FAQ: main questions about Somalia for your trip

Somalia is located in East Africa, on the «Horn of Africa». It borders Ethiopia to the west, Kenya to the southwest, Djibouti to the northwest; to the north it is washed by the Gulf of Aden, to the east — by the Indian Ocean. The country has access to the seas and ocean, which makes its territory of Somalia quite extensive along the coast. Its geographical position affects the climate (Arabian winds, monsoons) and historically — on trade routes.

Formally — the Federal Republic of Somalia. It is a sovereign state with a constitution, capital in Mogadishu. Official languages — Somali and Arabic. Population — about 19-20 million people, most of them — Sunni Muslims.

The idea of «Greater Somalia» refers to the ethnic concept of uniting all Somalis living not only in modern Somalia but also in neighboring regions of Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti where there is Somali population.  In practice, this idea has historically influenced politics, but it is not officially realized as a state border.

No, Somalia does not border Egypt. A great distance separates them, across the Red Sea and Sudan.

No, Somalia is not a peninsula. It is a country on the continent (Africa), but it has a long coastline and protruding «Horn of Africa», which sometimes visually gives a peninsular impression.

The territory of Somalia mostly occupies dry areas: semi-deserts, savannas, rare moist coastal strips. Forests in the classical sense are almost absent; there is vegetation along rivers and mountains, especially in the north within regions adjacent to the coast and in mountain ranges.

Most of Somalia's territory — dry, arid or semi-arid climate. There are desert and semi-desert areas, especially in the central part, in the south and in the northeast.

The main language — Somali, the official language of the country.  Additionally, Arabic has official status, especially in the religious, educational, and cultural fields.  There are also dialects of the Somali language: Northern Standard Somali, Maay Somali, Benadiri, etc.  English is widespread as a language of instruction and business communication; Italian — among some older generations

Yes, most foreign nationals need a visa. You can read all about visas in Somalia on the page “Visa”

Yes — at the airports of Mogadishu and Hargeisa (in the Somaliland region), it is possible to obtain a visa on arrival. However, this method of visa application is associated with certain risks: entry rules and visa requirements in Somalia may change without prior notice, which can cause difficulties during passport control and crossing the border. However, it is important to remember that you can only enter all other regions of Somalia by obtaining a visa in advance. Read more about how to get a visa in Somalia on the page “Visa”

A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration is required. Accommodation reservations, travel itinerary, financial means for the stay, and possibly an invitation letter may also be required.

Somaliland — a self-proclaimed autonomous region, de facto operates independently of the central government, and different visa rules may apply at Hargeisa airports.

Somalia is predominantly Muslim; respect for religion, modest dress, observance of prayers and religious holidays is important. During Ramadan, it is not customary to eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours.

Women may face restrictions in society — clothing, behavior, public space.  Male tourists should be particularly tactful: not to show excessive closeness, to observe norms of modesty.

It is better to ask for permission when filming people, especially in religious places and rural areas.  Filming government buildings, military bases, security infrastructure may be prohibited.

Light, breathable, modest clothing. Sun protection, headgear.
A first aid kit, a supply of medicines, insect repellent.
Cash, as cards are often not accepted.

In many situations, English can be sufficient in large hotels and with foreigners. However, knowing local words, phrases in Somali will be very useful.

Mogadishu — the capital; historical mosques, coastline, old buildings.
Hargeisa in Somaliland — relatively calm city for tourists.
Bosaso, Berbera — coastal ports, beaches, nature.

Laas Geel — a complex of ancient cave shelters with rock art, some of the oldest in the region, about 5-7000 years old.

The shores of Somalia along the Indian Ocean are beautiful: there are beach resorts, coral reefs, opportunities for diving and snorkeling. There are coastal islands and mangrove thickets offshore.

In the north, there are mountain ranges, such as Cal Madow, where there is higher rainfall, and the vegetation is richer. River valleys, ephemeral rivers, oases in certain seasons.

Mosques, ancient ports, fortifications, palaces (for example Garesa Palace), ruins of old settlements.

Dry seasons — preferable, less rain, less risk of flooding.
Avoid heavy rain seasons when roads can become impassable.

Somalia does not have a strategic channel, but its coast affects sea routes through the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden.

It is more of a cultural concept associated with pride, song, poetry, resilience; “the spirit of Somalia” reflects a collective identity after the civil war, nomadic traditions, and historical heritage.

There are airports and seaports in major cities; roads between cities are often poor or dangerous due to security.

Communication works in cities; SIM cards can be bought; there may be interruptions in the internet and power supply outside major centers.

 The official currency is the Somali Shilling (Somali Shilling).
US dollars are accepted in some places, especially for tourists.

Because Somalia has a long coastline along the Indian Ocean and is close to the Red Sea through the Gulf of Aden. This makes it an important point for sea routes between Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Asia.

The climate is hot, with little precipitation in most regions; vegetation can only survive where there are rivers, mountains, or coastal areas, but forests in the traditional sense are very rare.

Research the situation in the regions, use fresh information from your country's Foreign Ministry about travels.
Prefer visiting regions considered safer (for example, northern Somalia, Somaliland).
Work with local guides, trusted partners.

Light protective clothing, covered: long sleeves, pants to protect the skin from the sun and insects.
Sun protection (sunscreen, glasses), headgear. Medications, drugs.

A simple dictionary in Somali — greetings, basic phrases.
English, if you are proficient in it, will be a big plus in major cities

Be polite, respect religious norms.

Register your trip at the consulate of your country.
Have copies of documents, contacts of emergency services, remote copies of visas and passports.
Use GPS navigation, stay in familiar areas.