Rise early for your morning flight to Mekele, the gateway to the Danakil Depression. Upon arrival, begin your 4WD expedition, descending into the Afar region, passing through ever-changing landscapes of volcanic rock and salt plains.

Watch endless camel caravans along the road as you approach Hammed Ela, a remote desert settlement near Lake Asale. Settle into camp and immerse yourself in the nomadic rhythms of Afar salt traders. As evening falls, drive to Lake Asale (Karkum) and witness one of the most stunning sunsets on Earth, where the golden hues of the sky reflect like liquid fire over the salt flats.

Accommodation: Camping at Hammed Ela

Journey into Dallol, one of the most visually striking places on Earth, where nature paints the land with vibrant sulfur pools, bubbling geysers, and crystalline salt formations. Walk through neon-colored mineral landscapes, witness the dramatic potash lakes, and explore ancient salt mountains carved by time.

Experience the Afar salt extraction process, where skilled nomads carve enormous salt slabs and load them onto majestic camel caravans, continuing a tradition that has shaped the region for centuries.

Dallol is more than a destination—it’s a portal into Earth’s untamed beauty, where fire, minerals, and time collide.

Accommodation: Camping at Hammed Ela

Prepare for one of the most thrilling experiences on Earth—a journey to Erta Ale Volcano, home to the world’s longest-existing lava lake.

As you travel deep into the Danakil Depression, the landscape transforms into an alien world of volcanic rock and endless desert. Arriving at Dodom, the final outpost, you begin your night trek toward the volcano, accompanied by camels carrying supplies.

At the summit, Erta Ale reveals its raw power—a molten, churning lava lake, glowing brilliantly under the night sky. The heat pulses through the ground, casting fiery reflections, as the lava bubbles and surges in a mesmerizing dance.

Tonight, you camp under the stars, surrounded by the untamed force of nature, making this a truly unforgettable experience.

Accommodation: Camping at Erta Ale

After an early morning at Erta Ale, take one final look at the world’s longest-existing lava lake before descending back to Dodom, where vehicles await. From here, journey toward Lake Afrera, a remote saltwater lake famous for its healing hot springs.

At Afrera, enjoy a relaxing therapeutic bath in natural hot springs, surrounded by breathtaking desert scenery. Next, visit Ethiopia’s largest salt mining site, where vast pools shimmer under the relentless sun as workers extract pure crystalline salt using age-old methods.

After lunch, continue toward Semera, the capital of the Afar Region. This town serves as a gateway to Ethiopia’s northern adventure routes, offering a comfortable overnight stop before heading deeper into the wild landscapes of Allideghi and Awash National Park.

Accommodation: Kuriftu Resort and Spa

As the morning sun rises, begin our journey toward Doho Lodge, a tranquil escape nestled near the Allideghi Wildlife Reserve.Upon arrival, take a guided nature walk, immersing yourself in the rich ecosystems surrounding the lodge. Spot migratory birds, marvel at the untouched beauty of the landscape, and unwind by the natural hot springs.

Later in the late afternoon, venture into Allideghi Wildlife Reserve, a hidden gem teeming with rare wildlife. Here, sightings of Grevy’s zebras, gazelles, wild ostriches, golden jackals, and the elusive Somali Wild Ass are possible, making this an unforgettable safari experience.

Accommodation: Doho Lodge

Wake up surrounded by the peaceful landscapes of Doho and enjoy a relaxing morning by the lodge’s natural pools before setting off toward Awash National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most iconic reserves.

Arriving at Awash Falls Lodge, settle into your surroundings before embarking on a thrilling afternoon safari. Drive through the park, keeping your eyes peeled for Beisa Oryx, gazelles, warthogs, cheetahs, and even lions.

The highlight of the evening is a visit to the breathtaking Awash River waterfall, where the powerful cascade plunges into the gorge below, surrounded by lush vegetation—a perfect place to pause and soak in nature’s beauty.

Accommodation: Genet Hotel

Today is dedicated to fully immersing yourself in Awash National Park. Begin with an early game drive, maximizing chances of spotting African leopards, foxes, and rare birds.

Later, travel to Filwoha Hot Springs, a hidden oasis nestled under towering desert palm trees. Here, you can take a dip in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters, known for their therapeutic properties.

As the sun begins to set, enjoy one final wildlife drive, with opportunities to see lesser kudus, dik-diks, and spotted hyenas—a spectacular farewell to Ethiopia’s wild landscapes.

Accommodation: Gent Hotel

After a final morning game drive in Awash, we begin the journey back to Addis Ababa, where your adventure concludes.

Upon arrival, visit Unity Park, a cultural landmark showcasing Ethiopia’s history, architecture, and natural beauty. Later, enjoy a special farewell dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and live music, an unforgettable way to reflect on the incredible journey you've just experienced.

In the evening, transfer to Bole International Airport, where your Danakil adventure officially comes to an end—but the memories will last forever.

Accommodation: None

Book Your 9-Day Danakil Adventure Today!

This extraordinary journey through Ethiopia’s wild landscapes, volcanoes, salt flats, and wildlife reserves is perfect for explorers seeking the extraordinary.