Mogadishu Sights and Landmarks Guide, Somalia

Mogadishu, Somalia is not really the best travel destination in the world, but that is due to the ongoing tension in that region. Travelers are given the recommendation that they should find out about the current affairs in a country before they begin to plan a holiday there.

The main attraction in the country is Kismayu National Park, which is not too far from Mogadishu. The park features many common species to East Africa, plus a few that are rare.

The valley region of Hargeisa is another attraction in Somalia that is located north of Mogadishu. There are various animals found here, like zebras, antelopes, wild boars, lions, warthogs, leopards, as well as rare species in Africa such as Somali wild ass and Somali sheep.

Along the coast of the Indian Ocean are some great beaches in Mogadishu, as well as coral reefs, that run along to Kenya. Some of these are the longest you can find in the world. Along the south shore of the city is the location of the Shanghai/Old City, which was once called the 'Beach Club'. This is where the wealthier people and Italian expatriates would gather. The setup of the building reflects that this spot was once very beautiful, and some of the best hotels were actually in the Shanghai area of Mogadishu. Now, however, it has been completely destroyed and is virtually lifeless. Tours may pass by to show it, but nobody can get out of the vehicle they are in to look around or to take pictures.

Bakara Market

Probably the most popular place to go is to the Bakara Market, which is the busiest and largest market that Mogadishu hosts. The items of purchase here range from regular life necessities, like food and clothes, to automatic weapons, ammunition, grenades, and even stolen passports of foreigners. This spot is a site with many activities. The Bakara Market is also popular for its illicit activities, like forging important documents.

The market was developed during late 1972 when Siad Barre's regime reigned, and it is called Cabdalle Shideeye after one of the proprietors. During and following the civil war the market expanded a lot, becoming notorious for selling such a wide variety of items. This spot is a main focus of ongoing efforts for arms control for the disarmament of the country, and in recent years, it has caught on fire a number of times.