Set among the rugged and dramatic landscape of Somalia, the Qandala Dunes are a unique and captivating destination for travelers. Located in the eastern part of the country, the dunes are a spectacular sight to behold, with rolling hills of sand stretching for miles in all directions. From exploring the ancient ruins of the nearby town of Qandala to taking a camel ride through the dunes, here are 10 things to do in Qandala Dunes, Somalia.
1. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Qandala
The town of Qandala is located just a few miles from the dunes and is home to some of the oldest ruins in Somalia. Here you can explore the remains of an ancient mosque, a fortress, and other archaeological sites that date back to the 8th century.
2. Take a Camel Ride
One of the best ways to experience the dunes is to take a camel ride. You can hire a local guide to take you on a tour of the dunes, or you can rent a camel for a few hours and explore the area on your own.
3. Visit the Local Markets
The nearby town of Qandala is home to a number of traditional markets where you can buy local crafts and souvenirs. Here you can also find traditional Somali food, such as sambusas (fried pastries filled with meat or vegetables) and banana pancakes.
4. Go Sandboarding
The Qandala Dunes are a great place to go sandboarding. You can rent a board from a local shop and spend the day carving up the dunes.
5. Visit the Local Wildlife
The Qandala Dunes are home to a variety of wildlife, including gazelles, hyenas, and even the occasional lion. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a rare oryx.
6. Take a Hike
The dunes are a great place to go for a hike. With miles of sand to explore, you can spend the day trekking through the dunes and taking in the stunning views.
7. Go Bird Watching
The Qandala Dunes are a great place to go bird watching. Here you can spot a variety of birds, such as flamingos, pelicans, and sandgrouse.
8. Visit the Local Villages
The area around the dunes is home to a number of small villages where you can learn about traditional Somali culture and meet the locals.
9. Go Fishing
The nearby town of Qandala is home to a number of freshwater lakes where you can go fishing. Here you can catch a variety of fish, such as catfish, tilapia, and barbel.
10. Relax on the Beach
The Qandala Dunes are located on the coast of Somalia, and the nearby beaches are a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area. Here you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the stunning views.
The Qandala Dunes are a unique and captivating destination, and there are plenty of things to do here. From exploring the ancient ruins of Qandala to going sandboarding, there’s something for everyone in this stunning area of Somalia.