Visiting
Birding tours
We know of no organised birding tours to Somalia.
Guides
There are no birding guides known in Somalia.
Trip reports
Eurobirding, an excellent site for trip reports has but a single report at the present time which includes Somalia. This intrepid birdwatcher travelled overland from South Africa to Ethiopia and included Somalia en route.
We understand that Giles Mulholland visited "Somaliland" in December 2003 and produced a trip report but we do not have a reference for it at this time.
The following Somali Ecological Society publications are available from John Leefe, The Spinney, Clipsham Road, Stretton, Oakham, Leicestershire LE15 7QS. All are photocopies except the first: Birdwatching in Southern Somalia; Checklist of the Birds of Somalia; Checklist of the Mammals of Somalia; Birds of the Balcad NR; Checklist of the Birds of the Balcad NR; A Guide to the Mammals of the Balcad NR; Nature Trail Guide of the Balcad NR; SES Newsletters 1-5.
Logistics
The following notes admittedly plagiarised from the internet demonstrate that Somalia is a country which can be visited by the determined traveller. "I went to Northern Somalia in Summer 2000 travelling from New York to Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines, then on to Hargeisa. Daallo Airlines now has flights from Amsterdam / Paris / London to the Horn of Africa. I stayed at local hotels in Hargeisa. I also travelled by rental car to the cities of Berbera, Amoud and Burao which were all very beautiful. I flew to Calmadow in Sanaag Region known for its beautiful green mountains and scenery. I travelled to the port of Bosaso in the north-east, and LaasCanood. All in all an incredible trip. I would suggest against going to Southern Somalia because it is still too dangerous for tourists but I would recommend Northern Somalia."
Safety
See Lonely Planet for a safety warning.
Other safety and health issues are no different from those in many African countries. Guidebooks, travel companies and websites provide much of the advice one needs, but key points warrant repetition here: (1) be aware of the risk of malaria and seek current advice, sleep in a sealed tent or under a net and take prophylaxis as recommended; (2) always ensure you have sufficient water and some method of purification (even if this comprises a pot and a campfire for boiling); (3) do not underestimate the danger of being in the sun for too long, ensure you use sun-block, drink plenty of water and wear a hat; (4) be aware of the risk of AIDS; (5) ensure that you take a reasonably-equipped first-aid pack with you including supplies of hypodermic and suturing needles. See the following 2 websites for safety and travel information: US Travel and UK FCO.
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