6 Days Danakil Depression and Erta Ale Volcano Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Semera

  Day 01: In the morning Meet our guide and Discover the vibrant heart of Ethiopia with a city tour of Addis Ababa, a dynamic blend of history, culture, and modern life. Visit the iconic National Museum, home to the famous fossil "Lucy", and explore the ancient relics at Holy Trinity Cathedral, a significant religious and historical site. Experience the lively atmosphere of Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of Ethiopia’s bustling trade scene. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from Entoto Hill, the city’s highest point, offering a glimpse into Addis Ababa’s past as the seat of emperors. Stroll through Unity Park or the newly opened Science Museum, showcasing Ethiopia’s progress and innovation. This tour provides an enriching mix of history, culture, and local life, making it ideal for first-time visitors, history lovers, and cultural explorers. Overnight in Addis Ababa

  6 hours • Admission ticket free
• 2
  Afdera

  Day 2: Arrival in Semera – Gateway to Afar Arrive in Semera, the capital of the Afar region. Meet your guide and drive to Afdera – Salt Lakes & Hot Springs Journey through the Afar desert to Lake Afdera, a striking saltwater lake surrounded by volcanoes. Experience the natural hot springs and witness traditional salt mining. Camp near the lake under the starry sky.

  8 hours • Admission ticket free
• 3
  Erta Ale

  Day 3: After breakfast in Afdera, embark on an adventurous drive toward Erta Ale, Ethiopia’s most active volcano, located in the heart of the Danakil Depression. The journey takes you through vast desert landscapes, passing small Afar settlements and dramatic volcanic formations. Arrive at the base camp in the late afternoon, where you’ll rest and prepare for the challenging evening trek to the summit. As the sun sets, begin your ascent, a 3–4-hour hike over rocky terrain, guided by experienced locals. Upon reaching the crater rim, witness the breathtaking Erta Ale lava lake, one of the world’s few continuously active lava lakes, glowing with molten rock beneath the night sky. Feel the heat and hear the bubbling lava, an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Spend the night camping near the crater, experiencing the surreal beauty of this remote volcanic landscape under a star-filled sky. Overnight in camp

  6 hours • Admission ticket included
• 4

  Day 4: Wake up to the surreal sight of Erta Ale's smoking crater and enjoy a light breakfast before beginning your descent from the volcano. The early morning trek back to the base camp takes about 3–4 hours, allowing you to experience the changing colors of the desert at sunrise. After a short rest and refreshment, embark on a scenic drive toward Hamed Ela, a small, remote village at the edge of the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. Along the way, marvel at the shifting desert landscapes, passing hardened lava fields, salt flats, and rugged volcanic terrain. Arrive in Hamed Ela, where you will experience the traditional Afar way of life, learning about their resilience in this harsh environment. In the evening, enjoy a stunning desert sunset before settling in for the night at a local guesthouse or desert camp, preparing for the next day’s adventure into the heart of Danakil. Overnight in a local guesthouse or camp.

  6 hours • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Dallol

  Day 5: Rise early to embark on an unforgettable journey into Dallol, one of the most surreal and geologically fascinating places on Earth. Located in the heart of the Danakil Depression, Dallol is renowned for its vibrant mineral formations, bubbling acidic springs, and steaming geysers, creating an alien-like landscape of intense colors—yellows, greens, and deep oranges. Walk carefully around this otherworldly terrain, guided by experts who explain the unique geological processes at play. Next, travel to the vast salt plains of Lake Assale, where you will witness the centuries-old Afar salt caravans. Watch as Afar nomads and their long lines of camels extract and transport large salt blocks, continuing an ancient trade tradition that has sustained local communities for generations. After this remarkable experience, drive back to Semera, reflecting on the breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness of Danakil. Overnight stay in Semera, preparing for departure the next day.

  5 hours • Admission ticket included
• 6
  Semera

  Day 6: Wake up in Semera and enjoy a relaxed breakfast, taking in the final moments of your incredible journey through the Danakil Depression. If time allows, you may take a short stroll around the town or visit a local market for a last glimpse of Afar culture. Your guide will then assist with your transfer to Semera Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa or your next destination. If you are continuing your adventure, we can arrange optional excursions or additional travel services to extend your exploration of Ethiopia. Reflect on the extraordinary experiences you’ve had—from the glowing lava lake of Erta Ale to the vibrant landscapes of Dallol and the timeless salt caravans. This journey into one of the planet’s most extreme environments will leave you with unforgettable memories of nature’s raw beauty and ancient traditions. Farewell from Afar, until your next adventure! Transfer to airport. End of service

  8 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Service animals allowed
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Please note: "For the best service experience, we recommend booking at least 10 working days before the tour start date."

Tags

Rating