Passing through Berbera Airport? A layover in Berbera is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Berbera, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Somalia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Berbera is roughly 60 minutes from BBO via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in SOS. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from BBO to Berbera
The most straightforward way into Berbera is the Taxi, which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Berbera might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at BBO aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Berbera itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Berbera
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Berbera, two standouts are:
- Berbera Beach — You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
- Berbera Old Town & Central Market — The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside BBO — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Berbera Airport General Waiting Area
- Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs
Where to Eat
- In the city: Berbera Seafood Grill and Berbera Traditional Kitchen are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Berbera.
- At the airport: Berbera Airport Cafe and Terminal Snack Point will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at BBO
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BBO has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BBO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Berbera itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Somalia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Berbera exploring the streets or relaxing at BBO, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.