The Danakil Depression is one of the hottest, lowest, and driest places on the planet. In the northernmost pocket of Ethiopia, it is home to salt lakes, lava lakes, volcanoes and neon acid springs. The remoteness of the Danakil combined with its extreme climate and striking visuals make it among the most remarkable destinations on the planet.
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary landscapes of the Danakil Depression on a 3-day adventure. Witness the fiery spectacle of Erta Ale’s lava lake, explore the surreal salt formations of Dallol, and encounter the vibrant culture of the Afar people.
Itinerary
Morning drive from Mekelle to – Dodom (the base of Erta Ale) the beginning to discover Danakil depression. Passing through different landscapes of solidified lava, rock, sand and occasional palm lined oasis this 70km long bumpy road may take you more than 5hrs to reach to the base of the volcano. After you pass several small hamlets scattered here and there in desert, Dodom is about 9.5km from Erta Ale. Then, after dinner around 17:00pm, and trek up to Erta Ale at 20:00 hours. Camels transport all the camping materials and some food (sleeping materials like light mattresses and mat and water) to the rim of the volcano, where we spend the night watching the dramatic action of the boiling lava. Danakil depression (dallol and Erta Ale) ranks one of the most alluring and physically challenging natural attractions anywhere in Ethiopia. It is a shield volcano with a base diameter of 30 km and 1km square caldera at its summit. Erta Ale contains the world’s only permanent lava lake. Erta Ale is 613 meters, with a lava lake, one of only five in the world, at the summit. It is notable for being the longest existing lava lake, present since the early years of the twentieth century. O/n camping on the mountain
