Day 1: Semera → Erta Ale
● Arrival in Semera:
Your journey begins with a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, the capital of the Afar Region. Upon arrival in Semera, your guide and team will meet you at the airport.
● Drive from Semera to Erta Ale:
After greeting the team, you’ll start your drive to Erta Ale, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. The drive from Semera to Erta Ale takes approximately 5–6 hours across the harsh, dry desert terrain of the Danakil Depression. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged and desolate as you approach the volcano, making for a very unique travel experience.
● Arrive at Erta Ale:
Upon arrival near the base of Erta Ale, you will begin your hike up to the volcano. This hike is moderate but can be physically demanding due to the extreme heat. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide and an armed scout (required for safety). The hike to the rim of Erta Ale usually takes about 2–3 hours, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions.
● Camp Setup Near the Lava Lake:
Once you reach the summit of Erta Ale, you will set up camp near the lava lake. This is one of the few places in the world where you can safely witness lava in action. The glow from the lava lake at night is mesmerizing, and you’ll be able to see the lava bubbling and flowing in real-time, which is an unforgettable experience.
● Dinner at the Erta Ale Camp:
After exploring the volcano, enjoy a hot meal prepared by your chef at the base camp. While you dine, you can marvel at the breathtaking view of the active lava lake in front of you. The nighttime glow from the volcano adds to the eerie and surreal atmosphere.
● Overnight Camping at Erta Ale:
You will spend the night camping near the crater, where you can continue to observe the lava activity and enjoy the stark beauty of the region under the starry desert sky.
Day 2: Erta Ale → Semera → Addis Ababa
● Morning Visit to Erta Ale:
Wake up early to witness the volcano’s active lava lake at its most vibrant during the morning hours. The lava can often be more visible in the early morning, and the light provides an ideal time for photos. After spending some time at the crater, you will have breakfast at the camp.
● Hike Down to the Base:
After enjoying the volcano and the surrounding landscape, you’ll begin your descent back down the volcano. The hike down will take about 2–3 hours, and once you reach the base, you’ll continue your journey back to Semera.
● Drive from Erta Ale to Semera:
You’ll drive back to Semera, retracing the journey you took the previous day. The drive is long, but it gives you one last chance to take in the harsh yet beautiful desert landscapes of the Danakil Depression.
● Flight from Semera to Addis Ababa:
Once you reach Semera, you will have time to relax before catching your flight back to Addis Ababa at 5:25 PM.
Tour Includes:
● Transportation:
○ All ground transportation in the Danakil Depression by 4x4 vehicles.
● Accommodation & Camping Equipment:
○ All camping gear is provided, including tents, sleeping bags, and mats for your overnight stay near Erta Ale.
● Meals:
○ All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, will be provided during the tour. Meals are freshly prepared by your onboard chef.
● Guides & Scouts:
○ Experienced local guides will lead the tour, and you will be accompanied by an armed scout for safety as required by local regulations.
Tour Excludes:
● Alcoholic Drinks & Souvenirs:
These are not included and are available for purchase at your own cost.
● Flights:
The international and domestic flights to and from Addis Ababa are not included in the package. You’ll need to arrange those separately.
● Tips & Travel Insurance:
Tips for the guides, drivers, and other staff are not included in the price. Travel insurance is also not included, so travelers should arrange their own coverage.
● Visa & International Flights:
You are responsible for securing your visa for Ethiopia, and international flights to and from Addis Ababa are also not included.
Important Information:
● Climate:
The Danakil Depression is one of the hottest places on Earth, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day. Be prepared with light, breathable clothing, plenty of water, and sunscreen.
● Health & Safety:
This tour requires physical exertion, especially during the hike to the volcano. The hike can be tough due to the high temperatures and challenging terrain. Make sure to be in good physical condition and consult your doctor before embarking on this journey.
● What to Bring:
○ Light, breathable clothing (but also a light jacket for the evening)
○ Comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking
○ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
○ Camera to capture the volcanic landscapes
○ Personal water bottle to stay hydrated
○ Personal hygiene products and a first-aid kit
Why Choose This Tour?
● Active Lava Lake:
Witness one of the world’s few active lava lakes at Erta Ale, a rare natural phenomenon that few get to experience up close.
● Adventurous Hike:
The trek to the summit of Erta Ale provides an exciting challenge and gives you a sense of accomplishment, with the volcano’s bubbling lava lake as the reward.
● Unique Landscape:
The Danakil Depression is a stunning, harsh landscape that is unlike anywhere else on Earth. From the vast salt flats to the volcano’s glowing lava, it’s a place of surreal beauty.
This 2 Days 1 Night Erta Ale Tour offers an intense yet rewarding experience, giving you a chance to explore one of the most active volcanoes on the planet while traveling through one of the most extreme environments in the world.
Let me know if you need further details or help with your booking!
