airports that offer both international and domestic flights. Two of the most reputable airlines are Air Somalia and Daallo Airlines.