Located in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, the Hargeisa Livestock Market is the largest and most vibrant market in the region. It plays a vital role in Somaliland’s economy and offers travelers a truly authentic glimpse into local life, culture, and traditions.
What to Expect at the Livestock Market
The market operates daily from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with the busiest hours between 8:00 and 10:00 AM. During this time, nomads, farmers, traders, and buyers come together to trade camels, goats, sheep, and cattle. The air is filled with friendly banter, cheerful laughter, lively bargaining, and the vibrant rhythm of daily trade.
Despite being located in the capital city, the market has preserved its traditional way of trading, untouched by modern influences. It remains a living reflection of Somaliland’s pastoral heritage and cultural identity.
Why Visit the Livestock Market?
- Cultural Insight: The market is more than a place of commerce — it’s a living reflection of Somaliland’s traditions and way of life. A rare cultural experience not found in most places.
- Photographic Opportunities: Capture vibrant scenes of livestock, striking portraits of nomads and elders with henna-dyed beards and traditional clothing, and the everyday rhythm of market life.
- A Cultural Experience: The market preserves its traditional style of trading, offering a one-of-a-kind experience unlike anything found in modern cities.
- Support the Local Economy: Your visit contributes directly to local livelihoods, helping sustain herders, traders, and the surrounding community.
How to Get There
The Hargeisa Livestock Market is just a 20-minute drive from the city center. Visitors follow the airport road south, cross the historic Maroodi Jeex bridge, and continue through bustling local streets to reach the wide open grounds of the market.
We recommend visiting with a local guide to fully understand the market’s customs and stories. At Horn Expeditions, our expert guides bring the experience to life, sharing cultural insights and helping you respectfully engage with nomads, who are often camera-shy. With our guide, you’ll enjoy authentic conversations and meaningful interactions with the nomads.
Safety and Practical Tips
Visitors are warmly welcomed, and the locals are friendly. Please note that many nomads are camera-shy and prefer you ask permission before photographing them. We recommend engaging with them first to ensure respectful interaction.
As the market is busy with hundreds of nomads and locals, following the local dress code is highly advised for a comfortable visit. For more details on dress code and other important tips, please visit our Somaliland Info.
Plan Your Somaliland Visit
Explore more of our Hargeisa tours, including the livestock market and surrounding attractions, in our Tour Programs page. For details about travel essentials, FAQs, and visa information, visit Our Essentials and Visa page. Don’t forget to browse our Gallery to see stunning images from Somaliland.
Book Your Hargeisa Livestock Market Tour Today
Horn Expeditions offers personalized tours to the Hargeisa Livestock Market, giving you an authentic cultural experience. Contact us to start planning your Somaliland adventure.
