The Danakil Depression
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Day 1:
Departing from Mekele, we drive about 260 km to Hamedella via Berhale. In Berhale we will be joined by our police escorts before departing to Hamedella. From Berhale, we leave the highlands and mountains 2000m above sea level, entering the stone and salt desert. On the way you will enjoy the impressive views of the region and meet the first camel caravans.
Visiting the Dallol Depression, you will see different places like colorful salt lakes (red and black water), thermo-active springs of Dallol, potash, sulfur and other minerals, the wide white salt desert, and a cave. You’ll see pure natural designed rocks and the field where the Afar people harvest salt in the traditional way, as well as where the camel caravans start their long trek to towns like Mekelle for the salt business.
On arrival in Hamadella we prepare our overnight site and take a walk through the Afar village. You will spend the night on local Afar-style beds, open air under the stars or in a simple wooden cottage.
Included: 2 4WDs (minimum), Afar permits, Afar road leaders, armed scout(s), English-speaking guide, food and water while camping, local Afar-style bed, other Danakil costs
Day 2:
Early morning, visit any of the sites not yet visited the day before and then depart to Erta Ale, having lunch on the way. At the small village at the base of the volcano, we will take 2 local militia to accompany our visit to the volcano. Proceeding up the rough side of the volcano, we stop at the basecamp to rest and have dinner. At dusk, after dinner and when the heat of the day starts to dissipate, you will start your hike (on foot or with camel) to the top of Erta Ale volcano. You will visit the lava lake and camp in local stone huts.
Included: 2 4WDs (minimum), Afar permits, Afar road leaders, armed scout(s), English-speaking guide, food and water while camping, local Afar-style bed, other Danakil costs
Day 3:
Enjoy sunrise over the volcano before returning down to the basecamp, where you will have breakfast. You will then depart for the return to Mekele.
Included: 2 4WDs (minimum), Afar permits, Afar road leaders, armed scout(s), English-speaking guide, food and water while camping, other Danakil costs
