Despite the constant threat of terror attacks, kidnapping and murder, the most daring tourists are queuing to explore bustling markets and idyllic beaches in one of the most volatile cities in the world. Scroll down for video. Untamed Borders takes individuals or small groups of holidaymakers to Mogadishu, where they are accompanied by armed guards.
Although Mogadishu lacks conventional attractions, the trip's itinerary includes visits to local beaches, bustling markets and landmarks. US tourist Mike Ogden right said his favourite stop on the trip was Jazeera Beach, where he had a chance to speak to local fishermen.
Mr Ogden, a custom woodworker from Nashua, New Hampshire, booked the trip with Untamed Borders , an adventure travel firm which specialises in individual or small group trips to some of the most dangerous or unusual places on Earth. Even though the US and other Western countries advise against travel to Somalia, in the horn of Africa, Mr Ogden decided to visit last March after finding the itinerary on the internet, and he was confident he would be safe while being accompanied by a four-man, two-vehicle armed escort.
Ordinary mishaps can be dangerous in Somalia, and by the same token what we consider dangerous is routine, such as hearing AK47s at night. One of the stops on Untamed Borders' itinerary is Mogadishu Cathedral, which is in ruins after decades of fighting in the capital. Holidaymakers visit landmarks such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier pictured and the national football stadium.
The wreckage of Belarusian plane that was shot down over Mogadishu, killing 11 people, is still on the streets eight years later. Holidaymakers who book the trip through Untamed Borders are offered a rare glimpse of life inside one of the most dangerous cities. Few Western tourists have dared to visit Mogadishu in recent years due to civil war and the constant threat of terror attacks.
