Mogadishu ocean pollution in Somalia
Mogadishu
Beach pollution in Somalia

Mogadishu

Beach pollution in Somalia

10 Best Places to Visit in Somalia
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Somalia Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Mogadishu

Location:

Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of Ethiopia

Currency:

Somali shillings (SOS)

Area:

637,657 sq km

Population:

12,094,640 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

Somali (official, according to the 2012 Transitional Federal Charter), Arabic (official, according to the 2012 Transitional Federal Charter), Italian, English

Religion:

Sunni Muslim (Islam) (official, according to the 2012 Transitional Federal Charter)

TimeZone:

UTC+3

Tel Code:

+252

Things to Do

  • 1. Visit Mogadishu

    Explore the capital city of Somalia with its vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and beautiful beaches.

  • 2. Go camel trekking in Puntland

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque deserts of Puntland on the back of a camel.

  • 3. Discover the ruins of Barawa

    Step back in time as you explore the ancient ruins of Barawa, a city that was once a major trading port in medieval times.

  • 4. Relax on the beaches of Kismayo

    Unwind on the pristine white-sand beaches of Kismayo and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean.

  • 5. Hike to Mount Shimbiris

    Challenge yourself by hiking to the highest peak in Somalia, Mount Shimbiris, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

  • 6. Explore the Mogadishu Cathedral

    Visit the iconic Mogadishu Cathedral, a historical landmark that showcases a mix of Islamic and Italian architectural styles.

  • 7. Take a boat trip to the Bajuni Islands

    Embark on a boat trip to the beautiful Bajuni Islands, a hidden gem with pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs.

  • 8. Experience traditional Somali cuisine

    Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Somali cuisine, including dishes like bariis iskukaris (Somali-style rice) and camel meat stew.

  • 9. Visit the Laas Geel rock art site

    Discover the fascinating rock art at the Laas Geel site, which features ancient paintings dating back thousands of years.

  • 10. Go diving in the waters of the Indian Ocean

    Explore the vibrant marine life of the Indian Ocean through scuba diving or snorkeling in the waters off the coast of Somalia.

Weather

Climate

The climate of Somalia is primarily a hot desert climate, with hot and dry conditions year-round. The country has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which lasts from December to April, is characterized by little to no rainfall and high temperatures. The rainy season, which lasts from May to November, is characterized by moderate to heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures.

Temperatures in Somalia can reach as high as 40°C (104°F) during the dry season, and can drop to as low as 20°C (68°F) during the rainy season. Coastal areas have a more moderate climate with consistent temperatures around 30°C (86°F) throughout the year, due to the cooling effect of the sea.

It is worth noting that due to the US sanctions, it is not recommended to travel to Somalia and transportation infrastructure is limited.

Food

Money

Currency

  • The official currency of Somalia is the Somali Shilling (SOS).
  • US dollars are widely accepted in major cities.
  • Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's recommended to carry cash.

Cash And Cards

  • It's recommended to carry enough cash in small denominations.
  • ATMs are limited and can be unreliable.
  • It's recommended to exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices.

ATMs

  • ATMs are available in major cities but can be unreliable.
  • It's recommended to withdraw enough cash when you find a working ATM.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory in Somalia, but it's appreciated for excellent service.
  • It's customary to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers if you're satisfied with their service.

Cost Of Living

  • Somalia has a relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries.
  • Prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are generally affordable.

Scams

  • Be cautious of scams involving counterfeit currency.
  • Avoid street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
  • Use official exchange offices or banks to exchange currency.