Discovering Somalia’s Hidden Photographic Gems
The first time I stepped onto Lido Beach in Mogadishu back in 2018, I was utterly speechless. The turquoise waters stretched endlessly into the horizon, meeting a cloudless blue sky while local children played soccer in the distance. I fumbled with my camera, desperate to capture this moment that completely contradicted everything the media had led me to believe about Somalia. That day changed my perspective forever and ignited my passion for documenting this misunderstood country.
After seven visits spread across different regions of Somalia, I’ve compiled this guide to the country’s most Instagram-worthy locations that deserve a spot on your 2025 travel plans. Despite its troubled past, Somalia is gradually opening up to intrepid travelers, offering stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cultural experiences, and architectural wonders that will transform your social media feed.
From the pristine beaches of Mogadishu to the ancient rock art of Laas Geel, Somalia presents endless photographic opportunities for those willing to venture beyond the usual tourist paths. This guide will help you navigate these unique destinations safely while capturing images that tell authentic stories about this remarkable country.
Essential Safety Tips Before Your Photography Journey
Before diving into Somalia’s most photogenic spots, it’s crucial to address safety considerations. My experience has taught me that with proper planning, visiting Somalia can be rewarding, but it requires more preparation than your typical vacation.
Current Security Situation (Updated for 2025)
The security landscape in Somalia has improved significantly since 2021, but remains complex. Mogadishu, Hargeisa (Somaliland), and Kismayo have relatively stable environments for travelers compared to other regions. Always check the latest travel advisories before planning your trip.
Insider Tip: I’ve found that January to March offers the best combination of comfortable temperatures, clear skies for photography, and improved security conditions across most regions. The light during sunrise at coastal areas during these months is absolutely magical.
Essential Preparations
- Local Guide: Always hire a reputable local guide who understands the security situation and speaks both English and Somali. Expect to pay 50-70 USD per day for a good guide.
- Permits: Arrange photography permits in advance, especially for historical sites. In Somaliland, these cost about 15 USD per site.
- Insurance: Secure comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers Somalia. Standard policies often exclude it.
- Dress Code: Respect local customs by dressing modestly. For women, this means covering shoulders, knees, and sometimes hair.
Mogadishu’s Photographic Treasures
As Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu offers a striking contrast of historical architecture, vibrant street life, and stunning coastal views.
1. Lido Beach at Sunrise
My most memorable photographs from Somalia were taken at Lido Beach (Liido Beach) during the golden hour just after sunrise. The way the light catches the waves crashing against the white sand creates a dreamy atmosphere that feels almost surreal given Mogadishu’s turbulent history.
Photography Tips:
- Arrive by 5:30 AM to capture the fishermen preparing their boats against the backdrop of the rising sun
- Use a polarizing filter to cut glare and enhance the turquoise colors of the water
- Include locals in your compositions for scale and cultural context, but always ask permission first with “Ma sawiri karaa?” (Can I take a photo?)
2. The Ruins of the Mogadishu Cathedral
This hauntingly beautiful Italian-built cathedral dates back to the 1920s and stands as a testament to Somalia’s complex colonial history. While heavily damaged during the civil war, its remaining Gothic arches and walls create a powerful juxtaposition against the modern city that has grown around it.
During my last visit in late 2024, portions of the cathedral were under restoration – a hopeful sign of the country’s recovery and preservation efforts. The best photos come from capturing the interplay of light through the broken ceiling during mid-morning hours.
3. Shanghai Old City
This ancient neighborhood features traditional Somali architecture with influences from Arabic, Persian, and Indian styles. The narrow winding streets, weathered wooden doors, and intricately carved balconies provide endless composition opportunities for photographers interested in urban documentation.
One of my most liked Instagram photos came from this area – a simple shot of children playing among the pastel-colored buildings at dusk, with warm light spilling through doorways.
Money-saving tip: Instead of taking expensive taxis between photo locations in Mogadishu, I’ve found that using the local “mooto” motorcycle taxis costs about 2-3 USD for most journeys. Just make sure to negotiate the price beforehand and keep your camera in a padded bag to protect it from dust.
Somaliland’s Photographic Wonders
Somaliland, a self-declared independent state in northern Somalia, offers some of the country’s most spectacular and accessible photography locations.
4. Laas Geel Rock Art
My personal favorite spot in all of Somalia, the Laas Geel cave complex contains some of Africa’s oldest and best-preserved rock paintings, dating back around 5,000 years. The vivid ochre, white and yellow depictions of cattle, giraffes, and human figures have survived millennia and make for truly unique photographs.
The site is located about 50 kilometers northeast of Hargeisa. The drive itself offers stunning landscape photography opportunities, with dramatic rock formations and acacia trees dotting the horizon.
Photography Tips:
- Visit between 10 AM and 2 PM when natural light illuminates the cave interiors best
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture both the art and the cave context
- A small LED light can help highlight specific details in darker sections
- The entrance fee is 25 USD in 2025, but includes a knowledgeable local guide who can point out easily missed details
5. Sheikh Mountain Pass
The winding road through the Sheikh Mountains offers dramatic landscape photography opportunities. The elevation provides sweeping vistas of the arid plains below, while the mountain itself features unexpected greenery during certain seasons.
I made the rookie mistake of attempting this journey during midday on my first visit. The harsh overhead light created flat, uninteresting images. On my return trip, I timed our drive for late afternoon, when the low sun cast long shadows across the mountain curves and created much more dimensional photographs.
6. Berbera’s Ottoman Architecture and Beaches
This historic port city on the Gulf of Aden blends Ottoman-era buildings with pristine beaches. The contrast between the weathered historical structures and the bright blue waters makes for compelling visual storytelling.
The old quarter contains buildings dating back to the 19th century with distinctive architectural elements that photograph beautifully in the warm evening light. Meanwhile, the beaches offer a completely different aesthetic with their stretches of white sand meeting turquoise waters.
| Location | Best Time for Photography | Unique Features | Local Phrase to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berbera Old Town | 4-6 PM (Golden Hour) | Ottoman archways, weathered doors | “Sawir qurux badan” (Beautiful picture) |
| Berbera Beach | Sunrise (5:30-7 AM) | Fishing boats, clear turquoise water | “Badda waa qurux” (The sea is beautiful) |
| Daallo Mountains viewpoint | Just before sunset | Panoramic views of city and coastline | “Muuqaalka cajiib ah” (Amazing view) |
Insider tip: In Berbera, I befriended a local fisherman named Ahmed who, for about 15 USD, took me out on his boat at sunrise. This provided completely unique perspectives of the coastline and city that would be impossible to capture from land. Look for fishermen near the main dock around 5 AM if you want to arrange something similar.
Puntland’s Untouched Landscapes
The semi-autonomous northeastern region of Puntland offers some of Somalia’s most pristine and undocumented landscapes.
7. Majiyahan Valley
This hidden gem features a natural spring oasis surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. The contrast between the harsh, arid landscape and the verdant vegetation around the water source creates striking photographic opportunities.
I’ll never forget the overwhelming scent of wild mint growing along the water’s edge while I was setting up a long exposure shot of water flowing over rocks. These sensory details are what make Somalia so special – the unexpected moments of natural beauty that rarely make it into mainstream media coverage.
8. Eyl’s Cliffside Views
The coastal town of Eyl perches dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. The natural rock formations, combined with traditional Somali fishing practices visible from above, offer unique aerial-style photography opportunities without a drone (which are currently restricted in Somalia).
I discovered this location by chance when our vehicle needed repairs in 2023, forcing an unplanned overnight stay. Those unexpected detours often lead to the most authentic photographs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Photography Locations
9. Zeila’s Abandoned Buildings
Once an important port city, Zeila (also spelled Saylac) now contains atmospheric abandoned buildings that tell stories of Somalia’s pre-war prosperity. The structures are slowly being reclaimed by nature, creating fascinating textures as plants grow through crumbling walls.
My most challenging yet rewarding photographs came from this area, balancing exposure between bright exterior light and shadowy interiors. The haunting beauty of these spaces offers a poignant visual narrative about resilience and the passage of time.
10. Hobyo’s Pristine Beaches
Located on Somalia’s central coast, Hobyo features some of the most untouched beaches I’ve ever photographed. The isolation means you can capture vast stretches of coastline without another person in sight – increasingly rare in our connected world.
I made the mistake of visiting during June when unexpected rain showers created hazy conditions. For the clearest skies and best visibility, plan your visit between December and February.
11. Cal Madow Mountain Range
This dramatic mountain range in northern Somalia rises over 2,000 meters and features mist-covered peaks, hidden waterfalls, and diverse ecology that contrasts with popular perceptions of Somalia as entirely arid.
The drive through Cal Madow requires a 4×4 vehicle and plenty of time, but rewards photographers with scenes reminiscent of Middle Earth – verdant valleys cutting through dramatic rocky outcroppings. During my 2024 visit, I spotted rare frankincense trees clinging to seemingly impossible vertical cliff faces.
Urban Photography Opportunities
12. Hargeisa’s Vibrant Markets
Somaliland’s capital city offers incredible street photography opportunities, particularly at the bustling Waaheen Market. The kaleidoscope of colors from spices, textiles, and fresh produce creates vibrant compositions, while the animated interactions between vendors and customers tell compelling human stories.
I learned quickly that photography in markets requires cultural sensitivity. My approach now is to spend time building rapport with vendors, making small purchases, and using phrases like “Sawir qaadan ma karaa?” (Can I take a picture?) before bringing out my camera.
Best Items to Photograph at Waaheen Market:
- Frankincense and myrrh displays (Somalia is one of the world’s primary sources)
- Traditional Somali shawls in bright patterns
- Fresh camel meat sections (a local staple)
- Handcrafted wooden homewares
13. Mogadishu’s Peace Garden
This recently developed public space represents Mogadishu’s ongoing revitalization. Opened in 2020, the garden features colorful flower displays, walking paths, and families enjoying leisure time – providing a powerful visual counternarrative to Somalia’s conflict-dominated image.
The garden is particularly photogenic in the late afternoon when families gather and the low sunlight creates a warm glow across the landscaped areas. Include the Somali flag in some compositions to add context and a splash of blue.
Money-saving tip: Rather than purchasing expensive bottled water throughout your photography excursions, invest in a quality water purifier bottle (around 50 USD). I’ve safely used mine with tap water throughout Somalia, saving approximately 5-10 USD daily while reducing plastic waste.
Photography Equipment Recommendations for Somalia
Based on my experiences photographing across Somalia, I’ve refined my equipment recommendations to balance quality, practicality, and security concerns.
Camera Considerations
I’ve found that mirrorless cameras offer the best combination of image quality and discretion for Somalia. My Sony A7 III with weather sealing has withstood everything from Mogadishu’s coastal humidity to the dusty conditions in Laas Geel.
Recommended Lenses:
- 24-70mm f/2.8: My workhorse lens for 80% of situations
- 16-35mm f/4: Essential for architecture and landscape work
- 55mm f/1.8 prime: Perfect for portraits and low-light situations while being compact
I made the mistake of bringing a 70-200mm telephoto on my first trip, which not only attracted unwanted attention but proved less useful than expected in most scenarios. The exception would be wildlife photography in the northern regions, where distance is necessary.
Essential Accessories
| Item | Why It’s Essential | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Dust-proof camera bag | Protects equipment from Somalia’s omnipresent dust | 80-150 |
| Extra batteries (3-4) | Reliable power is inconsistent outside major cities | 25-40 each |
| Portable power bank | Charges phones and some camera batteries | 50-80 |
| Polarizing filter | Essential for coastal photography to cut glare | 30-100 |
| Microfiber cleaning cloths | Dust will be a constant companion | 10-15 |
Sustainability tip: Solar chargers work exceptionally well in Somalia due to the abundant sunshine. I use a foldable 28W panel (around 60 USD) which eliminates the need for disposable batteries and works even in remote areas without electricity.
Your 2025 Somalia Photography Action Plan
After seven trips to Somalia, I’ve learned that successful photography here requires more preparation than most destinations. Here’s my five-step action plan to help you capture stunning images while staying safe and respecting local customs:
- Research and Connect: Join online communities like the Somalia Travelers Forum or Instagram hashtags like #SomaliaTravel to connect with recent visitors. Current information is invaluable as conditions change rapidly. Arrange a reliable local guide at least 2-3 months before your trip.
- Prepare Appropriate Documentation: Beyond standard travel documents, secure photography permits for specific regions. For Somaliland, apply through their mission in your country or in neighboring Ethiopia if you’re entering via land border.
- Create a Focused Shot List: Somalia’s security situation means you’ll want to maximize productive shooting time. I organize my shot list by location, time of day, and required equipment to ensure efficient movement between sites.
- Master Cultural Photography Etiquette: Learn basic Somali phrases for asking permission, practice using your camera discretely, and understand when photography isn’t appropriate (government buildings, military checkpoints).
- Plan Your Post-Processing Workflow: Backup solutions are critical as you may have limited internet access. I travel with multiple portable hard drives and use a laptop for daily backups of memory cards.
Following these steps has allowed me to capture meaningful images while developing genuine connections with local communities. Remember that Somalia offers photographic opportunities you won’t find elsewhere, but requires respect for its unique challenges and cultural context.
The Somalia I’ve come to know through my lens is a place of extraordinary resilience, natural beauty, and cultural richness that deserves thoughtful visual documentation. The memories and images I’ve created there continue to be among my most treasured.
Frequently Asked Questions About Photography in Somalia
Is it safe to photograph in Somalia in 2025?
Safety varies significantly by region. Somaliland (northwest) and parts of Mogadishu have relatively stable security situations making photography feasible with proper precautions. Always research current conditions, hire local guides, and maintain situational awareness. During my 2024 visit, I found Hargeisa particularly accommodating for photographers.
What photography permits are required?
Requirements vary by region. In Somaliland, you need a general photography permit (25 USD) plus specific permissions for historical sites. In Mogadishu, your guide can usually arrange informal permissions with local authorities. I recommend carrying multiple copies of all permits and several passport photos for on-the-spot applications.
Can I use a drone for aerial photography in Somalia?
Drone use is heavily restricted and generally inadvisable. In most areas, flying a drone will attract immediate security attention. I once attempted to use a small DJI Mini in a remote area of Somaliland and was quickly approached by local authorities despite having what I thought was proper permission. It’s best to capture landscapes from elevated natural viewpoints instead.
How do locals feel about being photographed?
Attitudes vary widely. In tourist areas of Hargeisa and at Lido Beach, many people are accustomed to cameras. In rural areas and traditional communities, photography can be sensitive. Always ask permission with “Sawir qaadan ma karaa?” and respect if someone declines. Offering to share photos via WhatsApp often creates goodwill. I’ve found that showing people images I’ve already taken helps establish trust.
What’s the best time of year for photography in Somalia?
December through February offers the most pleasant conditions with clear skies and moderate temperatures (24-28°C/75-82°F). The coastal areas are less humid during this period, reducing haze for landscape photography. June through August brings the highest temperatures and potential dust storms that can damage equipment.
How much should I budget for a photography trip to Somalia?
For a 10-day photography-focused trip covering Mogadishu and Somaliland, budget approximately $2,000-2,500 for guides and security ($70-100/day), $800-1,200 for accommodation, $300-500 for transportation, plus food and permit costs. This is significantly higher than neighboring countries but reflects the specialized support required.
What are common mistakes photographers make in Somalia?
The three most common mistakes I’ve witnessed (and made myself) are: 1) Photographing sensitive infrastructure without permission, 2) Not respecting local customs regarding modest dress while shooting, particularly for women photographers, and 3) Being too conspicuous with expensive gear in public places. Use discreet camera bags and avoid excessive lens changing in crowded areas.
References and Further Reading
- National Geographic: “The African destination you’ve never heard of” – Excellent overview of Somaliland’s tourism potential
- BBC Travel: “The African nation that welcomes tourists” – Insight into Somaliland’s growing tourism
- World Nomads: “Security Considerations for Somalia” – Regularly updated safety information
- Somaliland Sun – Local news source for current events
- Rock Art Foundation: “Laas Geel Rock Art” – Detailed information about Somalia’s premier archaeological site
- Lonely Planet: Somalia – Basic travel information and context
- @somaligramm Instagram – Curated collection of high-quality Somalia photography
- U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory – Official safety information (updated regularly)
- Somaliland Tourism – Official tourism site with permit information
- The Guardian: “Discovering Somalia: photographer documents the life beyond war and destruction” – Inspirational photo essay
- New York Public Library Digital Collections: “Somalia in Word and Image” – Historical photography of Somalia for context and inspiration