Table of Contents
Introduction
Tucked away in the Horn of Africa, the small country of Djibouti often gets overlooked by travelers. But with its striking landscapes, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures, this gem is worth discovering. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in a truly unique destination, Djibouti awaits. Read on for an insider’s guide to making the most of Djibouti’s hidden treasures.
History and Culture
Djibouti has a long history as a trading hub due to its strategic location on the Red Sea. Various powers controlled the port cities here over the centuries, including the Ottoman Empire, France, and Britain. Djibouti finally gained independence in 1977, and today it is one of the most politically stable countries in the region.
The culture here reflects Djibouti’s ethnic diversity, including two majority groups: the Issa Somali and the Afar. Islam is the predominant religion. While Arabic and French are official languages, Somali and Afar are widely spoken. Cultural highlights include savoring spicy stews, hearing the call to prayer, and bargaining at lively markets. Respecting local sensibilities will go a long way.
When to Visit Djibouti
The best time to visit Djibouti is during the mild winter months from October to April. Summers are oppressively hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C). Throughout the year, humidity stays high.
The weather is driest from December through February, making it ideal for outdoor activities. March and April’s end-of-season climate draws budget travelers with lowered prices. October and November can be pleasantly warm.
Avoid visiting during Ramadan, when facilities operate at reduced capacity. The weeklong Festival International de Djibouti in late June offers cultural celebrations.
Getting to Djibouti
The easiest way to reach Djibouti is flying into Ambouli International Airport, just a few miles from the capital city. Ethiopian Airlines offers connections from several African hubs, while Qatar Airways, Air France, and Turkish Airlines provide links from Europe and the Middle East.
Visas are required for most visitors, available on arrival or through eVisa pre-approval. Passport validity should extend six months beyond your planned stay. COVID-19 entry requirements change frequently, so check for current rules.
Top Destinations and Attractions
Djibouti City
Start your exploration in the capital, a buzzing port city wedged between volcanic outcrops and the sea. Stroll along the palm tree-lined corniche to take in the harbor views. Pop into the fruit and spice vendors lining the streets, then make your way to the Place du 27 Juin 1977 to see the imposing Monument du Ras Bir.
Don’t miss the Central Market to browse souvenirs like woven mats, coffee sets, and leather goods. In the afternoons, join locals relaxing over a cup of spicy Djiboutian tea in restaurants dotting the city center.
Lac Assal
An easy day trip from the capital brings you to Lac Assal, one of the word’s largest salt lakes. Ascend the crater rim for jaw-dropping vistas of the shimmering white lake enclosed by volcanic mountains.
The intensely salty water creates surreal floating-egg effects, while the lake’s position in the Afar Depression makes it the lowest point in Africa. Nearby hiking trails weave through reddish canyons.
Lac Abbé
Northeast of Djibouti City lies serene Lac Abbé, known for its spectacular limestone formations rising from vividly turquoise waters. Formed by underground springs, these twisting towers resemble melting candles.
Boat tours take you drifting through the labyrinths of rock. On foot, meander through the adjacent Awash National Park, home to gazelles, hyenas, and numerous bird species drawn to the lake habitat.
Forêt du Day
This rare natural forest 75 miles inland from Djibouti City provides a retreat from the desert heat. Shady trails lined with doum palms beckon you to explore, where you may spot doves, warthogs, and Abyssinian roller birds.
For a dose of wilderness, spend a night in the camping area to stargaze and wake to a symphony of songbirds at sunrise. Don’t miss the forest’s popular restaurant, Le Poisson Doré.
Moucha Island
A 15-minute boat ride transports you to car-free Moucha Island and its quintessential Indian Ocean landscapes. Sink your toes into soft white sand beaches with prime snorkeling in the surrounding reefs.
Pack a picnic and spend the day wandering past the ruins of old mosques and coral stone houses from centuries past. As one of Djibouti’s least developed islands, Moucha offers pure tranquility.
Ras Bir
Situated on a peninsula 19 miles north of Djibouti City, Ras Bir makes a pleasant half-day escape. This isolated beach boasts unnamed ruins and serene shoreline with protected swimming.
Watch fishermen haul in the day’s catch as the sun sets over the Gulf of Tadjoura. Nearby restaurants serve up ultra-fresh seafood straight from the boats.
Arta Plage
For a quick beach getaway just outside the capital, head to Arta Plage. Its gently sloping sands and shallow waters create safe swimming for all.
Camel rides, beach volleyball, and lounging in a cabana offer hours of relaxed fun. As night falls, bonfires and local drumming transform the scene into a dance party.
Goubet Al Kharab
At this geological wonder 110 miles from Djibouti City, an aquamarine lake fills a volcanic crater amid ochre cliffs. Take a dip in its mineral-rich waters, said to cure skin ailments.
You can hike the steep path to the crater’s edge for panoramic views or explore lava tubes penetrating the mountainsides. Outdoorsy travelers adore camping here under a blanket of stars.
Outdoor Activities
Diving and Snorkeling
With ample coral reefs, Djibouti serves up superb scuba diving and snorkeling. Masked butterflyfish, green and hawksbill turtles, and whale sharks occupy the warm waters. Miles of stellar reef diving await offshore from Djibouti City, Lac Assal, and Moucha Island.
Trekking
The rugged landscapes make for scenic multi-day treks, like the seven-day route from Lac Abbé to Lac Assal. Day hikes around Lac Abbé and Day Forest satiate active travelers. For extreme trekking, tackle longer routes to Obock, Tadjoura, and the Red Sea’s Godoria and Maskali Islands.
Birdwatching
Over 300 bird species from Europe, Asia, and Africa converge in Djibouti. Prime avian watching spots include Day Forest, Lac Abbé, the Mabla Mountains, and Sept Frères Islands. Look for brilliant Abyssinian rollers, regal crowned cranes, and diminutive Djibouti francolins.
Camel Rides
One unmissable Djiboutian experience is an outing by “ship of the desert.” Saddling up on a camel allows you to explore like nomads have for centuries. Short rides along beaches provide a taste, while overnight treks into the wilderness create lifetime memories.
Where to Stay
In Djibouti City, Hotel Acacias offers a central location to start exploring, with an outdoor pool providing respite from the heat. Kempinski Hotel has luxe rooms alongside restaurant options like Japanese teppanyaki.
For a relaxing resort escape, Le Golfe Hotel near Tadjoura serves up two beaches along the Gulf of Tadjoura. In the countryside, try a night at Campement Touristique La Siesta, with stargazing and chef-prepared meals.
Eco-minded travelers can bed down in traditional Afar huts at Le Gîte Le Caliphe near Lac Abbé. Wherever you stay, booking ahead is wise in Djibouti’s compact tourism sector.
Local Cuisine
Djiboutian cuisine fuses North African and French influences with local ingredients. Signature dishes include fah-fah, boiled meat with lentils and vegetables, and skoudeh karif, spicy chicken stew.
Don’t leave without trying sweet, spongy canjeero flatbread for breakfast, often served with honey, ghee, and banana. Sample savory sambusas (samosas stuffed with meat) from street vendors. To finish your meal, Emirati-style maccha tea blended with cloves soothes the palate.
Restaurant dining ranges from upscale establishments like Le Pâtisserie or La Terrasse to mouthwatering local eateries like Restaurant Assamo. For groceries, Carrefour markets offer Western ingredients.
Shopping Opportunities
Markets and bazaars allow you to mingle with locals while browsing handmade goods. In Djibouti City, check out Place Menelik near the Central Mosque and Rue d’Ethiopie. You’ll find carved masks, incense burners, bold textiles, and beaded jewelry.
Don’t forget edible souvenirs like coffee from Tadjoura, dried dates, and sweets flavored with coriander and cumin. Vendors expect you to negotiate prices, so come with your best bargaining skills.
Respecting Local Sensibilities
Djibouti is a predominantly Islamic nation, so dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing in public. Ask before photographing people to respect their wishes. Ramadan necessitates additional sensitivity. Learning a few words in Somali or Afar is greatly appreciated.
Health and Safety
Use caution in cities after dark. Avoid political protests and ask about regional security concerns. Only drink bottled water and watch for dehydration in the heat. Get required vaccinations and take malaria pills as prescribed.
Foodborne illness can occur, so patronize clean, reputable eateries. While crime rates are low in Djibouti, exercise typical travel precautions like leaving valuables in your hotel safe.
Budgeting
Aside from accommodation, costs in Djibouti are budget-friendly for travelers. Daily expenses generally fall between $50-75. Lodging ranges from $30 dorm beds to $200+ for high-end hotels. Public minibuses provide thrifty transportation.
You can dine well for under $10 per person at local restaurants. Activities like hiking and visiting beaches are free. Shopping costs depend on your souvenir appetite, but deals abound at markets.
To save, travel in the off-season and opt for guesthouses over hotels. Having some French phrases can help secure lower prices. Ultimately, Djibouti rewards travelers seeking treasure beyond typical tourist haunts.
Conclusion
With fascinating coastal scenery, Afar salt lakes, and vibrant culture, Djibouti packs surprises around every corner. Get off the standard tourist trail and dive into this Horn of Africa nation for an unforgettable adventure. Hospitable locals proud of their country await to share its treasures with you. Let Djibouti’s hidden gems spark your spirit of discovery.
FAQs
What is the best way to get around Djibouti?
The most convenient way to travel through Djibouti is by shared minibus, which offers cost-effective connections between most towns and cities. Renting a car is also possible but more expensive.
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Djibouti?
It’s recommended to get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting Djibouti. A yellow fever vaccine may be required depending on your country of origin. Taking malaria prevention medication is also advised.
Is it safe for female travelers in Djibouti?
Yes, Djibouti is generally safe for women, but it’s best to dress conservatively and avoid going out alone at night. Be wary of overly friendly local men. Overall, Djibouti presents few risks for female travelers who take normal safety precautions.
What is the currency used in Djibouti?
The currency in Djibouti is the Djiboutian franc (DJF). US dollars are also widely accepted in major tourist areas. It’s advisable to carry some local currency for transactions like public transportation that require francs.
What languages are spoken in Djibouti?
While Arabic and French are the official languages, most Djiboutians speak Somali and Afar as their native tongues. In tourist areas, English and French are commonly spoken. Learning a few words of Somali or Afar will help greatly when interacting with locals.