Understand

Once a British protectorate, Somaliland gained its independence in 1960 and formed a union with Italian Somaliland. However, unity didn't last long as conflicts emerged, leading to a brutal civil war in 1988. Thousands of Somalilanders lost their lives due to tribal affiliations under the oppressive rule of Mohammad Siad Barre. By the end of the war in 1991, the country was left devastated and in ruins. Today, as travellers venture through Somaliland, they will witness the haunting remnants of the past: tank shells scattered along major roads, artillery blast marks etched into hillsides, and the haunting presence of bombed-out buildings and crumbling ruins in cities. Somaliland is still on the path to recovery, but its indomitable spirit shines through.

Get in

To enter Somaliland, you will need a visa. Please note that Somalia visas are not accepted. Most travelers obtain a visa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia or the Somaliland Mission in London. You can find details on the Somaliland government website or contact the Somaliland liaison office in Addis Ababa at +251 11 6635921. However, they may not always answer the phone. To locate the office in Addis Ababa, head to the Edna Mall and go north on Namibia Avenue for approximately 100 meters until you reach the Sheger Building on your left. Take a right onto the street that has a sign for the liaison office and walk for about 300-400 meters. Look for another sign on your right, and you will find the embassy. Please note that the location may change, so this information is valid as of January 2016. The visa fee is $100 (more for multiple entries). Additionally, you will need to provide a photocopy of your passport (which can be obtained at Sheger Building, the mall opposite it, or the print shop on the corner of the first turn to the embassy for 1 birr) and one passport photo. They will issue the visa on the spot, along with a letter instructing you not to pay any additional money at the airport in Hargeisa or the border. However, as of January 2017, there was an entry tax at the airport, so be sure to inquire about this at the visa office. If you are in London, you can also get a visa from the unofficial Somaliland embassy. The process is straightforward and can be handled by post, making it the most convenient option for travelers in Europe or those who wish to have a visa before their trip. From Djibouti City, you can obtain a Somaliland visa at the Representative Office on Ave Marechal (1136'25"N 4309'21"E, correct as of December 2017). The cost is US$63, and you will need a passport photo. The process takes one working day, and same-day visas are not available. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa online through the Somaliland Mission in the USA for USD80.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: XawaashkiyaadXawaashkiyaad, also known as xalwo or halwo, is a traditional Somali sweet made from peanuts, sesame seeds, and butter. It's often served during special occasions and as a snack. The mixture is cooked until it forms a sticky, caramelized consistency before being molded into small balls or other shapes. Xawaashkiyaad can be found at local markets, festivals, and grocery stores in Somalia.

Dish: aspPasteet is a popular Somali flatbread made from a mix of wheat and barley flour. It's a staple in Somali cuisine, commonly eaten alongside saucy dishes as a vehicle for flavorsome toppings. Pasteet has a soft, porous texture that easily absorbs the flavors of accompanying meals, making it a versatile and essential part of Somali dining.

Dish: 9Sambusa is a savory, pastry-based snack that's immensely popular in Somalia. The dish is similar to samosas, filled with a mix of seasoned meats, vegetables, and spices, then deep-fried to achieve a crispy, golden brown crust. Sambusa comes in a triangular shape, with the filling typically consisting of potatoes, onions, chickpeas, lentils, or minced meat. They're sold at street vendors, markets, and cafes throughout the country, often enjoyed as a quick snack or appetizer.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing