Hargeisa is the capital of the autonomous region of Somaliland, located in the Horn of Africa. It is a bustling city with a rich cultural history and plenty of things to see and do. From camel milk tea to exploring the ancient ruins, here are 10 things to do in Hargeisa, Somalia.
1. Visit the Laas Geel Rock Art Complex
The Laas Geel rock art complex is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Horn of Africa. It consists of a series of caves and shelters that contain some of the oldest rock art in the world, dating back to the Neolithic period. The artworks depict a variety of animals, including wildebeest, antelope, and giraffe, as well as humans.
2. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Hargeisa
Hargeisa is home to a number of ancient ruins, including the ruins of the former Sultanate of Adal. The ruins are a reminder of the city's long and fascinating history. The ruins are located in the Old Town district of Hargeisa and are worth exploring.
3. Go Camel Trekking
Hargeisa is the perfect place to go camel trekking. The city is home to a number of camel farms, where visitors can take a guided tour of the area and get up close and personal with the animals.
4. Enjoy a Cup of Camel Milk Tea
Camel milk tea is a popular drink in Hargeisa and can be found in many cafes and restaurants. The tea is made from camel milk, sugar, and spices, and is a refreshing and unique way to cool off in the hot Somali sun.
5. Visit the War Memorial Park
The War Memorial Park in Hargeisa is a tribute to the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives during the Somali Civil War. The park features a number of monuments, including a memorial to the fallen soldiers and a monument to the peace process.
6. Shop at the Hargeisa Market
The Hargeisa Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, traditional Somali crafts, and other goods. The market is bustling with activity and is a great place to get a feel for the city.
7. Take a Trip to the Beach
Hargeisa is located on the Gulf of Aden, and there are a number of beautiful beaches in the area. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
8. Attend a Cultural Festival
Hargeisa is home to a number of cultural festivals, including the International Camel Milk Festival and the Hargeisa Cultural Festival. The festivals are a great way to experience the city's vibrant culture and traditions.
9. Explore the Hargeisa National Museum
The Hargeisa National Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Somali Civil War and traditional Somali crafts.
10. Visit the Hargeisa Zoo
The Hargeisa Zoo is a great place to explore the diverse wildlife of Somalia. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras.