The Basics
Country: Somalia
Where is it?: Somalia is on the horn of Africa where the Gulf of Aden meets the Indian Ocean
Why do people go here?: Most people avoid Somalia at all costs
What are the main entry points?: The only way to get to Somalia is overland from Kenya
Currency used: Somali shilling
Country Code for Phones: Good luck finding a phone that works
Area codes for Major Cities: Mogadishu 61
Religion: Sunni Muslim
Population: 9 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Somali 85%, Bantu 15%
Government: Anarchy
Languages: Arabic, Somali, English, Italian
Travel Information
Major Cities: Mogadishu
Attractions: Shanghai Old City, Bakara Market
Tourism Office locations and links: Web Site: http://www.somaligov.info/Tourism/index.html; E-mail: mtourism@somali-gov.info
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Somalia horses, birds,
Health Issues: cholera, Rift Valley fever, poliomyelitis
Tips for Visiting
When to go: The best time to go to Somalia is when the weather starts to cool down, probably in March or before the heat begins to kick off in September to December.
Common Phrases: Do you see how large my gun is? Run for your life
Specific Events/Holidays: New Year’s Day, Ashoura, Id al Fitr, Revolution Day
Getting Around: You can only use the bus or taxi to explore Somalia.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Somalia is the Hargeisa Egal International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Somalia travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
