Expedition · Small Group
Danakil Expedition
Sulphur springs, an open lava lake, and salt caravans crossing one of the lowest points on earth.
The Journey
5 nights, designed around the hours that matter
Our most physically demanding route, run with a field-medic-trained guide, reinforced vehicles and an Afar community liaison. Nights spent under skies with no light pollution for hundreds of kilometres.
Places
- Mekele
- Dallol
- Lake Assale
- Erta Ale
Tailor-made journey
Priced to your plans
Quoted individually once we know your dates, lodges and group size.
- Duration
- 6 Days · 5 nights
- Best season
- Nov – Feb
- Group size
- 2 – 6 guests
- Style
- Expedition · Small Group
Final pricing depends on season, room category and group size. No deposit is taken until the itinerary is right.
Day by Day
The itinerary, as it usually runs
A working draft rather than a fixed schedule — we move days around for weather, festivals and how you are feeling.
Day 1
Arrive Addis Ababa
An expedition briefing, kit issue, and an early dinner before the flight north.
Day 2
Mekele to Hamed Ela
A morning flight, then the descent into the Afar depression as the temperature climbs steadily through the afternoon.
Day 3
Dallol & Lake Karum
The sulphur terraces of Dallol at first light, salt caravans in the afternoon heat, and camp set on the open plain.
Day 4
Erta Ale
A night ascent to the caldera rim to look down into the open lava lake, sleeping on the volcano itself.
Day 5
Return to Mekele
A long drive back out of the depression, followed by a proper shower, a cold drink and a real bed.
Day 6
Addis & Departure
A morning flight south and a day room before your evening departure.
What Is Included
- Afar regional permits and a dedicated local liaison
- Reinforced expedition vehicles with a support truck
- A field-medic-trained guide and satellite communication
- Camp beds, bedding and full catering throughout
- A porter-supported overnight ascent of Erta Ale
- Unlimited chilled water for the duration
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa fees
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover
- Sleeping bag hire
Enquire
Make Danakil Expedition yours
Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, quote precisely, and suggest the two or three changes we would make if it were our own trip.
Runs Nov – Feb · 2 – 6 guests · priced to your plans
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Speak With a Designer
Questions before you enquire?
Altitude, road time, how hard the walking really is, whether the children will cope. Ask us anything — a designer will answer honestly.
Or call us directly on +1909-450-7246