Somalia isn’t exactly the first place that comes to mind when planning holidays.
The east African nation, bordering Djibouti, Kenya and Ethiopia, has been embroiled in civil war since the 1990s.
As a result, many governments still advise against travel to the country.
However, Somalia’s department of tourism said approximately 10,000 tourists visited in 2024 – a 50 per cent increase on the previous year.
And in September this year the country launched its new eVisa system, aiming to simplify travel to Somalia.
Tourism statistics for travel to Somalia are patchy, according to Travel and Tour World, but there have been many reports of increased interest in the country, especially its capital Mogadishu.
Specialist organisations such as Visit Mogadishu, Untamed Borders and Rocky Road Travel even have guided itineraries in the area.
It’s not a destination for the masses, and these journeys are mainly for small groups with bespoke itineraries. Many reports of tourism in the area are from experienced travellers and organisations.
Somalia isn’t exactly the first place that comes to mind when planning holidays
It’s not advised to travel alone, as tourists are recommended to move around Mogadishu only when accompanied by security guards.
You’ll also need comprehensive insurance from a specialist insurer, as you may require cover for emergency aid, high-risk coverage and kidnap and ransom cover.
The risk is high, but there are still reasons tourists have been attracted to the nation. Visitors are drawn in by the country’s rich history and culture.
Some visitors are specifically hunting for unique, extreme travel experiences.
Historic sights include Mogadishu old town and the Mogadishu mosque, as well as the country’s many beaches and fish markets.
That doesn’t change the fact that many still warn against visiting.
‘Mogadishu is dangerous. You feel it as soon as you land,’ Karin Sinniger, a Swiss traveller who visited in 2020, told CNN.
The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to parts of Somalia.
The east African nation, bordering Djibouti, Kenya and Ethiopia , has been embroiled in civil war since the 1990s
According to the GOV.UK website: ‘FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia, including the 3 eastern regions of Somaliland – Togdheer, Sanaag and Sool – and excluding the 3 western regions of Somaliland – Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil.
‘This is due to the threat from terrorist groups and continuing violence.
‘If you choose to remain in Somalia, you do so at your own risk. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK Government.’
It adds: ‘FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the 3 western regions of Somaliland – Awdal (including Boorama), Maroodijeh (including Hargeisa) and Sahil (including Berbera).’
The UK Government says support from FCDO is severely limited in Somalia, including Somaliland, with no support in person from staff at the British Embassy Mogadishu or the British Office Hargeisa.
Somalia has a high risk of kidnap for foreign travellers.
Before the conflict in Somalia, it was a popular destination.
But the capital city Mogadishu has been experiencing a construction boom in recent months.
The east African nation, bordering Djibouti, Kenya and Ethiopia, has been embroiled in civil war since the 1990s
If Somalia does open up for travel, there are many attractions for tourists to see
If Somalia does open up for travel, there are many attractions for tourists to see.
According to Somalia’s government website: ‘Somalia stands out as a captivating tourist haven.’
It offers many historical sites, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, mountain ranges, diverse wildlife, and activities such as camel riding and paragliding.
The website added: ‘Despite the impact of civil strife, Somalia has retained an array of natural and cultural treasures, making tourism a potentially lucrative investment.’
