2 Nights 3 Days Visiting Danakil Depression
Overview
Available languages
72 hours
Mobile ticket
The Danakil Depression formed from the continental drift of the African and Asian tectonic plates. As the plates drifted apart at a rate of 1-2 cm per year, they leave behind a geological depression, known as the Danakil Depression (or Afar Depression).
The Danakil Depression sits at the triple junction between three tectonic plates.
The Afar Depression spans Djibouti, Eritrea, and the Afar region of Ethiopia. The Northern part of this depression is the Danakil Depression, which sits more than 100m below sea level and contains some of the world’s most extraterrestrial landscapes.
Beyond its fascinating geology, the Danakil holds the keys to some of biology’s most profound questions. In 1974, researchers found the remains of ‘Lucy’ in the Danakil Depression, an early ancestor of modern humans dating back 3.2 million years (now on display at the National Museum in Addis Ababa).
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
2 Night / 3 Days Visiting Danakil Depression
Accommodations
Camping at kurswad
Danakil Depression
ARRIVE TO SEMERA Arrive to Semera and At the same day drive to Kurswad via Afdera. On the way visit lake Afdera. Overnight : camping at kurswad. Early in the morning around 3am visit the active Volcano in Ertale and then return to the camping site for breakfast.
VISIT DALOL
Accommodations
Overnight: at Hamedila.
Danakil Depression
In the morning after breakfast, drive to Dallol. On the way visit the salt mining market and caravans of camels. Overnight: at Hamedila.
DRIVE TO SEMERA AND FLY BACK TO ADDIS
Accommodations
Overnight: Addis Ababa
Danakil Depression
In the morning after breakfast, visit the beautiful and colorful Dallol creator and then afterwards, drive back to Semera and catch the last flight to back to Addis Ababa. Catch the last flight at 5:00
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Full board Meals
Accommodation
Other Expenses which are not listed on inclusions
Options
2 Nights 3 Days Visiting Danakil Depression
Pickup included
Reviews
13 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Highly Recommended Adventure
James H,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This 3-day tour is a raw, bucket-list adventure through the hottest place on Earth. Ethio Backpacker successfully delivered unforgettable access to the kaleidoscopic Dallol sulfur springs, the salt flats, and the surreal night trek to witness the lava lake of Erta Ale Volcano. Logistically, the tour was well-executed: the Land Cruisers were reliable, our English-speaking guide was excellent, and essential needs like water and simple meals were met. However, this is a budget 'backpacker' experience—expect very basic, open-air camping and minimal facilities. Be prepared for the physical demands and challenging comfort level.
Unforgettable Adventure!
wagnerd849,Mar 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was truly one of the best experiences of my life. The small group size made the trip feel intimate and personalized. The services provided were top-notch and the hospitality was exceptional. Highly recommend Ethio Backpacker Tours for anyone looking to explore Ethiopia. Thank you for an unforgettable adventure!
Unforgettable trip in Dallol, Danakil Depression!
minatt2025,Feb 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent an amazing 3-day trip in Danakil with Ethio Backpacker Tours. The guides were so friendly and knowledgeable, making our experience in Dallol and other destinations around the country truly unforgettable. If you're looking for a fantastic tour agency in Ethiopia, look no further than Ethio Backpacker Tours!
An amazing and different experience!
sabilab2025,Feb 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My experience in the Danakil Depression both in Dallol and Erta Ale Volcano was truly unforgettable, and it's all thanks to Gashaw. His an incredible coordination, leadership, and passion made the journey so special. Your knowledge and dedication are unmatched.
Best trip in the Danakil with Ethio Backpacker Tours!
724orionw,Feb 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It's my 3rd time for me to come to Ethiopia and I use the services of Ethio Backpacker Tours all the time. They provided an excellent tour services. All my friends and I enjoyed very much our trip in Danakil.
An extraordinary tour services at Danakil Depression in Ethiopia!!!!
carolia871,Nov 9, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time in Danakil Depression with Ethio Backpacker Tours, Gashu was an amazing person for coordinating the trip to set us on a wonderful experience. Such a massive true experience we had in the Danakil desert and volcano. Dawit our drive was great and the guide was fabulous. We definitely will come back again and ask use the services of Ethio Backpacker Tours.
A professional and passionate team!
540tanakam,Nov 6, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My trip to Ethiopia was unforgettable, thanks to Ethio Backpacker Tours! With only six days off for my holiday, I was eager to explore this beautiful country that had long been on my bucket list. Gashaw organized everything perfectly, helping me prioritize what to see in such a short time. The Danakil Depression was another highlight, an unparalleled landscape that left me in awe. Overall, I loved every moment of my trip. Ethio Backpacker Tours team are truly professional and passionate about what they do. Thank you for organizing such a beautiful journey!
Thank you everyone on this tour!
waltork,Feb 18, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I spent an unforgettable 3 days in the desert. 2night-3day tour is enough to visit main spots including Dallol Volcano, Erta Ale Volcano, Salt lake, and local village. The driver and guide are so kind and I could take many picture on the way. Thank you everyone in this tour!
Everybody should visit Danakil!
heranm2024,Feb 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were so lucky enough to include this trip in our plans that's to visit Danakil. We have all wonderful things to say about this trip and our guide Tsehayu. We had the most authentic experience visited Danakil Depressions. We are so much happy during the trip where organized well.
The team of Ethio Backpacker tours are very amazing and friendly!
B4075CDesperanzam,Dec 25, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The trip was very interesting to and the team of Ethio Backpacker tours are very amazing and friendly. we met different peoples on the way. there is stopping many times, but everything is coordinated and we don't stay longer. The time we goes to the dessert was nice and we enjoyed our time.
From US$400.00
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