Danakil Depression Tour

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3 Days From

~~$500~~

$484

Danakil Depression Tour

3 Days Starting in Addis Aba and ending in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Visiting: Addis Ababa, Semera, Ahmed Ela, Dallol, Lake Karum, Erta Ale, Afdera

Tour operator:

GishAbay Ethiopia Tours

Tour code:

GAET1

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

5 - 20

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

16-90

Special diets catered:

Meat, Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:

English , French , German , Spanish

Private Available:

From: $500 $484 (USD) Tourhub's Discount: -$16

NB: Prices correct on 24-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Explore the out-of-this-world landscapes of the Danakil Depression, the lowest and hottest-place on Earth and ascend the active Erta Ale volcano. There are salt lakes, lava lakes, volcanoes, and neon acid springs in Ethiopia's most northern region. The Danakil is one of the most fascinating places on earth due to its isolation, severe climate, and breathtaking scenery.

Highlights

Erta Ale Volcano: Witness the mesmerizing sight of one of the world’s few continuously active lava lakes, offering an unforgettable experience of glowing molten lava under the night sky.
Dallol Sulfur Springs: Explore the otherworldly landscape of Dallol, characterized by vibrant, colorful hot springs, salt formations, and unique geothermal features that resemble an alien planet.
Lake Assal: Visit one of the most saline lakes on earth, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning white salt beds, providing a serene and surreal landscape for photography and exploration.
Afar Culture and Villages: Engage with the Afar people, known for their rich traditions and hospitality, and gain insights into their unique way of life in one of the most extreme environments on the planet.

Places You'll See

Danakil Depression Tour

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Fly To Semera Then Drive To Dallol

Location: Addis Ababa, Semera

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Open air camping Afar village

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Discovery of Dallol, the lowest surface on the planet

In the morning, take a flight to Semera and head to the famous Dallol Depression – the hottest place on earth located in the Ethiopian Denakil Desert. Dallol is the result of changing geological activity. Drive to Hamede Ela campsite via the small town of Berhale. This is the point where the ‘Depression’ begins. Before sunset, you will travel a short distance to Lake Karum to watch the sunset from the salt flats on the lake. The water level on the lake is very shallow so it’s easy to walk out and around on the lake. There might be a chance to watch the camel caravans of the Afar people who live in this inhospitable place. Then you will return to Hamed Ela for an overnight stay.

Day 2 : Drive Ahmed Ela To Dallol And Ertale

Location: Ahmed Ela, Dallol, Lake Karum

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Open air camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

One of the world’s only permanent lava lake

You’ll have an early start today, as you will be descending to the lowest point on the planet, Dallol. With its uniquely colorful volcanic terrain and its ridiculously high temperature, Dallol Depression is known around the world as the ‘hottest inhabited place on the planet’. When you will arrive there will be plenty of time to walk around and admire the colorful pools, learn about the unique geology, and of course take photos of the spectacular scenery. The visit to Dallol also gives you the chance to visit the grueling local salt mines. Then you will drive to the Dodom campsite at the foot of the Erta Ale (Smoking Mountain) Volcano. In the evening, trek up the volcano and appreciate its spectacular lava. Once you reach the top of the crater, you will get time to relax and admire the amazing sight of the lava lake. Finally, walk the short distance back to the camp for dinner and sleep.

Day 3 : Drive Erta Ale To Semera Then Fly Addis Ababa & Departure

Location: Erta Ale, Afdera, Semera

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit and swim the Salt Lake of Afdera

Early in the morning, wake up and walk the short distance to the volcano. Stay some time by the lava lake until sunrise to see the change in the flow of the lake. After sunrise, hike back down to the camp for breakfast. Depart the campsite and drive back to Mekele to catch a flight back to Addis Ababa. After the lunch break, you will have time for shopping. Then you will be transferred to a hotel for a few hours to prepare your luggage and get ready for your return flight back home. In the evening, before your international flight, farewell dinner at Ethiopian Cultural Restaurant. Finally, your driver will take you to Bole International Airport and take your flight back home. Your Ethiopian Adventure ends here.

What's Included

Accommodation

Open air camping in Danakil depression
Airport Transfers at Destination

Airport pick up and drop off
Fully Guided

English speaking guide
Meals

Full board during your tours
Transport

4x4 vehicle with skilled and experienced driver

What's Not Included

Insurance
International Travel

Mode of Transport

Latest 4x4 vehicle

Accommodation

Open air Camping at Afar villages.
It is an adventure tour and on this tour you sleep on a traditional Afar beds in the open air within Afar villages.

Check out our Q&As

What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

For GishAbay Ethiopia Tours, you could include the following FAQs related to their ethical travel credentials: What ethical travel practices does GishAbay Ethiopia Tours follow? GishAbay Ethiopia Tours is committed to promoting responsible and sustainable travel. We prioritize ethical practices by supporting local communities, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring that tourism benefits are shared fairly among local stakeholders. How does GishAbay Ethiopia Tours contribute to the local community? GishAbay Ethiopia Tours engages in community development projects, supports local artisans and businesses, and creates job opportunities for residents.Our tours often include interactions with local communities, providing a meaningful and respectful exchange between travelers and hosts. What measures does GishAbay Ethiopia Tours take to minimize environmental impact? The company implements practices to reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect natural habitats. This includes promoting eco-friendly accommodations, reducing plastic use, and encouraging responsible wildlife viewing practices. How does GishAbay Ethiopia Tours ensure the well-being and fair treatment of local guides and staff? GishAbay Ethiopia Tours is dedicated to fair labor practices and ensures that their guides and staff receive fair wages, proper training, and good working conditions. We foster a respectful and supportive work environment to enhance the quality of their tours.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

Before your trip with GishAbay Ethiopia Tours, you will receive a comprehensive set of documents to ensure a smooth and well-prepared travel experience. These typically include: Booking Confirmation and Invoice: This document confirms your reservation details, including tour dates, services included, and payment information. Detailed Itinerary: A complete day-by-day itinerary of your tour, including the activities planned, accommodations, and meal arrangements. Emergency Contact Information: Details of local contacts, including your guide's contact information and the GishAbay Ethiopia Tours office, for assistance during your travels. Packing List and Travel Tips: Guidance on what to pack, climate information, and other travel tips specific to your destination to help you prepare adequately. These documents will be sent via email prior to your departure, ensuring you have everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

Yes, you can join the tour after it has started, provided there are available spots and it’s logistically feasible to accommodate you at your location. Please contact us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

That is possible and we will talk when should we reschedule.

How long has the tour company been trading?

GishAbay Ethiopia Tours has been proudly operating for several years since 2017, providing travelers with authentic and immersive experiences across Ethiopia. Our team combines years of expertise in the tourism industry, ensuring a deep understanding of the country’s diverse cultural, historical, and natural landscapes.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Yes
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Passinate travellers all around the world or it will be a private trip.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Anne-Sophie et Thierry France

A pays d'exception, agence d'exception

18-Jan-2020

Nous venons d'effectuer un circuit de quatre semaines en Ethiopie de sud au nord et d'est en ouest organisé par l'agence Gish Abay. Toute l'équipe est vraiment mobilisée pour assurer une organisation fluide du séjour et nous faire profiter de toutes les merveilles qu'offre ce pays. Merci à son directeur Yenew pour sa réactivité, son écoute et son engagement et au "gueremi choufir", Alex, compagnon de voyage sûr, disponible et chaleureux. Anne-Sophie et Thierry

Kari K

Fantastic layover tour!

13-Sep-2024

Fantastic layover tour of Addis Ababa! The hardest part was convincing the airport staff that we had 8+hours on our layover, and they should give us a transit visa. Once we got that we quickly and easily met Henok, our guide (he found us!) outside the airport. We did a whirlwind tour of the city in about 5 hours, packing in parks, sites, a walk through the marcato (wow!), and finishing at a restaurant/cultural center near the airport for a delicious bite of Ethiopian food before catching our flight. I highly recommend this tour if you have time to leave the airport! Henok is a fantastic guide, and John, our driver, was amazing. Yenew, the organizer, made it easy to book, and took care of everything. Thanks guys!

Ronalld

Day trip to Debra Lebanon Monastry with tour guide Henock

13-Sep-2024

We had the most memorable time with fantastic Tour guide Henock he knows a lot about the whole country history, nature, wildlife his very kind including the driver Johnny. I really thanks them the for making the whole day perfect!!!

Philip B

Addis by dusk

13-Sep-2024

A great tour. An excellent range of activities packed in to a short time. Ted was an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide.

alexa d France

L’Éthiopie avec Gishabay au TOP

18-Sep-2024

L’agence Gishabay est superbement dirigée par Yenew. Il nous a organisé (2 personnes) un voyage dans le Danakil, et nous voulions rejoindre les différentes villes de notre séjour par la route (Addis abeba - Awash - Sèmera - Lalibela )et non en avion. Il nous a organisé une voiture, un minibus privé très confortable, conduit par Nebyou. Un excellent chauffeur, safe, qui connaît bien les routes et son pays, et qui est en plus une personne très sympa et drôle, nous ne nous sommes pas ennuyé une seconde, et les paysages étaient à couper le souffle. En plus de ce service, Yenew nous a trouvé des hôtels et nous a fait profiter de discount en réservant via son agence. C’est quelqu un de très réactif qui trouve toujours des solutions. Je recommande vraiment cette agence qui en plus, propose des tarifs très raisonnables.

Voyager08197837170

Best tour with GishAbay Tour - Tourguide Henock and Driver Mikey

05-Jul-2023

I had my half day tour with GishAbay Tour - Tourguide Henock and Driver Mikey. Henock is very knowledgeable to explain everything in detailed, very patient, easy going and friendly. This is so much fun! Mikey has a great driving skills with the traffic due to eve of Easther holiday, his navigation is perfect. You definitely at a good hands. Both of them make my time in Ethiopia a very meaningful 1, I feel very welcomed as well. Thank You Henock & Mikey. You guys definately make this tour a perfect tour. Will intro to my friends for sure GishAbay, Henock & Mikey. Till we meet again.

Read all 6 reviews

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~~$500~~ $484 (USD)