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: