Located in East Africa in the Horn of Africa, Somaliland is roughly the size of Greece in terms of area (137 600 km²). There are about 4.5 million people in this country located on the shores of the Gulf of Aden, and the country's capital, Hargeisa, is located in the west of the country.
Somaliland was once a British colony, called British Somaliland, but merged with so-called Italian Somalia to form one independent Somalia in 1960. In the late 1980s, Somalia became embroiled in a civil war, which led to Somaliland declaring independence in 1991. No country has so far recognised the country's independence, but the country functions like any other independent state - it has its own currency, president, army and, most importantly, has remained the safest corner of the Horn of Africa! The official languages are Somali and Arabic, but some English is also spoken. Somaliland derives its income from livestock farming and remittances from Somalilanders living abroad. Tourism is still limited.
Climate: Somaliland has an dry climate, which means that most of the country is classified as arid or semi-arid. Average temperatures along the coast and in the valleys range from +28°C to +35°C, while in mountain areas such as the highlands it is only +20°C to +24°C.
Somaliland has two rainy seasons, the more important of which lasts from late March to early June. The lesser rainy season runs from late September to November. Even during the rainy season, rainfall is limited and sometimes the rainy season may even be missed altogether. When there is no rainy season, the country experiences a dry season.
Security: The international community sees Somaliland as part of Somalia, which is why the country is lumped together with its unstable and sometimes even dangerous neighbour, Somalia. However, the security situation in Somaliland is good and the country can honestly be considered the safest destination in the Horn of Africa. The country lacks jihadist movements and a tradition of terrorist attacks. Kameli Travel, based on personal experience and up-to-date information, does not even warn against pickpockets, but still advises people to leave valuables at the hotel just in case. The good security situation is probably linked to the country's dream of international recognition of its independence, which makes its citizens behave exceptionally well. Traffic is the main risk factor.
Visa: Most Western nationals obtain their visas on arrival at Hargeisa airport. To obtain a visa on arrival, the traveller must present a valid passport, two passport photos, the details of the local contact person/invite letter and USD 60 in cash. Please note that visa policies are subject to change without prior notice. The passport must be valid for 6 months from the date of arrival.
Currency: Somaliland uses the Somaliland shilling (SLS) as its currency. One euro buys around 10 000 shillings. You should take euro or dollar banknotes with you and exchange them at your destination. The US dollar is widely accepted as a currency.
Vaccinations and malaria: Somaliland requires a certificate of yellow fever vaccination if the traveller arrives from a country with yellow fever (e.g. Ethiopia). In addition, hepatitis a and b vaccinations are recommended. Please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date. Somaliland is a year-round malaria country, so anti-malaria medication is recommended.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
