“Discovering Berbera: Saaxil’s Amazing Rock Formations”

Along the dramatic coastline and desert landscapes of the Berbera in the Saaxil region of Somaliland, a remarkable natural site has recently drawn attention for its striking beauty and historical mystery. Towering rock formations, sculpted by wind and time, rise from the dry terrain like ancient monuments—creating a scene that visitors describe as both amazing and shocking in its scale.

This newly highlighted location was brought to wider attention through the efforts of local explorer Maxamed Cabdi Cali, who documented the site and shared it with Horn Explore, a travel initiative dedicated to promoting the hidden natural and cultural heritage of the Horn of Africa.

A Landscape of Natural Wonders

The rock formations in this area stand as silent witnesses to geological processes that have unfolded over millions of years. Layers of sandstone and sediment have been shaped by erosion into towering pillars and cliffs that resemble ancient fortresses or statues carved by nature itself.

Visitors approaching the site often describe a sense of discovery similar to arriving at an archaeological monument. The isolation of the landscape, combined with the dramatic cliffs, creates an atmosphere of mystery. Though not yet widely studied, the formations may hold geological and historical importance for understanding the environmental history of the Saaxil region.

Discovery and Local Exploration

According to local accounts, the site gained wider recognition when Maxamed Cabdi Cali documented the formations during regional exploration journeys. Images and reports were then shared with Horn Explore, which has been working to map and introduce lesser-known destinations across Somaliland.

Through this collaboration, awareness of the site has spread to travelers, photographers, and researchers interested in the region’s natural heritage. The discovery highlights how local knowledge and community exploration continue to reveal new destinations across Somaliland.

Tourism Potential in Saaxil

The Saaxil region already hosts some of Somaliland’s most visited coastal and mountain destinations, including:

Coastal landscapes near Berbera

Mountain routes toward Sheikh

Desert valleys and rock formations

The newly documented rock formations add another layer to the region’s tourism potential. With careful preservation and responsible tourism planning, the site could become an important stop for:

Geology enthusiasts

Adventure travelers

Photographers

Cultural tourism groups

Organizations like Horn Explore aim to promote such locations while ensuring respect for the environment and local communities.

Why This Place Matters

Discoveries like this remind us that Somaliland still holds many undocumented natural wonders. While famous sites such as Laas Geel are internationally recognized, many other locations remain known only to local communities.

Highlighting these places helps:

Support sustainable tourism

Create economic opportunities

Preserve natural heritage

Encourage research and documentation

Conclusion

The rock formations of Saaxil near Berbera represent more than a scenic landscape—they symbolize the ongoing discovery of Somaliland’s hidden treasures. Thanks to the efforts of local explorers like Maxamed Cabdi Cali and organizations such as Horn Explore, new destinations continue to emerge, offering travelers a deeper understanding of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

As exploration continues, Somaliland’s deserts, mountains, and coastlines will likely reveal even more remarkable places waiting to be documented and shared with the world.

Hornexplore 2026