Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting There & Away
Although improved security meant the Sanaag province was accessible to foreigners dur-
ing our research, it's still wise to get the latest security information from the Ministry of
Commerce, Industry & Tourism (
Click here
) in Hargeisa before setting off. The official
requirement for travel east of Burao is that foreign visitors must travel in a private 4WD
with at least one Special Protection Unit (SPU) guard (although a second one may be re-
quired). It's also sensible to hire a guide/interpreter. This can be arranged through travel
agencies and larger hotels in Hargeisa. Make sure to have a driver who is familiar with the
region.
You'll also need a letter of permission from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry &
Tourism - you'll be asked to show this permit at the various checkpoints on the road
between Erigavo and Maydh. It's also wise to inform the Ministry of Interior of your itin-
erary. Once in Erigavo, it's advisable to meet with the governor and the mayor and let
them know about your itinerary in the area.
Borama
POP 190,000
The provincial capital of Borama feels different from other urban centres in Somaliland,
not least because of its sizable student population - approximately 2500 students are en-
rolled at
Amoud University
(
www.amouduniversity.org
)
in the Amoud Valley, some 5km
east of the centre. It's certainly not hedonistic, but there's a fluid, lively energy to the city.
The setting is alluring - Borama lies at an altitude of 1450m amid mildly undulating
hills, and it's greener than most other areas in the country. That said, there's little in the
way of sightseeing, the one exception being the sprawling
market
in the centre.
Overall it's a pleasant spot, with a decent selection of places to stay and good transport
facilities. It's also a good base to lay over between Hargeisa and Djibouti.
Sleeping & Eating
Rays Hotel $$
( 614370, 350313; s/d US$20/25; )
The Rays is the pick of Borama's accommod-
ation, and has neat rooms with excellent bathrooms and crisp, clean bedding. A huge
HOTEL
