Sheikh is a charming town nestled in the mountains of Somaliland, known for its cool climate, beautiful landscapes, and historical significance. Unlike the hot coastal cities, Sheikh offers visitors a refreshing retreat with lush greenery, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore a different side of Somaliland.
What Makes Sheikh Special?
Sheikh is famous for its moderate temperatures, especially during the hot months when most of Somaliland experiences high heat. The town’s scenic hills, pine forests, and old colonial buildings create a unique atmosphere for visitors. It’s also home to several historic sites, including remnants from the British colonial period and more.
Why Laas Geel is a Must-See in Somaliland"
- Incredible ancient art: The rock paintings are still vivid and colorful after thousands of years. Few places on Earth offer such well-preserved prehistoric art.
- Breathtaking scenery: It is located in a beautiful, rocky desert landscape that feels untouched by time.
- No crowds: Unlike major tourist sites elsewhere, you may have it almost to yourself. It offers a peaceful, authentic experience.
- Great photography opportunities: The combination of art, nature, and history makes it perfect for unforgettable photos.
How to Get to Sheikh
Sheikh is approximately 90 kilometers southeast of Hargeisa, the capital city. The journey takes about 2 hours by car on a paved road.
If you book with Horn Expeditions, we will take care of all arrangements, permits, security escort, transportation, and provide a knowledgeable guide to explain the history of Sheikh Town.
Things to Do in Sheikh
- Explore the Pine Forests: Wander through peaceful pine forests and enjoy nature walks.
- Visit Historic Sites: Discover colonial-era buildings and learn about the town’s past.
- Experience Local Culture: Meet friendly locals and experience traditional Somali hospitality.
- Enjoy the Cool Climate: Relax and escape the heat with refreshing mountain air.
Safety and Practical Tips
All visitors must have a permit and an armed security escort. This is required by Somaliland government regulations. The escort is mainly needed to pass through police checkpoints on the way.
It is important to know that Somaliland is very safe for tourists. The security escort is not because of danger. Instead, it is part of Somaliland’s system to ensure safety, monitor checkpoints, and provide jobs for local security staff. It is simply a travel rule for foreign visitors.
When you book with Horn Expeditions, we take care of all permits and arrange the security escort for you. Our experienced team works directly with the authorities. This way, you can relax and enjoy your trip without any worries.
Combine Sheikh Mountain with Other Destinations
Many visitors combine this Rock Art with other attractions in Somaliland, such as:
- Berbera: The Coastal Pearl of Somaliland.
- Laas Geel: 10,000-Year-Old Ancient Rock Art
- Hargeisa — vibrant capital with markets and camel trading
Plan your Somaliland visit
Explore more of our tours 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 Tour Today
Horn Expeditions offers personalized tours in the horn of Africa, giving you an authentic cultural experience. Contact us to start planning your Somaliland adventure.
