Hargeisa

{{translate|ru|Харгейса]] Hargeisa is the capital of the self-proclaimed republic of Somaliland. It is one of the safest places in what the rest of the world still officially considers to be Somalia.

Hargeisa Halal Travel Guide

Hargeisa, with 1,200,000 inhabitants (according to a 2000 estimate), is the capital of the self-declared republic of Somaliland. Apart from the occasional couch surfer and there is very little tourism (and no tourist industry), as almost all visitors are working for an NGO or other organization. The city is a peaceful and friendly place, but does require some planning to ensure a successful visit.

Travel to Hargeisa

Hargeisa airport - Hargeisa International Airport

Hargeisa International Airport (HGA) connects the city with a variety of locations in East Africa, all of which are subject to change. Destinations can include Addis Ababa, Djibouti (city) | Djibouti, Dubai, Bossaso, Mogadishu, Dire Dawa, Wajir and Nairobi. Some flights (especially those which "connect" in Berbera) begin with a three-hour bus journey to Berbera, followed by the flight. It's best to confirm that the airline you use flies in and out of Hargeisa.

Hargeisa airport has a very comfortable departure lounge, equipped with a cafe, toilets, television and Internet access. Buy a copy of the local English language newspaper from the paper boy for local news while you wait.

A Somaliland visa is required for foreign travellers. These can be obtained at the Somaliland representative offices in Addis Ababa (in person) or London (in person or by post). See the Somaliland#Get in|Get in section of the Somaliland page for further information. There is very little diplomatic representation in Hargeisa, so you should have your onward travel plans arranged (and visas in hand) before you travel to Hargeisa.

All arriving foreigners are required to exchange US$50 to Somaliland#Money|Somaliland shillings, though this is not always enforced at land borders. The exchange rate at the airport is intentionally poor, so the exchange functions as an arrival tax. You will not be able to change your shillings back to US dollars at the airport when you leave, so make sure to use all of your shillings during your trip. The only notes in widespread use are the 500-shilling notes. Because of the exchange rate, you will end up with a large stack of notes when you change money at the airport.

You will also be required to pay an additional arrivals tax in addition to the money exchange. This is frequently an odd number, such as US$3 (in March 2022), so it would be a good idea to bring a lot of small notes with you (if you bring a bunch of US$100 notes, for example, you will have great difficulty finding change). The cost of the arrival tax appears to vary depending on the type of visa you have and where you got it. Some foreigners report having to pay US$60 tax (in December 2023).

Some air tickets can be reserved at the site of Jubba Airways. Some flights are expensive.

How to get around in Hargeisa

GPS 9.5511|44.0675

Hargeisa has an informal shared bus service which costs 1,500 Somaliland shillings per journey (as of March 2022). Ask a local for instructions. Hargeisa used to have working traffic lights, but now the only traffic control is by the occasional police officer. All residents entitled to drive must hold a photo driving licence, and all cars bear Somaliland licence plates.

Taxis can be booked via your hotel (not hailed on the street) but are quite expensive. For example, a taxi from Maan-soor Hotel to the airport cost USD $25 in March 2022.

Women must wear long dresses or skirts, to the ankle (no trousers), and must cover their hair and upper arms at all times. Men should not wear shorts or sleeveless t-shirts. It is not polite to take pictures of people (male or female) without obtaining their permission beforehand, and you will make people upset if you take pictures without permission.

US dollars and Somaliland shillings enjoy equal status in Hargeisa, so you can pay for anything with either dollars, shillings, or a combination of both. Ask what the de facto exchange rate is when you arrive. The de facto rate will be better than the rate at the airport.

There is no postal service in Hargeisa. The only courier company which serves the city is DHL.

See and do

Hargeisamosque - The Jama Mosque

There's very little in the way of tourist sights and activities in Hargeisa. Often and the best activity in Hargeisa is soaking in the surroundings and enjoying a bite to eat with the local residents, who will be more genuinely interested in your story and your reasons for visiting their country.

Some of the local monuments that may be worth visiting include:

Central Market - Suuqa Bacadlaha | Independence Road 9.560327, 44.068424 - Somaliland's main shopping neighborhood is a expansive, chaotic, typical Somali market. The capital's liveliest market sells a huge variety of items, from electronics to cereals, Meat to handbags, clothing to perfumes. Each category of items has its own section of the market. Hours can be spent exploring the nooks and crannies, observing the daily ritual of grocery shopping in Somaliland. You're unlikely to be hassled, but some stallholders may object to photography, so do ask first.

Jama Mosque Independence Road 9.56088 ,44.071706 - The city's central mosque, painted a bright white with two tall minarets from which the call to prayer is made. Hundreds of worshippers overflow into the streets at around midday on Friday for prayer. Non-Muslims are not allowed entry but are welcome to observe.

Livestock Market 9.553111, 44.080382 South-eastern side of town - Hundreds of Somali farmers come to buy and sell their livestock daily, including sheep, camels, goats and cattle. It was renovated by UK Aid and the UN Food and Agricultural Organization. The market is best visited in the morning, and make sure to ask before taking photos of animals.

MiG Jet memorial Independence Road 9.561533 ,44.065324 - The memorial displays a Somali Air Force MiG jet that was shot down while it bombed the city during the Somali Civil War; murals and mosaics display scenes from the war below.

Eat

Hargeisa fruit market - Hargeisa fruit market, as of 2005

As the Somali legacy is pastoral, most modern food is inspired by neighbouring countries, with Ethiopian cuisine being particular popular. There is Rice, spaghetti, cheeseburgers or salad. There are doughnuts, cakes and tropical food. Call into a restaurant and ask for what you want, but not Beef as it is forbidden (haram)!

At breakfast you could try Somali pancakes, a little like a fluffy pancake a fluffier version, and "small meat", which is similar to Sausages Meat except served loose on a plate). Somali tea is good, and is similar to Indian chai (a bit spicy and made with lots of milk).

Food at the "nicer" restaurants is generally safe, as the climate is so hot and dry that it is difficult for most diseases to survive here. The same goes for water: The government-supplied piped water is generally clean, though you might want to avoid drinking it if you are on a short trip. The filtered water bottle is produced locally, and generally is safe.

Abtiyo Fastfood has nicer murals than grub, but then you're not exactly spoilt for choice where budget "International style" food is concerned.

You will not find any alcohol in Hargeisa in official outlets, but it is still available in the Black Market. Men congregate in cafes with glasses of tea, coffee or fruit juice.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Hargeisa

Hargeisa - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Hargeisa, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Hargeisa. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Hargeisa and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Hargeisa. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Hargeisa. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Hargeisa: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Hargeisa.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Hargeisa: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Hargeisa, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Hargeisa.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Hargeisa, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Hargeisa, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Hargeisa and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Hargeisa, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Hargeisa, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Hargeisa without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Hargeisa is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Hargeisa.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Hargeisa is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Hargeisa, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Hargeisa Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Hargeisa

eHalal Group Hargeisa is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Hargeisa. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Hargeisa.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Hargeisa ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Hargeisa. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Hargeisa, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Hargeisa are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

The lodging options in Hargeisa are surprisingly numerous, with large, Asian-style establishments down to family-run, budget-friendly hotels. Most hotels provide transport to/from the airport, visa assistance and mosquito nets, although mosquitoes are rarely an issue in the arid climate.

Ambassador Hotel - Airport Road 9.5221 ,44.072717 1.4 km north-west of the airport, just off the main highway ☎ +252 256 6666 +252 2 5221 38895 Deluxe US$52.50, en suite US$78.75 - One of only two Asian-style hotels in Somaliland and the Ambassador is where foreign ambassadors stay when visiting the nation. The facilities are top-notch by African standards, with a 24-hour gym, laundry, restaurants, non-alcoholic bar, room service, free Wi-Fi and a mosque. Additionally and the English-speaking hotel staff can organise visas, flights and tours to major Somaliland sights. Safe for solo female travellers.

Maan-Soor Hotel - Monday Warsame Road 9.57553 ,44.031378 North-west edge of town ☎ +252 225 3639 +252 225 3638 Deluxe US$50, VIP US$90, private cottage US$40 - Slightly closer to the downtown than the Ambassador, and also of GCC standards. Has a restaurant, cafe, Wi-Fi and a sports centre, all set in sprawling grounds. Staff can organise flights and visas. There is a similarly named hotel in Berbera.

Oriental Hotel - Arwada Road 9.562295, 44.067872 ☎ +252 251 4999 US$15-30, according to season. One of the oldest hotels in Somaliland, it's a decent budget choice right in the centre of town, adjacent to the Gold market. Rooms are clean with working fans, though nothing flash. It's a good deal for independent travellers and backpackers. The English-speaking hotel owner, Abdi, is happy to arrange visas, transport, tours and soldier permits. There's also a pleasant, affordable restaurant in the courtyard.

Red Sea Hotel 9.563765 ,44.059391 just off Independence Road, 10 minutes walk to the downtown - Another budget option, with clean, but basic rooms and services and no hot water. The helpful manager will often offer to personally drive guests to their destination.

Stay Safe

Hargeysa plane monument - The MiG Jet memorial

In recent years, Hargeisa has generally been safe, with little crime against the few tourists and foreigners, and little swindling or "ripping off". It is feasible to walk around by yourself in the urban areas of Hargeisa in the daytime or at night, but make sure that you know where you are going, as there are no street signs, and no street lights at night. While the primary streets have some rudimentary paving, most roads are sand and dirt and populated by goats and stray dogs.

In some areas (e.g. livestock market) people may throw rocks or bottles at you, similar to what happens sometimes in rural Ethiopia.

The local residents are extremely friendly and will greet foreigners in the street. Unlike some other places in Africa and they will not try to sell you anything and are often genuinely interested in having a conversation.

However, in March 2022, threats of violence were made against Christians and Business dealsers in Hargeisa. Some NGOs responded by removing their staff. It is not yet clear whether or not these threats are serious.

If you leave the city, you will be required to take a government security guard with you (known as an "SPU"). It is also feasible to get an exemption from this requirement, but you must have the required paperwork or you will be stopped at the checkpoints on the edge of the city and not permitted to go further (this is for your own safety, as the nationside is not as safe as the city). See the Somaliland page for further information.

News & References Hargeisa

Travel Next

Laas Geel cow herd - Cave paintings at Laas Gaal

Located in the nationside outside Hargeisa, Laas Gaal (Laas Geel in Somali) is a definite must-see. It is a complex of caves and rock shelters that contain excellently preserved cave paintings. The paintings represent some of the earliest known art in the Horn of Africa and the African continent, dating back to 9,000 BCE. To visit this place, a letter from the ministry of tourism must be obtained and a fee of US$20 must be paid. An SPU may be required for this trip. Check the little museum with maps in the entrance building. Maps show that park contains 20 shelters with paintings, with shelters 2, 3 and 10 being the main ones. Guides will often take you to shelters 2 and 3 only (and turn back before proceeding to shelter 10 which is a bit further) - so worth discussing the route beforehand.
There's plenty of wildlife in the Sheikh mountains and the Daallo mountains near Hargeisa. You may spot kudu, wildebeest, gazelles and different species of birds. An SPU would be required for this trip.
The Red Sea beaches at Berbera are a three-hour drive away and could make a nice day trip, or a relaxing weekend away. The Maan-soor hotel branch in Berbera offers scuba diving. For this trip, you could apply for an exemption from the SPU requirement and take a shared bus.