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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Danakil Depression

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Afar People

Engage with the unique culture of the Afar tribe.

No booking required
2

Est. 12 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Erta Ale Volcano

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

Booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Dallol Sulfur Springs

See vibrant mineral springs in a surreal landscape.

Booking required
4

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Trek through the Danakil Depression

Experience one of the hottest places on Earth.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Lake Afar

Gaze at the stunning salt flats of Lake Afar.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Salt Flats

Walk on vast expanses of glistening white salt.

No booking required
7

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Active Volcanic Landscape

Discover geysers and colorful mineral deposits.

Booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography at Dallol

Capture stunning photos of alien landscapes.

No booking required

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)