3 Days Danakil Tour
Highlights
- Visit of the colourful Dallol
- Explore the active volcano of Erta'Ale
- Lake Asal and the camel caravan
Overview
Danakil, A Riot Of Color
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.
The Danakil Desert is situated in North-Eastern Ethiopia of Afar Region and it lies about 410 ft (125 m) below sea level, and is one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth. Temperatures average 94 degrees Fahrenheit (34.5 Celsius) but have been recorded above 122 Fahrenheit (50 Celsius). The two most fascinating sites in the Denakil Depression are; Dallol and Era Ale Volcano. The visit of the Dallol volcano will offer travelers a spectacle of incredible colors due to the presence of water and acids. ‘Erta Ale’ is an active volcano and it is unique.
Day 1: Arrive in Semera in the morning. After taking some rest start to drive north and reach Hamed Ela. Overnight at Hamed Ela.
Day 2: Drive from Hamed Ela to Erta Ale, the most active volcano in the world. Watch the astonishing formation of the Erta Ale, explore the lava lake and the other geological features around it. Overnight camping at the nearby salt plain.
Day 3: Prepare to drive back to Semera and make a stop at the Afdera salt lake & hot springs where you will experience the unique landscape of the Danakil Depression and visit a camel herders camp. After that drive back to Semera fly back to Addis Ababa and end the tour.
- Day 1 - Fly to Semera: Then Drive To Dallol
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 - Dallol to Erta Ale
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 - Erta Ale to Semera then fly Addis Ababa & Departure
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.
- Surface transportation (with the latest vehicle), Car maintenance, Fuel expense, Parking fees
- Professional English-speaking guide at all times
- Unlimited bottled water throughout the journey
- ll meals included
- Site entrance fees are included
- While trekking, there are always tables and chairs
- A trained chef will be in charge of cooking the meals during the trek
- Domestic Air, unless expressly paid for
- Any Other Personal Expenses which are not mentioned in the inclusive list
- Other expense of personal nature like telephone call, Laundry
- Tip for Guides, Drivers, Scouts, Local guide, Waiters and Porters
- Personal expenses
- Tourist Visa Fees (costs $52)
- Services not specifically stated in the itinerary
- Travel Insurance and Emergency Insurance