The Danakil Depression

The Danakil Depression, in the remote far northeast of Ethiopia, is one of the hottest, lowest and most alien places on the entire planet, a surreal and hostile volcanic landscape sunk over 100 metres below sea level. It is a place of extremes: the bubbling, glowing lava lake of the Erta Ale volcano, one of only a handful on earth; the psychedelic, sulphurous acid springs and mineral formations of Dallol in vivid yellows, greens and oranges; and vast, blinding salt flats mined by camel caravans, an unforgettable and extreme adventure.

What's there

• Erta Ale - the rare bubbling, glowing lava lake.
• Dallol - the psychedelic sulphur springs and mineral formations.
• The salt flats - the vast plains mined by camel caravans.
• The alien landscape - the surreal, otherworldly volcanic terrain.

When to go

November to February, the coolest months, are the only bearable time to visit, and even then it is punishingly hot; the region is dangerously hot the rest of the year. It is visited only on organised multi-day four-wheel-drive expeditions with guides and support.

Practical notes

It is one of the most extreme and challenging destinations on earth, punishingly hot even in the cool season, with no comfort, sleeping outdoors, and a genuinely tough four-wheel-drive expedition required. For the intrepid, when accessible, it is utterly unlike anywhere else.

Nearby

The city of Mekele is the expedition base; the far north is remote.

Key facts