Embark on an unforgettable 3-day expedition into the Danakil Depression starting from Semera, the gateway to one of the most geologically active and visually striking places on Earth. Experience Erta Ale, an active volcano with a bubbling lava lake, walk across endless salt flats, and explore the kaleidoscopic terrain of Dallol, where sulfur springs and acidic pools paint the desert in surreal colors.
This tour also gives you a glimpse into the lives of the Afar people, known for their resilience and centuries-old salt mining traditions. Travel in reliable 4×4 vehicles with experienced local guides, and camp under the stars in one of the harshest but most fascinating environments on the planet.
Itinerary
You will meet upon arrival at Semera airport and drive to Ahmed Ella visiting beautiful landscape of solidified lava, rock, sand and occasional palm lined oasis after you pass several small hamlets start visiting Ahmad Ella village total population of more than 500 people to see the life style of the local Afar people. Finally, precede to Salt Lake Asale a huge salty lake where you will swim in a natural pool while enjoying sunset reflections of the salty ground.
Overnight camping at Ahmed Ella
The morning tour includes a drive to Ragad (Asebo) to observe local salt mining activities, where salt is extracted, cut into pieces, and loaded onto camels. Next, visit Dallol, known for its unique volcanic landscapes, colorful salt formations, and bubbling lakes, situated 125 meters below sea level. After lunch in Ahmad Ella, proceed to Erta Ale, a shield volcano featuring the world’s only permanent lava lake. At 613 meters high, Erta Ale is one of the rare volcanoes with a lava lake, which has existed since the early 20th century, providing a dramatic night experience of boiling lava.
Overnight camping at Erta Ale
After Breakfast we will drive to Afdera it is used for salt extraction. It is named after the saline Lake Afdera, located in the southern part of the Afar Depression. It is a major source of salt extraction in Ethiopia, where the Lake water is pumped to saltpans for solar evaporation. After lunch we will continue the trip to Semera airport your flight to Addis Ababa.
