Danakil Depression Travel Costs & Things to Do

Stay

days

Pace

Moderate

Safety

/ 5

Popularity

/ 10

OVERVIEW

The Danakil Depression lies below sea level in a tectonically active region of north-eastern Ethiopia. Salt plains, lava fields and hydrothermal areas form a stark landscape of intense heat and unusual colours. Afar communities have long crossed the region with camel caravans carrying salt from remote extraction sites.

Travel requires experienced operators, security planning and careful management of heat and water. Conditions are physically demanding, and volcanic or political activity can alter access. The landscape is extraordinary, but it should be approached as a serious expedition rather than a conventional sightseeing trip. Nights may be spent in simple camps with almost no conventional services.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Season

High

Low

Precipitation

THINGS TO DO

Drive Danakil Depression’s scenic roads

Build a manageable drive through Danakil Depression’s scenic roads, allowing for stops and slower roads. In a destination as spread out as Danakil Depression, choose a route that works from your base.

Road Trips

Half or full day

Hike around Ertale volcano

Choose a walk around Ertale volcano that matches your time, fitness and current conditions. Check the route and weather locally instead of assuming every trail is accessible year-round. Choose it only if it fits your base and route.

Hiking

2 hours to full day

Take in the view from Salt canyons

Set aside time at Salt canyons specifically for the natural panorama, not merely as a stop between activities. Visibility and access can change with weather and season. Choose it only if it fits your base and route.

Scenery

30–90 minutes

‹

›

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Languages

Afar · Amharic

Currency

Ethiopian birr · ETB

Payments

Cash preferred

Tipping