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Ethiopia · Desert Adventure
The journey
Get ready to explore Ethiopia from Addis Ababa to Mekele and the Danakil Depression, passing local Tigrean and Afar tribes' villages and watching camel caravans carry salt bars across the desert. Hike to Erta Ale Volcanic hills to witness the spectacular volcanic eruption and camp on the crater rim above the active lava lake. Discover Lake Asale and learn about the daily life of salt workers, then visit Dallol/Danakil, listed as the hottest surface on Earth with an average temperature of 40 - 50 degrees Celsius. The journey also includes visits to remarkable rock-hewn churches near Wukiro and Atsbi.
Hike to Erta Ale Volcanic hills to witness the spectacular volcanic eruption and camp on the crater rim above the active lava lake.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Take the morning flight from Addis to Mekele.
Upon arrival, meet your guide and driver, then transfer to the hotel for check-in.
After a rest, drive to Wukiro, 47 km north of Mekele, to visit the rock-hewn church of Abrha Wo Atsibiha.
Overnight stay in Mekele.
Commence the journey towards the Danakil Depression by driving to Hamadela via Berhale, where permits and a police escort will already be arranged.
On the way, admire local Tigrean and Afar tribes' villages and camel caravans carrying salt bars to the nearest local town.
Overnight stay in Hamadela.
In the morning, drive to Dodome, where camels will transport luggage and water throughout the hike.
Upon arrival, start the 15-kilometre one-way hike to Erta Ale Volcanic hills, 613 meters above sea level, to see the spectacular volcanic eruption.
At night, set camp near the eruption on the crater rim above the active lava lake.
Climb the rim early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise, and then drive back to Hamadela.
In the late afternoon, visit a camel caravan.
Overnight stay in Hamadela.
After breakfast, drive to Lake Asale, a salty water body.
While here, learn about the daily life of salt workers.
Overnight stay.
After breakfast, visit Dallol/Danakil, the hottest surface on Earth, with an average temperature of 40 - 50 degrees Celsius.
Overnight stay in Hamadela.
After breakfast, drive back to Mekele.
Overnight stay in Mekele.
In the morning, drive to the town of Atsbi to visit the rock-hewn church found in its surroundings, Michael Imba.
If time permits, visit Michael Debreselam church.
Overnight stay in Mekele or transfer back to the airport for departure.
Where this trip takes you
Erta Ale crater rim above the active lava lake, Lake Asale's salty waters, Dallol/Danakil hottest surface on Earth
The route
The fine print
All entrance fees and licenses as per the program
Accommodation and all meals throughout the tour
Bottled water for the trip
Surface transport expenses in a 4x4 Land Cruiser, including fuel expenses and driver's allowance
English-speaking local guide service for the Afar region as per the program
Cooking and camping equipment
Scout and police service for the Afar region as per the program
Camels and camel tires in the Afar area as per the program
Minimum 2 cars per trip with local security
Logistics
Your 8 days finish where they began, in Addis Ababa.
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