My Journey Through Djibouti’s Danakil Depression & Lake Assal
- Ankitha
- Jan 4, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 12
The Afar region in Eastern Africa never ceases to amaze me. Home to some of the most distinctive and weirdest landscapes, it’s also one of the few places on planet Earth where human actions are almost inexistent.
Danakil Depression
Visiting the two main attractions, Lac Abbé and Lake Assal Djibouti, is FAR from easy. These two salt lakes in Africa are located in the middle of a vast desert and involve excruciating long hours of travel on nonexistent roads. Besides some members of foreign military bases and a few adventurers like me who love countries off the beaten path, there is not much traffic of visitors.
If you plan to visit Djibouti, know that tourism is minimal. This trip isn’t for luxury-seeking tourists but for the adventurous soul craving something raw and untouched.
Djibouti on a Budget
Djibouti is a trip for the adventurous soul, not the deep-pocketed tourist. You will navigate sun-scorched plains and volcanic craters, learn the secrets of Afar survival from nomadic families, and share hearty meals beneath star-studded skies – all on a budget that won't leave you gasping for air like in most other parts of the continent.
Sunset at Lac Abbe
There’s something magical about sunsets in this region, especially at Lac Abbé, where steam vents rise into the evening air.
Djibouti Itinerary – Danakil Depression
Day 1 – Arrive in Djibouti
Day 2 – Rest and drive to Lac Abbe for sunset and camping
Day 3 – Sunrise + Drive to Lake Assal Djibouti
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Flights + Visa
I flew directly with Fly Dubai. You can also fly via Ethiopia.
For Indian passport holders, the Djibouti visa is now easy to obtain online for just $12. You will need documents, including a letter from a local guide.
Language
Arabic and French are the most commonly spoken languages across the country.
Best Time to Visit
Early November to February is the best time to visit Djibouti if you want to avoid the heat and rains. If you're into marine life, whale shark diving in Djibouti is best done in mid-November, when these gentle giants are often spotted near the coast.
Currency
Carry cash and exchange it for Djibouti Francs. Avoid using cards where possible, especially in remote areas.
How Long to Spend in Djibouti
I did a 3-day long-weekend trip, but you could plan a 7-day diving expedition or a 9-day tour combining both Lake Assal and Lac Abbe.
Where I Stayed + Vegetarian Food
Much like in South Sudan, the luxuries are minimal in Djibouti. At Lac Abbe, I slept in a camp with a basic bed. If you're vegetarian or vegan, inform your local guide in advance. Don’t expect cafes with falafel; this is survival mode.
Costs + Local Guide
My 3-day solo trip cost around $450. You can reduce this if you team up with someone. My local driver/guide was Moussa – WhatsApp him at +253 77278015. He knows all the routes and is very familiar with the Danakil Depression region.
Solo Travel + Safety in Djibouti
Djibouti travel safety is a question I often get. Honestly? I had no issues. You must travel with a local into the desert, but as a solo female traveler, I felt safe throughout. That said, always stay cautious and alert. This is one of Africa’s least visited countries, and being remote means help isn’t around the corner.
Highlights
LAC ABBE
Straddling the Ethiopia-Djibouti border, Lac Abbe is full of “otherworldly” rock formations and geothermal chimneys. The chimneys are uneven and rise up to 50 meters tall.
Situated in the Afar Depression – where three tectonic plates are pulling apart – this landscape was formed by escaping magma heating underground water, which then bursts to the surface.
Camping here is surreal. No phone signal, no tourists – just stars above and salt pans below.
LAKE ASSAL
Imagine a shimmering white lake surrounded by salt flats and mountains, located 155m below sea level. Welcome to Lake Assal Djibouti, the lowest point in Africa and the third lowest point on Earth.The water is rich with minerals and salt – second only to Antarctica's Don Juan Pond in salinity. And those green streaks you see along the shore?
They're salt-loving microorganisms, dancing in one of the saltiest lakes on Earth.
Fun fact: Lake Assal is the runner-up in the “Saltiest Lakes on Earth” competition, losing only to some overachieving pond in Antarctica.
Final Thoughts
Forget posh safaris and overpriced lodges. This is Africa in its rawest, most elemental form. The Danakil Depression is rugged, untamed, and stunningly silent.
My Journey in the Danakil Depression
This isn't a curated Instagram reel – it’s a plunge into “Earth’s Hell.” Volcanic chimneys spewing heat, salt plains stretching endlessly, and the stillness of nature that makes you hear your own heartbeat.
Whether you're planning a Djibouti itinerary or looking for wild experiences like whale shark diving Djibouti, this country offers pure, untouched adventure.
You don’t need deep pockets – just a wild heart and the courage to say yes.
Thanks for reading. Leave your questions or comments below.
Thanks for reading. Leave your questions and comments below.
Lots of love,
Anki
To explore more destinations, be sure to check out other blogs for additional insights.