Transportation

Toyota 4x4
Departure from

Djibouti
Best season

Feb, Mar, Apr & May
Tour type

Eco-Tour, Hiking
Language

English, French, Arabic
Fitness level

Medium
Group Size

1-10
Minimum Age

2
Maximum Age

65

Tour Lake Assal - One Day Circuit

The one-day Lake Assal tour offers an unforgettable adventure to one of the most unique landscapes in Djibouti. Located in the Danakil Depression, Lake Assal is the lowest point in Africa, surrounded by volcanic peaks and salt flats. The tour will take you through striking geological formations, offering a combination of natural beauty and adventure.

Highlights

Volcanic Peaks – View the nearby active volcanoes, including the famous Ardoukoba, which erupted in 1978.
Scenic Views – The tour will include panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities for photos.
Travel through the Sherpa villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, and Dingboche
Dip in the Salty Waters – If desired, take a quick dip in the hyper-saline waters, which are known for their buoyancy and mineral-rich content.

Day 1 :

Departure from Djibouti City

8:00 AM - Departure from Djibouti City

Meet at the designated pickup point in Djibouti City. The journey begins as we head toward Lake Assal, passing through unique landscapes and exciting sites along the way.

9:00 AM - Stop at Arta

We will pass through Arta, where we will stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire the sweeping views of the Gulf of Tadjourah. This spot offers incredible photo opportunities.
Duration: 45 minutes

9:45 AM - Stop at Dimbia (Grand Canyon of Djibouti)

Continue the journey toward Lake Assal with a photography break at Dimbia, also known as the Grand Canyon of Djibouti. This geological formation marks the start of the Grand Rift Valley in Africa.
Duration: 1 hour

10:45 AM - Stop at Ghoubet El Kharab

On the way to Lake Assal, we take a short photography stop at the stunning Ghoubet El Kharab Bay. Here, we will capture the immense bay and Devil's Island, a large hill-shaped volcanic crater at the center of the bay. The guide will share the fascinating local legends and geological insights about this area.
Duration: 25 minutes

11:15 AM - Arrival at Lake Assal

We arrive at Lake Assal, the lowest point in Africa and the third lowest on Earth. Here, you'll have the chance to walk on the salt flats and experience the floating sensation in the highly saline waters of the lake.
We will observe the local nomads involved in the traditional salt caravan trade, an essential cultural and ancestral practice of the Afar people.
Visit a thermal water spot where you can enjoy a fish spa experience, with small larval fish nibbling away dead skin from your feet.
Duration: 2 hours 35 minutes

1:50 PM - Lunch at Ghoubet El Kharab Bay

After exploring Lake Assal, we drive to the beach at Ghoubet El Kharab Bay for a relaxing lunch. The surrounding landscape offers a stunning backdrop for your meal.

3:00 PM - Exploration of Ghoubet El Kharab

After lunch, we will explore the surrounding area, including volcanic craters, frozen lava landscapes, and tunnels.
Witness the dramatic geological features caused by the separation of the African and Arabian tectonic plates.
For a more thrilling experience, we’ll climb the Ardoukoba volcano crater, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the salt flats and the captivating Ghoubet El Kharab.
Duration: 3 hours

6:00 PM - Return to Djibouti City

We begin our journey back to Djibouti City, reflecting on the day's adventure.
Arrive back in Djibouti City by approximately 7:30 PM.

The Ultimate Lake Assal Adventure