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Danakil Depression

Ethiopia, Africa

The Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth, is a dazzling display of landscapes, featuring vibrant sulfur springs, colorful mineral deposits, and active volcanoes. Visitors are entranced by the mesmerizing Erta Ale volcano and the otherworldly Dallol crater, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and landscape photographers alike. Its unique geology and harsh climate serve as a stark reminder of nature's power, offering an unforgettable experience that blends beauty with the thrill of exploration.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Mekele

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Danakil Depression

1. Visit the Afar People

Engage with the unique culture of the Afar tribe.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

2. Visit the Erta Ale Volcano

Witness the world's only permanent lava lake at Erta Ale.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

12 hrs

3. Explore the Dallol Sulfur Springs

See vibrant mineral springs in a surreal landscape.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

3 hrs

4. Trek through the Danakil Depression

Experience one of the hottest places on Earth.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

8 hrs

5. Visit Lake Afar

Gaze at the stunning salt flats of Lake Afar.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. See the Salt Flats

Walk on vast expanses of glistening white salt.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Explore the Active Volcanic Landscape

Discover geysers and colorful mineral deposits.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

5 hrs

8. Photography at Dallol

Capture stunning photos of alien landscapes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-14 (#189 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Ethiopian Birr

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Amharic

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Doro Wat

Spicy chicken stew with berbere. (National dish)

Injera

VE

Sourdough flatbread, staple of Ethiopian meals.

Kitfo

Minced raw beef with spices and clarified butter.

Tibs

Sautéed meat, often served with vegetables.

Shiro Wat

VE

Chickpea stew with spices, thick and flavorful.

Phrases to learn

English

Amharic

Hello

Selam

(Seh-lahm)

Yes/No

Eshi / Aydelem

(Eh-shee / Eye-deh-lehm)

Thank you

Ameseginalehu

(Ah-meh-seg-gen-ah-leh-hoo)

Excuse me

Yikirta

(Yee-keer-tah)

How much?

Besent?

(Beh-sent)