3 Days Danakil Depression Tours Via Semera

Ethiopia , Ethiopia

3 Days Danakil Depression Tours Via Semera

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(47 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the Danakil from the Afar capital Semera (590km from Addis Ababa) with the Ethiopian Airlines Daily flight.

The Danakil is a genuine expedition destination. Although a good 350km road now runs from Semera to Mekelle via Afdera, the tracks to Dallol and Do Dom (for Erta Ale) require 4×4 and navigational skills. The region is best visited with an experienced operator using a minimum of two 4x4s, and experienced staff who know the local Afar. Helicopter access is from Mekele.

Currently, we offer tours directly out of Semera. The minimum time required for a full tour is two nights, spending one at Hamed Ela and one on the rim of Erta Ale. An extra night at Erta Ale is recommended if you want to see the crater by day, and another for Lake Afdera.

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Available options

3 Days Danakil Depression Tours Via Semera

Pickup included

What's included

Daily unlimited bottle of water

Car with Professional drivers

Camping Material with meals

Lunch

English Speaking Professional Tour Guide

We will give Tent and Bed Sheet

What's not included

Gratuities

Domestic Flights

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU ZH-TW EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

47 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Minimum age is 18 years

Dress code is formal

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Important notes

• Dress code is formal
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Minimum age is 18 years
• Not recommended for pregnant women

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Ethiopia

Ethiopia, the oldest independent country in Africa, is known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. From the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the Simien Mountains, and the vibrant capital of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia offers a unique blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions.

Top Attractions

Lalibela

Famous for its rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dating back to the 12th century. A major pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.

Historical/Religious 2-3 days Moderate

Simien Mountains National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and trekking opportunities. Home to the Gelada baboon and the Ethiopian wolf.

Nature 3-5 days Moderate to Expensive

Axum

An ancient city with significant archaeological sites, including the ruins of the Palace of the Queen of Sheba and the Axum Stelae.

Historical 1-2 days Moderate

Addis Ababa

The capital city offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions, including museums, markets, and vibrant cultural scenes.

Cultural/Urban 2-3 days Budget to Moderate

Danakil Depression

One of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth, known for its volcanic activity, salt lakes, and colorful landscapes.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 days (extreme conditions require preparation) Expensive (due to logistical challenges)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Injera with Wat

Injera is a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, served with various stews (wats) like doro wat (chicken stew) and misir wat (lentil stew).

Main Dish Vegetarian options available, gluten-free (teff is naturally gluten-free).

Tibs

Sautéed meat, usually beef or lamb, cooked with spices and vegetables. Often served with injera.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be spicy.

Shiro

A thick stew made from chickpea flour, often spiced with berbere (a spice mix).

Main Dish Vegetarian, can be vegan.

Kolo

Roasted barley or chickpeas, often served as a snack or appetizer.

Snack Vegetarian, gluten-free (if made from chickpeas).

Popular Activities

Trekking in Simien Mountains Volcano hiking in Danakil Depression Coffee ceremonies Spa treatments in Addis Ababa Attending a traditional coffee ceremony Visiting historical churches Boat rides on Lake Tana Swimming in hot springs at Bishoftu

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather with mild temperatures and is ideal for trekking and sightseeing. The rainy season has ended, making travel conditions better.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Amharic
Widely spoken: Oromo, Tigrinya, English (widely understood in cities)
English: Moderately spoken in cities, limited in rural areas

Currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

Time Zone

EAT (UTC+3)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Ethiopia is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious of strangers offering help

Getting there

By air

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Addis Ababa Railway Station

By bus

Addis Ababa Bus Terminal, Other regional terminals

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable. Useful for getting around cities and to nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ride

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Piazza Bole Mercato

Day trips

Debre Berhan

130 km from Addis Ababa • Full day

Known for its well-preserved medieval church and the nearby Lake Beseka, a salt lake with flamingos.

Debre Zeit (Bishoftu)

50 km from Addis Ababa • Half day to Full day

A resort town with several lakes and hot springs, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Melka Kunture

50 km from Addis Ababa • Full day

An important archaeological site with prehistoric tools and fossils, including early human remains.

Festivals

Timket (Epiphany) • January 19 Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27 Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year) • September 11

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your interactions with locals
Carry small denominations of Ethiopian Birr for markets and rural areas
Hire a local guide for historical and cultural sites to gain deeper insights
Try traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies for an authentic cultural experience
Visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September) to avoid peak tourist crowds and heavy rains