The Afar Triangle
Danakil Depression
The Danakil Depression, located at the meeting point of three tectonic plates in northeastern Ethiopia, is one of the most extraordinary and extreme landscapes on Earth. Lying mostly below sea level and officially recognized as the hottest inhabited place on the planet, the region is dominated by vast salt flats, active volcanoes, and surreal geothermal formations. Among its most remarkable sights are the perpetually erupting Erta Ale volcano, home to one of the world’s oldest permanent lava lakes, and the otherworldly Dallol Crater, where vivid sulfur springs create a striking palette of yellows, greens, and reds. The area also hosts the salt-rich Lake Asale, where Afar miners still harvest salt by hand as they have for centuries, and the emerald waters of Lake Afdera, which offers both natural beauty and vital salt resources. The Danakil Depression’s raw, untamed scenery and intense heat make it one of the most unique and challenging travel destinations on the continent.

Doho lodge
Doho Lodge is a well-appointed accommodation located within Awash National Park, a remarkable destination in Ethiopia celebrated for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Serving as an ideal base for exploring the park, Doho Lodge offers comfortable lodging and a serene environment where visitors can unwind after a day of adventure. Guests can enjoy guided tours to observe wildlife such as oryx, gazelles, and a variety of bird species, as well as visit the breathtaking Awash Waterfalls nearby. The lodge also provides opportunities for cultural experiences with local communities, making it a perfect starting point for an immersive three-day itinerary combining nature, wildlife, and cultural discovery in the heart of Ethiopia’s natural heritage.

Awash park
Awash National Park, located in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley, is a captivating semiarid reserve known for its diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. The park shelters dry-country antelope such as the striking Beisa oryx and the majestic greater kudu, while bird enthusiasts can enjoy sightings from a rich checklist of nearly 500 species, including the Arabian bustard and the endemic yellow-throated serin. Scenic attractions include the impressive Fantelle Volcano, the strikingly unique Lake Beseka, and the powerful Awash River waterfall. Visitors can also explore palm-lined hot springs frequented by Hamadryas baboons and encounter spotted hyenas near Aga Edu Cave at dusk. The nearby Doho Lodge & Hot Springs offers eco-friendly accommodations, excellent bird-watching opportunities, game drives, hyena spotting, and access to world-class natural hot spring pools, making it an ideal base for exploring the park’s natural wonders.

The Paleontological site of Hadar
The Paleontological Site of Hadar, located in Ethiopia’s Afar region, is a globally significant landmark in the study of human evolution. It is renowned for the discovery of Australopithecus afarensis fossils, most notably the partial skeleton known as Lucy, unearthed in the 1970s by Donald Johanson’s team. Lucy, dated to 3.2 million years ago, provided crucial evidence that bipedalism preceded brain enlargement in early human ancestors. The Hadar site has since yielded over 200 fossils, including remains from multiple individuals and some of the earliest traces of the genus Homo and stone tool use. Visitors to Hadar can explore the remarkable discovery site, admire the captivating landscape along the Awash River, and appreciate the region’s rich biodiversity.

Alalobed Hot Springs
Alalobed Hot Springs, located in a geologically active area, is a remarkable natural site known for its vibrant pools of deep green, blue, and yellow hues, created by the mineral-rich waters. The springs are characterized by steam vents, hissing gases, and bubbling mud craters, offering both a striking visual experience and therapeutic benefits. The most prominent feature is the Allallobeda Spouter, a powerful geyser that regularly erupts up to 6 meters high, occasionally reaching an impressive 30 meters, with water temperatures nearing 97°C. Visitors often use the bubbling geyser as a natural steam bath and for cooking, while the simmering mud is traditionally believed to have healing properties for skin ailments.
