Somalia’s tourism sector has long been treated as a global punchline, typified by a 2004 Economist article mocking the idea of visiting the country. War tourism operators occasionally cater to thrill-seekers, offering heavily guarded tours of Mogadishu’s Lido Beach, Bakara Market, and Daljirka Dahsoon. Even U.S. military figures such as Lt. Gen. Scott Miller have ventured back as “tourists” to revisit sites tied to Somalia’s turbulent history. In contrast, Somaliland enjoys a modest but steady trickle of foreign visitors, thanks to greater stability, attractions like the Laas Geel cave paintings, Hargeisa’s war memorial, and the Hargeysa International Book Fair. However, the mandatory Special Police Unit escort for non-diaspora tourists adds cost and complexity, undermining its image as a safe destination. While there is no official tourism data for Somalia or Somaliland, the potential is vast, with pristine beaches, rich cultural traditions, and emerging hospitality infrastructure in cities like Kismayo, Garowe, and Baidoa. Still, Al-Shabaab’s dominance over rural areas keeps overland tourism unsafe. For now, diaspora-driven travel remains the primary driver of investment in hotels, restaurants, and aviation. With time, improved security could transform Somalia from a perceived war zone into a niche destination for adventurous travelers and cultural explorers.