Sool, Somalia Travel Guide

Discover the untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage of Sool, a hidden gem in northeastern Somalia perfect for adventurous travelers.

Nestled in the northeastern part of Somalia, Sool is a region that captivates visitors with its unique blend of history and natural beauty. Known for its arid landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Sool offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking authenticity away from the usual tourist trail. The region's rugged terrain and sparse population add to its raw charm, making it a must-visit for adventurous souls. Explore the ancient ruins and rock art that reflect the region's deep historical roots. The Laas Geel cave paintings, a short drive from the regional capital Las Anod, are among the oldest in Africa and provide a fascinating glimpse into early human life. The vibrant markets of Las Anod also offer a chance to engage with local culture and buy traditional crafts and textiles. Sool's natural beauty is equally compelling. The region's semi-arid climate creates a unique landscape of rolling hills and open plains, perfect for hiking and exploring. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the variety of species that inhabit the area, while the seasonal rivers and waterholes attract a host of wildlife. For the adventurous traveler, Sool promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Somalia.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sool.

Visit during the cooler months from November to February for the most pleasant weather.
Hire a local guide to navigate the area and learn about the rich history and culture.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in more remote areas.
Ensure you have all necessary permits and permissions, as some areas may require them.
Pack sufficient water and supplies, as amenities can be sparse in the region.

Explore Sool: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Sool

Top-rated picks

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Liido beach

Discover the stunning beauty and vibrant culture of Liido Beach in Mogadishu, Somalia, a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

4.3

Lag Badana-Bushbush National Park

Explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Lag Badana-Bushbush National Park, a hidden gem on Somalia's southern coast.

4.2

BEERTA BANADIR

Explore Beerta Banadir, a vibrant park in Mogadishu, where nature and Somali culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Almnara Tower

Explore Almnara Tower, a historical landmark in Mogadishu, and witness the beauty and heritage of Somalia's coastal city.

4.6

Best landmarks in Sool

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The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Mogadishu, a historical landmark honoring those who sacrificed for peace and freedom in Somalia.

4.3

Laas Geel

Discover the ancient artistry of Laas Geel, Somaliland's remarkable rock art site showcasing millennia of history and culture amidst stunning landscapes.

4.6

Lag Badana-Bushbush National Park

Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Lag Badana-Bushbush National Park, a hidden gem on Somalia's coastline.

4.2

Hargeisa War Memorial Park

Explore Hargeisa War Memorial Park: A serene tribute to history and resilience in the heart of Somaliland's capital.

4.4

Best restaurants in Sool

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Carshi

Discover authentic Somali cuisine blended with international flavors at Carshi, Mogadishu's premier dining destination.

4.4

Salsabiil Restaurant

Experience authentic Somali cuisine at Salsabiil Restaurant in Mogadishu - where traditional flavors meet modern dining.

4.0

MASALE VIEW RESTAURANT

Experience authentic Somali cuisine with stunning views at Masale View Restaurant in Hargeisa.

4.4

Zaytuun Restaurant

Experience authentic Somali cuisine at Zaytuun Restaurant in Mogadishu - a culinary delight blending tradition with modern flavors.

3.9

Best bars in Sool

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Rays Restaurant

Experience the authentic flavors of Somali cuisine at Rays Restaurant in Laascaanood, where every dish tells a story.

3.9

Power Horse Restaurant

Discover the rich flavors of Laascaanood at Power Horse Restaurant, where culinary excellence meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Al Mustaqbal Restaurant

Discover the authentic flavors of Somalia at Al Mustaqbal Restaurant in Laascaanood, where every dish tells a story.

3.3

Higlada

Experience authentic Somali cuisine at Higlada in Laascaanood, where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culture.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Sool

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Banadir Beach Club

Discover the lively nightlife and stunning beachfront views at Banadir Beach Club in Mogadishu, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4.0

BILCIL CITY CLUB

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dhahar at BILCIL CITY CLUB, where music, dance, and culture come together for an unforgettable night.

4.3

Eng wahip jamaal

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Hargeisa at Eng Wahip Jamaal, a premier night club offering vibrant music and a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Banadir Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bosaso at Banadir Club, where music, dance, and culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

Best shops in Sool

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AL IXSAAN STORE

Discover local flavors and daily essentials at AL IXSAAN STORE in Hudun, a vibrant grocery store with a cultural touch.

4.4

Kaamil General Trading Co.

Explore the heart of Laascaanood at Kaamil General Trading Co., a local store offering a unique blend of traditional and modern goods.

4.4

QARAN SHOPPING CENTER 4

Explore Qaran Shopping Center in Laascaanood for a vibrant supermarket experience filled with local goods and friendly service.

5.0

Nayruush Dress House

Discover the vibrant fashion of Nayruush Dress House, where traditional Somali styles meet modern trends in Laascaanood.

5.0

Explore Sool on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Sool, mapped for you.

Sool Essentials

Sool is a region in northern Somalia. The closest international airport is Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA) in Somaliland, approximately 400 kilometers away. From Hargeisa, you can hire a taxi or a private car to get to Sool. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours by road. It is advisable to arrange transportation in advance through a reputable travel agency.
Within Sool, the most common forms of transportation are taxis and private cars. Due to the undeveloped public transport infrastructure, hiring a private vehicle is the most convenient option for exploring the region. Roads can be rough, and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for travel outside of urban areas. Local taxis are available but may not meet international safety standards.
The official currency in Somalia is the Somali Shilling (SOS). However, the US Dollar is widely accepted, especially in larger towns and cities. It is advisable to carry cash, as credit cards are rarely accepted. ATMs are scarce, so ensure you have enough cash for your entire trip. Exchange services are available in major towns, but rates can vary.
While Sool is generally safe, some areas may have higher crime rates, particularly targeting tourists. Avoid traveling alone, especially at night, and stay away from isolated areas. It is advisable to travel with a local guide who knows the region well. Always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
In case of emergency, dial 888 for police assistance. Medical facilities in Sool are limited, so it is crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. In the event of a serious medical issue, evacuation to a larger city like Hargeisa or even Nairobi may be necessary. Pharmacies are available in major towns, but it is advisable to bring a personal medical kit.
Fashion: Do dress modestly; women should cover their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs. Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially women. Public Transport: Do agree on a fare before getting into a taxi. Don't use public transport during late hours. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Men should avoid physical contact with women. Eating & Drinking: Do accept food offerings graciously. Don't eat with your left hand, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Sool like a local, visit the traditional markets where you can purchase local handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals, who are often welcoming and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the ancient ruins of Taleh, a historical site that offers insight into Somalia's rich past. For a unique experience, attend a local camel market, which showcases the region's nomadic heritage.

When is the best time to visit Sool?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Sool

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Sool. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalaam
  [sah-lahm]
- GoodbyeNabad gelyo
  [nah-bahd geh-lyoh]
- YesHaa
  [hah]
- NoMaya
  [mah-yah]
- Please/You're welcomeFadlan
  [fad-lahn]
- Thank youMahadsanid
  [mah-hahd-sah-nid]
- Excuse me/SorryIga raali ahow
  [ee-gah rah-lee ah-ho]
- How are you?Sidee tahay?
  [see-deh tah-hay]
- Fine. And you?Wanaagsan. Adigana?
  [wah-nahg-sahn. ah-dee-gah-nah]
- Do you speak English?Ma ku hadashaa Ingiriisi?
  [mah koo hah-dah-shah een-gee-ree-see]
- I don't understandMa fahmin
  [mah fah-min]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseFadlan ii soo bandhig menu-ga
  [fad-lahn ee soh ban-dhig meh-noo-gah]
- I don't eat meatMa cunno hilib
  [mah coon-no hi-lib]
- Cheers!Nabadeey!
  [nah-bah-day]
- I would like to pay, pleaseFadlan waxaan jeclahay inaan bixiyo
  [fad-lahn wee-han jeh-lah-hay ee-nan bih-ee-yo]
- Help!Caawimaad!
  [cah-wee-mahd]
- Go away!Ka bax!
  [kah bax]
- Call the Police!Wac booliska!
  [wah boo-lee-skah]
- Call a doctor!Wac dhakhtar!
  [wah dhak-tar]
- I'm lostWaan lumay
  [wah-n loo-may]
- I'm illWaan xanuunsanahay
  [wah-n khan-oon-sah-nah-hay]
- I'd like to buy...Waxaan rabaa inaan iibsado...
  [wah-han rah-bah ee-nan eeb-sah-doh]
- I'm just lookingWaxaan kaliya eegayaa
  [wah-han kah-lee-yah eh-gah-yah]
- How much is it?Immisa ayuu yahay?
  [im-mi-sah ah-yoo yah-hay]
- That's too expensiveWaa qaali
  [wah kah-lee]
- Can you lower the price?Ma hoos u dhigi kartaa qiimaha?
  [mah hohs oo dhi-gee kar-tah qi-mah-ha]
- What time is it?Waa imisa saac?
  [wah ee-mi-sah sah-ahk]
- It's one o'clockWaa kow saac
  [wah koh sah-ahk]
- Half past (10)Bar saac (10)
  [bar sah-ahk]
- MorningSubax
  [soo-bahx]
- AfternoonDuhur
  [doo-hur]
- EveningFiidnimo
  [fee-dnee-mo]
- YesterdayShalay
  [sha-lah-y]
- TodayMaanta
  [maan-tah]
- TomorrowBerri
  [ber-ree]
- 1Kow
  [koh]
- 2Laba
  [lah-bah]
- 3Saddex
  [sahd-dex]
- 4Afar
  [ah-far]
- 5Shan
  [shan]
- 6Lix
  [lix]
- 7Toddoba
  [toh-doh-bah]
- 8Siddeed
  [sid-deed]
- 9Sagaal
  [sah-gahl]
- 10Toban
  [toh-bahn]
- Where's a/the...?Xagee ku yaalaa...?
  [hah-geh koo yah-lah]
- What's the address?Waa maxay cinwaanka?
  [wah mah-khay chin-wahn-kah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Miyaa i tusin kartaa (khariidadda)?
  [mee-yah ee too-seen kar-tah]
- When's the next (bus)?Goormee waa (baska) xiga?
  [goor-mee wah (bahs-kah) hee-gah]
- A ticket (to ....)Tikidh (u...)
  [tee-kidh (oo...)]

History of Sool

Sool is believed to have been part of the ancient Kingdom of Maakhir, a pre-Islamic kingdom that thrived along the northern coast of Somalia. This kingdom was known for its rich trade networks that extended to the Arabian Peninsula and India, exchanging goods such as frankincense, myrrh, and spices.
During the medieval period, Sool was influenced by various Somali sultanates, including the Sultanate of Ifat and later the Adal Sultanate. These sultanates engaged in extensive trade and military campaigns, fostering a rich cultural and historical heritage in the region.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sool came under the influence of British and Italian colonial powers. The region was part of the larger British Somaliland Protectorate, which affected local governance, trade, and social structures. Colonial rule also introduced new administrative practices and infrastructure projects.
Sool played a significant role during the Dervish movement led by Sayyid Mohammed Abdullah Hassan, who sought to resist colonial rule. The movement, which started in the early 20th century, saw fierce battles in the region, leaving a lasting impact on its history and shaping Somali nationalism.
After Somalia gained independence in 1960, Sool became part of the newly-formed Somali Republic. The region experienced various political and social changes, including efforts to integrate it into the national framework while preserving its unique cultural identity.
The Somali Civil War, which began in the late 20th century, deeply affected Sool. The region has been contested between different factions, including the self-declared Republic of Somaliland and the autonomous Puntland region. This period has seen significant challenges but also resilience and efforts towards peace and stability.
Sool is home to a rich cultural heritage, exemplified by its traditional music, dance, and oral poetry. The region's inhabitants, primarily from the Dhulbahante clan, have preserved their customs and traditions, which are showcased in local festivals and ceremonies. The landscape also features ancient rock art and historic sites that offer a glimpse into the area's diverse past.