The Berbera Coast

Berbera, an ancient port on the Gulf of Aden coast of northern Somalia, sits beside some of the most beautiful and empty beaches in the region, long sweeps of soft white sand meeting the warm, clear turquoise sea. For centuries a key trading town on the routes between Africa, Arabia and India, it preserves old coral-stone buildings and a storied maritime past. Offshore, fringing coral reefs draw the adventurous for snorkelling and diving in warm waters rich with fish. Backed by dramatic desert hills that meet the sea, and blessed with near-deserted shores, the Berbera coast is a hidden gem of the Somali seaboard.

What you actually see

• The white beaches - the long empty sweeps of soft white sand.
• The turquoise sea - the warm, clear Gulf of Aden waters.
• The coral reefs - the offshore reefs for snorkelling and diving.
• The old port town - the historic coral-stone trading buildings.

When to go

November to February, the cooler months, are the most comfortable on this hot coast, when the beaches and warm sea are at their most inviting; the Gulf of Aden coast is intensely hot in summer. The clear, calm winter waters are best for snorkelling and diving.

Honest expectations

Berbera's coast is remote with limited tourist facilities, so it suits travellers ready for a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path beach experience rather than resort comforts, and the summer heat is fierce. As a hidden coast of long empty white beaches, warm turquoise sea and offshore reefs beside a storied old port, though, the Berbera coast is a genuine and unspoiled gem.

Nearby

The historic town of Berbera and the desert hills behind it lie nearby.