Embark on a thrilling 3-day tour of the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia. Explore the stunning landscapes of Semera and experience the unique beauty of this expedition destination.
Danakil Depression Tour
Lake Assale - Upon arrival at Semera airport, you’ll be greeted and driven to Ahmed Ella, passing through stunning landscapes of solidified lava, rock, sand, and occasional palm-lined oases. After visiting several small hamlets, you’ll explore Ahmad Ella village, home to over 500 people, to experience the lifestyle of the local Afar community. Finally, you’ll head to Salt Lake Asale, a vast salty lake where you can swim in a natural pool while enjoying the sunset’s reflection on the salty ground.
Overnight camping at Ahmed Ella
Dallol, Erta Ale Afar Region
Erta Ale - After breakfast, we’ll drive to Dallol to see the unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activity (125 meters below sea level, one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth). You’ll witness colorful salt mining and various terrestrial formations created by volcanic activity, such as a bubbling oily lake, offering a unique experience. We’ll return to Ahmad Ella for lunch before heading to Erta Ale. Spend the night observing the dramatic boiling lava. Erta Ale is one of Ethiopia’s most captivating and physically demanding natural attractions. It’s a shield volcano with a base diameter of 30 km and a 1 km² caldera at its summit. Erta Ale hosts the world’s only permanent lava lake, one of just five globally, and has been active since the early 20th century.
Afdera
Afdera - After breakfast, we’ll drive to Afdera, known for its salt extraction. Named after the saline Lake Afdera in the southern part of the Afar Depression, it is a major salt extraction site in Ethiopia. The lake’s water is pumped into saltpans for solar evaporation. After lunch, we’ll continue to Semera airport for your flight to Addis Ababa.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- Tour Guide
- Tent and Bed Sheet
- Gratuities
Discover the wonders of the Danakil, beginning your journey from Semera, the capital of Afar, situated 590km away from Addis Ababa. Daily flights are available via Ethiopian Airlines. The Danakil is a true adventure destination. A proper 350km road connects Semera and Mekele through Afdera, but the routes to Dallol and Do Dom (towards Erta Ale) demand 4x4 vehicles and navigation expertise. It’s advisable to traverse the region with a knowledgeable operator, ideally with at least two 4x4 vehicles and a well-trained crew familiar with the local Afar region. Helicopter arrival is possible from Mekele. At present, we provide tours directly starting from Semera. A comprehensive tour requires a minimum of two nights, one in Hamed Ela and another on the edge of Erta Ale. Adding another night at Erta Ale allows you to witness the crater during daylight, while an extra day at Lake Afdera is also a great option.
RECOMMENDED TOURS
2 Days Danakil Depression Tours
3 Days Danakil Depression Tour
4 Days Danakil Depression Tours
5 Days Danakil Depression Tours
- Minimum age is 18 years
- Dress code is formal
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
