The Danakil Depression

The Danakil Depression in north-eastern Ethiopia is one of the strangest and most striking places on earth, and among the hottest. Part of it lies more than 100 metres below sea level.

At Dallol, volcanic pools turn yellow and fluorescent green, with acidic sulphur springs and salt formations. Not far away stands Erta Ale, a volcano whose crater held a lava lake for many years.

The trip is demanding: intense heat, rough tracks and basic camps. It is not for children or anyone with heart or breathing conditions, and it runs with specialist operators and a security escort.

The Afar region is currently under official travel advisories, and we run this trip only when the advice allows.