Somaliland is a self-declared sovereign state in the Horn of Africa. Once home to powerful kingdoms like the Ifat Sultanate and the Adal Kingdom, it later came under Ottoman and then British control. Somaliland gained independence from Britain on June 26, 1960—four days before Somalia gained independence from Italy—making it technically older as a free territory. Soon after, the two united to form the Somali Republic.
Following years of conflict and civil war, Somaliland reasserted its independence in 1991. Since then, it has maintained a stable, democratic government, though it remains unrecognized internationally.
Today, visitors can explore its rich history, culture, and the resilience of its proud people.
Most travelers need a visa to enter Somaliland. Visitors from EU countries, Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, China, Brazil, Taiwan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait can obtain a visa on arrival, however, an invitation letter is mandatory, which we will assist you with. The visa fee, including tax, is $61, payable at the airport.
If you are crossing from a land border, we recommend arranging the visa in advance to ensure a smooth crossing.
Other nationalities are required to apply for the visa in advance, and we will fully assist with the entire process to make it easy and simple.
For full visa information and essentials, we will guide you after your tour is confirmed.
While Somaliland can be considered a year-round destination, our favorite time to go is during the cooler months from September to March.
For more detailed information and essentials about Somaliland, please refer to the FAQ section below.
Yes, Somaliland is one of the safest places in the Horn of Africa. Locals are friendly, and tourists can walk around cities without issues. For travel between cities, a special police escort is required by law — both for your safety and as part of local job creation.
Yes, definitely! Solo female travelers are warmly welcomed and respected here. Just dress modestly and be mindful of local customs, and you’ll have a great, safe experience.
As a conservative Muslim society, modest clothing is expected. For women: long skirts or pants, tops with sleeves, and optionally a headscarf in public. Tattoos on arms or legs should be covered.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Some can get visa on arrival with a sponsor letter (which we provide), while others need to apply in advance — we can help with both.
No, alcohol is strictly banned. It’s not sold or served, and bringing it into the country is prohibited.
Yes, especially in Hargeisa. International cards work at some ATMs, but it’s best to bring cash (USD) and use local exchange services if needed.
Yes, photos of landscapes and attractions are allowed. Always ask before photographing people, especially women, and avoid government or military sites.
Somali is the main language. Many locals also speak Arabic, and English is commonly spoken in cities and the tourism sector.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has its own government, currency, army, and borders. While not internationally recognized, it functions as a separate, stable country.
Yes. You can fly directly to Hargeisa from Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Djibouti, and Dubai via airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, FlyDubai, Air Djibouti, and others.
You can easily get a SIM card at Hargeisa Airport upon arrival. Alternatively, our guide can arrange one for you in advance with internet data and prepaid call credit, so you’re ready to use it as soon as you arrive.
Yes, most hotels offer good internet connection. During your travels, we can also arrange a local SIM card with mobile data, so you stay connected throughout your trip.
Your Gateway to the Horn of Africa.
Tour Packages
Terms & Conditions
