Somalia’s Camel Farms Offer Tourists a Taste of Heritage and Innovation
Islamabad — Somalia, long known for its breathtaking coastline and deep-rooted cultural traditions, is now adding another compelling reason to visit: camel tourism. At the forefront of this unique attraction is Beder Camel Farm, just outside Mogadishu, where tradition meets innovation in a way that’s capturing the imagination of visitors and investors alike.
On a sun-kissed June morning, Beder Camel Farm looked more like an open-air museum of Somali heritage than a commercial dairy. Dozens of camels roamed across sandy paddocks, guided by skilled herders in traditional attire. But the real magic happens in the milking sheds and yogurt production rooms — a behind-the-scenes look that’s now being opened to tourists for the first time.
With over 7 million camels — more than any other country on Earth — Somalia is embracing its identity as the land of camels and turning a centuries-old symbol into a modern-day attraction.
“This is not just a farm. It’s a living story of Somalia’s pastoral heritage and our drive toward food innovation,” says Dr. Abdirisak Mire Hashi, the farm’s veterinarian and manager. “We are showing the world that Somalia has more to offer than just natural beauty — we have culture, health innovation, and opportunity.”
From Camel to Cup — A Tourism Experience Like No Other
Beder Camel Farm is now offering guided tours where local and international visitors can learn about camel care, witness the milking process, and even sample fresh camel milk and yogurt on-site. The farm’s crown jewel is its state-of-the-art yogurt factory — the first of its kind in Somalia — where fresh camel milk is transformed into a creamy, nutritious product now widely sold across Mogadishu.
Visitors are often surprised to learn that camel milk is not only lactose-friendly but also rich in vitamin C, iron, zinc, and probiotics. Nutritionist Dr. Yahye Sholle describes it as “a superfood that supports bone health, strengthens immunity, and improves digestion — a must-try for health-conscious travelers.”
Riding the Wave of Agri-Tourism
The Somali Ministry of Livestock is actively supporting efforts to develop camel-based agri-tourism and boost the country’s dairy value chain. “From farm visits to camel milk cosmetics, Somalia’s camel industry is rich with tourism potential,” said Dr. Kasim Abdi Moalim, Director of Animal Health. “We are modernizing laws and attracting investors to grow this sector as part of our national development plan.”
Beder Camel Farm’s CEO, Jama Omar, envisions a future where Somalia’s camel farms become international destinations. “We already have the heritage, now we are building the infrastructure,” he said. “Tourists want authentic experiences. Here, they don’t just take photos — they connect with the land, the people, and a way of life that’s timeless.”
The farm employs around 200 full-time workers, with seasonal hiring surges that also benefit nearby communities. As more collection centers and training programs roll out, the reach of Somalia’s camel dairy sector is expected to expand to remote regions, creating rural jobs and supporting food security.
A Symbol of National Identity
For Somali people, the camel is more than an animal — it is a symbol of survival, resilience, and pride. Now, that symbolism is taking new shape as Somalia positions itself on the global tourism map.
Tour operators in Mogadishu are beginning to include camel farm tours and tastings in their packages, offering visitors a rare blend of tradition, science, and sustainability. Whether you’re an eco-tourist, a food lover, or simply curious, a visit to a Somali camel farm promises a deeply authentic and educational experience.
As the golden sun sets over the paddocks and the silhouettes of camels move gently across the landscape, one thing becomes clear — in Somalia, progress walks on four legs, with tradition as its guide.
BY: The Times Union
