Somaliland Independence Day tour

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Efforts have been made to minimise carbon emissions throughout this itinerary by reducing unnecessary flights. The tour is designed as a combined overland journey across Somaliland, avoiding internal flights and relying on efficient road transport between destinations such as Hargeisa, Berbera, Laas Geel and Sheikh.

Transport during the trip is shared local vehicle transport, ensuring a lower carbon footprint per traveller compared to private travel. Group sizes are kept small to further reduce impact while maintaining efficiency.

Human-powered activities are incorporated into the itinerary, including walking tours in Hargeisa, Laas Geel and Berbera, allowing travellers to explore destinations at a slower pace with minimal environmental impact.

Accommodation and food choices are locally sourced wherever possible. Meals throughout the trip are predominantly locally produced and seasonal, reducing the need for imported goods and associated emissions. Vegetarian options are available daily, helping to lower the carbon footprint of meals.

Travelers are advised on how to reduce their environmental impact, including bringing reusable water bottles, minimizing plastic use, and being mindful of energy and water consumption during their stay.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

We work with locally owned accommodations and partners that are encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible practices, including reducing plastic use, managing waste, and minimizing water consumption. In a region where sustainability infrastructure is still developing, we actively select partners that demonstrate awareness and commitment to reducing environmental impact.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre, a key wildlife protection initiative in Somaliland. This centre rescues cheetahs from illegal trafficking and works toward their rehabilitation and conservation. Visitor fees and awareness generated through tourism directly contribute to the protection of this vulnerable species.

Local guides are used throughout the trip, providing education on the natural environment and ensuring that visits to sensitive sites, such as the Laas Geel rock paintings, are conducted responsibly and with respect for preservation.

Travelers are given guidance on minimizing their impact on nature, including respecting wildlife, avoiding littering, and adhering to site-specific conservation rules.

While biodiversity initiatives in Somaliland are still developing, we are committed to strengthening partnerships with conservation organizations and expanding its contribution to environmental protection over time.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

All accommodations used during this tour are locally owned, with no reliance on international hotel chains. This ensures that tourism revenue directly supports local businesses and communities.

The tour maximizes local economic benefit by employing local guides, drivers, and service providers, and by visiting local markets, cultural sites, and community spaces. Activities such as visits to Hargeisa’s Central Market and interactions with nomadic communities create direct income opportunities for local people.

In addition, part of each tour’s revenue supports community initiatives. Through the “Feed a Life Each Tour” program, monthly groceries are provided to selected low-income families in Somaliland, contributing to local welfare and food security.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

We operate with a 100% locally employed team in Somaliland and Djibouti, with the majority of staff coming from the local communities where tours operate. This includes guides, drivers, and operational staff.

The company is committed to creating opportunities for local people, including training and mentoring young guides to build skills in hospitality and tourism. This helps create long-term employment pathways in a developing tourism sector.

All staff are paid at or above local market rates, and the company promotes a fair and supportive working environment.

We value inclusivity and cultural respect. While Somaliland is a conservative destination, all travelers are welcomed and treated with respect. Travelers are advised on local customs to ensure a positive and culturally sensitive experience.

The company maintains a non-discrimination approach to employment, supporting equal opportunities regardless of background. We encourage females to work for us as tourguides. In addition, we are sponsoring a local female football club in Hargeisa.