Discover 10 surprising places in Somalia, featuring historic cities, scenic coastlines, and hidden cultural gems. I recently spoke with a friend who’s planning a backpacking trip across Africa, and she mentioned how difficult it was to find reliable information about tourist places in Somalia. That conversation really stood out to me and highlighted how few resources truly showcase the beauty, history, and diversity of this fascinating country.
This guide aims to change that. In this post, you’ll discover the top 10 tourist places in Somalia, from iconic landmarks to lesser-known hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights to help you plan a memorable and informed trip while understanding what makes each destination unique. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or simply curious, this guide offers a fresh and realistic look at Somalia as a travel destination. Somalia is often misunderstood, yet it holds a remarkable amount of untapped tourism potential. From unspoiled beaches along the Indian Ocean to ancient historical sites and culturally rich cities, this East African country offers a truly unique experience for adventurous travelers seeking something different.
This list highlights ten must-see destinations in Somalia, each offering insight into the country’s deep-rooted culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. As with any emerging destination, travelers are encouraged to stay informed, check current travel advisories, and plan their journey with a reputable local guide to ensure a safer and more rewarding experience. With interest in off-the-beaten-path travel continuing to grow, more travelers are now seeking authentic destinations like Somalia that offer stories, landscapes, and experiences beyond the usual tourist trail.
1. Mogadishu: The Capital City
Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, is a lively coastal city shaped by centuries of history, culture, and resilience. Once a major trading hub along the Indian Ocean, Mogadishu is steadily undergoing a transformation, reflecting renewed energy, local pride, and growing potential. Today, the city blends historic landmarks with everyday life, offering visitors a deeper look into Somalia’s cultural heart.
One of the city’s highlights is the historic Mogadishu Port, which has played a vital role in regional trade for generations. Visitors can also admire beautiful mosques such as the Fateh Mosque, a striking example of traditional Somali and Islamic architecture. Along the coastline, Mogadishu’s stunning beaches provide a peaceful escape, where golden sands meet warm ocean waters perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze.
For those interested in history and culture, the National Museum of Somalia offers valuable insight into the country’s rich heritage, traditions, and past civilizations. To experience daily life up close, a visit to Bakara Market, one of the largest open-air markets in East Africa, reveals the city’s vibrant commerce, colors, and community spirit.
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2. The Beaches of Hobyo
Hobyo is a charming coastal town in Somalia, home to some of the country’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. Known for their powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hobyo’s beaches offer the perfect setting for relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing. Many travelers come here specifically to enjoy the peaceful coastline, which remains far less crowded than more popular beach destinations, giving it the feel of a private seaside escape.
Thanks to the calm waters along the shore, Hobyo is also well-suited for water activities. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and diving to explore marine life, or try windsurfing when the breeze picks up. Fishing plays an important role in local life, and joining local fishermen for a traditional fishing experience offers a unique and authentic way to connect with the culture while enjoying the ocean.
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3. The Laas Geel Cave Paintings
Discover ancient history at Laas Geel, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Horn of Africa. This remarkable location is home to well-preserved cave paintings that date back thousands of years, depicting cattle, wild animals, and human figures in vivid detail. These artworks offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily life, beliefs, and traditions of ancient Somali communities.
Archaeologists have studied the Laas Geel cave paintings extensively, and they are considered highly significant for understanding early human art and culture in the region. What makes the site even more impressive is that its condition of the paintings remains exceptionally intact thanks to ongoing preservation efforts led by the local community. Today, Laas Geel stands as a powerful symbol of Somalia’s deep historical roots and a must-visit destination for travelers interested in archaeology, culture, and ancient civilizations.
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4. The Ruins of Merca
Merca is a historic coastal city that offers a fascinating glimpse into Somalia’s rich maritime past. Once an important trading hub along the Indian Ocean, Merca is dotted with ancient ruins and timeworn buildings that reflect its long history of commerce and cultural exchange. Walking through the city, you can still feel the echoes of a vibrant era shaped by sailors, merchants, and travelers from across the region.
Merca’s architecture is especially striking, showcasing a unique blend of Swahili design and other cultural influences that developed over centuries of trade. Exploring the old port area allows visitors to imagine the city’s former importance as a gateway for maritime trade, where goods, ideas, and cultures once flowed freely. Today, Merca remains a rewarding stop for travelers interested in history, architecture, and lesser-known coastal destinations in Somalia.
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5. The Sanaag Region
The Sanaag Region offers a striking blend of raw natural beauty and deep-rooted cultural heritage. Known for its dramatic landscapes, the region features rugged mountain ranges, wide-open plains, and untouched scenery that feels worlds away from crowded tourist routes. Its remote character makes Sanaag an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience a quieter, more authentic side of Somalia.
Because the region remains largely undeveloped, visitors have the rare opportunity to enjoy unspoiled nature and meaningful cultural immersion. Sanaag is especially well-suited for hiking, nature exploration, and scenic photography, with sweeping views that reward every climb. Equally memorable is the chance to learn about local traditions, daily life, and customs that have been preserved for generations, making Sanaag a rewarding destination for those seeking both adventure and cultural insight.
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6. Bosaso: A Coastal Gem
Bosaso, located in Somalia’s Puntland region, is a lively coastal city that blends commercial energy with scenic seaside beauty. Known for its busy port and welcoming atmosphere, Bosaso offers travelers a chance to experience everyday Somali life while enjoying views of the Indian Ocean. The city continues to grow as an important economic and cultural center, reflecting Somalia’s resilience and forward momentum.
A visit to Bosaso’s bustling markets is a must. Here, you’ll find stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, textiles, and locally made goods, all set against the backdrop of friendly interactions with local vendors. Along the coast, Bosaso’s beaches and waterfront areas provide a relaxing contrast to the city’s activity, making it perfect for a leisurely walk while taking in the sea breeze and coastal scenery. Together, Bosaso’s markets and shoreline offer a well-rounded glimpse into both the economic life and natural charm of this vibrant Somali city
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7. The Cal Madow Caves
Similar to the famous cave art at Laas Geel, the Cal Madow Caves offer a fascinating window into Somalia’s ancient past. Tucked within the rugged Cal Madow mountain range, these caves are home to remarkable rock paintings that date back thousands of years. The artwork features detailed depictions of animals, symbolic figures, and patterns that reflect the daily life, beliefs, and artistic traditions of early Somali communities.
What makes the Cal Madow caves especially significant is their cultural and historical value. The paintings are considered an important example of early artistic expression in the Horn of Africa, helping researchers better understand how ancient societies lived, hunted, and interacted with their environment. Many of the images remain impressively preserved, thanks to the caves’ natural protection and growing awareness of their importance.
Today, archaeologists and historians continue to study the Cal Madow cave paintings, using modern research techniques to uncover new insights into their origins and meaning. These ongoing efforts aim to piece together Somalia’s early human history while promoting preservation and responsible exploration. For travelers interested in archaeology, ancient art, and lesser-known historical sites, the Cal Madow caves offer a deeply rewarding and educational experience.
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8. The Golis Mountains
For nature lovers looking to explore truly untouched places in Somalia, the Golis Mountains offer some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Stretching across northern Somalia, these mountains are known for their dramatic landscapes, cool highland air, and wide-ranging views that feel far removed from busy cities and tourist crowds.
The Golis Mountains are home to diverse flora and fauna, making the region especially appealing for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. A network of trails caters to different fitness levels, from gentle walks to more challenging climbs, all rewarding visitors with panoramic views of valleys and plains below. Wildlife lovers will also appreciate the chance to spot unique plant species and animals adapted to this rugged environment.
Because the region remains largely undeveloped, it provides a rare opportunity to experience Somalia’s natural beauty in its most authentic form. For travelers seeking adventure, solitude, and a deeper connection with nature, the Golis Mountains stand out as one of the most rewarding places in Somalia to explore.
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9. Eyl: A Coastal Town with History
Eyl is a peaceful coastal town that blends historical character with beautiful, unspoiled beaches. Known for its quiet atmosphere and scenic shoreline, Eyl offers travelers a chance to slow down, explore the past, and enjoy the natural beauty of Somalia’s coastline away from crowded tourist routes.
Historically, Eyl played a role in regional trade and maritime activity, and traces of its past can still be felt while exploring the town and surrounding areas. Today, its calm beaches and coastal landscapes make it an ideal destination for relaxation, long walks by the sea, and enjoying uninterrupted ocean views. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Eyl stands out as a rewarding and tranquil place to visit in Somalia.
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10. Berbera: A Historical Port City
Berbera, located along the Gulf of Aden in Somaliland, is a historic port city known for its deep-rooted heritage and strategic importance. With centuries of maritime history behind it, Berbera offers a fascinating mix of old-world charm and modern commercial activity, making it one of the most interesting coastal destinations in the region.
Visitors can explore Berbera’s traditional markets, where daily life unfolds amid colorful stalls and local trade, while nearby historical sites reveal stories of the city’s past as a major trading hub. The Berbera Port remains a vital part of the regional economy today, and watching the port in action offers insight into Somalia’s evolving role in international trade. Blending urban exploration with historical discovery, Berbera stands out as a rewarding place to visit for travelers interested in culture, history, and coastal life.
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11. Las Anod
Las Anod is located in the Sool region and offers a calm, community-focused atmosphere that contrasts with its complex political background. Despite regional disputes, the city itself is known for its peaceful environment and strong sense of local identity. Recent initiatives such as the Sool Regional Development Plan have sparked optimism, aiming to improve infrastructure, public services, and hospitality steps that could gradually enhance the visitor experience.
Cultural heritage lies at the heart of Las Anod’s appeal. Local communities are actively working to preserve and celebrate traditional Somali customs, with growing efforts to promote cultural festivals, storytelling, and nomadic heritage. These initiatives give visitors a rare opportunity to gain authentic insight into the lives of Somali pastoral communities and their centuries-old traditions.
Although still off the beaten path, Las Anod is beginning to tap into its tourism potential through community-based tourism initiatives that benefit local residents while offering travelers meaningful, responsible experiences. For those interested in culture, heritage, and genuine local connections, Las Anod stands out as an emerging place to explore in Somalia.
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12. Barawe
Traditionally known as Brava (Barawe), Barawe is a historic coastal town with deep roots as a Swahili settlement along Somalia’s shoreline. This rich heritage is reflected in its distinctive Swahili-style architecture, colorful old buildings, and the local Chimwiini dialect spoken by the community. In recent years, local leaders and government bodies have made renewed efforts to restore and preserve Barawe’s cultural identity, with the goal of developing it as a meaningful destination for cultural tourism.
Barawe’s seaside location also offers a strong connection to maritime life. Local fishing communities continue to play a central role in the town’s economy, with growing emphasis on sustainable fishing practices that balance tradition and environmental care. Visitors can enjoy freshly caught seafood, explore coastal neighborhoods, and experience the unique Swahili–Somali fusion culture firsthand. Together, Barawe’s history, coastal charm, and living traditions make it an emerging cultural place to visit in Somalia for travelers seeking authenticity and heritage.
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13. Galkayo
Galkayo sits at the crossroads of Somalia’s complex political landscape, divided between the administrations of Puntland and Galmudug. In recent years, renewed efforts have focused on strengthening peace, cooperation, and stability between the two sides, an important step toward improving safety and creating a more welcoming environment for visitors. These collaborative initiatives are gradually helping Galkayo move forward as a city with growing potential.
While Galkayo is not traditionally known as a tourist destination, it offers something different: an authentic look into everyday Somali life. The city’s lively markets, local businesses, and community spaces reflect the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of its people. Supported by NGOs and government-led projects, cultural exchange programs and public-space improvements are beginning to take shape. For travelers interested in understanding Somalia beyond the usual highlights, Galkayo is emerging as a place to experience the country’s social fabric, local culture, and evolving sense of unity.
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