How to Find Luxury Hotels In Mogadishu, Somalia

Mogadishu is the capital of Somalia as well as its largest city. Due to the current political unrest in Somalia, it's not advisable for Americans to travel there. If you must stay there overnight, make your stay as safe and comfortable as possible. Follow these steps to make your stay the best it can be.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Find Luxury Accommodations in Mogadishu, Somalia

1. Be aware that there are no central booking agencies operating in Mogadishu. Therefore, there are no online or telephone resources available for booking your accommodations.

2. Research any accommodations before you visit. The Safahi Hotel at the K4 intersection is considered one of the best in Mogadishu. However, be advised that there's another hotel with this same name that doesn't have a good reputation. There is no direct booking information available for this Safahi hotel; but, you can book it through your local travel agent.

3. Try the Ambassador in Hargeisa, Somalia. This 4-star hotel also has a good reputation.

4. Find non-public lodging. If the purpose of your trip is to visit someone in Mogadishu, try and stay with them. It will most likely be more comfortable, safer and cheaper than staying in a luxury hotel.

5. Be aware that luxury accommodations in Mogadishu are extremely limited and that staying in a hotel cannot guarantee your safety.

6. Choose safety over luxury. Try to stay only in places recommended by someone you trust.

Take Precautions in Mogadishu, Somalia

1. Be careful of infectious diseases like malaria, cholera, rabies, meningitis and others. Medical treatment, especially for tourists, is virtually nonexistent.

2. Drink only sterilized or bottled water. Milk in Somalia is not pasteurized and should be avoided.

3. Stay aware of current political events when scheduling a trip to Somalia.

Stay Busy in Mogadishu, Somalia

1. Shop. There are a number of street markets in Mogadishu, including the famous Bakara Market.

2. See the Sheikh Abdul Aziz Mosque. Legend has it this stunning architectural marvel wasn't built by humans but by deities.

3. Visit the Hammawein. Also referred to as Xamar Weyne, this old section of Mogadishu is known for its jewelry, fabric and carved meerschaum pipes.

4. Relax at the Gezira Beach, a popular, local hangout.

5. Take in the culture at the National Museum of Somalia. Among the items on display are pottery, coins, gravestones, daggers and swords.

Find a Way to Get to Mogadishu, Somalia

1. Fly. The Mogadishu airport is only 6 kilometers outside the city. Taxis are available for further transportation.

2. Drive. Entrance into Somalia by car is possible through border crossings in Djibouti, Kenya and Ethiopia.

3. Sail. This is the preferred method of entry into Somalia. It's quicker and safer than by road. There's a port in Mogadishu for close access.

Tips & Warnings

• When shopping in Mogadishu, be sure to bargain!

• Be sure to check in advance if border crossings are open.

• There is no official Web site or phone number with booking information for Mogadishu, Somalia.

• Travel into Somalia by car only if absolutely necessary. The roads are generally unpaved and unsafe. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.