Explore One of the Hottest and Most Otherworldly Places on Earth
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the Danakil Depression—a surreal and extreme landscape at the edge of human endurance and natural beauty. From active volcanoes and salt lakes to colorful acid springs and camel caravans, this adventure is unlike any other.
Tour Highlights
- Visit the otherworldly Dallol hydrothermal fields
- Witness traditional Afar salt miners and camel caravans
- Explore the active Erta Ale volcano with its dramatic lava lake
- Experience camping under the stars in one of the Earth's lowest points
- Travel through unique desert landscapes and Afar tribal villages
Itinerary
Day 1: Mekele – Hamed Ela
- Morning departure from Mekele by 4WD (air-conditioned)
- Drive through stunning landscapes of the northern Afar region
- Lunch en route in Berhale or local village
- Arrive at Hamed Ela, a remote desert outpost
- Sunset walk across the salt flats
- Dinner and overnight at a local Afar-style camp (basic but memorable)
- Overnight: Hamed Ela Camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Hamed Ela Camp
Day 2: Hamed Ila - Dallol – Erta Ale
- Early morning drive to Dallol, one of the hottest places on Earth
- Explore Dallol’s colorful sulfur springs, salt canyons, and bubbling acid pools
- Visit Afar salt miners cutting salt bricks and loading camel caravans
- Short drive to Lake Asale for incredible reflections and photo ops
- Return to Hamed Ela for lunch
- Afternoon transfer to Dodom (base of Erta Ale volcano)
- Early dinner and evening hike (approx. 3 hours) to the Erta Ale summit
Overnight: Camping near the volcano crater
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Erta Ale – Mekele
- Pre-dawn visit to Erta Ale’s lava lake (subject to volcanic activity/safety)
- Descend from the crater and have breakfast at the base camp
- Drive back through the desert to Mekele, passing Afar villages
- Arrival in Mekele in the late afternoon or early evening
- End of tour services
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour Includes
- Professional English-speaking local guides
- All ground transportation with 4WD vehicles
- All meals as listed
- Camping gear (mats, sleeping bags, tents)
- Security escorts (required in Danakil)
- Entrance fees and local taxes
Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses and tips