Danakil Tours

The Danakil Depression is the northern part of the Afar Triangle or Afar Depression in Ethiopia and Eritrea, a geological depression that has resulted from the divergence of three tectonic plates in the Horn of Africa.

A 2 day, 1 night Danakil Depression Tour

Day 1 Semera to Danakil Depression

Morning: Depart from Semera

Route: Head from Semera to the Danakil Depression, passing through the stunning desert landscapes. The route takes you through the Afar region’s unique terrain, characterized by volcanic formations, salt flats, and colorful mineral deposits.

Explore the vast salt flats, an incredibly surreal landscape where Afar salt miners still use traditional methods to extract salt. The lake’s surface can look mirror-like under the sun, with salt formations that are both beautiful and unique.

Afternoon: Visit to Erta Ale Volcano

Arrival Time: Around 12:00-1:00 PM (lunch break on the way).

Activity: Proceed towards Erta Ale, an active volcano known for its permanent lava lake. Arrive at the volcano by early afternoon, and rest for a short break before starting the hike to the volcano.

Hike Duration: 3-4 hours to the summit (beginning in the late afternoon for optimal conditions).
Highlights: Witness the volcanic activity, and enjoy the views of the glowing lava at night.

Overnight: Stay Camping.

Day 2 Exploring and Return to Semera

Morning: Sunrise at Erta Ale

Time: Early morning before sunrise, witness the breathtaking views of the volcanic crater and its lava lake. It’s one of the most surreal experiences in the Danakil Depression.

Breakfast and Descent

After watching the sunrise, enjoy breakfast and descend from the volcano.

Drive Back: Begin the drive back towards Semera after descending.

Afternoon: Visit to Dallol and its Sulfur Springs (Optional)

Time: Arrive at Dallol around noon, known for its colorful sulfur springs and hot springs.

Highlights: Explore the colorful mineral deposits and geysers in this otherworldly landscape. Dallol’s vibrant yellow, red, and green hues make it one of the most photogenic spots in the region.
Late Afternoon: Return to Semera

Arrival Time: Late afternoon or early evening, around 5:00-6:00 PM, completing your 2-day adventure in the Danakil Depression.

This itinerary gives you a brief yet intense look into the wonders of the Danakil Depression, with the dramatic landscapes, active volcanoes, and unique geological features.

A 3 Day Tours Danakil Depression

Day 1 Semera – Afdera – Lake Assale – Dallol

Morning: Depart from Semera and drive towards Afdera, passing through vast desert landscapes.

Afternoon: Continue to Lake Assale, a stunning salt lake surrounded by towering salt formations. Explore the salt flats and the traditional salt mining activities in the region.

Late Afternoon: Visit Dallol, one of the most otherworldly places on Earth, with its vivid, sulfuric hot springs, colorful mineral deposits, and steaming vents. This is the hottest inhabited place on the planet.
Evening: Return to your camp or local accommodations for the night.

Day 2 Dallol – Erta Ale Volcano

Morning: Travel towards Erta Ale, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, known for its permanent lava lake. The journey will be challenging but offers incredible views of the desert landscape.

Afternoon: Begin the ascent to the summit of Erta Ale, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing glow of the lava lake.

Evening: Camp overnight near the summit of Erta Ale, experiencing the awe-inspiring sight of the lava lake in the dark.

Day 3 Erta Ale – Hamed Ela – Semera

Morning: After sunrise at Erta Ale, begin your descent and head towards Hamed Ela, a remote Afar settlement. Along the way, enjoy the dramatic desert scenery.

Afternoon: Visit Hamed Ela to interact with the Afar people, learn about their nomadic lifestyle, and explore the region’s unique environment.

Evening: Return to Semera, concluding your unforgettable journey through the Danakil Depression.

Price $ 350 / person

Inclusive things are

Transport ( 4×4)
Meals and water
Accommodations
Camping gear
Entrance fees

Exclusive things are

Domestic flights
Shopping
Alcoholic drinks
Tips and personal expenses.

A 4 day Danakil Depression Tours

Day 1 Arrival in Semera and Drive to Dalol

Arrival in Semera: You’ll be met at the airport and begin your tour.

Drive to Dalol: From Semera, travel approximately 3-4 hours (depending on road conditions) to Dalol, one of the most extreme places on earth. Dalol is known for its acid pools, salt flats, and colorful hot springs. The landscape here looks almost otherworldly.

Visit the Dalol Hot Springs: Explore the vibrant, sulfuric hot springs and mineral-rich formations. The colors of the landscape are striking, ranging from green and yellow to red and orange.

Overnight in the Dalol area: You can either camp out in the area or stay at a basic local lodge.

Day 2 Visit Erta Ale Volcano

Drive to Erta Ale: Depart from Dalol early in the morning and travel to the Erta Ale volcano. This journey takes about 5-6 hours by car, through harsh desert terrain.

Arrival at Erta Ale: Erta Ale is an active shield volcano, home to one of the few permanent lava lakes in the world.

Hike to the Crater: Once you arrive at the base, there will be a short hike (2-3 hours) to the summit to view the lava lake. The sight of the molten lava is breathtaking and one of the most remarkable experiences in the Danakil Depression.

Overnight in a Camp near the Crater: Camping near the volcano allows you to experience the eerie glow of the lava at night.

Day 3 Travel to Ahmed Ela and Visit the Salt Flats

Morning Departure from Erta Ale: After witnessing the lava lake, you will descend and continue your journey south towards the salt flats.

Visit the Salt Mines: The Danakil Depression is known for its vast salt plains, and Ahmed Ela is a key point to explore these areas. You can observe the salt extraction process carried out by the Afar people.

Explore the Salt Flats: Walk across the vast salt plains, taking in the dramatic landscape.

Overnight in Ahmed Ela: There are basic lodgings or camping options in Ahmed Ela for an overnight stay.

Day 4 Return to Semera

Drive Back to Semera: In the morning, you will begin your return trip to Semera.

Visit Afar Villages: On the way back, you might have the opportunity to visit a traditional Afar village to learn more about the lifestyle and culture of the indigenous people.

Arrival in Semera: You will arrive back in Semera in the afternoon or evening, concluding your tour.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive view of the Danakil Depression’s natural wonders, while balancing travel time and the opportunity to experience its dramatic landscapes.

8 Days Danakil Tigray Churches and Lalibela Tours

Day 1 Arrival in Addis Ababa

Arrival in Addis Ababa: You will arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and be transferred to your hotel.

Visit to National Museum: Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to see the famous fossil “Lucy” and other ancient artifacts.

Overnight in Addis Ababa: Stay overnight at a hotel in Addis Ababa.

Day 2 Addis Ababa to Mekelle

Flight to Mekelle: Fly to Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray region.

Arrival and City Tour: Explore the city of Mekelle, visiting the Mekelle Cathedral, the local markets, and historical landmarks.

Overnight in Mekelle: Stay overnight in Mekelle.

Day 3 Mekelle to the Tigray Rock Hewn Churches

Morning Drive to Tigray Churches: Head towards the northern Tigray region to visit the stunning rock-hewn churches.

Abuna Yemata Guh: This church is located high on a cliff and is considered one of the most remarkable churches in Ethiopia.

Debre Damo Monastery: An ancient monastery built on a steep cliff, accessible by a rope climb.

Wukro Chirkos: Another impressive rock-hewn church in the region.

Return to Mekelle: After the day’s exploration, return to Mekelle for the night.

Overnight in Mekelle: Stay overnight in Mekelle.

Day 4 Mekelle to the Danakil Depression

Travel to the Danakil Depression: Depart early in the morning for the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth.

Visit the Erta Ale Volcano: Witness the dramatic lava lake and volcanic activity of Erta Ale. You may trek up to the summit for an overnight stay in a basic camp (the hike can be strenuous).

Overnight in the Danakil Depression: Camp near Erta Ale or stay in a nearby simple lodge.

Day 5 Exploring the Danakil Depression

Dallol Volcano and Salt Flats: Visit the sulfur springs, colorful acid ponds, and salt flats that make the Danakil Depression unique.

Afdera Salt Flats: Explore the salt flats where the Afar people mine salt in a traditional manner.

Visit the Afar Tribe: Engage with the indigenous Afar people, known for their unique lifestyle in this extreme environment.

Return to Mekelle: Travel back to Mekelle after exploring the Danakil Depression.

Overnight in Mekelle: Stay overnight in Mekelle.

Day 6 Mekelle to Lalibela

Fly to Lalibela: In the morning, take a flight to Lalibela, the site of the famous rock-hewn churches.

Visit the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela: These 11 medieval churches are carved directly into the rock and are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

St. George’s Church: The most famous of all, shaped like a cross.

Bete Medhane Alem: The largest monolithic church in Lalibela.

Bete Amanuel: A smaller, but beautifully carved church.

Overnight in Lalibela: Stay overnight in Lalibela.

Day 7 Lalibela and Surroundings

Explore More Lalibela Churches: Visit the remaining churches and monasteries.

Optional Visit to Asheton Maryam Monastery: A scenic hike to this monastery offers breathtaking views of Lalibela and its surroundings.

Overnight in Lalibela: Stay another night in Lalibela.

Day 8 Return to Addis Ababa

Flight to Addis Ababa: Take a morning flight back to Addis Ababa.

Last Minute Shopping and Relaxation: If time permits, do some last-minute shopping or visit sites like the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, you can either depart the same day or spend one more night in Addis Ababa before heading home.

10 Days Danakil and Omo Valley Tours

Day 1 Semera – Afdera – Lake Assale – Dallol

Morning: Depart from Semera and drive towards Afdera, passing through vast desert landscapes.

Afternoon: Continue to Lake Assale, a stunning salt lake surrounded by towering salt formations. Explore the salt flats and the traditional salt mining activities in the region.

Day 2 Dallol – Erta Ale Volcano

Morning: Travel towards Erta Ale, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, known for its permanent lava lake. The journey will be challenging but offers incredible views of the desert landscape.

Afternoon: Begin the ascent to the summit of Erta Ale, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing glow of the lava lake.

Evening: Camp overnight near the summit of Erta Ale, experiencing the awe-inspiring sight of the lava lake in the dark.

Day 3 Erta Ale – Hamed Ela – Semera

Morning: After sunrise at Erta Ale, begin your descent and head towards Hamed Ela, a remote Afar settlement. Along the way, enjoy the dramatic desert scenery.

Afternoon: Visit Hamed Ela to interact with the Afar people, learn about their nomadic lifestyle, and explore the region’s unique environment.

Evening: Return to Semera, concluding your unforgettable journey through the Danakil Depression.

Day 4 Flight from Semera to Addis Ababa

Arrive in Addis Ababa: Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.

City Tour: Visit the National Museum, which houses the famous “Lucy” fossil, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Overnight in Addis Ababa: Stay overnight in a comfortable hotel.

Day 5 Addis Ababa to Jinka (Omo Valley)

Fly to Jinka: Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Jinka, a town in the heart of the Omo Valley (approximately 1-hour flight).

Arrival and Exploration: Upon arrival, take a short rest and then explore Jinka. Visit the Jinka Museum for insights into the Omo Valley’s tribes.

Overnight in Jinka: Stay in a comfortable lodge or guesthouse in Jinka.

Day 6 Jinka to Mursi Tribe and Surma Tribe

Mursi Tribe Visit: Travel by car to the Mursi village, famous for its women wearing lip plates and their distinctive cultural practices. Learn about their customs and way of life.

Surma Tribe Visit: Continue to the Surma tribe, known for their body painting and the traditional bull-jumping ceremony.

Return to Jinka: Head back to Jinka in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Jinka: Stay overnight in Jinka.

Day 7 Jinka to Turmi (Hamar Tribe)

Drive to Turmi: After breakfast, drive from Jinka to Turmi (approximately 3–4 hours). Turmi is the main town in the Hamar region, known for its vibrant tribal culture.

Hamar Tribe Visit: Upon arrival in Turmi, visit the Hamar tribe, famous for their bull-jumping ceremonies and unique body adornments. Observe their customs, dances, and rituals.

Overnight in Turmi: Stay overnight in Turmi, where you can also enjoy the local culture in the evening.

Day 8 Turmi to Dassanech Tribe and Lake Turkana

Visit the Dassanech Tribe: Drive to the Dassanech tribe, who live near Lake Turkana. They are known for their fishing lifestyle and distinctive body ornaments.

Visit Lake Turkana: Take a boat ride or a short excursion around Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, and learn about the Dassanech’s way of life around the lake.

Return to Turmi: After exploring, return to Turmi.

Overnight in Turmi: Stay in Turmi.

Day 9 Turmi to Karo Tribe and Konso

Karo Tribe Visit: In the morning, head to the Karo tribe, known for their stunning body paintings and decoration. You can observe their traditional ceremonies or dances, depending on the timing of your visit.

Drive to Konso: After visiting the Karo tribe, drive towards Konso. Konso is known for its terraced farming and unique architecture.

Overnight in Konso: Stay overnight in a lodge in Konso.

Day 10 Konso to Arba Minch and Return to Addis Ababa

Morning in Konso: In the morning, take a brief tour of Konso, visiting the Konso cultural village, and learning about their traditional hilltop villages and advanced terracing techniques.

Drive to Arba Minch: Continue the drive to Arba Minch (about 1–2 hours), a picturesque town located between Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo.

Afternoon Flight to Addis Ababa: From Arba Minch, take an afternoon flight back to Addis Ababa (about 1 hour).

Evening: Depending on your flight schedule, relax in Addis Ababa or head to the airport for your international flight.

A 12 days Tour to Danakil Depression, Tigray churches, and Axum.

Day 1 Arrival in Addis Ababa

Arrive in Addis Ababa: Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel.

City Tour: Visit the National Museum (home to the famous “Lucy” fossil) and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Overnight in Addis Ababa: Stay overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 2 Addis Ababa to Semera (Danakil Depression)

Fly to Semera: Take an early morning flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, the capital of the Afar Region (about 1.5 hours).

Afternoon: Visit the Salt Flats and observe the Afar people’s traditional salt mining practices, including camel caravans carrying salt.

Overnight in Semera: Stay overnight in a basic lodge or camp.

Day 3 Semera to Dallol and Erta Ale Base

Morning Drive to Dallol: After breakfast, drive into the Danakil Depression to explore the Dallol region. Dallol is known for its sulfur springs, acid pools, and vibrant colors, making it one of the hottest and most extreme environments on Earth.

Explore Dallol: Walk around the geothermal areas, witness the unique mineral formations, and take photos of the surreal landscapes.

Drive to Erta Ale Base: Continue driving to the base of Erta Ale Volcano.

Overnight at Erta Ale Base: Stay in a camp at the base of the volcano to prepare for the hike the next day.

Day 4 Erta Ale Volcano

Hike to the Summit: Early in the morning, trek to the summit of Erta Ale, an active volcano with a permanent lava lake. The hike is challenging but offers spectacular views.

Summit Exploration: Spend time at the summit, witnessing the lava lake’s glowing molten rock, a truly unforgettable experience.

Overnight at the Summit: Camp on the summit for a unique overnight experience, watching the lava glow under the stars.

Day 5 Erta Ale to Hamed Ela

Descent from Erta Ale: After sunrise, descend from the summit of Erta Ale and head back to the base camp.

Drive to Hamed Ela: Continue the journey to Hamed Ela, a settlement in the Danakil Depression known for salt mining.

Afternoon Exploration: Explore the salt flats and interact with the Afar people.

Overnight in Hamed Ela: Stay overnight in Hamed Ela in a basic lodge or camp.

Day 6 Hamed Ela to Mekele (Tigray)

Drive to Mekele: Begin the long drive to Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region (approximately 8 hours), crossing vast and remote landscapes.

Evening Arrival: Arrive in Mekele in the late afternoon or evening and relax.

Overnight in Mekele: Stay in a comfortable hotel.

Day 7 Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches Tour

Morning Visit to Abreha We Atsbeha: Start your day by visiting the Abreha We Atsbeha Church, one of the most significant rock-hewn churches of Tigray, with beautiful murals and carvings.

Drive to Wukro Chirkos: Afterward, head to the Wukro Chirkos Church, another fascinating rock-hewn structure.

Explore Other Churches: Visit other nearby churches, such as Degua Tsion or Hawzen, to immerse yourself in the rich Christian heritage of Tigray.

Overnight in Mekele: Stay in Mekele.

Day 8 Tigray Churches and Monasteries

Morning Drive to Debre Damo: Visit Debre Damo, a famous monastery that requires a rope climb to access. The monastery is perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Afternoon Visit to Michael Debre: Explore Michael Debre, another stunning rock-hewn church that showcases the region’s unique architectural style.

Overnight in Mekele: Return to Mekele and relax.

Day 9 Mekele to Axum

Morning Drive to Axum: Drive to Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire (approximately 3-4 hours).

Afternoon Exploration: Visit the Stelae Park, home to ancient Aksumite stelae (obelisks), some of the tallest in the world.

Visit the Tomb of the Kings: Explore the Tomb of the Kings, an ancient royal burial site.

Overnight in Axum: Stay overnight in Axum.

Day 10 Axum – Church of St. Mary of Zion and Historical Sites

Morning Visit to St. Mary of Zion: Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, one of Ethiopia’s holiest sites, said to house the Ark of the Covenant (although its actual location is highly secretive).

Explore Historical Sites: Visit the Queen of Sheba’s Palace, The Aksumite Ruins, and the King Kaleb’s Tomb.

Overnight in Axum: Stay overnight in Axum.

Day 11 Axum to Lalibela

Fly to Lalibela: Take a morning flight from Axum to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s famous rock-hewn church city (about 1 hour).

Afternoon Exploration: Begin your exploration of Lalibela’s UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches. Visit the Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis), one of the most iconic churches.

Overnight in Lalibela: Stay in Lalibela.

Day 12 Lalibela and Return to Addis Ababa

Full Day in Lalibela: Spend the day visiting the remaining rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Merkorios, and Bete Kidane Meheret.

Fly to Addis Ababa: In the late afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa from Lalibela (about 1 hour).

Departure: Depending on your international flight time, relax in Addis Ababa or transfer to the airport for your departure.

Tour Highlights:

1. Danakil Depression: Witness the surreal landscapes of Dallol and Erta Ale volcano, including the bubbling lava lake.

2. Afar People: Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Afar people and their salt mining practices.

3. Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches: Visit ancient rock-hewn churches like Abreha We Atsbeha, Wukro Chirkos, and Debre Damo.

4. Axum: Explore the historical ruins of the ancient Aksumite Kingdom, including the Stelae Park, Tomb of the Kings, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion.

5. Lalibela: Discover the world-famous rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This 12-day itinerary offers a comprehensive tour of Ethiopia’s natural wonders and rich history, providing an unforgettable experience through the extreme landscapes of the Danakil Depression, the ancient Tigray churches, and the historical treasures of Axum.