Best Places to Visit in Djibouti

Djibouti is a small country in the Horn of Africa. It shares borders with Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, and the Red Sea. The country has about one million people from various ethnic groups who practise different religions. Djibouti’s history is rich and turbulent, dating back to ancient times when it was part of the Kingdom of Aksum and, later, the Adal Sultanate.

So, what makes Djibouti a unique and worthwhile destination for travellers? The answer is the country’s natural wonders, wildlife, beaches, and adventure sports. Let’s look at some of the top places to visit in Djibouti.

Top Places to Visit in Djibouti

• Lake Assal
• Khor Ambado Beach
• Day Forest National Park
• Place Menelik
• Île Moucha

1. Lake Assal

Located in central Djibouti, Lake Assal is a crater lake in the Danakil Desert. It marks the lowest point in Africa, at 150 metres below sea level, and the second-lowest point on Earth after the Dead Sea. The lake’s emerald-green water is surrounded by dormant volcanoes and black lava fields that contain white salt crust and yellow sulphur deposits. Lake Assal’s wet section is fed by hot springs and has exceptionally salty water, while the dry section forms a vast white salt bed and is used for extracting salt in slabs.

Things to Do at Lake Assal

• Walk on the salt crust so thick you can drive on it.
• Lake Assal allows you to experience the soothing effects of salty water.
• If you are one of those daring kind, you can also take a swim in the lake.
• Marvel at the contrast in colours, from the blinding whiteness of the salt deposits to the emerald-green of the water near the shore and light blue in the deepest parts.

2. Khor Ambado Beach

Head to Khor Ambado Beach if you want a relaxing and refreshing escape from the heat. Khor Ambado is a white-sand beach about 20 kilometres from Djibouti City that is accessible by car. The beach is in a bay protected by coral reefs. This setting makes it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. The water is clear and warm, and you can see a variety of fish and other marine creatures. 

Things to Do at Khor Ambado Beach

• Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic on the beach. 
• You can rent a boat or a kayak and explore the bay and the nearby islands. 
• You can also visit the neighbouring village of Arta, where you will find traditional houses and a colourful market.

3. Day Forest National Park

Forêt du Day National Park or Day Forest National Park is a national park in the Goda Mountains and Tadjourah Region of Djibouti. The region is one of the very few forested areas of the country and also among the least forested countries worldwide. Covering an area of some 15 square kilometres, the park’s speciality is a forest of rare juniper trees endemic to the area. 

Things to Do at Day Forest National Park

• Take a hike, camp, birdwatch, or explore the caves and rock formations in the park. 
• Use the opportunity to cherish the scenic sights of the surrounding landscape and the Gulf of Tadjoura. 
• You can also spot some wildlife in the park, such as monkeys, hyraxes, antelopes, and leopards. 

4. Place Menelik

This central square in Djibouti City is a hub of social and cultural activities. The square is named after Menelik II, the emperor of Ethiopia who founded Djibouti in 1888. Place Menelik is surrounded by colonial architecture, such as the Hamoudi Mosque, the Presidential Palace, and the French Cultural Centre. The place is a historical attraction by day and a vibrant nightlife hub as the sun settles down.

Things to Do at Place Menelik

• Mingle with the locals and other visitors who gather at the square for various events, including concerts, festivals, and demonstrations. 
• Shop at the local market for exotic souvenirs, haggling for the best prices. 
• Taste local delicacies such as sambusa, injera, and camel milk.

5. Île Moucha

If you are a fan of diving and snorkelling, you will not want to miss Île Moucha. It is a small island about 15 kilometres off the coast of Djibouti City in the Gulf of Tadjoura. Île Moucha is surrounded by coral reefs, which are home to various marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins.

Things to Do at Île Moucha 

• Rent a boat or a jet ski and explore the island and the nearby islets. 
• Visit the lighthouse, which offers a great view of the island and the sea. 
• Camp on the island and enjoy the starry night and the sound of the waves.

Best Time to Visit Djibouti

Temperatures remain high throughout the year in Djibouti—however, the months from November to April experience slightly lower temperatures and rainfall. The best time to visit Djibouti is from November to March, as the weather begins heating up from April. November to January is when Djibouti becomes the most crowded with visitors.

Travel Insurance for Djibouti

Djibouti is a hidden gem for travellers who love nature and adventure. But visiting this remote and exotic country also brings peculiar challenges and uncertainties. This is why travel insurance for Djibouti is essential. It covers medical emergencies, travel disruptions, lost or damaged belongings, and more. You can easily find online travel insurance plans that best suit your budget and needs and purchase them.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.