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How to Get to Borama

How to Get to Borama

Borama Awdal, Somalia Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Egal International Airport (HGA) in Hargeisa is the main international gateway to Somaliland. All international arrivals for Borama pass through HGA. Berbera International Airport (BBO) also handles some international flights. Several airlines serve Hargeisa, incorporating African Express Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Jubba Airways, Daallo Airlines, flydubai, and Air Djibouti.

Air Hubs

  • Main Airport: Egal International Airport (HGA), Hargeisa.
  • Typical Routes: Connect Hargeisa to Addis Ababa, Djibouti, Nairobi, Dubai.
  • No direct flights from major global hubs; routes are needed.

Flight Planning & Transfers

Flights to Hargeisa generally remain stable throughout the year. Prices can fluctuate around major Islamic holidays. Hargeisa's Egal International Airport (HGA) offers basic facilities. Borama itself does not have a major airport for international arrivals.

Travel Advice

  • Book in advance for major Islamic holidays. Dollar Flight Club for deals.
  • Arrange Hargeisa airport transfers in advance with your hotel or tour operator.
  • Ensure sufficient USD cash upon arrival in Hargeisa as ATMs are limited.

Flight Search

Skyscanner is a useful tool for finding flights to Hargeisa from various international origins.

Booking Timing

Book flights several months in advance to secure better prices, especially during peak travel seasons.

Airline Choice

Ethiopian Airlines often offers reliable connections through Addis Ababa.

Hargeisa Egal International Airport

Airport Facilities

  • Immigration and customs services.
  • A few shops for last-minute needs.
  • Options for car hire or taxis.
  • ATM availability is limited.

Transfer to Borama

  • Travelers from Hargeisa to Borama typically use land transport.
  • Taxis are available from Hargeisa airport to Hargeisa city.
  • Arrange pick-up via lodging or tour operator for peace of mind.
  • Borama is not directly served by an international airport.

Hargeisa Egal International Airport

Overview

Main international gateway to Somaliland, all international arrivals for Borama pass through HGA.

Airlines

Served by African Express, Ethiopian Airlines, Jubba, Daallo, flydubai, Air Djibouti.

Facilities

Basic facilities, immigration/customs, limited shops, car hire/taxis.

Land Transportation

Intercity Options

After arriving by air in Hargeisa, land transport is the main method for reaching Borama. Shared taxis, minibuses ('dalad' or 'coasters'), plus FOURx4 vehicles are the main modes of intercity transport. Regular shared vehicles depart from designated stations in Hargeisa. The journey to Borama typically lasts approximately 2-4 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

From Hargeisa to Borama

  • Shared Vehicles: Minibuses (dalad), collective taxis, 4x4s.
  • Journey Time: Approx. 2-4 hours.
  • Depart from main bus park in Hargeisa.

Border Crossings

The main land border crossing with Ethiopia relevant to Borama is Tog Wajale (Wajaale), west of Hargeisa and accessible from Borama.

Crossing Requirements

  • Valid Passport: And Somaliland visa (pre-obtained is safer).
  • Ethiopian Visa: Needed if entering Ethiopia.
  • Expect immigration and customs checks on both sides; processes take time.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Self-driving is not recommended for overseas travelers. Roads can be different, clear signage is often absent, and security considerations are present. Travel permits often inquire about a local driver or guide.

Driving Information

  • Self-Driving: Not recommended for tourists.
  • Hiring a Driver: Safer and more sensible option. DiscoverCars.com can help find rental cars with drivers.
  • Road Conditions: Vary, main Hargeisa-Borama road is generally paved but has rough sections.

Road Safety Concerns

Road safety can be an issue due to varying driver standards, livestock on roads, and potential for unlit vehicles at night. Travel during daylight hours is advisable for safety.

Safety Measures

  • Driver Standards: Varying standards among local drivers.
  • Road Hazards: Livestock on roads.
  • Night Travel: Unlit vehicles are a concern at night.

No Train or Sea/River Travel

  • Somaliland does not have any train services.
  • Sea and river arrivals are not applicable for Borama.
  • Borama is an inland city without significant waterways.
  • Berbera is Somaliland's main port, but it does not offer passenger ferry services for tourist arrival.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not relevant for Borama travel.
  • Borama does not feature significant river transportation.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Somaliland, generally from Hargeisa's Egal International Airport. Departure tax is usually included in air ticket prices from Hargeisa. Confirm this with your airline at the time of reservation.

Departure Checklist

  • Arrive at Egal International Airport (HGA) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
  • Departure procedures include check-in, security screening, and immigration exit stamp.
  • Allow ample time for these processes.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Hargeisa airport offers basic facilities for departing travelers. You will find limited shops and waiting areas.

Final Preparations

  • Plan to complete any last-minute purchases or meals before arriving at the airport.
  • Limited waiting areas are available.
  • Ensure all financial transactions are complete.

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm flight details and transfer arrangements well in advance of departure.

Departure Tax

Typically included in your air ticket price, but a quick check with your airline is a good idea.

Documents

Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass easily accessible for immigration and security.

Final Preparations

Accommodation Check-out

Confirm check-out times and planments with your accommodation or guesthouse in Borama or Hargeisa.

Smooth Departure

  • Confirm check-out time.
  • Settle any outstanding bills.
  • Arrange luggage storage if needed for later departure.

Local Transport to Airport

Ensure your transportation from Borama to Hargeisa (and then to the airport) is confirmed and timely.

Organized Travel

  • Pre-book private taxi or shared vehicle.
  • Account for travel time from Borama to Hargeisa.
  • Inform your local guide/contact about your departure plans.

Last-Minute Checks

Valuables

Ensure all valuables are secure and accounted for before leaving your accommodation.

Souvenirs

Pack any souvenirs carefully in your luggage, considering customs regulations.

Local Currency

Convert any remaining local currency if desired, or save for future visits.

Safe Travels

With careful planning and attention to these specifics, your departure from Somaliland will be as smooth as a arrival.

How to Get to Borama. Flights, Transportation, Airlines