Erigavo Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, cultural norms, and safety information for Erigavo, Somaliland in East Africa.


Located in Somaliland, East Africa, Erigavo is an exciting travel destination with lots to offer. This comprehensive tour guide provides all the information you need to plan your visit to the city. From the best things to do and places to visit, to information on safety and getting around, this guide has everything you need to know about Erigavo.

Introduction to Erigavo

Erigavo is a small city located in the Sanaag region of Somaliland. Located about 130 miles northeast of Hargeisa, the capital city of Somaliland, Erigavo is surrounded by rugged mountain ranges and arid terrain. This gives the city a unique landscape and an ideal destination for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts. The residents of Erigavo are friendly, and the culture is a blend of the Somali and Isaaq communities.

List of Places to Visit in Erigavo

When visiting Erigavo, you cannot miss the following places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Erigavo Heritage Museum- This museum features numerous artifacts related to Somali culture and history.
  2. Taleh (Ottoman Empire Fortress)- Take a trip to the Taleh fortress and learn more about the amazing history of Erigavo
  3. Ximan Dhaguur- a rock art site and one of Somaliland’s seven wonders.

Natural Attractions of Erigavo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Shimbiris- The highest peak in Somalia and a paradise of birds, animals and plant species. Hikers and mountain climbers will enjoy scaling this iconic mountain.
  2. Dhulbahante Plateau-The perfect spot for birdwatching and enjoying the natural views of Somaliland.
  3. Dabaraad coastal town, a site with beautiful sand dunes and a clear view of the Indian Ocean.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Erigavo

Erigavo is a hiker’s paradise. Explore the numerous hiking trails with scenic views of the city, the mountains, and wildlife. Some popular routes include:

  1. Mount Shimbiris
  2. Dhulbahante Plateau
  3. Cal Madow Mountains

Best Things to Do in Erigavo: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the rock art at Ximan Dhaguur
  2. Tour the Erigavo Heritage Museum
  3. Hike up to the top of Mount Shimbiris
  4. A City tour with activities such as visiting the local markets and interacting with the friendly locals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Erigavo

Day 1: Arrival and check-in to a hotel.

Day 2: Visit the Taleh Fortress and explore the nearby areas

Day 3: Visit the Mt. Shimbiris and hike along the trails.

Day 4: Visit Dabaraad coastal town for a refreshing view of the Indian Ocean.

Day 5: Take a city tour with activities such as visiting the local markets

Day 6: Hike the Dhulbahante Plateau

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Erigavo

Somali cuisine is diverse and tasty. When in Erigavo, you should try the following dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Goat or beef and rice
  2. Digaag Qumbe (chicken with coconut)
  3. Lahoh (sourdough pancake)

Local Beverages

  1. Somali tea (Shah or Chai)
  2. Shaah halwa, a tea with added local sweets

Where to Stay in Erigavo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Erigavo has a variety of hotel options for all budgets. Here are some options to consider:

  1. Hotel Tawfiq Plaza
  2. Gacan-libah Hotel
  3. Xeebta Hotel

What to Buy in Erigavo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Erigavo, you can purchase locally made handicrafts and souvenirs. Here are some of the things to look out for;

  1. Handmade woven baskets
  2. Traditional fabrics
  3. Leather goods
  4. Handmade jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Erigavo

The people of Erigavo are welcoming and friendly, with a culture that is a blend of the Somali and Isaaq communities. One important culture to know is the Islamic culture since most residents practice Islam.

Best Time to Visit Erigavo

The best time to visit Erigavo is from November to February since the weather is cooler, and the scenery is more pleasant. Avoid visiting from March to May when the weather is too hot, and there are frequent dust storms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Erigavo

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering.
  2. Respect local customs and traditions.
  3. Greet people with the Islamic greeting, “Assalam alaikum.”

Don’t:

  1. Carry large amounts of cash or wear flashy jewelry.
  2. Take photos of people without their consent.
  3. Eat in public during Ramadan.

Safety and Health

Safety in Erigavo

Erigavo is generally peaceful and safe; however, exercise caution when visiting remote areas and avoid traveling at night.

Health in Erigavo

Ensure you have updated vaccinations against diseases such as yellow fever and malaria. It is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid raw fruits and vegetables.

Getting to Erigavo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Erigavo

Berbera Airport is the closest airport to Erigavo. This airport is located about 210 km away from the city. You can either take a bus or a private car to the city.

Bus Stations Near Erigavo

The city has a main bus station where you can catch a bus to other Somali cities such as Mogadishu, Berbera, and Hargeisa.

Other Options

You can hire a private car to take you to Erigavo from other Somali cities such as Hargeisa or Berbera.

How to Get Around in Erigavo

When in Erigavo, you can get around by taking a taxi, hiring a car, or riding a bike.

Where to Go Next from Erigavo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some other destinations you can explore from Erigavo:

  1. Berbera city and its old architecture
  2. Las Geel rock paintings and the nearby national park
  3. Hargeisa, the capital city of Somaliland.

Conclusion

Erigavo is a unique travel destination with much to offer. From hiking and outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and local cuisine, Erigavo has something for everyone. You can visit any time of the year, and with this guide, you are equipped with all the necessary information to plan a memorable trip. Enjoy!