One of the most extreme environs on earth
In the far north of Ethiopia, part of the Great Rift Valley’s Afar Triangle, the Danakil Depression is one of the lowest, hottest and driest places on earth.
It’s a vast Venusian landscape of salt pans, sulphuric springs, sun-baked mountains, endless desert and hyper-saline lakes into which the mighty Awash River spills. This extraordinary place is also home to one of the world’s six persistent lava lakes, the broiling Erta Ale.
Despite its inhospitable nature (so much so that astrobiologists work here to help understand how life may arise on other planets), the hardy Afar people lead snaking camel trains through the heat haze, carrying hand cut slabs of salt to market at Mekele. Living nomadically, they survive off an incredibly small amount of water and simple bread on week-long treks across the desert.
A trip here is a true adventure, with long drives or unforgettable helicopter flights out to remote spots, cool nights camping out, and meeting the proud people that call this place home.
The Jacada Difference
Seamless organisation, every step of the way
Journeys as meaningful as they are memorable
Remarkable stays, handpicked by our experts
Luxury accommodation in Danakil Depression
Why book with Jacada?

Safari expertise
Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.

Unforgettable guides
We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.

Positive impact
By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.
Trip Inspiration
Meet your Africa team
Plan your trip to Danakil Depression
Whatever you want from your adventure in Danakil Depression, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.


Plan with peace of mind
When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.