This tiny dry and arid desert nation is eclipsed by its gigantic neighbors – Somalia and Ethiopia. Its Red Sea coastline as well as its close proximity to the Arabian Peninsula makes it strategically important and a stepping stone to another continent. Tourists need little excuse to visit, with dive sites, clean beaches and rich culture condensed into this petite part of eastern[Africa.
Highlights include Lake Assal, the lowest point in Africa, known for its striking salt flats and turquoise waters. The country’s coastline along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and whale shark watching, particularly around the Gulf of Tadjoura. Another key attraction is the Day Forest National Park, a rare remnant of a tropical forest in the region, providing a lush contrast to the surrounding desert.
Djibouti is strategically located at the entrance to the Red Sea, bordered by Eritrea to the north, Ethiopia to the west and south, and Somalia to the southeast. Its coastline along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden is characterized by coral reefs, beaches, and marine life. Inland, the country is dominated by rugged mountains, volcanic plateaus, and salt lakes. The climate is typically hot and arid, with occasional variations in the higher elevations of the Goda Mountains.
When to Go
Djibouti is generally a desert with minimal rainfall and very high temperatures. Because of these conditions, the country is prone to droughts and earthquakes. It also experiences occasional cyclones during the wet season that cause flash floods and heavy rains due its proximity to the Indian Ocean. The best time to visit Djibouti is during the cooler months of October to April.
Things to Do
- Water sports: take a plunge and explore the dive sites of Maskali and Moucha islands, Tadjoura and Les Sept-Freres. While the beach may not be the pick-up spot it often is in Europe, they are clean.
- Shopping: Djibouti City has many markets where animal hide, fruits and vegetables are sold, should those items be at the top of your souvenir list.
- Sightseeing: the salt flats and seismological probes of Lake Assal are definitely sights to see.
Getting There
Djibouti has two airports of significance, with the main entry point being Djibouti City. The majority of its roads are unpaved and passable only by four-wheel drive vehicles, making land travel difficult and uncomfortable. Traveling to the outer portions of Djibouti can be done by rail or boat, which will be less painful on your backside. Livestock have a habit of littering the roads, and while it can be funny to be stuck in among them for a short time, you won’t be laughing if you hit one, especially when you have an angry farmer ranting at you in Arabic. Most of the roads do not have electricity, making it dangerous to drive after dark.
Health & Safety
There have been several reported cases of bird flu in Djibouti, so it is best to avoid visiting poultry farms or live poultry markets. Also, do not come too close to wild, domestic or caged birds. Waterborne diseases are a risk, so stick to bottled water to avoid diarrhea or worse. HIV/AIDS is also rampant in the country therefore protect yourself if you engage in any holiday romance. Djibouti has a high threat of terrorism, and western travelers may be targeted. You could always don some traditional clothing to blend in?