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Best Tourist Places to Visit in Bardera, Gedo, East Africa, Africa

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Bardera, Gedo, East Africa, Africa

Bardera is a city belonging to the Gedo region of the eastern African country, Somalia. Bardera is mainly noted as an agricultural city as it is one of the major regions of Somalia producing a substantial amount of bananas, watermelon, oranges, mangoes, papayas, tobacco, corn and beans. Bardera is the site of the University of Gedo and Bardera Polytechnic.

The name of Bardera is a combination of the two local language words, Baar (palm tree) and dheere (tall), indicating the abundant palm trees in the region. The climate of Bardera features high humidity while Bardera’s geographical coordinates are 2°20′ N and 42°17′ E.

Connectivity to Bardera:

Like many airports in Somalia, the Bardera Airport also receives no scheduled flights. The alternative option is Aden Adde International Airport, which is the most important airport of Somalia, situated in the capital city Mogadishu and receives flights from Nairobi, Djibouti, Dubai, Sharjah, Istanbul and many other African cities.

Bardera is situated around 450 km west of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. These two cities are connected by daily buses. For local travel in Bardera, locals generally use foot and visitors can hire car at the local travel agency for comfortable travel.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Bardera:

Muslims, especially Sunnis, dominate the population of Bardera. The University of Gedo is the prominent learning centre in Bardera offering a quality education to local students with latest courses. Bardera is home to the soccer team Bardera Football Team, who won the South Somalia Regional Cup Champion in 2002.

Bardera houses many nice shops and restaurants with all upgraded features, but accepting credit cards is not sure. So visitors are advised to bring some local currency prior to reaching the city.

What to do in Bardera?

Traditional shopping
Visiting university
Shopping

What to see in Bardera?

Bardera Bridge:

The bridge of Bardera was constructed over the Jubba River that flows through the city. The bridge is made up of mix of wooden and metal materials that has made it a distinct construction. The exploration of the river would be a half day trip for visitors.

East Bardera Mothers and Children’s Hospital:

The East Bardera Mothers and Children’s Hospital is one of the major health centres in Bardera. Although it is not a major tourist attraction, the hospital receives foreigners to know local health specialities.

University of Gedo:

The University of Gedo is one of the identities of Bardera, was founded in the year 2008 with the successful effort of local leaders following the outcome of the civil war. Apart from offering a wide range of courses, the university is also known for its nice campuses.

Other places of interest in Bardera and Mogadishu (around 450 km) include:

Bardera Polytechnic
Bardera Airport
Somali Red Crescent MCH
Villa Somalia
National Museum of Somalia
Mosque of Islamic Solidarity
Arba’a Rukun Mosque
Mogadishu Cathedral
The National Library of Somalia
Mosque of Islamic Solidarity
The Somali National University
Mogadishu Stadium
The Governor’s Palace of Mogadishu
The National Theatre of Somalia
National Museum of Somalia

When to visit Bardera?

Bardera is a year round destination and the natural beauty of Bardera can be experienced best during the beginning months of the year.

Where to stay in Bardera?

Bardera houses few standard hotels, but no star rated options. For modernized and star rated hotels, visitors can drive towards the capital, Mogadishu, which is around 450 km away from Bardera, holding many upgraded hotels. The prominent hotels in Mogadishu (around 450 km from Bardera) are listed below:

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

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Baidoa, Somalia, Mogadishu, West Africa, Africa

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Baidoa, Somalia, Mogadishu, West Africa, Africa

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

Places to Visit in Alula, Somalia, Mogadishu West Africa, Africa

Places to Visit in Alula, Somalia, Mogadishu West Africa, Africa

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

Tourist Places to Visit in Somalia, Mogadishu West Africa, Africa

Tourist Places to Visit in Somalia, Mogadishu West Africa, Africa

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: