There are already many travel guides for tourists in the works, but not many of them offer professional advice. If you’re planning a trip to this fascinating African city and want to find out more about the locals and their culture, then definitely check out this article!
Map of Mogadishu
Mogadishu is a coastal Somali city that has been inhabited for centuries. The first inhabitants of the area where Mogadishu now stands were the Afar people. In the 9th century, the Somali Sultanate was established in the city and it became an important trading center for goods coming in from the Indian subcontinent. In the late 12th century, Mogadishu came under the rule of the Muslim Adal Sultanate. During this time, trade between Europe and Africa increased and Mogadishu became one of the most important ports in Somalia. In 1593, Omani forces led by Ahmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi captured Mogadishu from the Portuguese after a three-year siege. The Omanis remained in control of the city until 1869 when it was annexed by Italy as part of Italian Somaliland. In 1960, following Italian withdrawal from Somalia, British forces took control of Mogadishu and it became part of independent Somalia in 1960.
The Best Things To Do In Mogadishu Travel Guide For Tourists Photo Gallery
What to do in Mogadishu?
Mogadishu is the capital of Somalia and the most populous city in the country. The city has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, and is home to several important cultural attractions, including the Mogadishu mosque and the Mogadishu Port. With so much to see and do in Mogadishu, tourists will never run out of things to do here.
Where to eat in Mogadishu?
Where to eat in Mogadishu?
Mogadishu has a wide variety of restaurants, from international chains to hole-in-the-wall joints catering to every budget. There’s definitely something for everyone, whether you want to splurge on a five-star meal or stick to the local standards. Here are some of our favourites:
1. Villa Restaurant
With its opulent decor and long list of international dishes, Villa Restaurant is one of the city’s top addresses for gourmet dining. The setting is exquisite, with manicured gardens and a outdoor pool that sets the perfect backdrop for an elegant dinner. Reservations are recommended during peak season.
2. Mama Said
This popular Somali eatery is well known for its shawarma (kebabs) and Somali flatbreads such as injera. Mama Said also offers a wide variety of Continental dishes such as pizzas and pastas, as well as a range of soft drinks and beers. It can get quite busy so be prepared to queue up!
3. Falafel House
Falafel House is another great option if you’re looking for delicious Middle Eastern cuisine in the city. It’s an extremely popular spot for lunch and dinner so make sure you get there early or order ahead. The restaurant also serves a range of other Middle Eastern drinks, such as shai, tea and mint tea.
How to get around Mogadishu?
There is no one definitive way to get around Mogadishu, though most visitors use a combination of public transportation and taxis. The best way to get started is by reading our comprehensive guide to navigating Mogadishu. Here we will cover the basics of bus routes, taxi prices, and tips for avoiding scams when using either form of transportation.
Public transportation in Mogadishu can be frustratingly difficult to figure out. Bus routes are often confusing and marked only in Somali, not English. Taxis also tend to be expensive, with a ride from the city center costing about 50 US dollars or more. If you plan on relying mainly on public transportation, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the routes before you arrive in Mogadishu.
There are a few reliable bus services that run throughout the city. The first option is the Blue Bus Company, which runs between various points throughout the city center. Buses depart from near the Somalia National Museum and cost 25 US dollars per trip. The second option is the Green Bus Company, which operates a similar route but also offers service to suburbs outside of the city center. Tickets cost 30 US dollars each way.
Tips and tricks for visiting Mogadishu
Mogadishu is a beautiful city that is full of culture and history. If you are planning to visit Somalia, then Mogadishu should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of your time in this fascinating city:
1) Take an organized tour. The best way to see everything in Mogadishu is to take an organized tour with a reputable company. There are many options available, so it’s important to do your research before choosing one.
2) Be aware of your surroundings. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings when you are in Mogadishu. Avoid walking around alone at night, and don’t flash money around if you don’t have to. Keep a low profile and avoid confrontation if possible.
3) Make sure you have the right insurance coverage. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance coverage in case something goes wrong while you are visiting a foreign country. Make sure you understand the coverage that your policy offers before buying it.
4) Respect the culture and customs of the locals. The Somalis are a very friendly people, and they love to share their culture. But a visitor should know when it is appropriate to shake hands with someone or offer a gift. In most situations it’s perfectly fine for the locals to say “wazzubook?” or “arey waxkaxi” which means “how are you?”
5) Avoid being in your hotel room alone at night. Learn about the best security measures that hotels take, such as placing guest safes in every room, locking doors from the inside and screening doors to make sure no one can get inside without ringing a doorbell. And stay away from putting your wallet on the hall table by your room door if you’re not home.
Useful websites and resources
1. The best sites for booking hotels, flights and other travel arrangements in Mogadishu are: TripAdvisor, Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity.
2. For information on visiting the cityscape of Mogadishu, be sure to check out this website: Mogadishu City Guide.
3. One great way to experience Somali culture is by booking a tour with a local Somali company like Safari Adventures. They offer a variety of cultural experiences like camel rides, homestays with local families and visits to traditional nomadic villages.
4. For more information on what to see and do while in Mogadishu, be sure to consult the following websites: Lonely Planet’s guide to Somalia, What’s On Mogadishu and Somalia Tourist Board’s website.
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