Tuesday September 29, 2015
There is a trip so dangerous that the tourists are escorted by armed guards and a translator at all times. Travel groups risk terror attacks, bloodshed, and death to visit this place that is so embroiled in violence that they are not even allowed to exit their travel vehicle. And yet, people still visit. So where in the world is this, and is it possibly the most dangerous vacation in the world?Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, has been torn by civil war and unrest for years. However, one organization that specializes in adventure trips to untamed, dangerous places is putting Mogadishu on the map as a coveted destination.The travel group called Untamed Borders offers a 48-hour trip to Somalia to those willing to brave the risks—and who can afford the $1,300 price, which does not include the cost of airfare. Those who participate in the Somalia trip are taken to the local beaches, outdoor marketplaces and various landmarks.
TMike Ogden, a 22-year-old from New Hampshire, shared his experience on the trip with the Daily Mail. He said he happened upon the trip’s itinerary online, and felt it would be worth it.
According to Ogden, on his trip the group would constantly encounter people carrying weapons openly in the street.
“‘I knew I would be going to a more dangerous place for foreigners, however the precautions taken pre-trip and on-trip were good enough that I felt all realistic safety precautions were in place,” Odgen said.
It should be noted that the United States advises against tourism to Somalia, due to the unrest in the area.
Ultimately Odgen said the trip was indeed worth it, despite the many dangers, and that the people he met and the things he saw made lasting memories.
He noted that the local people were what made the trip such a rewarding experience, in so far as putting the world into perspective.
“The resilience of the Somali people and the belief that they will have continuous peace some day is a stronger passion than I have ever seen before in other,” he said.