Baraawe, also known as Barawe or Brava, is a port town on the Indian Ocean in Southern Somalia that was as renowned as Mogadishu during a golden age period around the 15th century. More recently, it like much of southern Somalia, has been paralyzed by Al-Shabaab.

Fishermen in Baraawe

See

• 1 Barawa Tower. an ancient tower built by the Italians that sits on an isle just off the coast. (updated Nov 2025)

Do

• 1 Barawe Beach. city beach that fronts the Barawa Tower. (updated Nov 2025)

Sleep

• 1 Hotel Balanbaalis, Market Road, ☏ +252 61 5571938. rustic (updated Nov 2025)

Go next

• Marka — A historic coastal town north of Baraawe.
• Mogadishu — The capital and largest city of Somalia.
• Kismayo — A major port city farther south along the Somali coast.
• Lower Shabelle — The region surrounding Baraawe and other important settlements.