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: