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The people that call this breakaway republic home quietly go about their business largely free of the devastating breakdown in law and order that continues to affect the country’s south, and makes it a no-go for tourists.
Roughly equated to pre-independence British Somaliland, the country has had its own flag, currency, president, and government since 1991. However, it remains unrecognised by the international community.
Despite this, Somaliland has embassies abroad. You’ll only be able to enter this intriguing nation with a Somaliland visa rather than a Somali one.
If you’re thinking of exploring this northwest portion of Somalia, you’ll need to known the best time to visit Somaliland.
Geographical variation
Before I get to specific seasonal breakdowns, I first need to detail some of the geography of Somaliland. Its physical geography has a significant impact on the nation’s weather.
For instance, the highest temperatures in the country are found on the coastal plain known as the Guban. This is where you’ll find the second city of Berbera and its stunning beaches. Lying on the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Aden, it also has the least rainfall.
Immediately inland from the Guban is a chain of mountains roughly echoing the pattern of the coast, known as the Oogo. It separates the Guban from the plateau called the Hawd. This is where you’ll find the Somaliland capital, Hargeisa.
Temperatures in the Oogo are lower than those in the Guban, largely because of the increase in altitude here. The Hawd is an important grazing zone for cattle. It receives most of the country’s rain (approximately 450 mm annually, compared to London’s 580 mm).
Temperature
Just north of the equator, Somaliland follows the pattern of four seasons as in Europe and North America. This means you’ll find the cooler months ranging from October to February each year. The hottest temperatures run from May to September.
That said, temperatures never dip much below 25°C. They can peak at an uncomfortable 40°C plus in the height of summer. Having visited in June myself, I can confirm it gets very uncomfortable very quickly.
The wet seasons
Somaliland also has two annual rainy seasons, often called the major (or big) and minor (small) rains. The major rains run from late March until early June. During these months, humidity can hit 80%.
Later June through to August are usually dry, with humidity levels falling significantly. However, the Karan rains create scattered showers across the Oogo. These summer months, or Hagaa, are typified by high temperatures. Hot winds offer little respite from the heat.
Dry seasons
Hagaa is followed by the minor rains, which generally fall between September and the beginning of November. As the name suggests, these months see less rain than those earlier in the year.
Not only is winter the coolest time of year across Somaliland, but it is the driest season of the year too. The Hawd sees almost no rain, although the Guban receives some rain between December and February.
Other considerations
Less than 700 miles (1,000 km) from the equator, the sun is strong in Somaliland throughout the year. Using sunscreen is a very good idea for anyone with fair skin. Sun protection such as a hat or even an umbrella is also important. I found there to be very little other shade to take advantage of.
The best time to visit Somaliland
To make the most of your time in Somaliland you’ll want to avoid the worst of the rains. This rules out much of the spring for anyone looking to check out the beaches on the Gulf of Aden.
Summer temperatures and humidity levels also rule out these months unless you plan to head to the Oogo mountains. Cooler temperatures and low rainfall means the winter months are the best time to visit Somaliland for most people.
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