Danakil Depression Adventure – 3 Days / 2 Nights
- 3 days
- 3 days
- Danakil Depression
Itenerary
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Flight to Semera – Drive to Dallol – Lake Karum – Hamed Ela
Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and begin your journey into the Danakil Depression—an area renowned for its intense geological activity and extreme heat. Drive through Berhale, the gateway to the depression, and continue to the Hamed Ela camp. Along the way, take in the stark desert beauty and dramatic landscapes of the Afar region. In the evening, visit Lake Karum and witness a breathtaking sunset over the vast salt flats. If you’re lucky, you may spot camel caravans transporting salt from the nearby mines.
Overnight: Camp at Hamed Ela
Day 2: Hamed Ela – Explore Dallol – Drive to Dodom – Trek to Erta Ale Volcano
In the morning, drive to the surreal and vividly colored area of Dallol, located about 130 meters below sea level—one of the lowest land surfaces on Earth. Marvel at its vibrant sulfur springs, acid pools, and otherworldly salt formations. Visit the traditional salt mines, where Afar people continue the ancient practice of extracting salt slabs, offering a unique insight into their enduring lifestyle. Later, drive to Dodom, at the base of Erta Ale Volcano. After preparing for the trek, hike for approximately three hours to the summit, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing sight of one of the world’s few permanent lava lakes glowing hypnotically in the night.
Overnight: Camp near the crater rim
Day 3: Erta Ale – Salt Lake of Afdera – Drive to Semera – Flight to Addis Ababa – Departure
Wake early to enjoy a stunning sunrise over the lava lake, capturing the dynamic colors and molten movements of this rare geological wonder. After breakfast at the base camp, drive to the Salt Lake of Afdera. Enjoy a refreshing dip in its mineral-rich waters before continuing the journey back to Semera for your return flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, relax and freshen up at a hotel. In the evening, celebrate your adventure with a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, complete with live music and cultural dance performances. Afterwards, transfer to Bole International Airport for your international departure.
