Located on the Horn of Africa, Djibouti is a small but extraordinary country filled with volcanic landscapes, salt lakes, coral islands, and desert canyons. Though it’s often overlooked, Djibouti offers raw beauty, extreme environments, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, all within a compact area.
Feature | Info |
---|---|
Capital | Djibouti City |
Language | French, Arabic, Afar, Somali |
Currency | Djiboutian Franc (DJF) |
Best Time to Visit | November – February |
Visa Requirement | Most nationalities need a visa (available online) |
Time Zone | GMT+3 |
The lowest point in Africa at 155 meters below sea level.
Surrounded by salt flats and black lava, it’s one of the saltiest lakes in the world.
A surreal photo destination and a natural wonder.
Otherworldly desert plain with steaming limestone chimneys, hot springs, and roaming flamingos.
It was used as a filming location for Planet of the Apes.
Snorkel or dive with whale sharks in one of the few places on Earth you can see them in the wild.
Pristine coral reefs, calm blue water, and beach serenity.
The country’s greenest corner, filled with juniper trees, rare birds, and mountain views.
A peaceful escape in the highlands of the Goda Mountains.
Hike the Ardoukoba volcano.
Explore the Great Rift Valley where tectonic plates meet — it’s one of the only places you can walk across three plates at once.
Whale sharks (Nov–Feb)
Djibouti spurfowl (critically endangered bird found only in the Day Forest)
Beira antelope, baboons, flamingos, dolphins, sea turtles, and desert foxes
Djibouti is a mix of African, Arab, and French influences.
Explore traditional markets, mosques, and colonial architecture in Djibouti City.
Taste local cuisine: spiced lamb, sambusas, lahoh (spongy bread), and strong black coffee with cardamom.
Season | Highlights |
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Nov–Feb | Best weather (cool and dry), whale shark season |
Mar–May | Warmer, great for diving, fewer crowds |
Jun–Sep | Extremely hot (40–50°C) – not ideal for most travel |
Oct | Transition month, sea starts to calm |
Currency: Carry cash – cards are not widely accepted outside the capital.
Transport: 4x4 recommended for most remote areas.
Connectivity: SIM cards available; Wi-Fi limited in rural zones.
Safety: Djibouti is stable and welcoming to tourists; still, travel with guides in remote regions.
Languages: French and Arabic are official; Somali and Afar are widely spoken.
Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport (JIB) connects to Paris, Istanbul, Addis Ababa, Cairo, and more.
Popular carriers: Ethiopian Airlines, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways.