Somaliland & Djibouti (Overland)

After breakfast, we begin a scenic drive to Dikhil to visit the traditional villages of the Afar and Somali people, where you will immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy a unique lunch served inside distinctive village huts.

We then continue to Lake Abbé, a breathtaking natural wonder famous for its towering limestone chimneys reaching up to 50 metres and its surreal steam-emitting vents — a landscape so striking it was used as the setting for the classic film Planet of the Apes. You will have ample time to explore until sunset.

Accommodation

Lake Abbe Touristic Camp.

We will start the day with an early wake-up call to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Lake Abbé. We will then drive to the Chimney Area to enjoy stunning views of the hot springs, encounter nomadic communities, and observe flamingos in their natural habitat before returning to camp for breakfast.

Next, we journey to Lake Assal, making a stop for lunch en route. Located more than 155 meters below sea level, this remarkable Salt Lake is the lowest point in Africa and the third lowest on Earth. It is renowned for its vivid, ever-changing colors influenced by the sun’s reflection.

Along the drive, we will stop to take in panoramic views of the Adaleh Canyon and the Goubet region before arriving in the coastal town of Tadjourah for the night.

Accommodation

Le Golfe Hotel or Similar.

After breakfast, we will explore Tadjourah, a coastal town renowned for its charming whitewashed buildings, some dating back to the Ottoman era. After taking in the town’s historic sites, we will head to the pristine white sands of Plage Blanche (Sables Blancs).

Here, you can relax, swim, and enjoy refreshing drinks by the water. In the afternoon, we will continue our scenic drive back to Djibouti City for an overnight stay.

Accommodation

Les Acacias Hotel or similar.

After breakfast, we will begin our drive to the Somaliland border. Upon crossing, we will embark on a fascinating journey through the desert landscape, passing numerous villages and encountering local nomadic communities along the way.

We will make several stops to immerse ourselves in the nomadic way of life and absorb the unique atmosphere of the region. After a full day of exploration, we will arrive in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, for a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation

Damal Hotel or similar

After breakfast, we will take a scenic drive about an hour outside the city to a forest reserve, home to the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre (CRCC). Here, you will have the incredible opportunity to observe rescued cheetahs in 5-to-12-acre natural enclosures. You will learn about the sanctuary's vital work in rehabilitating these magnificent animals from the illegal wildlife trade and ensuring their well-being.

Afterward, we will return to Hargeisa for a driving tour through various neighborhoods. As the temperatures cool down, we will visit the Civil War Memorial, a poignant and deeply significant site for the local community. Next, we will head to the unique Hargeisa money market, where exchangers sit safely on the streets alongside massive stacks of cash, completely free from the fear of theft.

We will end the afternoon with a guided walk through the bustling main market. Depending on the schedule, we may conclude the evening by attending a live music event to enjoy traditional Somali dance and music.

Accommodation

Damal Hotel or similar

In the morning, we will drive to the mountainous city of Borama. We will explore the area with a visit to Amoud University, the oldest university on the Somali Peninsula, where you will have the opportunity to meet students from various countries.

Afterward, we will take a walk through the vibrant local market. Next, we will drive to Dhagah Khoure, a magnificent site home to some of the oldest cave paintings in Somaliland, dating back approximately 5,000 years.

After exploring the rock art and taking in the beautiful surroundings, we will continue our journey back to Hargeisa for the night.

Accommodation

Damal Hotel or similar

breakfast, we will begin our day with a visit to the region's largest livestock market (Camel Market) to observe the lively local trade, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's economy, then will depart for Laas Geel, home to some of the best-preserved rock art in Africa. Dating back over 10,000 years, the vibrant colors and intricate details of these cave paintings make this a true highlight of the trip.

Following our visit, we will continue to the coastal city of Berbera for a refreshing lunch and a relaxing swim at the beach. In the afternoon, a guided walk will reveal the historic old quarter, featuring a beautiful blend of Ottoman and British colonial architecture, much of which is still in use today. The evening will be yours to enjoy dinner and check into your hotel.

NB: We will have snorkeling and diving equipment available for guests who wish to dive and experience the rich marine life.

Accommodation

Damal Hotel or similar

After breakfast, we will explore Berbera and capture photos in the beautiful morning light. We will visit the Berbera Local Museum and take a drive around the city to see more of the area. During the morning, there is also an option to rent a boat for snorkeling or diving.

Then we will depart from Berbera and ascend toward the picturesque mountain town of Sheikh. The journey through the Sheikh Mountains offers breathtaking, panoramic views and a refreshingly pleasant climate. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a traditional tea break with the locals, providing a wonderful opportunity to relax and immerse ourselves in the peaceful charm of the town.

Afterward, we will make our way back down to Berbera for lunch before continuing our scenic drive to Hargeisa where we will overnight.

Accommodation

Damal Hotel or similar

Transfer to the Airport for your departing flight.