Somaliland & Ethiopia

With Somaliland and Ethiopia, you have two of the most fascinating and historically significant countries on the continent. Ethiopia’s significance spans the world. It’s the most populous land-locked country on earth, one of only two African nations not to be fully colonised (along with Liberia) and thought to be one the earliest sites of human evolution. In contrast, Somaliland doesn’t officially exist, but the unrecognised country is one rich in Islamic culture and colonial rebellion and boasts dramatic mountains, ancient rock paintings and stunning, deserted beaches.

Our tour of both countries begins in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa with a full day touring one of the most fascinating cities in Africa with opportunities to see the world’s oldest humanoid skeleton at the National Museum and Hailie Selassie’s tomb at the Holy Trinity cathedral. Onward, we’ll pass through the historical sites of Dire Dawe and Harar before journeying to Hargeisa, for a walking tour of Somaliland’s capital city. Travelling further into Somaliland, we’ll visit the ancient cave paintings of Laas Geel (dating back to between 9000 BC and 3000 BC but only discovered as recently as 2002) and the coastal city of Berbera, which mixes dramatic modern history with opportunities to explore empty beaches and spot turtles and dolphins.

An optional Danakil Depression tour is also available, which provides the opportunity to visit the Erta Ale Volcano; Lake Giulietti, a saltwater lake 100m below sea level and the Ragad salt mines.