Guided Tour of Lake Assal Escape





Description
Lac Assal lies 150 meters (492 feet) below sea level, making it the lowest point in Africa and one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth. This aquatic wilderness, encircled by dormant volcanoes and vast black lava fields, offers a landscape like no other stark, dramatic, and mesmerizing. This one-day trip takes you along a well-paved road heading west from Djibouti City. Along the way, you’ll pass Lac Goubet, a deep seawater loch ominously known as “the Pit of Demons.” From there, the journey continues through an apocalyptic volcanic corridor, where rugged rock formations mark the divide between the two lakes. At Lac Assal, marvel at the brilliant turquoise waters contrasting with the blinding white salt flats, stroll along the crystalline shore, and capture unforgettable photos of this surreal landscape.
Tour Options
Itinerary
On the going to reach the lake ASSAL, we will pass by ARTA town where there is a panoramic point on the expanse of the GULF OF TADJOURAH.
Before reaching Lake Assal, take a moment to explore the breathtaking Dimbiya Canyon, a dramatic natural wonder carved deep into the earth by time and wind. Towering cliff walls of layered basalt and sandstone create a maze of rugged beauty, offering spectacular views and a striking contrast to the flat desert plains surrounding it. As you wander along the canyon rim or descend into its depths, you’ll be immersed in Djibouti’s raw geological power where shades of red, brown, and gold reveal millions of years of Earth’s history. The silence here is profound, broken only by the whisper of the wind and the occasional cry of a desert bird. Dimbiya Canyon is a perfect stop for photography lovers and adventure seekers, offering panoramic vistas, unique rock formations, and a glimpse into the country’s untamed landscapes. It’s a place that feels both ancient and alive a hidden gem waiting to be discovered on the road to Lake Assal.
we arrive at Lake Assal: it is one of the most lakes in the world, it is the lowest point in africa and the 3rd lowest point in the world after the dead sea and the dead valey. You will walk on the salt ice, try the floating experience. Then you go to admire the nomads making the salt caravan which is a cultural and ancestral practice of the Afar tribes. Finally, you will pass over a point of thermal waters where there is a fish spa, you will let small larval fish gnaw the dead skin of your foot.
On the way to Lake Assal, we will take a photography break at DIMBIYA, the Grand Canyon of Djibouti: this is an important site because it is the starting point of the Grand Rift Valley on the continent. African. the trip from ARTA to the DIMBIYA canyon is (1Hour) Still, on the way to Lake Assal, we will take a photography break at the panoramic point of view on the bay of GHOUBET EL KHARAB: this is an immense bay in the middle of which is frozen a large hill-shaped crater called Devil's Island. The GHOUBET EL KHARAB is an Arabic expression that means abyss of the demon. the guide will explain why on the ground. (25 mins)
After lake assal we drive to join the GHOUBET EL KHARAB bay beach, for lunch break . After lunch we explore the surrounding landscape: the volcano’s craters & frozen lava landscape. Witness the separation of African and Arabian tectonic plates and explore frozen lava tunnels. Climb the ARDOUKOBA volcano crater for breathtaking views of the salt flats and the captivating Ghoubet El Kharab, also known as the “abyss of the demon” and cherished by Jacques Cousteau.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
our driver and official guide will wait for at arrival with our campany uniform.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(3)
AMAZING!! Everything was perfect and i was surprised by the hospitality of my guides Adan and Daoud. They made sure we were well taken care of and made the whole experience worth it. We learned a lot from them about the Afar people and their traditions and each moment was special. Shout out to Arho tours and I would recommend them to anyone who is visiting Djibouti.
Daoud is very helpful and reliable. Very professional. If you need someone to help you organise your visit dont hesitate!
We had a FANTASTIC time with Arhotours in Djibouti! Everything was taken care of for us including a seamless airport pickup and drive to and from all destinations. The guides were super knowledgable and made us feel right at home as we drove around the country, staying in remote campsites and even a local guest house. From beautiful salt flats, lunar landscapes, and local life, we loved our time in Djibouti and everyone we met was so kind and friendly. We definitely recommend this tour for people who want a bit of adventure, off the beaten path locations, and an opportunity to really immerse yourself in nature.



