Waterloo is a city located in the Western Area Rural District in the Western Area region of Sierra Leone. It is the administrative centre of Western Area Rural District and the second largest city of the region, following the national capital, Freetown, from which Waterloo is located around 30 km southeast on the way Freetown linking other parts of the country. Administratively Waterloo belongs to the Freetown Metropolitan Area, while geographically Waterloo is situated between 8°20′ N latitude and 13°04′ W longitude at an altitude of 40 meters.

History of Waterloo:

Waterloo originated as a colony for liberated Africans in the year 1819. Waterloo got its name from the Battle of Waterloo fought in what is today’s Belgium, in which the Anglo-Allied army defeated Napoleon Bonaparte. Waterloo had seen the peak of its development in the 20th century but that substantially devastated because of heavy damage happened during the Sierra Leone Civil War at the end of the 20^th century.

How to reach Waterloo?

Waterloo is served by Lungi International Airport, located around 45 km north of the midpoint of Waterloo. Including British Airways and Air France, the airport is catered by many eminent airlines with scheduled flights from London, Parish, Brussels, Nairobi and Casablanca.

Buses are regular between Freetown and Waterloo, both luxury and general. The local transportation of Waterloo is catered by minibuses, taxis and rental cars. Rental vehicles are available for advance booking.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Waterloo:

Waterloo is ethnically diverse city, where the Krio people are larger in number, who highly speak Krio language. Shops in Waterloo range from traditional handicraft shops to many famed retail outlets. Waterloo is also famous for its seafood restaurants.

Things to do in Waterloo:

• Exploring nearby forest reserve
• City tours
• Shopping

Tourist Attractions in Waterloo:

 Western Area Forest Reserve:

The Western Area Forest Reserve is spread over an area of 17,688 hectares with a large number of endangered bird species. It is the site of Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which is one of the top tourist destinations in Sierra Leone and is mainly famous for chimpanzees.

Beaches of Freetown:

The capital Freetown is located around 30 km away from Waterloo. The city has a very long coastline with many excellent pristine beaches such as Lakka Beach, No. 2 River Beach and Bureh Beach, John Obey Beach, York Beach, Sussex Beach and Goderich Beach. There are buses frequently plying between Waterloo and Freetown.

Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse:

The Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse is situated in the suburb of Aberdeen in Freetown, near Barmoi Hotel, around 30 km from Waterloo. It is a Portuguese constructed lighthouse, offering striking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a place where tourists surely forget them in the world of natural beauties.

 List of other places of interest near Waterloo include:

• Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
• National Rail Museum
• George’s Cathedral
• Goderich Beach
• Lakka Beach
• Foulah Town Mosque
• Cotton Tree
• Bunce Island
• John Obey Beach
• Hill Station Club
• York Beach
• Sussex Beach
• Sierra Leone Museum
• Charlotte Falls

Best time to visit Waterloo:

Undoubtedly during the dry months between December and March is ideal to visit Waterloo in Sierra Leone.

Hotels in and around Waterloo:

There are tourist favor hotels limited in Waterloo, so tourists are advised to drive towards the nearby city and capital, Freetown, where all sorts of upgraded hotels are located. List of the major hotels in Freetown (around 30 km from Waterloo) includes.

• Leone Lodge Freetown
• Hotel de la Joie
• Bintumani Hotel
• Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Freetown
• The Rogbonko Village Retreat
• Mamba Point Guesthouse
• Kimbima Hotel
• Cockle Point
• Lacs Villa Guest House
• Njala IAR Guesthouse
• Sierra International Hotel
• Simple Goal Guest House
• Raza Guest House
• Family Kingdom Resort
• Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel

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Port Loko is a town belonging to the Port Loko District in the Northern Province of the Western African nation Sierra Leone. It is located in the western part of the country, around 120 km northeast of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. Port Loko is well known as a trading centre and is also famous for bauxite mining. Port Loko is geographically positioned between 8°46′0″ N latitude and 12°47′15″ W longitude.

Port Loko Teacher’s College, Sierra Leone’s one of the oldest and reputed educational institutions, is located in Port Loko since 1968. The Bai Bureh Warriors football club is another identity of Port Loko, which represents Port Loko in the Sierra Leone National First Division.

History of Port Loko:

The history of Port Loko says the Portuguese merchants were founder of Port Loko. Port Loko received second term of its name from the Loko people, who are one of the ethnic groups forming the population of Sierra Leone.

How to reach Port Loko?

The Lungi International Airport is the closest major airport to Port Loko, located around 65 km southwest of Port Loko. This airport operates flights from Banjul, Dakar, Lagos, Brussels, London, Casablanca, Monrovia, Douala, Paris and many other African and European cities.

Taxis are generally available at the airport, though if visitors choose rental car for airport travel would be comfortable and convenient. Port Loko is also accessible by bus from Freetown and Lungi.

Food and Shopping in Port Loko:

Port Loko houses some upgraded shops and restaurants and tourists can also drive towards the national capital Freetown for more modernized options.

Things to do in Port Loko:

• Visiting colleges
• Exploring river bank
• Town tour

Tourist Attractions in Port Loko:

Port Loko Teacher’s College:

Founded in the year 1968, the Port Loko Teacher’s College is one of the renowned colleges of Sierra Leone, which currently trains around 2,600 students with different latest courses, including environmental science. The outdoor facilities of Porto Loko include a table tennis court, a swimming pool and a football ground.

Bankasoka River:

The Bankasoka River flows along the town of Port Loko and merges into the Atlantic Ocean near Freetown. In Port Loko on Bankasoka River, a port is built that has become famous as both commercial point and tourist spot.

Freetown:

Freetown is the capital city of Sierra Leone, situated around 120 km southwest of Port Loko. It is the tourism capital of Sierra Leone, with a large number of manmade and natural tourist attractions, including more than 500 years old Cotton Tree, Lakka Beach, National Rail Museum, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Kent Beach. Buses generally ply between Freetown and Port Loko.

List of other places of interest near Port Loko (in Freetown) include:

• George’s Cathedral
• National Rail Museum
• Charlotte Falls
• York Beach
• Bunce Island
• John Obey Beach
• Sierra Leone Museum
• Hill Station Club
• Sussex Beach
• Foulah Town Mosque
• Goderich Beach
• Lakka Beach
• Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse
• Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
• Kent Beach

When to visit Port Loko?

Like the rest of Sierra Leone, from December to March is the best and most preferred time to visit Port Loko when the dry weather makes tour easier.

Hotels in Port Loko:

Port Loko houses few hotels, so most tourists visiting Port Loko choose the national capital Freetown’s hotels for accommodation purpose. The below list includes hotels in Freetown (around 120 km from Port Loko):

• Leone Lodge Freetown
• Hotel de la Joie
• Kimbima Hotel
• Cockle Point
• Lacs Villa Guest House
• Njala IAR Guesthouse
• Sierra International Hotel
• Simple Goal Guest House
• Raza Guest House
• Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Freetown
• The Rogbonko Village Retreat
• Mamba Point Guesthouse
• Family Kingdom Resort
• Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel
• Bintumani Hotel

The post Port Loko Tourist Places to Visit in Port Loko, Western Africa, Africa appeared first on MustVisitPlace.com.

Makeni is the capital and largest city of the Northern Province in the Western African country, Sierra Leone. It also serves as the seat of Bombali District and is the fourth largest city of Sierra Leone with an estimated population of 112,489 as of the 2013 census. Makeni is relatively situated in the heart of the country, around 180 km northeast of the national capital, Freetown.

Makeni is especially noted as the birthplace of the President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma. Makeni is also the site of Sierra Leone’s largest private university, the University of Makeni. The Wusum Stars, one of the prominent and oldest football clubs in Sierra Leone, is based in Makeni and represents the whole Bombali District.

How to reach Makeni?

There is no airport in Makeni, the nearest airport to Makeni is Lungi International Airport. This is the most important airport of Sierra Leone, situated in Lungi town near Freetown, around 160 km from Makeni. Including Paris, London and Brussels, the Lungi International Airport covers many world cities.

Road from Freetown to Makeni is well paved, taking around 3 hours by bus to travel between these cities.

Most residents in Makeni use minibus for local travel as it is cheaper but sometime it seems dangerous due to overload. So rental cars are advised for safe travel.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Makeni:

The Temne people, who dominates Makeni’s population and speak their own language Temne language along with the nationally recognized Krio language. Makeni’s people are also known for their football craze, which has popularized by the Wusum Stars, a Makeni based football club playing in the Sierra Leone National Premier League.

All sorts of shops and restaurants can be found in Makin but local currency should be kept in visitors’ pocket as most shops don’t accept credit cards.

Things to do in Makeni:

• Visiting university
• Traditional shopping

Tourist Attractions in Makeni:

University of Makeni:

Being Sierra Leone’s largest private university, the University of Makeni is one of the identities of Makeni. It was established as a private institute with name The Fatima Institute in the year 2005 and gained university status in 2009. It is an ideal place to know local culture, history and tradition.

Mayosso Wildlife Sanctuary:

Situated amidst of the towns of Magburaka and Yonibana, around 70 km south of Makeni, the Mayosso Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular game reserve, well known for the population of the threatened Dwarf Crocodile. The sanctuary also houses around 250 bird species. These species have made sanctuary famous among bird lovers also.

The Kangari Hills Forest Reserve:

The Kangari Hills Forest Reserve is located few kilometers east of Mayosso Wildlife Sanctuary, around 80 km from Makeni. The reserve characterizes diverse geographical features like savanna, dense forest, and wetland of total of 14,335 hectares of area. Its highlights are birds, particularly Rufous-winged Illadopsis, White-necked Picathartes and Yellow-casqued Hornbill, those have promoted this forest reserve as a heaven for bird enthusiasts.

List of other places of interest in Makeni and Freetown include:

• Francis Secondary School
• Kent Beach
• Bunce Island
• John Obey Beach
• Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
• National Rail Museum
• George’s Cathedral
• Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse
• York Beach
• Sussex Beach
• Goderich Beach
• Hill Station Club
• Sierra Leone Museum
• Charlotte Falls

Best time to visit Makeni:

The most preferred time to visit Makeni is from December to May, when the weather remains dry, supportive for city tour and other outdoor activities.

Hotels in and around Makeni:

Hotels are limited in Makeni but tourist friendly, offering all traditional and modernized facilities and services that are served with lot of love and care to meet the expectations of tourists coming from different regions of the world. Here are some such recommended hotels in Makeni:

• Makambo Village Hotel
• Hotel Conteh-U
• Wusum Hotel
• Makama Lodge Guest House

The post Places to Visit in Makeni, Sierra Leone, West Africa, Africa appeared first on MustVisitPlace.com.

Sierra Leone is a West African country geographically positioned on the Atlantic Ocean Coast at 8.4844° N, 13.2344° W. It shares its land borders with Liberia towards the southeast, Guinea towards the northeast, while its sea border is shared with the Atlantic Ocean in the southwest. Freetown is the capital and largest city of Sierra Leone. The other important cities of Sierra Leone include:

• Bo
• Bonthe
• Makeni
• Kenema
• Koidu

Geographically, Sierra Leone is a diverse country with features ranging from savannah to rainforests. The total area of Sierra Leone measures 71,740 sq. km. The capital Freetown stands as the capital of Sierra Leone tourism with spectacular beaches, nature reserves, art and craft houses and museums.

History of Sierra Leone:

The history of Sierra Leone dates back to 15^th century, when it was visited by Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra, who named it Serra de Leôa, which means ‘Lioness Mountain’. Sierra Leone fell under the British rule in the early 19th century and after nearly 150 years of British rule, in 1961, Sierra Leone became an independent country on 27 April 1961 and became republic on 19 April 1971.

Getting Sierra Leone:

The Lungi International Airport is the primary airport of Sierra Leone, situated in the town of Lungi, around 28 km northwest of the national capital Freetown. The airport links Sierra Leone to many important European and African cities including London, Paris, Nairobi, Casablanca and Brussels.

The Sierra Leone Road Transport Authority operates intercity bus services between the major cities of the country. Minibuses (poda poda) are another option for intercity travel. Rental cars and motorbikes are the convenient options for local travel in Sierra Leonean cities.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Sierra Leone:

The population of Sierra Leone is formed by sixteen ethnic groups, dominated by the Temne and the Mende. Muslims are higher in the majority, while Krio is a commonly spoken language in Sierra Leone.

Although inexpensive, local crafts are famous among visitors coming to Sierra Leone. Rice is the major staple food of Sierra Leonean cuisine. Meat, fish and green vegetables are also widely consumed by Sierra Leonean people.

Things to do in Sierra Leone:

• Exploring beaches
• Diving
• Golfing

Must see in Sierra Leone:

National Rail Museum:

The National Rail Museum is situated in Cline Town of Freetown. The museum’s collection includes numerous steam/diesel locomotives and carriages. No entry fee, guide is provided, but donations are welcomed. The museum is open from 10:30-17:00 (Monday-Saturday).

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary:

The Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is one of the recommended places to visit in Sierra Leone. It is located on the outskirts of Freetown, home to a substantial number of chimpanzees. It is allowed for visitors both in the morning (10:30AM) and evening (4:00PM) on all days of the week.

Beaches of Freetown:

Beaches of Freetown are the heartbeat of Sierra Leone’s tourism. They are large in number, accounting more than 10, with genuine natural beauty that is amazing, engaging and totally superb. Some excellent beaches include Goderich Beach, Lumley Beach, Hamilton Beach and Black Johnson Beach.

St. John’s Maroon Church:

Although being small in size, the St. John’s Maroon Church is a magnificent historical church, located in Freetown. Constructed in 1820, it was designated as a national heritage site in the year 1956.

Sierra Leone National Museum:

The Sierra Leone National Museum is situated near the City Hall in Freetown. The museum concentrates on showcasing the history and culture of Sierra Leone with nicely stored artifacts and artworks, including personal belongings of a prominent freedom fighter Bai Bureh.

List of other places of interest in Sierra Leone include:

• Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse
• Hill Station Club
• Charlotte Falls
• Mamah Beach
• Bureh Beach

When to visit Sierra Leone?

Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate with relatively hot and humid weather year round. Its average annual temperature is 26 °C. The best and most preferred time to visit Sierra Leone is from December to May.

Where to stay in Sierra Leone?

The hospitality industry of Sierra Leone is centered in the capital city Freetown. General price for a single room in guesthouses ranges between $35-$50, if it is in mid range hotel that costs between $100 and $180, depending on amenities and season. List of the prominent hotels in Sierra Leone (Freetown include):

• Family Kingdom Resort
• Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel
• Kimbima Hotel
• Bintumani Hotel
• Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Freetown
• The Rogbonko Village Retreat
• Mamba Point Guesthouse
• Cockle Point
• Lacs Villa Guest House
• Leone Lodge Freetown
• Hotel de la Joie
• Njala IAR Guesthouse
• Sierra International Hotel
• Simple Goal Guest House
• Raza Guest House

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Borama, also called Borame, is the capital city of the Awdal region in the northwestern part of Somalia, situated around 120 km northwest of the city of Hargeisa and 1600 km northwest of  Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. It is located close to the Ethiopian border between 9°55′59″ N latitude and 43°10′54″ E longitude. Due to its position in the mountainous region, Borama is blessed with green meadows and fields that attract both wildlife and tourists in a larger proportion year round. Borama is home to the renowned Amoud University. The climate of Borama is classified as local steppe climate and the geographical coordinates of Borama are 9°55′59″ N 43°10′54″ E.

History of Borama:

The history of Borama is very long and grand, covering almost 800 years, highlighted by the rule of the Adal Sultanate during the Middle Ages. In the beginning of the 20^th century, Borama fell under the British reign as a part the British Somaliland protectorate. For a short period, during the World War II, Borama once had become a part of the Italians and but came back under the British rule following the war and finally got emancipation on 26 June 1960.

How to reach Borama?

The Borama Airport is the airport serving Borama city with a less number of scheduled flights. It would be better if visitors first reach Hargeisa International Airport and then they can choose taxi or wait until the arrival of bus to Borama. The Hargeisa International Airport is the second largest airport of Somalia, following the Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu and is situated around 150 km southeast of Borama, operating flights from/to Djibouti, Dubai, Mogadishu, Nairobi, Sharjah, Addis Ababa, Bosaso, Jeddah and Berbera.

The local transportation of Borama is catered by bus, taxis and rental cars.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Borama:

Borama houses a higher learning centre, Amoud University and especially, there is a school for deaf children in Borama that is first of its kind in Somalia.

Food practiced in Borama is relatively similar to other parts of Somaliland and the varieties are laxoox, cereal and soup called maraq. Borama is home to both modern and traditional shops.

Things to do in Borama:

• Hiking
• City tours
• Traditional shopping

What to see in Borama?

Scenic spots of Borama:

Borama is the site of full of greeneries that covers city area also. This typical feature of Borama attracts a large number of birds and animals like gazelle and camels throughout the year, which resulted into the growth of tourists coming to the city in recent years.

Rays Hotel in Borama:

The Rays Hotel in Borama is the first modern hotel of the city. Apart from its amenities, the hotel is famous among visitors for its eye-catching construction and lavishly landscaped surroundings.

Amoud University:

The Amoud University is a recognized university established in the year 1997. It is the first higher educational institution to be founded after the civil war of Somalia. The university is not only improved as providing quality education but also holds reputation in blending the different cultures and communities in the region.

Hargeisa:

Hargeisa is the most important city of the Somaliland region, housing nearly an equal number of manmade and natural tourist attractions that are spread up all around the city and even in the outskirts. Some famous attractions in Hargeisa include MiGJet (war monument), Naasa-Hablood hills, the University of Hargeisa, a provincial museum, a menagerie and a cave and rock paintings complex, Laas Gaal.

Other places of interest in Borama include:

• Borama International Airport
• Port of Berbera
• Beaches in Berbera
• NASA Runway in Berbera
• National Museum of Somalia in Mogadishu
• National Museum of Somalia in Mogadishu
• The Governor’s Palace of Mogadishu

When to visit Borama?

Borama generally experiences a dry climate year round and the best months to visit Borama are January, February, June and August.

Where to stay in Borama?

Borama houses some nice modernized hotels, of which recommendable options are Rays Hotel Borama, Hotel Nasimo and Hotel Cape Town. For more options, visitors can also find hotels in Hargeisa (around 120 km from Borama) that are listed below:

• Rays Hotel Borama
• Hotel Nasimo
• Hotel Cape Town
• Hadhwanaag Hotel
• Ambassador Hotel Hargeisa
• Maan-Soor Hotel
• Oriental Hotel
• Safari Hotel
• Deero Hotel

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Baidoa or Iscia Baidoa, is a Somali city and the capital of the Southwestern State of Somalia, situated in the south-central bay region of the country, around 250 km northwest of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. Administratively, Baidoa comprises of four districts such as Isha, Horseed, Berdaale and Howlwadaag. For a short period, Baidoa once served as the capital of the Transitional Federal Government in the middle of 2000. Baidoa coordinates with 3°07′00″ N latitude and 43°39′00″ E longitude and experiences a hot and semi-arid climate.

History of Baidoa:

Like the rest of Somalia, Baidoa also came under the rule of many regional powers, including Ajuran Sultanate (during the Middle Ages) and the Geledi Sultanate (in the early modern period). Following the regional rulers, Baidoa fell under the Europeans’ rule, mainly under the British and Italians, by the end of the 19^th century. Along with the other parts of the country, Baidoa became independent on 26 June 1960.

How to reach Baidoa?

Baidoa holds an airport but currently there is no flight serving the airport. So international tourists are needed to board flight to the Somalia’s prime airport Aden Adde International Airport first and afterwards visitors can choose bus or rental car to get Baidoa. The Aden Adde International Airport covers many international destinations such as Nairobi, Djibouti, Dubai, Sharjah and Istanbul.

To move within the city and sightseeing purposes, visitors can hire bike or car from the local travel agency.

Food and Shopping in Baidoa:

There are few standard restaurants in Baidoa offering mainly traditional Somali dishes. Shops are also limited in Baidoa. Visitors can head towards the capital, Mogadishu, to enjoy memorable shopping experience and to have mouthwatering Somali and international delicacies.

What to do in Baidoa?

• Village tours
• Walking
• Traditional shopping

What to see in Baidoa?

Historical sites in Baidoa:

Coming under the rule of many regional powers and European empires, Baidoa holds some ruined historical sites that can be explored best through the aid of locals.

Baidoa Airport:

The Baidoa Airport is one of the landmarks of Baidoa, situated around 3 km away from the heart of the city. The airport is situated around 463 meters above sea level, known for its nice construction and surrounding environment.

Mogadishu:

Mogadishu is the capital city of Somalia, situated around 250 km southeast of Baidoa. Other than spectacular beaches, the capital is famous among tourists for a wide range of attractions like the Mosque of Islamic Solidarity, the Arba’a Rukun Mosque, the Mogadishu Cathedral, the Villa Somalia, the National Museum of Somalia, the National Theatre of Somalia, the National Library of Somalia Bakaara Market and Mogadishu Stadium.

List of other places of interest in Baidoa and Mogadishu (around 250 km) includes:

• The National Theatre of Somalia
• Villa Somalia
• National Museum of Somalia
• Mogadishu Cathedral
• Bakaara Market
• The Somali National University
• Mogadishu University
• The Governor’s Palace of Mogadishu
• The National Library of Somalia
• Mogadishu Stadium
• Mosque of Islamic Solidarity
• Arba’a Rukun Mosque

When to travel Baidoa?

Probably the best time to visit Baidoa is from January to February and from June to August.

Accommodation options in Baidoa:

It is difficult to find upgraded hotels in Baidoa and to get it, visitors have to reach the capital, Mogadishu, where visitors can all sorts of modernized hotels with all upgraded facilities and services. Buses are not regular between these two cities, but taxis may help. Here are some prominent hotels in Mogadishu (around 250 km from Baidoa):

• Hotel Shamo
• Mogadishu Airport Hotel
• Jazeera Palace Hotel
• Hotel Nasa-Hablod
• Sahafi Hotel
• Oriental Hotel
• Amira Castle Hotel
• Aran Guest House

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Alula is a port town in the African country, Somalia, located between 11°58′0″ N latitude and 50°45′0″ E longitude. It is in the northeastern part of the country, around 1400 km northeast of the national capital, Mogadishu. Alula is historically important town, renowned as the hometown of the Sultan of the Majeerteen Sultanate. Alula also catered as the capital of the Majeerteen Sultanate and a castle in the town dating from that period showcases the historic importance of the town. Other than castle, the town also houses many manmade and natural tourist attractions. Alula houses 11 primary schools, an airport, seaport and few shops and restaurants.

How to reach Alula?

There is an airport in Alula but flights are not scheduled. So it is suggested for visitors to reach Aden Adde International Airport in the capital Mogadishu first and then they can use bus or rental car to get Alula. Also visitors can inquire about flights to Alula at Aden Adde International Airport.

The local transportation of Alula is served by minibuses and rental cars. Visitors can get it from any travel agencies in the town.

Food and Shopping in Alula:

There are shops and restaurants less in number in Alula, limited to traditional options only. So it would be better if one bring food packets and other necessities prior to board flight or bus to Alula.

Things to do in Alula:

• Visiting seaport
• Shopping
• Walking
• Visiting historical sites

What to see in Alula?

Alula Castle:

Castle in Alula dates from the Majeerteen Sultanate era, constructed for the king Osman Mahamuud, who was the renowned son of Alula. Although holding more than 100 years of history, Alula is still good condition, drawing tourists year round.

Ancient monument:

There is an ancient monument, on the coastal line, around 20 km east of Alula. The monument is in ruined condition, although worth a half day trip.

Alula Airport:

Located around 6 feet above sea level, the Alula Airport is a small and nice airport, situated few kilometers away from the town centre. Although not receiving any scheduled flights currently, the airport receives visitors for its pleasant surroundings.

Alula Seaport:

Alula Seaport is relatively small compared to other ports on the country’s coastline. But it is good in condition, famous among  tourists from its nice environment.

List of other places of interest in Alula and Mogadishu includes:

• The Governor’s Palace of Mogadishu
• The National Library of Somalia
• The National Theatre of Somalia
• Villa Somalia
• National Museum of Somalia
• Mogadishu Cathedral
• Mosque of Islamic Solidarity
• Arba’a Rukun Mosque
• Bakaara Market
• The Somali National University
• Mogadishu University
• Mogadishu Stadium

When to visit Alula?

The months of January, February, June and August are the best to visit Alula in Somalia when the weather remains pleasant.

Where to stay in Alula?

There are limited standard accommodation centres in Alula, so it is suggested for visitors to refer hotels in Hargeisa for accommodation purpose and one can also consider hotels of the capital, Mogadishu. Between these cities, buses are not frequent, so hiring car would be convenient. In the below list, the first 6 hotels are in Hargeisa and the remaining hotels are in Mogadishu:

• Hadhwanaag Hotel
• Oriental Hotel
• Safari Hotel
• Deero Hotel
• Ambassador Hotel Hargeisa
• Maan-Soor Hotel
• Hotel Nasa-Hablod
• Sahafi Hotel
• Oriental Hotel
• Amira Castle Hotel
• Hotel Shamo
• Mogadishu Airport Hotel
• Jazeera Palace Hotel
• Aran Guest House

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Somalia is an African country situated on the western edge and coastline of the continent at 2.0333° N, 45.3500° E. It shares its borders with Djibouti towards the northwest, Ethiopia towards the west, Kenya toward the southwest, the Gulf of Aden towards the north and its eastern boundary adjoins the Indian Ocean. Mogadishu is the capital and largest city of Somalia.

Geographically, Somalia is the 44^th largest country in the world with an area of 637,657 sq. km, while its population of 10,428,043 people (as of the 2014 census) places it in the 86^th position in the global population list. The tourism industry of Somalia is concentrated on historical sites, beaches, waterfalls, national parks and mountain ranges.

History of Somalia:

According to the archeological findings found in the different regions of the country, it is concluded that Somalia was first settled in the Paleolithic period. Somalia saw the rule of many celeriac regional powers, including the Ajuran Empire and the Warsangali Sultanate, during the Middle Ages. Somalia fell under the European colonization in the late 19th century, initiated by the British and followed by the Italians. Finally Somalia got liberty from the European powers on 26 June 1960.

Getting Somalia:

The Aden Adde International Airport in the capital city, Mogadishu, is the gateway to Somalia. Other than African destinations Nairobi, Djibouti and Berbera, the airport is also connected to Dubai, Sharjah and Istanbul.

The international bus transportation of Somalia is extended to Djiboutian and Ethiopian cities. The intercity travel and travel within the cities in Somalia are catered by buses and taxis.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Somalia:

Muslims are the predominant religion forming the population of Somalia and Somalis is a widely spoken language in Somali.

Somali Shilling is the currency used in Somalia and the Bakaara Market in Mogadishu is the centre of Somalia’s traditional shopping. Some popular dishes in Somalia are injera and sambusas (like Indian Samosa).

What to see in Somalia?

Arba’a Rukun Mosque:

The Arba’a Rukun Mosque is one of the symbolic structures of Somalia, situated in the capital city Mogadishu. It was constructed by Khusra ibn Mubarak al-Shirazi. The mosque is still good in condition, attracting tourists for its striking construction and historic importance.

Mosque of Islamic Solidarity:

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the Mosque of Islamic Solidarity is an iconic mosque built in the year 1987. Located in the capital, Mogadishu, this mosque is considered as the single largest mosque in the Horn of Africa.

Mogadishu Cathedral:

Featuring the Norman Gothic style of architecture, the Mogadishu Cathedral is situated in Mogadishu, dating from 1928 during the Italian rule in Somalia. This Roman Cathedral is currently under reconstruction.

National Museum of Somalia:

The National Museum of Somalia is the focal point of the country’s culture, history and geographical features. Established in 1933, the museum exhibits a wide range of archaeological and ethnographical exhibitions like old coins, bartering tools, ancient weaponry and traditional artifacts.

Villa Somalia:

The Villa Somalia is the official residence of the President of Somalia. It is a colonial building, was refurbished several times to bring current shape and beauty. The villa is in Mogadishu.

What else to see in Somalia?

• The Governor’s Palace of Mogadishu
• The National Library of Somalia
• The National Theatre of Somalia
• Bakaara Market
• The Somali National University
• Mogadishu University
• Mogadishu Stadium

When to travel Somalia?

To escape from Somalia’s extreme hot weather, visitors can choose any month among January, February, June and August to visit Somalia.

Accommodation options in Somalia:

The hospitality industry of Somalia is not on the floor, there are a limited number of hotels in the country, of which most are located in the capital city, Mogadishu. So it is advised for those planning to travel Somalia, to book hotels well in advance. In the below list, the  first 8 hotels are in Mogadishu and remaining hotels are in Hargeisa of Somalia:

• Hotel Shamo
• Mogadishu Airport Hotel
• Jazeera Palace Hotel
• Hotel Nasa-Hablod
• Sahafi Hotel
• Oriental Hotel
• Amira Castle Hotel
• Aran Guest House
• Hadhwanaag Hotel
• Ambassador Hotel Hargeisa
• Maan-Soor Hotel
• Oriental Hotel
• Safari Hotel
• Deero Hotel

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Tchamba is a town and the administrative centre of Tchamba Prefecture in the Centrale Region of the African nation, Togo. Tchamba is also the name of the tribe inhabited the region. The city is located around 35 km east of the regional capital, Sokode and 370 km north of the national capital, Lome. Tchamba is located between 9°02′ N latitude and 1°25′ E longitude. The town of Tchamba has all the modern facilities like shops, restaurants, schools and bus terminals. Tchamba is situated around 25 km from the border of Benin with Togo.

Conenctivity to Tchamba:

Tchamba is situated around 370 km from its nearest airport, Lomé-Tokoin Airport. This airport receives flights from Casablanca, Brussels, Cotonou, Ouagadougou, Paris, Monrovia, N’Djamena, Niamey, Ouagadougou and many African and European cities. Taxis are always gettable at the airport and also one can wait until the arrival of bus for inexpensive travel.

The bus connection of Tchamba extends to Bafilo, Sokode, Lome and many other important cities and towns in the country. Visitors can use rental cars and bikes for local travel and sightseeing in Tchamba.

Culture, Food and shopping in Tchamba:

Tchamba houses a tribal group of same name of the town Tchamba, who are unique to the area and Togo and have their own dialect Tchamba language.

Many restaurants and shops can be seen in Tchamba, but most of them are traditional options. For upgraded options, the nearby city Sokode (around 35 km) is an ideal option.

What to do in Tchamba?

• Day tours
• Walking
• Shopping

What to see in Tchamba?

Stade Municipal:

The Stade Municipal is a multipurpose stadium situated in the regional capital, Sokode. The stadium serves AC Semassi F.C. and Tchaoudjo Athlétic Club as home ground and it has a capacity of holding around 10,000 people. Soccer games are highly played here.

Sokodé Airport:

The Sokodé Airport is a nicely constructed airport in the nearby city Sokode. The airport currently receives no scheduled flights, though its impressive construction and cool surroundings draw tourists year round.

Fazao-Malfakassa National Park:

The Fazao-Malfakassa National Park is the largest national park of Togo, covering semi-mountainous wetland area with rocky hills and spectacular waterfalls. It was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites’ tentative list. Located near Sokode city, the park is a heaven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Forêt d’ Abdoulaye:

The Forêt d’ Abdoulaye is a popular forest reserve, located south of Tchamba town and falls under the Tchamba Prefecture. It is a nice day trip site, can be reached by a rental car from Tchamba town. If visitors take the aid of locals for the exploration of the forest would be easier.

List of other places of interest in and around Tchamba includes:

• Mosques in Sokode
• Lake Togo
• Fazao Mafakassa National Park
• Lomé Grand Market
• Togo National Museum
• Abdoulaye Faunal Reserve
• Koutammakou
• Le Mandingue Jazz Club in Lome
• Bafilo Falls
• Kran National Park
• Kéran National Park
• Palais du Congrès in Lome
• University of Lomé

Best time to visit Tchamba:

Tchamba is a year round destination, especially the months between November and February is ideal to travel Tchamba.

Where to stay in Tchamba?

It is difficult to find modernized lodging facility in Tchamba, so visitors are advised to reach the nearby city Sokode, where many upgraded hotels with a wide range of facilities and services like AC, internet, TV, fitness centre, mouthwatering food, arrangement of vehicles and 24 hour electricity. The major hotels in Sokode (around 35 km from Tchamba) are as follows:

• Hotel Avekedia
• Hotel Aleheri
• Central Hotel
• Good Hostel
• Hotel Friendship Circle
• Hotel Essofa
• Camp Tchaoudjo
• The Hotel Brotherhood
• Hotel 3 Fountains
• Hotel Fatima

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Tsevie is a city belonging to the Maritime Region in the western African country Togo. It is well known as a trading town and it is also noted as an important palm oil processing area in the country. Tsevie is geographically positioned between 6°26′ N latitude and 1°13′ E longitude, around 32 km north of Lome, the capital and largest city of Togo. Tsevie is also a point, where the highways from Tabligbo and Lome interconnect each other. Ewe people form the majority of Tsevie’s population.

Accessing Tsevie:

Due to its geographical position near the national capital, Lome, reaching Tsevie would not be a difficult task for visitors. The country’s only operating airport, Lomé-Tokoin Airport is situated around 35 km south of Tsevie. The airport handles flights from/to from Casablanca, Brussels, Cotonou, Ouagadougou, Paris, Monrovia, N’Djamena, Niamey and Ouagadougou.

Tsevie is linked to the cities of Notsé, Atakpamé, Blitta and Lome by both railway and bus services. There are many travel agencies in the town, from whom rental cars can be taken for local travel.

Food and shopping in Tsevie:

Tsevie itself houses both traditional and modern shops and restaurants. Visitors can also reach the nearby Lome, where all sorts of shops, restaurants and entertainment centres can be found. The country’s most popular traditional market, Lomé Grand Marketa, is located around 35 km from Tsevie.

Here are some nice restaurants in Lome (around 35 km from Tsevie):

• Grand Muraille
• La Route des Vins
• Coco Beach Togo
• Restaurant Le Mercure

What to do in Tsevie?

• Walking
• Shopping
• Visiting market

What to see in Tsevie?

Market of Tsevie:

Tsevie’s market is one of the highlights of the town, where one can experience the real experience of Togo’s shopping. Products range from traditional handicraft products to costumes.

Lake Togo:

Located around 40 km southeast of Tsevie, the Lake Togo is one of the prominent water sport points in Togo. The lake itself is charming and its surrounding environment too.

Aneho:

Aneho is a beach town on the coastline of the Gulf of Guinea, around 50 km southeast of Tsevie. The town offers a wide range of manmade and natural tourist destinations for visitors like enthralling beaches, churches like Aneho Peter and Paul Church and Aneho Protestant Church and traditional markets.

Lome:

Capital of Togo, Lome is a city with many recognized tourist attractions such as Lomé Grand Marketa, the University of Lomé and Togo National Museum. Tsevie is located around 30 km from Tsevie, can be reached by both railway and roadway.

List of other places of interest in and around Tsevie includes:

• Beaches of Lome
• Lomé Cathedral
• Lome Grand Market
• Hotel du 2 Fevrier
• Togo National Museum
• University of Lomé
• Lomé-Tokoin Airport
• La Madingue
• Palais du Congrès
• Village Artisanal
• Le Mandingue Jazz Club
• Musee International du Golfe de Guinee

Best time to visit Tsevie:

The tour of Tsevie can be enjoyed best between the months of November and February.

Where to stay in Tsevie?

Tsevie houses some modernized hotels but number is small. Tourists can also reach the nearby city and the capital Lome for more upgraded accommodation centres. Buses regularly ply between Tsevie and Lome. The prominent hotels in Tsevie and Lome (around 30 km) are as follows:

• Hotel Zio
• Mercure Lome Sarakawa
• Hotel Napoleon Lagune
• Hotel Cocobeach
• Hotel Cote Sud
• Hotel Sancta Maria
• Hotel Eda Oba
• Hotel Bellevue
• Paradise Hotel
• Hotel Belle-vue
• 2 Fevrier Sofitel Hotel
• Residence Hoteliere Oceane
• Ibis Lome Centre

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