Djibouti-4-day-itinerary

Djibouti Travel Itinerary (4 days)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Djibouti City

  • Morning: Arrive at Djibouti-France International Airport
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your accommodation in the city. Recommended hotels include:
    • Hotel des Merveilles, a colonial-style hotel with modern amenities.
    • Kempinski Hotel in Djibouti City, offering luxurious rooms and services.
  • Evening:
    • Visit the Djibouti Markets for some local shopping experience.
    • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city.

Day 2: Explore Arta and Tadjourah

  • Morning: Drive to Arta (approximately 1 hour) - a colonial town turned into a museum showcasing the history of the region. Explore its historical sites, including the old clock tower and the military cemetery.
  • Afternoon: Continue driving to Tadjourah (about another 2 hours), known as “Little Jerusalem” due to its Jewish heritage. It’s one of the three major towns in the Republic of Djibouti.
    • Explore the town’s unique architectural style, influenced by both African and Middle Eastern cultures.
  • Evening:
    • Return to your accommodation in Djibouti City for dinner.

Day 3: Lake Assal and Dallal

  • Morning: Drive to Lake Assal (about 2 hours), the third-saltiest body of water on Earth, after the Dead Sea and Don Juan Pond.
    • Take a boat tour on the lake if available. Be sure to wear protective gloves as the area is very saline.
    • Visit the nearby Dallal geysers for an unforgettable experience.
  • Afternoon:
    • Return to your accommodation in Djibouti City or visit any last-minute spots of interest.
    • Relax at your hotel.

Day 4: Ras Doumeira and Arta

  • Morning: Drive back to Arta (about 1 hour) for a more leisurely visit.
    • Explore the nearby beach at Ras Doumeira, offering stunning views and good swimming conditions.
  • Afternoon/Evening:
    • If time allows, consider visiting the French military cemetery in Arta.
    • Head back to Djibouti City in the evening for your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: Tourists can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. Ensure you have sufficient cash (USD) and passport photocopies with you for this process.
  • Health Risks: Consult your doctor before traveling, considering Djibouti’s location near high-risk areas. Vaccinations are necessary for hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and rabies among others.
  • Transportation:
    • Renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating off-road paths to Lake Assal and other sites mentioned in the itinerary.
    • Be mindful of road conditions as they can change due to weather or construction activities.

Other Tips:

  • Safety: Always travel with local guides if heading into less populated areas, especially around national parks or sensitive marine habitats.
  • Respect Local Custom: Djibouti has a diverse cultural landscape. Be respectful of traditions and attire.
  • Communication: French is the official language, but Arabic and Somali are also spoken widely. English can be challenging to find outside major tourist spots.

Additional Recommendations:

  • Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: If you have experience in these water activities, consider visiting one of Djibouti’s stunning marine parks.
  • Dining: Experience the local cuisine by trying dishes like skordou (flatbread) with various fillings and traditional coffee ceremonies.

Enjoy your time in this beautiful yet under-explored country!