We are in Ethiopia, in the heart of the Rift Valley, where the Earth still seems to be taking shape. Here lies the Danakil Depression, one of the most extreme and fascinating places on the planet, over 100 meters below sea level. On this organized tour, we’ll traverse landscapes that seem to belong to another world: the incredible sulfur springs of Dallol, the salt flats of the Danakil Desert, and the legendary Erta Ale volcano, one of the very few volcanoes in the world with a permanent lava lake. This itinerary is designed for those who wish to experience an authentic and powerful Africa, accompanied by expert guides and a proven logistical framework that makes even one of the planet’s most extreme environments accessible. During the journey, we’ll meet the Afar people, who for centuries have traversed these lands with salt caravans, maintaining an ancient way of life deeply rooted in the desert. It is also the region where Lucy was discovered—one of the most significant paleoanthropological finds in history. A journey to the Danakil Depression is not just an expedition through volcanoes and deserts: it is an immersion into the very roots of the Earth and humanity.
WHERE ARE WE GOING?
Program
First day
International flight from Italy to Addis Ababa. Begin your adventure in Ethiopia, traveling to the most remote region of the country: Danakil, in the heart of the African Rift Valley. Overnight flight.
Second day
The first camp in Danakil
Arrival in Addis Ababa and brief orientation tour of the Ethiopian capital. In the afternoon, domestic flight to Semera, gateway to the Danakil Depression. Accommodation in a tented camp: first taste of the desert atmosphere, starry skies, and total immersion in one of the hottest places on Earth.
Third day
Lake Afambo and the Awash Valley
The day begins with a walk among natural springs and desert landscapes, then continues towards Asayta, overlooking the Awash River valley. We walk along irrigation canals and small Afar settlements until we reach Lake Afambo, where the sunset colors the water with golden reflections. It is our first real encounter with the silent and primordial soul of Danakil.
Fourth day
The Afar market and the landscapes of Manda Hararo
In the morning, we visit the small market of Asayta, authentic and far from the tourist circuits. It is an immersion into the daily life of the Afar people. After lunch, we move towards the volcanic area of Manda Hararo and Lake Galyloma, known as the "lake of dromedaries." The landscape becomes increasingly arid and spectacular, between expanses of lava and absolute silence.
Fifth day
The thrill of Erta Ale and th
We cross dazzling salt flats and lava plains until we reach the camp at the foot of the legendary Erta Ale volcano, one of Africa's most iconic active volcanoes. In the evening, we climb up to the crater to admire the glowing lava lake: a rare, powerful, unforgettable natural spectacle. We sleep in a tented camp in the heart of volcanic Danakil.
Sixth day
Below sea level
At dawn, we return to Erta Ale to observe the morning colors on the magma. Then we descend and head towards Ahmed Ela, crossing salt quarries and encountering Afar caravans transporting blocks of salt as they have done for centuries. We reach Lake Karoum and one of the lowest points in Africa, 116 meters below sea level: here you can really feel the primordial force of the Earth. Finally, we arrive at the village of Assobole, at the exit of the Saba River canyon.
Seventh day
Dallol, the colors of the impossible
The morning is dedicated to exploring Dallol Hill, the hill of spirits, one of the most surreal places on the planet, where the chemical encounter between rainwater and the volcano creates an unreal and evocative landscape of sulfur pools, geysers, and salt concretions. All this creates a mosaic of unreal colors: yellow, acid green, and intense orange. It is one of the most photographed landscapes in Ethiopia and a symbol of adventure travel in Dancalia.
Eighth day
From the desert to the Ethiopian plateau
After breakfast, we set off on a short trek in the Saba River canyon, walking for about two hours among rocky walls and unexpected vegetation. We then leave Danakil, climbing up the Ethiopian plateau to an altitude of 2,200 meters. Transferto Mekallé airport for the domestic flight to Addis Ababa and international connection to Italy.
Ninth day
Arrival in Italy in the morning. An extraordinary journey in Ethiopia comes to an end, featuring volcanic trekking, extreme deserts, salt lakes, and encounters with the Afar people.
An authentic experience in Dancalia, designed for those who want an adventure trip in Africa, to the roots of the Earth and Humanity.
6 nights in a tented camp
local transportation during excursions
entrance to villages, parks, and museums
full board with water
guide/interpreter
health and baggage insurance
4x4 rental with driver and service vehicle for chef and staff
tents and camping equipmentInternational and domestic flights, personal expenses while there, tips, beverages, visa (approximately €85), and anything not specified under “Included.”
A shared fund of approximately 90 euros per person will be set up while there for tips and beverages.
Single room supplement: €200.
Overnight stays in tents with sleeping pads and sleeping bags.
International flight to Addis Ababa (ADD). We recommend flights with Ethiopian Airlines so that you can connect your international flight to domestic flights to Semera (SZE) and Mekalle (MQX).
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