Somalia: Emergence as a Tourist Destination
For decades, Somalia has been synonymous with turmoil, piracy, and danger. Following the civil war that erupted in the 1990s, Western visitors have been scarce, painting the country as a land to be avoided. Yet, against the odds, Somalia is witnessing a gradual rise in foreign tourism, challenging long-held perceptions.
A Surge in Tourist Numbers
According to Somalia’s Department of Tourism, approximately 10,000 tourists visited the country in 2024—a notable 50% increase from the year prior. This influx occurs despite ongoing travel advisories from many Western governments against visiting Somalia. The growing interest highlights a shift in how travelers view formerly off-limits regions.
Adventure Tourism Takes Hold
James Willcox, the founder of adventure tour company Untamed Borders, has observed this surge firsthand. His company organized 13 group trips to Mogadishu in 2024—the highest number in its history, compared to just two the previous year. “The demand is growing fast,” Willcox stated, showcasing a newfound interest among thrill-seekers and extreme travelers willing to explore this once-taboo region.
New eVisa System: A Step Towards Accessibility
On September 1, 2025, Somalia launched a new eVisa system designed to simplify entry procedures and attract more visitors. However, optimism was dampened by internal divisions; the autonomous regions of Somaliland and Puntland have declared they won’t recognize the new visas. This situation underscores the complexities of Somali governance, as it struggles to project a unified front amid ongoing challenges.
The Security Landscape
Travelers like Swiss visitor Karin Sinniger, who ventured to Mogadishu in 2020, describe the palpable danger that lingers. “You have to sleep within the secure perimeter or ‘Green Zone,’” she recounted. Even while in this fortified area, bombings are not uncommon. Moving beyond the Green Zone necessitates armed convoys accompanied by police and military protection, although she expressed feeling safe while enjoying the local beaches.
Real Risks and Considerations
Despite these personal accounts, Somalia continues to be classified as one of the world’s most perilous destinations. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warns of a “high threat of kidnap,” while the U.S. Department of State categorizes Somalia as “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” citing concerns ranging from violent crime to civil unrest. Al Shabab militants persist in carrying out attacks, including several deadly incidents in Mogadishu in early 2025.
The Allure of Adventure
So why do travelers persist in wanting to visit Somalia? For Sinniger, her journey was part of a personal mission: to scuba dive in every UN-recognized country. When her diving equipment was lost in transit, a local diver kindly provided her with a makeshift system, allowing her to fulfill her goal.
Many visitors are on similar “country counting” quests, seeking unforgettable stories from destinations deemed extreme. Willcox emphasized that, despite the risks, he has guided trips to Mogadishu for over a decade without incidents. “The risk of attacks is real,” he explained, “but the fierce fighting of previous decades has drastically declined.”
Unique Experiences Await
Retiree Peter Bullock from the UK visited Somalia in November 2024 with the same company. Accompanied by armed guards, he explored various local attractions without feeling unsafe, claiming the travel experience was uniquely enriching. From bustling fish markets to historic cathedrals, the sights are distinct from typical tourist experiences, offering both adventure and culture.
Ongoing Challenges and Humanitarian Concerns
Despite the growing tourist interest, Somalia’s humanitarian issues remain dire. The UN Refugee Agency reported over 550,000 displacements in 2024 due to ongoing conflicts and climate-related disasters, adding to nearly three million already internally displaced. While piracy has diminished, it remains a concern along critical maritime routes.
The Contrast of Somaliland
In contrast, the self-declared republic of Somaliland presents a markedly different scenario. Operating autonomously since 1991, it is viewed as a safer alternative for those lacking a taste for adventure in Somalia. Deke Hassan Abdi, one of Somaliland’s first female tour guides, highlights how misconceptions about the region can deter potential visitors. She advocates for tourism as a means to distinguish Somaliland from Somalia, promoting it as a welcoming, engaging, and safe destination.
Discovering Hidden Gems
Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital, offers ancient rock art, nomadic culture, and pristine beaches. Abdi emphasizes the local market as a favorite destination for tourists, where visitors can interact with the welcoming community. However, venturing outside of Hargeisa still requires an armed police escort, and regions bordering Somalia are often deemed high-risk areas.
The Tourist Experience Explained
Dylan Harris, founder of Lupine Travel, notes the significance of Laas Geel’s 5,000-year-old cave paintings and the intriguing ruins of the abandoned port city of Berbera as major attractions. “There’s a stark difference between Somaliland and Somalia in terms of safety and accessibility,” he clarified, reflecting the two regions’ diverging paths towards tourism.
The Future of Somali Tourism
With growing interest and the introduction of an eVisa system, Somalia appears poised for a tentative step into the tourism limelight. However, challenges remain. The government’s tourism initiatives only apply to Mogadishu, while the semi-autonomous regions have their own requirements and systems.
Despite these hurdles, the very establishment of the eVisa marks a significant development. Willcox has already reported successful experiences with the new system, suggesting that as more travelers venture into Somalia, perceptions may shift, leading to a renewed interest in a country with a tumultuous past but a potentially bright future.
