12 Day North and South Tour
Explore Ethiopia’s 12-day adventure through Erta Ale, Dallol, Gheralta churches, Axum, Lalibela, and Omo Valley tribes. Discover history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.
3 Day Danakil Depression Tour
Tour Overview
Get ready to step into another-worldly journey: our 3-day Danakil Depression tour takes you deep into some of the most extreme and spectacular landscapes on Earth; a land of fire, salt, color and raw natural power. You start by driving out to the base of Erta Ale volcano and, after a bumpy 4×4 ride through lava fields and desert, you hike up at dusk to watch molten lava swirl in one of the few permanent lava lakes on Earth, then camp near the rim under stars as the molten earth glows below.
On day two you meet locals in Hamad Ela village, see traditional Afar salt-mining life, and head to Lake Assale (also known as Lake Karum) to walk or float on bright white salt flats while the sun sets over shimmering salt water. On the final day you’ll explore Dallol wild hot-springs, bubbling acidic pools, rainbow-colored mineral formations and weird, alien-looking terrain you won’t see anywhere else.
It’s an intense, unforgettable experience: volcanic fire and vibrant minerals, desert salt flats and ancient culture all in three days.
What To Expect
1
Mekelle – Danakil depression (Erta Ale)
Early morning of day one we set off on 4WD to the abandon Danakil Depression departing from Mekelle – Erta Ale volcano. The 247 km drive takes 5 hours on drive passing through different landscapes of solidified lava rocks and sand dune. Passing several small hamlets scattered here and there in this deserted land, you will arrive at Erta Ale camping site. Then, at dusk we will start hiking to the top of the volcano. We spend few hours watching the flowing-lava gifs or actions of the boiling lava.
Erta Ale contains one of the world’s active lava lake with 613 meters above sea level. Besides, it is notable for being the longest existing lava lake present since the early years of the Twentieth century. Finally, descend back to basic camp to have a dinner and spend the night under stars or in shack. Overnight camping.
2
Erta Ale – Hamad Ela
Early morning of the day, we hike back to the top of the crater to visit the volcanic activities for the second time during sun rise. After that, descend once again from the top of the crater starting 7:00 am down to camp site for breakfast. Subsequently, after breakfast start driving to Hamad Ela for about 5 hours and have your picnic lunch on the way under shed of palm tree. Then after, start visiting Hamad Ela village to see the life style of the local Afar people. Finally, proceed to Salt Lake Asale a huge salty lake where you will swim in a natural pool Salt Lake. Meanwhile, have a wine/beer while enjoying sunset reflections of the salty ground. Overnight camping in Hamed Ale.
3
Hamad Ela – Dallol – Mekelle
Waking up early morning, set off to dallol which is known for its various acidic colors with fumaroles, small spitting acid springs, and lakes. At the same time, dallol is also considered the hottest place on earth. Due to its incredible colors, you feel like you are in Mars. Visiting different terrestrial places formed by volcanic activity like salt mountain and the bubbling oily lake creates a different experience of your trip. Finally, drive back to Hamad Ela for lunch and proceed to Mekelle.
What's Included
All transfers and ground transportation with fuel and driver allowance
All entrance fees according to the program
Accommodation while camping (or tent).
Bottles of drinking water throughout the tour
Multilingual professional guide
What's Excluded
International and local flight tickets, visa and insurance
Pay the locals for photo and video
Alcoholic drinks
Any other expenses which are not mentioned
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12 Day North and South Tour
This 12-day journey immerses you in Ethiopia’s most extraordinary natural and cultural wonders: from the fiery lava lake of Erta Ale and the surreal salt worlds of Dallol to the cliff-hewn churches of Gheralta, the ancient treasures of Axum and Lalibela, and the vibrant tribal cultures of the Omo Valley.
Blending adventure, history, and authentic encounters, this experience offers an unforgettable exploration of Ethiopia’s landscapes, heritage, and diverse communities.
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