Ethiopia 3 Days Danakil Depression and Erta Ale Volcano Tour

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 72.00 hours Difficulty: easy Instant confirmation

Highlights

Witness the glowing lava at Erta Ale volcano under the stars
Relax and swim in Lake Afdera’s natural geothermal hot springs
Explore the surreal salt flats and colorful landscapes of Dallol
Experience traditional camel salt caravans across the Danakil
Enjoy a spectacular sunset at Lake Assal in the Afar Depression
Discover Salt Canyon
Black Water Springs
and volcanic scenery

About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure into Ethiopia’s spectacular Danakil Depression, one of the most extraordinary and remote landscapes on Earth. Your journey begins with an early morning flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, followed by a scenic drive through the dramatic Afar desert to Lake Afdera. Here, relax and swim in the natural geothermal hot springs surrounded by breathtaking volcanic scenery. Continue to Erta Ale, one of Africa’s most active volcanoes, where a short trek takes you to the crater rim to witness the remarkable volcanic landscape and glowing lava activity before camping beneath the stars.

The following day, enjoy an early morning trek down from Erta Ale and continue toward Dallol and Hammed Ela. Visit Lake Assal at sunset and observe traditional camel salt caravans crossing the vast salt flats. On your final day, explore the colorful sulfur terraces of Dallol, the dramatic Salt Canyon, and the fascinating Black Water Springs before driving back to Semera for your flight to Addis Ababa.

What's included

Accommodation
Professional tour guide
Entrances fees
Full meal board
4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with drive and fuels Photography and video fees
Government tax
Scout fees
Park fees
Ethiopian coffees or tea Unlimited bottles of water
Farewell dinner

What's not included

 Tips
 Domestics flight
 Alcohol

What to bring

Comfortable shoes Warm clothing Sunglasses Hat Camera Sunscreen Flashlight

Important information

Info: • Physical fitness is required as the trek to Erta Ale is challenging • The temperature can be very high, ensure to stay hydrated • It's advisable to wear light and comfortable clothing suitable for hiking • Be prepared for a significant amount of walking on uneven terrain
Age: 5

Itinerary

Addis Ababa – Semera – Afdera Lake – Erta Ale

8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (9.00h)

📍 Semera

Early in the morning, you will fly from Addis Ababa to Semera and begin the overland journey into the spectacular Afar Depression. The drive continues to Lake Afdera, where you will have the opportunity to swim and relax in the natural geothermal hot springs surrounded by dramatic desert scenery. In the afternoon, continue to Erta Ale, one of Africa’s most active volcanoes, and enjoy a short 40-minute trek to the crater rim. After exploring the volcanic landscape and witnessing the glowing lava activity, overnight camping will be arranged at Erta Ale under the stars. Overnight: Camping at Erta Ale.

Included: All entrance fees

Erta Ale – Dallol – Hammed Ela

8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (9.00h)

📍 Semera

This morning, trek down from Erta Ale to the base camp while enjoying the sunrise over the volcanic desert. After breakfast, drive through the Afar lowlands toward the extraordinary hydrothermal region of Dallol. Continue onward to Hamed Ela, the remote settlement that serves as the base for exploring the Danakil Depression. In the late afternoon, visit Lake Assal to admire the sunset and observe the famous camel salt caravans crossing the salt flats. Overnight: Camping at Hammed Ela.

Included: All entrances fees

Fly Semera to Addis Ababa

8:30 AM – 4:06 AM (8.00h)

📍 Addis Ababa

Spend the entire day exploring the colorful and surreal landscapes of the Dallol area, one of the hottest places on Earth. Begin at sunrise with a visit to the vibrant sulfur terraces of Dallol, followed by excursions to the dramatic Salt Canyon and the fascinating Black Water Springs. Drive to semera and fly back to Addis Ababa.

Included: All entrances

Frequently asked questions

What should I bring for this activity? ▾

Comfortable shoes Warm clothing Sunglasses Hat Camera Sunscreen Flashlight

Is this activity suitable for children? ▾

Age policy: 5

What languages are available for this tour? ▾

English

What is the cancellation policy? ▾

• 72+ days before departure: Full refund, minus any non-refundable fees. • 50–60 days before departure: 75% refund of the total tour cost. • 40–50 days before departure: 50% refund of the total tour cost. • Less than 30 days before departure: No refund.

Total

Group size: 1–25 participants