This day trip is a journey into the heart of the Afar Depression to visit Lake Assal, a saline crater lake that sits 155m below sea level. The tour begins in Djibouti City and heads west into a landscape shaped by tectonic forces, where the African, Arabian, and Somali plates meet. You will experience the dramatic transition from the coastal plains to the high-altitude viewpoints of the Rift Valley, visit the dazzling white salt flats of the lake, and explore the volcanic shores of the “Devil’s Abyss.” This is a quintessential Djiboutian experience, combining extreme geography with breathtaking natural scenery.
The tour begins with a pickup from the Casino Supermarket or your designated hotel in Djibouti City. You will travel in a private 4WD vehicle, heading west on the main highway toward the interior of the country.
Stop: 45 minutes. Arrive in the town of Arta, situated on a highland overlooking the Gulf of Tadjoura. This stop provides an excellent panoramic view of the coastline and serves as a brief cooling break from the heat of the lower plains before descending further into the Rift Valley.
Stop: 85 minutes – Admission included. Arrive at the shores of Lake Assal. Spend time walking across the vast, sparkling white salt flats that surround the turquoise water. You can observe the salt being harvested by local Afar nomads and even take a quick “float” in the world’s most saline body of water (saltier than the Dead Sea).
Stop: 3 hours – Admission included. This extended stop allows for a deeper exploration of the lake’s perimeter, including the unique salt formations and hot springs nearby. A picnic lunch is typically served in a shaded area, allowing you to take in the surreal, lunar-like landscape at a relaxed pace.
Stop: 3 hours. On the return leg, stop at the Ghoubbet-el-Kharab, a dramatic cove surrounded by black volcanic cliffs and dormant volcanoes (including Ardoukoba). This area marks the point where the sea enters the rift. You can explore the volcanic rocks and view the “Islands of the Devil” rising from the dark blue water.
Depart the volcanic region and begin the drive back to the capital. You will be dropped off at your original starting point (Casino) or your hotel, concluding the day’s adventure.
At Safrisway, we prioritize flexibility and customer satisfaction. Our cancellation and booking policy blends standard, promotional, and flexible options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Please review our cancellation and refund policy for details.
From$327.00
From$327.00
Don't just get there, get there in style.
Kazanchis Nega City Mall 1st floor,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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