Day 1: Mekelle – Erta Ale Volcano

Departure from Mekelle: Begin your adventure with a 9:00 AM departure from Mekelle, driving 247 km through the breathtaking landscapes of the Danakil Depression. The journey will take you across rugged terrains of solidified lava, sand dunes, and scattered small hamlets, providing an introduction to the harsh yet beautiful environment of one of the hottest places on Earth.

Arrival at Erta Ale: After around 5 hours of driving, arrive at the Erta Ale camping site, where you will take a short break and prepare for an unforgettable trek.

Trek to Erta Ale: In the late afternoon, take a 20-minute trek to the summit of the Erta Ale Volcano to witness one of the world's most extraordinary natural phenomena. Erta Ale is home to a permanent lava lake, one of only five in the world. At 613 meters above sea level, it offers dramatic views of the boiling lava, a surreal and mesmerizing sight, especially as the sun sets.

Overnight Camping: After exploring the volcanic landscape, trek back to the base camp for dinner and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars in the heart of the desert.

Overnight: Camping at Erta Ale

 

Day 2: Erta Ale – Hamad Ela

Early Morning Sunrise at Erta Ale: Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the vast expanse of the Danakil Depression, offering an incredible view of the volcanic landscape. Then, head to the North Crater for a closer look at the volcanic activity.

Descend from Erta Ale: After breakfast, descend from Erta Ale and return to Dodom by 9:30 AM, where you’ll have some free time to relax and soak in the remote atmosphere of this desert landscape.

Drive to Hamad Ela: At 10:30 AM, embark on a 100 km drive to Hamad Ela, a small Afar village surrounded by camel caravans and traditional life. On the way, stop for a picnic lunch under the shade of palm trees.

Explore Assale Salt Lake: Arrive in Hamad Ela around 4:30 PM and head to Assale Salt Lake, a unique area with salt flats and breathtaking views. Watch the sunset over this shallow lake, as the light casts a magical glow on the landscape.

Overnight: Camping at Hamad Ela or Abala

 

Day 3: Hamad Ela – Dallol – Mekelle

Morning Drive to Ragad (Asebo): After an early breakfast, drive to Ragad (Asebo), a site where locals are involved in traditional salt mining. The Afar people have been cutting salt from the ground and transporting it via camel caravans for centuries. The sight of camel caravans loaded with salt blocks is a fascinating experience.

Dallol: Continue your journey to Dallol, known for its otherworldly landscape created by volcanic activity. Explore the colorful mineral deposits, sulfur springs, and the famous salt canyons. Dallol is one of the hottest places on Earth, with temperatures often exceeding 50°C (122°F). The surreal, vibrant colors of the landscape make it one of the most photogenic and remarkable locations in Ethiopia.

Camel Caravan Experience: As you explore, follow the camel caravans across the salt flats, offering a glimpse into the traditional livelihoods of the Afar people.

Return to Mekelle: After an eventful day, return to Hamad Ela for a lunch break before driving back to Mekelle, concluding your tour through the fascinating and extreme Danakil Depression.

Tour Highlights:

Witnessing the world’s only permanent lava lake at Erta Ale Volcano.

Exploring the unique landscapes of Dallol, including sulfur springs and salt canyons.

Experiencing the ancient tradition of salt mining with camel caravans in Ragad.

Visiting remote Afar villages like Hamad Ela, where camel caravans and traditional lifestyles are a way of life.