Laas Geel, about 55 kilometres northeast of Hargeisa, contains some of the best-preserved Neolithic rock art in Africa. Ten cave alcoves hold paintings estimated to be between 5,000 and 11,000 years old, depicting cattle, humans, and dogs in ochre, red, and white. The colours are remarkable — vivid against the granite walls, protected from rain by the overhanging rock and the dry climate. The animals are shown in profile with decorated markings, and the style is confident and precise in a way that makes them immediately striking even to someone who knows nothing about rock art.
The drive from Hargeisa takes about two hours on a paved road. A local guide is required and can be arranged in the city or at the site. The caves are guarded by a small team of caretakers. Entry fees apply and go toward site maintenance. Come in the morning if possible — the afternoon light inside the alcoves is less clear, and the heat in the caves builds through the day.