Explore Somalia: Epic Road Trip Adventure Awaits

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Somalia Road Trip in Somalia?

Economy

Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.

rent & more 2,736EUR drive & more 613EUR sleep & more 1,507EUR eat & more 456EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,576EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,312EUR

Standard

Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.

rent & more 3,762EUR drive & more 813EUR sleep & more 3,014EUR eat & more 684EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,511EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,273EUR

Premium

High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.

rent & more 7,524EUR drive & more 1,100EUR sleep & more 5,016EUR eat & more 912EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 7,028EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 14,552EUR

Camper

On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.

rent & more 4,275EUR drive & more 1,225EUR sleep & more 1,045EUR eat & more 456EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,726EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,001EUR

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Somalia Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Somalia with the Somalia Road Trip! Starting in the bustling city of Mogadishu, this 19-day road trip takes you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the country. You'll drive through Beledweyne, Galkayo, Xaafun, Bosaso, and Garoowe, covering a total distance of 4475 km. Along the way, you can marvel at the stunning views of the mountains, vast deserts, and lush greenery that make up the Somali landscape. You'll also have the chance to experience the culture and hospitality of the local people. The best time of year to drive this route is between November and April, when the weather is mild and the roads are in better condition. However, bear in mind that road conditions in Somalia are generally poor, so take extra care when driving. The Somalia Road Trip is suitable for drivers of all skill levels and is affordable, making it perfect for a budget-friendly adventure. So, why not plan your journey today and experience the beauty of Somalia for yourself?

19 number of days

4,522 km route length

fair budget

survivalist good for

on the right traffic direction

extreme accident level

START Mogadishu

Distance 4,522 km Driving time 138.4 h Pace: slow 1,040.1 kWh Airports MGQ

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Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, is the ideal starting point for the "Somalia Road Trip". It is the most populous city in the country and is home to a number of interesting sights. The old city of Mogadishu, which dates back to the 10th century, is a must-see. It is located along the Indian Ocean and is full of historical monuments, mosques and markets. The most popular attractions are the National Museum, which is home to a large collection of Somali artifacts; the Hamar Weyne market, which is a great place to purchase traditional handicrafts; and the ancient Shabelle River, which is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. The closest international airport to Mogadishu is the Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ). It is located about 10 miles from the city center and offers a variety of car rental services. The airport is served by a number of international airlines and is a great entry point for travelers looking to explore the country. From there, visitors can explore the many attractions of Mogadishu, as well as the rest of Somalia, by car. With its rich culture and fascinating history, Mogadishu is the perfect starting point for the "Somalia Road Trip".

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1 Mogadishu - Beledweyne

Distance 341 km Driving time 10.2 h Pace: slow 78.4 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from Mogadishu to Beledweyne? This 342 km journey will take you less than 12 hours, and you’ll get to experience the best of both cities. Start your journey in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia and explore the vibrant markets, the old town, and the beach. Don’t forget to check out the National Museum, which houses some of the country’s most important artifacts. As you make your way to Beledweyne, you’ll be able to see the beauty of the Somali countryside. Stop at the Shebelle River, which is a popular spot for fishing and swimming, and take in the stunning views of the landscape. When you reach Beledweyne, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. Check out the historic buildings, the old fort, and the old town. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

Beledweyne - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Twitter

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2 Beledweyne - Gadudaba

Distance 223 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: modest 58.0 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Beledweyne to Gadudaba! This 224 km journey is expected to take less than 7 hours, and promises to be an unforgettable experience. Start your trip in Beledweyne, where you can explore the beautiful Shebelle River, the bustling markets, and the historic monuments. Then, head to the village of Ceelbuur, where you can visit the ancient ruins of the ancient Somali kingdom of Ajuran. Continue your journey to the town of Galhareeri, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Somali landscape. From there, you can visit the beautiful town of Jowhar, where you can explore the historic sites, including the ancient fort of Jowhar. Finally, you will arrive in Gadudaba, where you can visit the magnificent Gadudaba Mosque, the oldest mosque in Somalia. Here, you can also explore the ruins of the ancient city of Gadudaba. This is just one of the stages of a longer tour; more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on this amazing journey!

Gadudaba - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Pinterest

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3 Gadudaba - Galkayo

Distance 162 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 42.2 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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This road trip stage starts in Gadudaba, Somalia and ends in Galkayo. It's 165 km of driving, with a maximum of 7 hours of driving. The journey takes you through the beautiful countryside of Somalia, with some of the most interesting places to visit along the way. In Gadudaba, you can explore the ancient ruins of the city, including the old fort and the abandoned palace. You can also visit the local museum to learn more about the history of the area. In Galkayo, you can visit the old city center, with its traditional markets and historic buildings. You can also visit the nearby lakes and take a boat ride on the lake. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

Galkayo - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Next Amazing Trip – Travellers most inspiration website

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4 Galkayo - Quardho

Distance 444 km Driving time 11.0 h Pace: modest 115.4 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Galkayo, Somalia to Quardho? This 448km journey will take you less than 14 hours and will be one of the most exciting stages of your tour. Start your journey in Galkayo and explore the city's most interesting places, such as the Galkayo Stadium and the Galkayo Museum. Then, head to the town of Garowe, home to the Garowe Palace Museum, the Garowe Stadium and the Garowe Peace Garden. Continue your journey to the town of Qardho, where you can visit the Qardho Museum, the Qardho Stadium and the Qardho Peace Garden. Finally, end your journey in Quardho, home to the Quardho Museum, the Quardho Stadium and the Quardho Peace Garden. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

Quardho - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - pixabay

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5 Quardho - Xaafun

Distance 418 km Driving time 16.6 h Pace: slow 96.0 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Quardho, Somalia to Xaafun? This stage of your journey will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. With a total distance of 415 km, it should take you fewer than 15 hours to get from Quardho to Xaafun. On your way, you'll get to explore the beautiful city of Quardho, where you can visit the historic ruins of Quardho Fort, the ancient burial mounds of Qorilugud, and the lush green gardens of the city. As you travel further, you'll pass through the desert oases of Geed-Deeble and the small fishing village of Laasqoray. Here, you can take a break to enjoy some delicious seafood dishes and learn about the local culture. Finally, you'll reach Xaafun, a vibrant city known for its traditional markets and colorful architecture. Take some time to wander through the bustling streets and explore the city's many attractions, such as the Great Mosque of Xaafun and the ancient ruins of Xaafun Castle. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Xaafun - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Kingsley Holgate Foundation

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6 Xaafun - Kob Dhexaad

Distance 210 km Driving time 11.3 h Pace: slow 48.3 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Are you ready for the ultimate road trip? Start your journey in Xaafun, Somalia and make your way to Kob Dhexaad. This 208km route will take you less than 10 hours, but don't worry, the journey is worth it! Along the way, you'll be able to take in the stunning views of the countryside, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled. Your first stop should be at Dhanaane, where you can explore the ancient ruins and get a glimpse of the history of the area. From there, you can make your way to the gorgeous Guban Valley, where you can take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Make sure to visit the nearby town of Geel, where you can experience the local culture and try some of the delicious food. As you continue your journey, you'll come across the stunning town of Xudun. Here, you can explore the beautiful landscapes and take in the breathtaking views. The next stop is the city of Laasqoray, where you can visit the ancient mosque and explore the old city walls. Finally, you'll arrive at your destination of Kob Dhexaad. This is the perfect place to end your road trip and explore the stunning beaches, mountains, and forests. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for the ultimate road trip!

Kob Dhexaad - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Twitter

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7 Kob Dhexaad - Bosaso

Distance 96 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: slow 22.1 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Are you ready for an epic road trip? Start your journey in Kob Dhexaad, Somalia, and follow the road to Bosaso. This 97km drive will take you less than four hours, but don’t rush it! Along the way, you’ll get to take in the stunning views of the Somali countryside. Keep an eye out for the unique wildlife that call this place home. Once you reach Bosaso, you can explore the city and its attractions like the Bosaso Port, the ancient ruins of the city, and the beautiful beaches. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. Don’t forget to take pictures of the stunning scenery along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Bosaso - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - - Wikipedia

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8 Bosaso - Quardho

Distance 233 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: modest 60.6 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Embark on a 233 km road trip from Bosaso to Quardho, one of the stages of an amazing journey! This route will take you fewer than 5 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Bosaso, a port city located in the Bari region of Somalia. Here you can find the ancient Bosaso Castle, built by the Sultan of Zanzibar in the 19th century. Then, head to the nearby Las Khorey, a coastal town with a beautiful beach and a rich history. Continue your road trip to Quardho, a city in the Nugal province of Somalia. Here you can visit the ruins of the ancient Qa'ableh Mosque, a historical site that dates back to the 12th century. You can also explore the nearby Golis Mountains, a range of hills with breathtaking views. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Quardho - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - WHO | World Health Organization

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9 Quardho - Garoowe

Distance 210 km Driving time 4.2 h Pace: modest 54.5 kWh ↓ View map ↓ Itinerary

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Take your car and join us on this amazing road trip from Quardho to Garoowe! The 210km drive will take you less than 5 hours, and you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in Somalia. Start your journey in Quardho, where you can explore the old city of Quardho and its traditional markets. Then, drive to the nearby village of Dhoobley, where you can visit the ancient ruins of Dhoobley and explore the local culture. After that, you can enjoy the scenery of the beautiful Lake Jilib and take some amazing photos. Continue your journey to Garowe, the capital of Puntland, where you can visit the Garowe Cultural Centre, the Puntland State House and the Garowe Museum. You can also explore the Garowe Palace, the former residence of the Puntland President, and the many mosques and churches in the city. At the end of your journey, you can visit the nearby town of Galkayo, where you can explore the local markets and enjoy the beautiful beaches. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an exciting road trip from Quardho to Garoowe!

Garoowe - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Worldwide Elevation Map Finder

Garoowe - Somalia - Africa - Road Trip - Shutterstock

The final destination of the Somalia Road Trip is Mogadishu, the capital and largest city of Somalia. It is situated on the Indian Ocean and is a vibrant city that is full of culture and history. When visiting Mogadishu, the main attraction is the historic old town. Here you can find the ancient city walls, which were built in the 10th century and still stand today, as well as the old minarets of the city. You can also explore the markets, where you can find a variety of goods and souvenirs. Another highlight of Mogadishu is the Mogadishu National Park. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, zebras, and more. It is a great place to take a safari and get up close and personal with nature. If you are looking for a more modern experience, the city also has plenty of modern amenities and attractions. There are several museums and art galleries, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. The closest international airport to Mogadishu is Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ). It is located approximately 11 km from the city center, making it easy to access the city by air. No matter what kind of experience you are looking for, Mogadishu has something for everyone. It is a great place to end your Somalia Road Trip and explore the culture and history of this vibrant city.

Somalia Road Trip at a glance

Start: Mogadishu
End: Mogadishu
Distance: 4,522 km
Stay: 19 days
Getting there: Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ)
When to drive: January, February, March, December
More info: More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 19-day journey through Somalia, starting from the vibrant capital city of Mogadishu. Spanning over 4475 kilometers, this Road Trip unveils the hidden gems of Somalia, weaving through its historic cities, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and the rich tapestry of Somali culture.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The itinerary includes the bustling city of Beledweyne, known for its markets and the Shabelle River, and Galkayo, where the northern and southern cultures of Somalia converge in a vibrant mix.
In Xaafun, you'll find the remains of an ancient port city, hinting at Somalia's rich maritime history.
Bosaso, another key stop, is a major commercial hub with a colorful fish market that's a feast for the senses.
Garoowe provides a look at traditional Somali life and governance, being the administrative capital of the autonomous Puntland region.

Along the journey, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of rugged mountains like the Cal Madow range, home to some of the country's highest peaks and unique flora and fauna. The lunar-like landscapes of the Nugaal Valley will contrast with the lush greenery in the riverine areas. Somalia's coastline, the longest in Africa, offers pristine beaches and stunning ocean vistas.

Best Time to Go:

November to April marks the dry season in Somalia, providing milder weather and more predictable Road conditions, making it the optimal time for this Road Trip.

Potential Risks:

Somalia's Road infrastructure is not fully developed, and travelers may encounter rough terrain and security concerns. It is essential to remain vigilant, have a reliable vehicle, and travel with a knowledgeable guide or convoy.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Road Trip is a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure. The cost of travel in Somalia is relatively low, allowing for a budget-friendly yet profound cultural immersion. Moreover, Somali hospitality is legendary, and visitors will often find themselves welcomed with open arms by local communities.

A good choice for:

For the intrepid traveler, the Somalia Road Trip is an unparalleled exploration into the soul of this fascinating country. It's a journey of discovery that promises to connect you with the unbridled beauty of Somalia's environment and the warmth of its people, offering a compelling blend of adventure and cultural enlightenment.