Afar Danakil Depression
Traveler rating
4.3/5
Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Afar Danakil Depression worth booking?
Afar Danakil Depression is a 96-hour experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from $980 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 4.3/5 (6)
- Duration
- 96 hours
- From
- $980 per person
Bubbling volcano light up the night sky sulphurous mounds of yellow contort in to other worldly shapes, and mirages of camels cross lakes of salt. Laying 100m and more below sea level , the Danakil Depression is about the hottest and most inhospitable place on Planet Earth. In fact it’s so surreal that it doesn’t feel like part of planet earth at all . If you want Genuine, raw adventure few corners of the globe can Mach this overwhelming wilderness. But come prepared because with temperatures frequently saying hello to 50 Degrees and appalling roads visiting this region is more an expedition than a tour.
What you get
About this experience
Bubbling volcano light up the night sky sulphurous mounds of yellow contort in to other worldly shapes, and mirages of camels cross lakes of salt. Laying 100m and more below sea level , the Danakil Depression is about the hottest and most inhospitable place on Planet Earth. In fact it’s so surreal that it doesn’t feel like part of planet earth at all . If you want Genuine, raw adventure few corners of the globe can Mach this overwhelming wilderness. But come prepared because with temperatures frequently saying hello to 50 Degrees and appalling roads visiting this region is more an expedition than a tour.
What's included
Included
- Domestic Flight fees
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Accommodation full board and camping
- Breakfast
- Entrance and local guide fee for all destinations
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- WALK IN ETHIOPIA TOUR AND TRAVEL
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
6 verified traveler reviews for Afar Danakil Depression. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great
good tour company highly reccommande
via Tripadvisor
Amazing Experience with a great Guide
I had a wonderful experience traveling in Ethiopia. The tour company arranged everything perfectly, and our guide Gashaw, went above and beyond to make the trip memorable. His knowledge, kindness, and professionalism made all the difference. Our visit to the Afar region and the Danakil Depression was a true highlight its otherworldly landscapes, salt flats, and volcanic scenery made the journey unforgettable, and Gashaw ensured we felt safe, comfortable, and well informed the entire time. I truly appreciate their hard work and highly recommend them to anyone visiting Ethiopia.
Response from the operator: Dear Bitania Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had a wonderful experience traveling in Ethiopia with us. It’s fantastic to know that Gashaw’s knowledge and professionalism made such a positive impact on your journey. The Afar region and Danakil Depression are indeed breathtaking, and we're glad you enjoyed the stunning landscapes and unique adventures they offer. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and it’s rewarding to hear that we succeeded during your trip. Thank you for highly recommending our services. We hope to welcome you back for more unforgettable experiences in the future!
via Tripadvisor
Ripped off by the vendor. A no show at the airport.
The vendor lied and cheated me. A real scam. Never showed up on the first day of the tour to pick me up from the hotel at 6 am. Contacted the vendor through the hotel staff. Was told the tour had been rescheduled for the next day on the 24th of November. A driver picked me up from the hotel at 4:30 am, took me to the airport, charged an additional $185 cash for the airline ticket, and the tour guide never showed up to meet me at the airport so I did not board the plane. The TSA agents assisted by trying to call the vendor with no answer. I went back to the hotel. I have had to rent a room for 3 additional days. The airline ticket was to Mekele instead of Semera as outlined in the itinerary. Please do not pay this vendor. Please return my money for the tour to my original form of payment. I travel by myself and this experience was scary. My personal safety was jeopardized.
Response from the operator: Dear Gail Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience. We sincerely apologize for the distress and inconvenience you faced during your recent tour. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities, and it’s clear we fell short in this instance. We would like to let you know that particularly for the Afar Denakil Trip as the tour is a group joined tour we always informed and give instructions before the arrival date of the experiance and specially for travellers fly international must fly by Ethiopian Airlins to avoid additional fees to the domestic flights, and we try to contact you on this matter but it’s a last mint communication, we issued your Air ticket and pick you up at your hotel to Bole Airport however you didn’t fly , and we even keep to waiting you other Groups at MEKELE Airport. More than 2 Hours But you didn’t show up, and we can’t do anything on this as this tour is pre scheduled.. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve our services. Once again, a 20% of the total amount will be refunded to you and we truly apologize for the trouble this caused you and appreciate your understanding as we work to rectify the situation.
via Viator
An unforgettable adventure!
Yohannes LA An unforgettable adventure! Walk in Ethiopia organized an amazing trip to the Danakil Depression. The guides were knowledgeable, safety-focused, and friendly. The landscapes—lava lakes, salt flats, and colorful sulfur fields—were beyond anything I imagined. Walk in Ethiopia Tour and Travel transformed what could have been a daunting destination into a well-managed, enriching, and unforgettable adventure. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone seeking to explore Ethiopia with confidence and authenticity. For anyone considering a journey to the Afar Danakil Depression or beyond, Walk Ethiopia Tour and Travel is the company I would strongly endorse for a safe, professional, and truly memorable experience.
Response from the operator: Dear Yuhanes Thank you so much for your glowing review! We are thrilled to hear that your adventure to the Danakil Depression was such a memorable experience. It’s wonderful to know that our guides made a positive impact on your journey with their knowledge and focus on safety. The landscapes you described are indeed extraordinary, and we’re delighted that they exceeded your expectations. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we are committed to providing authentic and enriching experiences for all our guests. We look forward to welcoming you back on another adventure in Ethiopia!
via Tripadvisor
Full of experience of tourism
When we tour to danakil depretion our experience to guide the tourist was full of commitment and flexibility and also we are enough experience about the thing we discover
Response from the operator: Greetings of the Day Dear Tesfa many thanks to choos walk in Ethiopia Tours and we are Glad you Enjoyed your Trip with us and we hope we see you again and we show you more of Ethiopia. With Regards Gashaw Mihiret Marketimg Manager
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 96 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by WALK IN ETHIOPIA TOUR AND TRAVEL, who run 13 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.5.
See everything WALK IN ETHIOPIA TOUR AND TRAVEL runsWhy this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Afar Danakil Depression: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Addis Ababa.
How much does Afar Danakil Depression cost?
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Prices start at $980 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Addis Ababa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Afar Danakil Depression take?
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Plan for about 96 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Addis Ababa is not rushed.
Is Afar Danakil Depression worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Addis Ababa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Afar Danakil Depression?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Afar Danakil Depression suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 96-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Afar Danakil Depression?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Addis Ababa can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Addis Ababa and add a light layer if any part of the 96-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Afar Danakil Depression start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Addis Ababa within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Addis Ababa?
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On Outty we rank every Addis Ababa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Addis Ababa Authentic Private City Tour, Addis Ababa Guided City Tour With Airport & Hotel Pick Up, Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Addis Ababa?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Afar Danakil Depression?
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Included: Domestic Flight fees; Lunch; Dinner; Accommodation full board and camping; and Breakfast. Not included: Alcoholic drinks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Afar Danakil Depression include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 141 listed pickup locations in and around Addis Ababa. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Afar Danakil Depression offered in?
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It is offered in German, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Afar Danakil Depression?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Afar Danakil Depression wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Afar Danakil Depression if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Addis Ababa. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Afar Danakil Depression?
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Across 6 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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