The Danakil Depression is one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. This depression has its origin in the rifting process which formed the Red Sea and the African Rift Valley. It contains the only permanently active volcano in the world, the Erta Ale.Travelling through this volcanic area means immersing yourself in another planet, walking around salt lakes and sulphur formations. If you are a real adventurer and do not mind high temperatures (50-60ºC /122-140ºF), this is your ideal destination. You will be charmed by the long camel caravans transporting salt bars to the highlands and by the proud and nomadic Afar tribe. This tour is part of a joining group since it requires a special logistics (supporting vehicle, camping and cooking material, escorting militia, etc).
Day 1 Fly to Mekele and drive to Dodom and trek to the Erta Ale volcano (3 hours) to spend the night by the dramatic boiling lava of this unique place. Overnight in Erta Ale (camping).
Day 2 Trek around the pits and craters of the Erta Ale early in the morning and proceed back to Ahmedela for overnight (camping).
Day 3 Drive to Ragab to observe the mine workers cutting bricks of salt from the lake to be transported on camel caravans for selling at the market. Continue driving to Dallol (116m below sea level), the deepest part of the depression and drive back to Mekele via Ahmedela. In the evening, Inside Ethiopia Tours offers you a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant with local dancers and musicians representing some of the country’s ethnic groups. End of the tour.
