Join our group tour with guaranteed departure and explore two of the most fascinating destinations in the Horn of Africa — Djibouti and Somaliland — in one complete overland journey.
This 10-day adventure takes you through dramatic landscapes, historic towns and remote desert regions. In Djibouti, visit Lake Assal, the lowest point in Africa, see the unique limestone chimneys of Lake Abbe and travel across vast salt flats and sand dunes. In Somaliland, discover ancient rock art at Laas Geel, explore the streets of Hargeisa and Berbera, and experience local culture and daily life.
Travel by 4×4 vehicles across changing terrain, meet nomadic communities and learn about traditions that have shaped this region for centuries. This tour combines nature, culture and history in one well-planned itinerary.
With fixed dates and confirmed departures, this small group tour is ideal for travelers looking for a unique and authentic Horn of Africa experience.
Journey Beyond Maps in Djibouti & Somaliland
Pick up and transfer to your Hotel. Depending on your arrival time you will explore the capital Djibouti City.
Start your day exploring Djibouti City, the country’s capital. Walk through the European Quarter with its old buildings from the French colonial times, then visit the African Quarter, full of life, markets, and local culture.
See the Hamoudi Mosque, one of the oldest in the city, and stop by the People’s Palace, an important national monument. Later, walk through the main market, where you’ll find colorful stalls and local goods. End the day with a stroll along the coast and enjoy views of the Gulf of Tadjourah.
Atlantic Hotel or Les Acacias Hotel
N/A
In the morning we’ll drive to Lake Abbé. The drive passes The Grand Bara and Petit Barra deserts. In Dikhil there will be a stop for lunch before arriving at Lake Abbe. You will have an overnight stay at the Touristic Camp to see the amazing scenery during sunset. The Touristic Camp is a settlement of traditional Afar huts which are very basic.
For more comfort you can choose to stay at Neem Farm which is located 40 km further. At this farm you can also enjoy a buggy drive through the desert to Lake Abbe.
Lake Abbé Touristic Camp or Neem Farm
Breakfast and Dinner
There will be an early wake up to see the sunrise. Lake Abbé has a beautiful scenery full of chimneys. During a walking tour to the Lake you might also see nomadic people, Birds, Flamingos and Hot Springs. The geology of this area is very interesting.
We drive to Lake Assal, the lowest point in Africa. On our way we also visit the Panoramic views of Canyon Adaleh and Goubet. In Lake Assal the big salt field makes you feel like walking in nowhere land. The water has bright colors that change from time to time because of the sun reflection. The trip continues to Tadjourah for an overnight stay.
Le Golfe Hotel or Gadileh Resort Hotel
Breakfast
The oldest town in Djibouti is known for its whitewashed buildings. After exploring Tadjourah we head to Plage de Sables Blancs. Here you can refresh while enjoying beautiful white sand beaches and drinks.
We continue to Djibouti City for an overnight stay before departure the next morning to Somaliland.
Atlantic Hotel or Les Acacias Hotel
Breakfast
In the morning drive to Lawya’ado (Djibouti/ Somaliland border). On the way, you’ll see nomadic families living in tents, grazing animals and wildlife. The long journey continues through remote semi desert areas in the Western part of Somaliland before arriving in Borama. It is the third biggest city of the country and known for its famous Amoud University.
Note: Drive around 10-12 hours on unsurfaced roads
Rays Hotel or similar
Breakfast
You’ll visit Borama and see the market. On our route to Hargeisa there will be a stop at the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre, home to rescued cheetahs. You’ll learn about their care and the fight against wildlife trafficking, followed by a lunch at the centre.
After that we visit Dhagax Khoure, an ancient rock art site set in a dramatic landscape. The site features human and animal figures believed to be thousands of years old. On the way, we pass through Gebiley and Arabsiyo, towns known for green farms and strong rural traditions. Afternoon return back to Hargeisa. Upon arrival at the capital Hargeisa you will be taken to your hotel.
Damal Hotel or similar
Breakfast
Start with the Civil War Memorial, then explore the Central Market and money changers. Visit the Hargeisa Cultural Centre for a taste of local art and history. After a rest you can freely walk around in the city center of Hargeisa to get a sense of the people and the city.
Our first evening features a traditional Somali music and dance if available (depending on the day of the week!).
Damal Hotel or similar
Breakfast
In the early morning you visit the Livestock Market. Livestock is the backbone of the economy of Somaliland. We head to Laas Geel, one of the most important rock art site in Africa. The vibrant colors and well preserved paintings are estimated to be around ten thousand years old. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit local nomadic families, offering a rare glimpse into traditional Somali pastoral life.
Drive continues to Berbera where you’ll be taken to your hotel. In Berbera you can hang out on the beach and go for a swim while the sun goes down. Some beach hotels rent out snorkel, diving equipment and there is a possibility for a boat ride. Dinner will be served on a rooftop at the beach in Berbera, offering stunning views of the ocean.
Damal Hotel or Maansoor Berbera Beach Hotel
Breakfast
After breakfast you will see the historic town of Berbera. Especially the old quarter of the town with its many Ottoman and British architecture is of historic interest.
We leave Berbera behind and drive to the small town of Sheikh in the mountains. Passing Sheikh Mountains will be a nice experience because of the scenic view and pleasant temperature. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in the mountains, surrounded by stunning views. At the end of the day we drive to Hargeisa.
We’ll end our last evening with a cultural performance, including live Somali music if available (depending on the day of the week!).
Damal Hotel or similar
Breakfast
Transfer to the Airport for your departing flight.
N/A
Breakfast
To help you prepare for your trip, please ensure you understand the latest travel and health requirements and restrictions by destination, for both directions of travel, which may change frequently.
