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Ethiopia

Danakil Depression – Fire, Salt & Stars

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Summary of the Trip

Venture into one of Earth’s most extreme landscapes, where salt flats shimmer, volcanoes glow, and ancient traditions endure. This is a journey for true adventurers, offering surreal scenery, geological wonders, and a glimpse into the life of the Afar people.

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The Experience

Begin your adventure with a flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, then travel by road through Afdera Town and on to the heart of the Danakil Depression. Witness the sunset over the vast salt flats of Lake Asale, sleep under a sky ablaze with stars, and wake early to explore the vibrant, mineral-rich lands of Dallol. Marvel at salt mountains, meet salt workers, and, if you’re lucky, see camel caravans winding across the horizon. Cap your journey with a sunset ascent of the legendary Erta Ale volcano, where you’ll gaze into a glowing lava lake before camping on the volcano’s slopes. Return to Semera and fly back to Addis, carrying memories of one of the planet’s most extraordinary places.

HIGHLIGHTS

OTHERWORLDLY LANDSCAPES,
ACTIVE VOLCANOES,
ADVENTURE TRAVEL,
STARGAZING,
GEOLOGY,
UNIQUE CULTURES,
AND UNFORGETTABLE SUNRISES AND SUNSETS.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All accommodations
  • Domestic flights (Addis Ababa – Semera – Addis Ababa)
  • All ground transfers in the Danakil region
  • All meals during the expedition
  • Experienced local guides and drivers
  • All entrance and permit fees
  • Camping equipment (mattresses, blankets)
  • Drinking water throughout

DAY BY DAY

Itinerary is subject to change

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Days 1–2

Arrival and Salt Flats Exploration

Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera, then transfer through Afdera Town to Dallol. Experience the stunning sunset over Lake Asale’s vast salt flats and spend the night at Sabba campsite under a star-filled sky. Wake early to witness the vibrant sunrise over Dallol’s colorful geothermal fields. Explore salt mountains, observe traditional salt mining, and, if lucky, see camel caravans crossing the horizon.

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Day 2 (Evening) – 3

Erta Ale Volcano Adventure

In the afternoon, travel to Erta Ale volcano and embark on a sunset hike to the crater rim. Marvel at the glowing lava lake as night falls, then camp on the volcano’s slopes under the vast Ethiopian sky. The next morning, check out and transfer back to Semera for your return flight to Addis Ababa.

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Day 3

Departure

After your early morning at Erta Ale, complete your transfer to Semera and board your flight back to Addis Ababa, concluding your unforgettable Danakil adventure. Let me know if you want it even more concise or with added detail!

FAST FACTS

Beyond the Safari Jeep

Extend your trip to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela
Explore the ancient walled city of Harar
Visit the Simien Mountains for dramatic highland trekking
Add a city tour of Addis Ababa before or after your adventure

Why we love it

This is a journey where you can stand on the edge of a living volcano, watch camel caravans cross endless salt flats, and fall asleep beneath a sky so clear you’ll feel you can touch the stars. Every moment in the Danakil Depression connects you to Earth’s raw power and the enduring traditions of the Afar people, offering an adventure unlike anywhere else on the planet.
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When to travel

The best time to visit is from October to March, when temperatures are more bearable and conditions are ideal for exploring this remarkable landscape.

SEE WHAT YOU LIKE? BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY

Book your trip with Nomad today, you will get everything in the itinerary listed above and much more. Our goal is to make your trip dreams come alive.

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