LOGIN  

Ethiopia - Voyage to the Extremes

Danakil Depression – Fire, Salt & Stars

ENQUIRE NOW

Summary of the Trip

Venture deep into Ethiopia’s Danakil Depression in Northern Ehiopia, one of Earth’s most surreal and extreme landscapes. Marvel at shimmering salt flats, vibrant geothermal fields, and the glowing crater of Erta Ale volcano. Encounter the traditions of the Afar people and witness camel caravans crossing the horizon. This adventure offers unforgettable sunrises, stargazing, and raw geological wonders – perfect for those drawn to otherworldly scenery, unique cultures, and the thrill of true exploration.

The Experience

Begin your adventure with a flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, then travel by road through Afdera Town into the Danakil Depression. Day one unveils Lake Asale’s salt flats, Afar salt workers, and camel caravans before sleeping under the stars at Hamed Ela. Day two brings sunrise at Dallol’s geothermal fields, salt mining, and caravan life. The final night ascends Erta Ale for a glowing lava lake at dawn, returning with unforgettable memories of Ethiopia’s wild beauty and Afar culture.

HIGHLIGHTS

OTHERWORLDLY LANDSCAPES,

ACTIVE VOLCANOES,

GEOLOGY,

UNIQUE CULTURES, 

PURE ADVENTURE

ENQUIRE NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All accommodations & meals
  • Domestic flights & ground transfers
  • Experienced local guides and drivers
  • All entrance and permit fees
  • Camping equipment 

DAY BY DAY

Itinerary is subject to change

Day 1

Arrival in Semera – Sunset on the Salt Flats

Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera, arriving either in the morning or the night before, ensuring you’re ready for an early start. Set out on a long car ride through Afdera Town toward Dallol. Spend the afternoon exploring the vast salt flats of Lake Asale. Here, meet Afar salt workers who have harvested salt for generations, and watch as camel caravans cross the horizon. End your day at Hamed Ela camp, where you’ll sleep beneath a sky brilliant with stars.
Day 2

Sunrise at Dallol – Salt Mining and Caravan Trails

Wake early to catch the sunrise over Dallol’s vibrant geothermal fields, where mineral-laden pools and salt mountains create a kaleidoscope of color. Visit traditional salt mining sites and, if you’re lucky, witness camel caravans making their way across the horizon. In the evening, rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Day 3

Night Ascent – Erta Ale Volcano and Return

Depart in the very early morning for a hike up Erta Ale volcano, guided by torchlight under a star-filled sky. Reach the crater rim in time to witness the glowing lava lake before dawn. After sunrise, descend from the volcano, transfer back to Semera, and board your return flight to Addis Ababa.

FAST FACTS

Beyond the Safari Jeep

Extend your trip to the Tigray region and its rock hewn churches, if conditions are safe
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. This is an adventure unlike anywhere else on the planet.” – The Nomad Africa Team
ENQUIRE NOW

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.

Related Experiences

View More Experiences

Cross-country | Nature

The Ultimate Safari Odyssey – East & Southern Africa’s Wildest Icons
Starting From $800

Bush&Beach | Classic

Kenya Bush to Beach – The Ultimate Safari & Coast Journey
Starting From $500

Community | Wellness

Eat, Pray, Love – A Community & Wellness Journey Across Uganda and Kenya
Starting From $800

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.

ENQUIRE NOW

Your Adventure STARTS HERE

Inquire about Danakil Depression – Fire, Salt & Stars

Fill in this short form so we can capture your information. One of our agents will be in touch with more details. Or you can email us directly at bookings@nomad.africa with your enquiry


Thank You!

Thanks for sending in your enquiry!
We shall be in touch soon with the next steps for your adventure!