Overview
Venture into Ethiopia’s otherworldly Danakil Depression, where active volcanoes, vast salt lakes, and surreal landscapes offer an unforgettable adventure. This tour takes you deep into the Afar region to witness Earth’s raw and captivating geological wonders.
Itinerary
Early morning, take 1-hour flight to Semera the capital of Danakil Depression region, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. In the afternoon, visit Lake Afdera and salt mining center. Late afternoon, visit Erta Ale, one of the few active volcanoes in the world with a permanent lava lake. Take 30 minutes moderate trek to the base of the volcano and enjoy the dramatic lava lake. Overnight camping at Erta Ale.
In the morning drive to Dallol, on the way enjoy the vast desert of the Danakil Depression. In the afternoon visit Dallol, a surreal landscape of colorful hydrothermal fields, salt formations, and acidic hot springs. Explore the unique geological formations. Late afternoon, visit Lake Asale, a Salt Lake where you can witness the traditional salt mining and Camel Caravan. Enjoy the sunset over the lake. Overnight camping at Hamedela.
In the morning visit Dallol with sun rise and set off to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray region and the largest city in northern Ethiopia. Late in the afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa. End of the tour!
Price Includes
- All transfers and ground transportation with fuel and driver allowance
- All entrance fees according to the program
- Accommodations with Breakfast
- Lunch and Dinner
- Bottles of drinking water throughout the tour
- Multilingual professional guide
Price Excludes
- Any flight (Domestic Flights can be arranged upon request)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned under what’s included section
FAQs
The Danakil Depression is one of the hottest, lowest, and driest places on the planet. In the northernmost pocket of Ethiopia, it is home to salt lakes, lava lakes, volcanoes and neon acid springs.
Reasons to Visit the Danakil Depression. Visiting the Danakil Depression is like stepping into another world. Volcanoes, lava lakes and brightly coloured acidic hot springs create a fantastic, alien environment. The Danakil is famed as the hottest inhabited place on the planet.
If you plan to visit the Danakil desert area, be aware of the risk of excessive heat and difficult terrain in some areas, including around the Erta Ale volcano. Facilities are basic, with no running water and limited medical options.
The best time to visit the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is between November and February. During these months, daytime temperatures are more comfortable.
