Djibouti

Djibouti: general info for travelers

Djibouti is a small country located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Eritrea to the north, Ethiopia to the west and south, and Somalia to the southeast. Djibouti is home to approximately 1 million people, with the majority of the population being Muslim.
The country's landscape is mostly semi-desert or desert terrain, with a hot climate throughout the year. The economy of Djibouti is primarily based on port services and trade, due to its strategic location as a gateway to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. The official languages are French and Arabic, and the country uses the Djiboutian franc as currency.
Djibouti is home to several interesting tourist attractions, including the beaches and watersports opportunities along the coastline, the Lac Assal salt lake and Dankalia Island, as well as its intriguing culture and history showcased in Djibouti City's museums and architecture.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Djibouti, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Djibouti: places to visit

Certainly! Djibouti is a gem known for its beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Here are some of the main places to visit in Djibouti: 1. Lake Assal: This saltwater lake is Djibouti's most famous attraction. It is known for its stunning views and high salt content, making it one of the saltiest lakes in the world. 2. Gulf of Tadjoura: Located at the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Tadjoura is a stunning body of water surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy the scenic beauty, diving spots, and whale shark sightings.
3. Day Forest National Park: For nature lovers, the Day Forest National Park offers stunning hiking trails, wildlife watching experiences, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
4. Moucha Island: A small, tranquil island that boasts white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and a myriad of marine life.
5. Djibouti City: The country’s capital and largest city is filled with cafes, restaurants, markets, and bazaars. Visitors can tour historic sites like the Hamoudi Mosque and Presidential Palace.
6. Arta: Located at the southern end of the Gulf of Tadjoura, the town of Arta is full of traditional architecture, old buildings, and historical landmarks to visit.
7. Lake Abhe: This freshwater lake, formed in a caldera of a volcano, is perfect for swimming, bird watching, and scenic walks.
I hope this list helps with planning your upcoming trip to Djibouti!
There is more to see and do in Djibouti: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Djibouti: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Djibouti, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Djibouti generally experiences two seasons: hot and dry between November and April, and humid and cooler between May and October. The best time to visit Djibouti is during the cooler season, particularly in the months of November, December, January, February, and March, when temperatures are milder and rainfall is low. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the beautiful landscapes and marine life that Djibouti has to offer. However, it's important to note that temperatures can still be high (around 30°C/86°F), so be sure to bring appropriate clothing and stay hydrated.

Djibouti: activities and what to do

There are many activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Djibouti. Here are some of the popular ones: 1. Diving and snorkeling: Djibouti is home to some of the best diving spots in the world. You can explore the underwater beauty of the Red Sea and Indian Ocean while diving or snorkeling.
2. Whale and dolphin watching: You can witness the magnificent sight of humpback whales and dolphins swimming and playing in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.
3. Trekking and hiking: The rugged and stunning terrain of Djibouti is perfect for trekking and hiking. The Goda Mountains and the Foret du Day National Park are two popular hiking spots.
4. Windsurfing and kite surfing: With consistent winds and calm waters, Djibouti is an ideal location for windsurfing and kite surfing.
5. Camel trekking: You can take a unique and cultural experience by embarking on a camel trek into the desert to explore Djibouti's remote areas.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Djibouti.

Djibouti: few words on history and culture

Djibouti is a small country located in the Horn of Africa, with a history and culture shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
In ancient times, the region was inhabited by various tribes and empires, such as the Kingdom of Aksum and the Ottoman Empire. Later on, the French colonized Djibouti in the late 19th century and it became a French protectorate until independence in 1977.
Djibouti is known for its diverse ethnic groups, including Afar, Somali, and Arabs, and their unique cultures. The Afar are renowned for their traditional salt mining, while the Somalis are recognized for their nomadic lifestyle and camel herding. Islam is the predominant religion in Djibouti, and the country is home to several beautiful mosques such as the Grand Mosque of Djibouti.
The country is also famous for its beautiful landscapes, including volcanic formations, salt lakes, and stunning coral reefs. It is an excellent destination for adventurous trekkers and divers.

Djibouti: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach Djibouti will most likely be by air, as the country has one international airport, the Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport, which receives flights from several international destinations. Once in Djibouti, you can get around by taxi, bus, or rental car. Taxis are the most convenient way of getting around the city, while buses are the cheapest. A rental car may be a good option if you plan on exploring outside the city. To hire a car to visit Djibouti, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Djibouti: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Djibouti with a full stomach:D
Certainly! Here are some typical foods of Djibouti: 1. Skoudehkaris: This is the national dish of Djibouti. It is a mixture of rice, camel meat, and vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and green peppers. The ingredients are cooked in a pot with oil and spices until they are well combined.
2. Maraq: This is a spicy soup made with goat or lamb meat, vegetables, and spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric. The soup is usually served with bread or rice.
3. Lahoh: This is a type of pancake that is very popular in Djibouti. The pancake is made with flour, water, and yeast. It is cooked on a hot griddle until it is golden brown. Lahoh is often eaten with honey, jam, or meat.
4. Fah-fah: This is a soup made from goat or lamb meat, vegetables, and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper. The dish is typically served with a side of rice.
5. Hilib ari: This is grilled or roasted goat or sheep meat that is seasoned with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic.
6. Cambuulo: This is a type of porridge made with mashed azuki beans, butter, and milk. It is a popular breakfast dish in Djibouti.
7. Kudh-kudh: This is a spicy stew made with chicken, vegetables, and spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric. The dish is often served with bread or rice.
I hope that helps give you an idea of the typical foods in Djibouti!

Djibouti: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Djibouti can be considered a relatively expensive country for tourists compared to other destinations in East Africa. The cost of accommodation, transportation, and food can be higher due to the country's small size and limited tourism infrastructure. However, with proper planning and research, it is still possible to travel to Djibouti on a budget. Finding budget-friendly accommodation, using public transportation, and eating at local restaurants can help save money. Additionally, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as hiking in the Goda Mountains or visiting the salt flats.

Djibouti: where to find accodation

There are several options for looking for accommodations in Djibouti, including using online booking sites like Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb. You can also contact travel agencies or local tour operators for recommendations on hotels, hostels, or private rentals that may not be listed online. Additionally, you may want to check with the Djibouti Tourism Office for a list of recommended accommodations. It's always a good idea to read reviews from previous travelers to ensure that the accommodations meet your needs and expectations.
You can check hotel prices in Djibouti here:
Booking.com

Djibouti: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Djibouti National Tourism Office, Djibouti received approximately 107,000 tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unclear how many tourists will visit Djibouti in the near future. In general, Djibouti is not typically crowded with tourists, as it is still relatively undiscovered, but certain times of the year, such as during major events like the Djibouti Independence Day celebrations or during peak whale shark season, can see an increase in visitors.
Djibouti is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, visitors are advised to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings at all times. There have been reports of petty crime and theft, particularly in crowded markets and other public areas, so it's important to keep an eye on your belongings.
There are also certain areas that should be avoided, especially at night. These include parts of the capital city, Djibouti City, such as the Hayabley and Arhiba neighborhoods.
It's always a good idea to do some research before traveling and to stay up-to-date on any travel advisories or warnings issued by your country's government. Additionally, it's recommended to travel with a reputable tour guide or in a group when exploring more remote or less frequented areas.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Djibouti on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Djibouti: events for tourists

Djibouti is a small country, but it offers various cultural and sporting events throughout the year. Some of the most interesting events for tourists in Djibouti are: 1. Festival of Lights: This is a religious festival celebrated annually in December by the Muslim community. Djibouti is decorated with beautiful lights, and people gather to celebrate and offer prayers.
2. Djibouti National Day: Celebrated on June 27th, this day marks the country's independence from France in 1977. It is a national holiday, and there are parades, cultural performances, and firework displays.
3. Beach sports festival: Djibouti is famous for its beautiful beaches, and beach sports festivals are organized during the summer months. These festivals include activities like beach volleyball, soccer, and water sports.
4. Djibouti International Marathon: This is an annual event held in December and is one of the most popular marathons in East Africa. Participants from all over the world come to participate in this marathon, which takes place in Djibouti city.
5. Djibouti International Film Festival: This is a week-long event held in February and showcases films from different African countries. It is a great opportunity for tourists to learn about African culture and appreciate the continent's cinematic creations.

Djibouti: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Djibouti, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Djibouti is a small country on the Horn of Africa with many unique attractions. A typical two-week itinerary for a tourist might include the following: Day 1-2: Arrival in Djibouti City Visit the Central Market and try local foods such as shawarma or shahan ful. Explore the city's landmarks, including the Presidential Palace and the Hamoudi Mosque.
Day 3-4: Tadjoura Explore the charming town of Tadjoura, with its white-washed architecture and bustling market. Take a dip in the Red Sea at Ghoubbet Bay or visit Lake Assal, which is known to be one of the saltiest lakes in the world, relax in a hammam at Hammam Awel, and explore the beach at Day. Don't miss the scenic train journey from Djibouti City to Tadjoura.
Day 5-6: Ali Sabieh Visit the Ali Sabieh Grand Mosque, the Mirégagadou dolmen site, and the Ardoukoba Volcano. Take a day hike in the Grand Bara desert and witness the stunning and ancient Lac Abbe hot springs and their peculiar cone-shaped structures.
Day 7-8: Obock Visit the colonial-era port town of Obock, known for its stunning architecture, panoramic mountain views, and excellent fishing. Take a boat trip to Djibouti Island, a coral reef and one of the country's seven islands.
Day 9-10: Loyada Visit the outdoor Loyada market, famous for its traditional sandalwood incense and lively atmosphere. Walk the coastline and visit the remains of a Portuguese fortress built during the 16th century.
Day 11-12: Doraleh Visit the Doraleh Container Terminal and Doraleh Industrial Free Zone, which are responsible for much of Djibouti's economic growth. Book a surf lesson at the Plage de Sable Blanc beach or simply enjoy the stunning coastline.
Day 13-14: Djibouti City Catch up on anything missed at the beginning of the trip, including visiting the National Museum of Djibouti, or embark on a sunset boat ride on the Gulf of Tadjoura.
With this itinerary, you will get to experience the best that Djibouti has to offer!

Djibouti: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Djibouti described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ali Adde is a small town located in the Ali Sabieh region of Djibouti. It is known for being the primary access point for people making their way to Ethiopia, due to its proximity to the Ethiopia-Djib... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ali Adde
- Ali Sabieh is a small town located in the Southern region of Djibouti, a country situated in the Horn of Africa. It has a population of approximately 40,000 people and is known for its diverse landsca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ali Sabieh
- Arta is a small town located in the inland region of Djibouti, which is a country located in the Horn of Africa. The town is situated in the Arta District, which is known for its rugged landscapes and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arta
- As Eyla is a small town located in the Tadjoura Region of Djibouti, on the eastern coast of Africa. It is situated on a rocky peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Tadjoura, and is surrounded by st... CONTINUE here for a trip to As Eyla
- Assamo is a small town located in the Arta region of Djibouti, a country in the Horn of Africa. It is situated on the eastern coast of the country, overlooking the Gulf of Tadjoura. The town has a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Assamo
- Dikhil is a small town located in Djibouti, East Africa. It is the capital of the Dikhil Region and lies approximately 100 kilometers southwest of the country's capital city, Djibouti City. The town b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dikhil
- Djibouti is a country located in the Horn of Africa, bordering Eritrea to the north, Ethiopia to the west and south, and Somalia to the southeast. The city of Djibouti is the capital and largest city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Djibouti
- Dorra is a small town located in the northern part of Djibouti, near the border with Eritrea. It is known for its scenic beauty and unique geological formation, the Ardoukoba volcano. The town has a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dorra
- Dorra Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the Gulf of Tadjoura, off the eastern coast of Djibouti. It is part of the Hanlable Marine National Park and is known for its beautiful white san... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dorra Island
- Galaafi is a small town in the Djibouti Region of Djibouti. It is located about 56 kilometers west of the capital city of Djibouti. The town has a population of approximately 6,000 people and is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Galafi
- Goda is a small village located in the Arta Region of Djibouti, on the eastern coast of the country. It is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The village ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Goda
- Goubetto is a small town in Djibouti, located in the Tadjourah region. It is situated in a remote area near the border with Ethiopia. Goubetto is known for its hot springs and the surrounding greenery... CONTINUE here for a trip to Goubetto
- Holhol is a small town located in the northeastern part of Djibouti, near the border with Somaliland. It is situated in a dry and arid landscape, surrounded by hills and rocky terrain. The town is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Holhol
- Khor Ambado is a small coastal village located in Djibouti, a country in the Horn of Africa. It is situated on the southern side of the Gulf of Tadjoura, about 13 km east of the city of Djibouti. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor Ambado
- Khor Ambado National Park is a protected area located in the Djibouti Republic, along the coast of the Gulf of Tadjoura. The park covers an area of approximately 16,000 hectares and contains a range o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor Ambado National Park
- Khor Angar is a natural cove located along the coast of Djibouti, in the Gulf of Tadjoura. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscape. The cove ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor Angar
- Khor El-Zeraf is a natural bay located on the eastern coast of Djibouti. It is a popular site for birdwatching, as it is home to a diverse range of bird species including flamingos, pelicans, and hero... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor El-Zeraf
- Khor Ghobbi is a small fishing village located on the Gulf of Tadjoura in Djibouti. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for tourists looking... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor Ghobbi
- Khor Mabla is a bay located on the coast of Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. It is known for its breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and the diverse marine life found in the surrounding waters.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor Mabla
- Loyada is a small village located in the Djibouti-Arabian peninsula which is the southeastern part of Djibouti. It is well-known for its beautiful white sandy beaches that are popular with tourists wh... CONTINUE here for a trip to Loyada
- Mouloud is a district located in the capital city of Djibouti, which is a small country situated in the Horn of Africa. It's a residential area that is well-known for its traditional market, where vis... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mouloud
- Obock is a small coastal town located in the northern region of Djibouti, just east of the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. It serves as the capital of the Obock Region and has a population of approximately 27,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Obock
- Randa is a small town located in the Tadjourah Region of Djibouti. It is situated in the northern part of the country, close to the border with Eritrea. The town is known for its hot springs and lush ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Randa
- Ras Dorya is a small coastal village located in the Tadjoura Region of Djibouti, a country located in the Horn of Africa. It is situated on the north shore of the Gulf of Tadjoura, about 40 kilometers... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ras Dorya
- Tadjoura is a town located in the northern part of Djibouti. It's situated on the Gulf of Tadjoura, which is an inlet of the Indian Ocean, and it's surrounded by rocky hills and arid desert landscapes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tadjoura
- Yoboki is a town located in the Ali Sabieh region of Djibouti. It is situated in the eastern part of Africa, bordering the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The town has a population of approximately 12,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yoboki


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