Lake Assal: the salt lake below sea level

Why Lake Assal is special

The lake sits at the meeting point of three tectonic plates, where Africa is slowly pulling apart. The result is a landscape that looks like another planet: black lava fields, dark hills and then, suddenly, a sheet of brilliant white salt and water in colours that shift from green to deep blue with the light. The salt crust is thick enough to walk on near the shore, and in places it forms delicate pearls and crystals.

The road from the capital

The drive is part of the experience. The road west from Djibouti City runs past the hills of Arta and along the Ghoubbet al Kharab, a deep bay whose name is often translated as the Devil's Cauldron. Look out for the Devil's Island, a dark volcanic cone in the bay, and the sweeping viewpoints above the water. Many tours stop at the Ardoukoba volcano area and the rift lava fields on the way.

Swimming and floating

You can float in the lake, much like the Dead Sea, but take it seriously. The water is extremely salty and stings any cut or graze, and it is painful in the eyes. Keep your head out of the water, wear sandals or water shoes because the salt crust is sharp, and bring plenty of fresh water to rinse off. Some visitors also bathe in the small hot springs near the shore.

The salt caravans

For centuries, Afar camel caravans have carried salt from Lake Assal to the Ethiopian highlands. Today most salt moves by truck, but you may still meet local people who collect and sell small bags of salt and salt formations by the lake. Buying from them is a small way to support the local community.

When to go

The cooler months from November to March are the most comfortable. Even then, the lake is very hot by midday, with fierce glare off the salt. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the colours are best for photos. From June to September, temperatures here can be dangerous, and a visit should be brief and well prepared.

How to get there

There is no public transport to the lake. Most visitors join a day tour from Djibouti City or hire a driver with a 4x4 through a hotel or tour company. Roads are paved for much of the way, but there is little shade, fuel or phone signal near the lake, so travel with an experienced driver and carry water.

What to bring

Pack sunglasses, a hat, high factor sunscreen, water shoes, a towel, a change of clothes and more water than you think you need. A small bottle of fresh water for rinsing your eyes is very useful. Light, long sleeved clothing protects you better than bare skin.

Combining it with other sights

Lake Assal pairs well with a swim stop on the Ghoubbet coast and lunch in Arta or Tadjourah. Some tours continue around the gulf to Tadjourah and the Day Forest, making a two or three day loop through the north.