Somaliland: main airports
Somaliland (a self-proclaimed republic, not internationally recognized as an independent state but with a de facto autonomous administration) is served by Egal International Airport in Hargeisa and by Berbera Airport, on the Gulf of Aden coast.
The region is generally considered more stable and safe than the rest of Somalia, with a functioning local government and still-niche tourism, geared toward archaeological sites such as the Laas Geel rock paintings.
Somaliland: recommended activities
Somaliland: visa and entry requirements
Visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at both Hargeisa Airport and Berbera Airport: a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return or onward ticket, proof of financial means, and a local contact or confirmed hotel booking are required.
Somaliland's visa is not recognized by Somalia and vice versa: if your itinerary includes both areas, inform yourself carefully about the specific procedures.
Somaliland: safety
Somaliland is generally more stable than the rest of Somalia, with a local administration that has functioned for several decades, but it remains a region with non-negligible security risks and limited tourist infrastructure.
Always check your country's updated travel advisories very carefully before planning a trip, also given the region's internationally unrecognized geopolitical status.
Somaliland: health situation
Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid and yellow fever are generally recommended; antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly advised.
Consult a doctor specializing in travel medicine in advance, also given the limited level of local healthcare facilities. It is advisable to drink only bottled water.
Somaliland: currency, payments and connectivity
The currency is the Somaliland shilling (not internationally convertible); US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred for tourist transactions.
The official language is Somali, alongside Arabic and English in the administrative and tourism sectors.
