2-Day Danakil Depression Tour Ertale

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Mekelle – Abaala – ertale

After breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel in Mekelle and begin our journey toward the Danakil Depression, heading to the renowned Erta Ale volcano. The 247-kilometer drive takes approximately five hours and traverses one of the roughest roads in the world, offering a dramatic shift in scenery—from solidified lava fields to vast stretches of desert sand.

Along the way, we will make stops at several Afar villages to observe the local way of life and gain insight into the traditions of this resilient community. Passing through scattered desert hamlets, we eventually arrive at the Erta Ale base camp.

After a short rest, and just before sunset, we will begin a 20-minute trek to the volcano’s rim. Here, you will have the rare opportunity to witness one of the world’s few continuously active lava lakes—Erta Ale is one of only five in existence and is the longest continuously erupting lava lake since the early 20th century. Stay over under the stars.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Ertale -Lake Afdera – Mekelle

We will rise early for a second visit to the crater, offering a chance to experience the sight of the boiling lava at sunrise—an unforgettable experience. The main crater of Erta Ale spans approximately 65 square kilometers and reaches a depth of around 100 meters.

At approximately 7:30 a.m., we will descend back to the campsite for breakfast. We will then begin the drive back to Mekelle, which will take about 6 to 7 hours, with a planned stop at Lake Afdera. Here, we will enjoy a picnic lunch by the salt lake, with opportunities to swim in its mineral-rich waters or relax in nearby freshwater hot springs.

Afterward, we continue our drive and arrive in Mekelle by late afternoon or early evening.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.