An overland journey from Djibouti into Somaliland to get a taste of traditional Somali life and visit some extraordinary desert scenery in a region where the Arab world and African world collide.
An overland journey from Djibouti into Somaliland, to get a taste of traditional Somali life and visit some extraordinary desert scenery in the Horn of Africa, a region where the Arab and African worlds collide.
First up is Djibouti, offering the chance to head into the Danakil region and explore the otherworldly landscapes around Lac Abbe and Lac Assal. Then, we cross into Somaliland and take a long journey through the desert and scrub to Somaliland’s low key but friendly capital, Hargeisa. In Somaliland we will visit the extraordinary cave paintings at Las Geel, as well as the coastal town of Berbera. A great introduction into the culture and landscapes in the region.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Explore Somali culture and hospitality
- Perfect for solo travellers or groups of friends
- Camp at Lac Abbe, visit Lac Assal and enjoy rock art at Las Geel and Dhagax Khoure
Dates
This trip can be tailor made for your perfect travel dates. Please make a booking enquiry for more information.
Itinerary
An overland journey from Djibouti into Somaliland to get a taste of traditional Somali life and visit some extraordinary desert scenery, in the Horn of Africa: a region where the Arab and African worlds collide.
The trip begins in Djibouti with a chance to explore the Danakil Depression. We then take on the less travelled overland journey through the desert into the de-facto independent state of Somaliland and arrive at the capital Hargeisa.
The itinerary includes visiting Lac Abbe and Lac Assal, with the opportunity to camp in its harsh and remote landscapes. In Somaliland we will visit 10th-century mosques, visit the bustling camel markets of Hargeisa and explore the cave paintings in Las Geel.
What's included
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Meals at Lac Abbe camp
- Ground transport
- Escort – Armed Security in Somaliland (Required)
- English speaking guides
- Site access and entrance fees
- Permits
- Visa support
Not included
- Visa costs
- Insurance
- International flights
- Lunch and dinner (unless mentioned)
- Drinks
- Tips for drivers and guides
- Other expenses
Trip notes
Price
Min age
Accommodation
The operator does not and cannot offer a uniform accommodation standard on our itineraries. Comfort, location, design, character, historical interest and whether the money we spend will go into the pockets of the local community, are all considered when accommodation is chosen.
Twin share is uncommon in Somaliland, so this trip is based on single room occupancy.
Meals
Breakfast is included on this trip, as well as the meals at Lac Abbe. Other meals will be paid for by yourself.
Who is this trip for?
- Solo travellers
- Couples
- Friends
Additional notes
Visas
The operator will provide visa support for both Djibouti and Somaliland. Djibouti requires a letter of invitation, followed by an e-visa application. Somaliland requires a letter of invitation and a visa application form, which for most nationalities allow you to apply for the visa upon arrival.
Guides
On this trip you will be accompanied by two English-speaking guides, one for the Djibouti section and one for the Somaliland section of this trip.
Security and Risks
The operator will monitor the situation closely and listen very carefully to advice from the foreign office and from friends in the areas we visit. The client’s safety is the primary concern. The guide has the final word with regards to changes in the itinerary for safety reasons. Whilst the route that’s been chosen passes through areas that are considered stable things can change and it may be that the operator must alter the route or cancel sections of the trip at short notice.
Somaliland is not an internationally recognised country. At the time of listing this trip, Somaliland is secure and has, by and large, escaped the trouble that has blighted Somalia to the south. However, the government takes security there seriously and you will have a soldier with you when outside of any town.
Tour operator
Working with small groups of a maximum of 12 people and using specialist local guides throughout, their aim is to provide authentic and original experiences for all guests. This small number allows for greater security, flexibility and access to local people and places. Each set itinerary trip is individually designed to coincide with local events or to visit the area at the best time of year be it a ski festival or marathon event!
Enquire today
Horn of Africa – Djibouti and Somaliland
Please complete the enquiry form above with as much detail as you can and we will send you all the trip information and connect you with the operator so you can make a booking directly.
If you have queries and questions about the trip include those in your form and we’ll personally reply to you within 24 hours.
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