Exploring Djibouti: Why This Tiny African Nation Deserves Your Attention
When I first landed at Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport (JIB) back in 2017, I had no idea this tiny East African nation would capture my heart so completely. Four visits later, I still remember stepping out into that wall of heat and immediately wondering if I’d made a terrible mistake. But by the end of that first 72-hour whirlwind, I was already planning my return. There’s something magical about Djibouti’s stark landscapes, the genuine warmth of its people, and the fascinating blend of African, Arab, and French influences that keeps pulling me back.
In 2025, Djibouti remains one of Africa’s most overlooked destinations—which is precisely why you should go now. With just three days, you can experience otherworldly landscapes that look like they belong on another planet, swim alongside whale sharks in crystal clear waters, and immerse yourself in a cultural tapestry unlike anywhere else on the continent.
This itinerary distills everything I’ve learned over my four visits, including the mistakes I’ve made (like not bringing enough water to Lake Assal—a rookie error you won’t repeat after reading this), the hidden gems I’ve discovered, and how to navigate this compact country efficiently in just 72 hours.
“Djibouti might be small enough to cross in a few hours, but its experiences are massive enough to fill memories for a lifetime.”
Practical Information Before You Go
Best Time to Visit Djibouti
My first visit was in June—a mistake I won’t repeat. Djibouti’s climate is hot year-round, but during the summer months (May-September), temperatures regularly soar above 40°C (104°F). The optimal window is November to April, with December-February offering the most pleasant conditions. In 2025, expect peak season crowds during January and February, so I recommend November or April for the sweet spot of good weather and fewer tourists.
Visa Information (Updated for 2025)
As of 2025, Djibouti offers e-visas through their official portal. The process takes 3-5 working days and costs $90 USD for a 30-day single-entry visa. During my last visit in early 2024, I found that the system works much more efficiently than in previous years, but I still recommend applying at least two weeks before your trip to avoid complications.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF), with an exchange rate of approximately 178 DJF to 1 USD in 2025. While many hotels and tour operators in Djibouti City accept credit cards, you’ll need cash for markets, local restaurants, and rural areas. I’ve found that it’s better to exchange money at the airport upon arrival rather than attempting to find Djiboutian Francs abroad.
Insider Tip #1: The exchange booth at JIB airport typically offers better rates than the hotels, but they often run out of small denominations. Ask specifically for some smaller bills (1000 and 2000 DJF notes) to make purchases in markets easier.
Language Basics
French and Arabic are the official languages, but you’ll also hear Somali and Afar widely spoken. While you can get by with English in tourist areas and upscale establishments, knowing a few phrases goes a long way:
- “Mahasanid” (mah-ha-san-id) – Thank you in Somali
- “La’a kama baahni” (lah-ah kah-mah bahn-ee) – No thank you in Somali
- “Salaam alaikum” (sah-lahm ah-lay-koom) – Hello/Peace be upon you in Arabic
Getting Around
Djibouti is compact, with most major attractions within a few hours’ drive of the capital. You have three main options:
- Hire a driver/guide: My recommended option for a short trip. Expect to pay around 25,000-30,000 DJF ($140-168 USD) per day in 2025.
- Rent a 4×4: Only if you’re comfortable with rough roads and have experience with desert driving. Daily rates start at approximately 15,000 DJF ($84 USD) in 2025.
- Join group tours: The most economical option at around 12,000-15,000 DJF ($67-84 USD) per person per day, but you’ll sacrifice flexibility.
Insider Tip #2: If hiring a driver, I’ve had excellent experiences with Hassan at Djibouti Tourism. Mention “Friday market” to him and he’ll take you to a local food market that most tourists never see, where you can sample traditional fah-fah (spicy meat soup) for just 500 DJF.
Day 1: Djibouti City – Cultural Immersion
Morning: European Quarter & Presidential Palace
Start your adventure in Djibouti City’s European Quarter, with its distinctly French colonial architecture. The area around Place Menelik (formerly Place Lagarde) offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s complex history. The Presidential Palace, while not open to the public, is worth viewing from the outside for its striking blue and white façade.
During my last visit, I noticed significantly increased security around government buildings compared to my first trip in 2017, so keep your camera discreetly tucked away when near the palace or military installations.
Late Morning: Les Corniches & The Harbor
Make your way to Les Corniches, the picturesque seaside boulevard where you’ll find locals fishing and lounging in the shade. This is where I made one of my most embarrassing mistakes on my first visit—attempting to photograph a military ship in the harbor. A stern warning from guards quickly taught me to always ask before taking photos in Djibouti, especially near the port!
For a refreshing break, stop at Café de la Gare near the harbor. Their shah bil haleeb (tea with milk, 300 DJF) is perfectly sweet and aromatic with cardamom. The scent of that tea paired with the salty sea breeze has become one of my favorite sensory memories of Djibouti.
Lunch: Authentic Djiboutian Cuisine
For lunch, head to Restaurant Mukbasa in the city center for authentic East African cuisine. Their specialty is skudahkharis (spiced goat with rice) for around 1,500 DJF ($8.40 USD). The portion sizes are generous enough to share, and the restaurant is spotlessly clean—a welcome feature in the midday heat.
Afternoon: Marché Central (Central Market)
After lunch, explore the sensory wonderland of Marché Central (Central Market). The market is most lively between 3-5pm when locals shop for dinner ingredients. You’ll find everything from fragrant spices and colorful fabrics to intricate handicrafts.
In 2025, vendors are increasingly accepting USD, but you’ll get better prices using Djiboutian Francs. Bargaining is expected but should be done respectfully—I usually start at about 60% of the initial price and settle around 70-75%.
Insider Tip #3: Look for the spice vendor with the blue awning near the eastern entrance. He sells a pre-mixed berbere spice blend for 400 DJF that makes an excellent, lightweight souvenir and will transform your home cooking when you return.
Evening: Sunset at Plateau du Serpent
For sunset, take a short drive to Plateau du Serpent (Snake Plateau), a rocky outcrop offering panoramic views over the city and Gulf of Tadjoura. The light at this time of day transforms the landscape into a palette of burnt oranges and purples—a photographer’s dream.
During my last visit, I discovered that a local vendor now sets up a small cart selling sweet Djiboutian tea for just 100 DJF. Sipping hot tea while watching the sun disappear behind the Ethiopian highlands in the distance has become my perfect end to day one.
Dinner: Seafood at La Mer Rouge
For dinner, treat yourself to La Mer Rouge restaurant, where the catch of the day (typically around 3,500 DJF/$19.60 USD) is among the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. I recommend the grilled grouper with lemon and local herbs.
What I love about this place is how the staff remember returning visitors—on my third visit, the owner Mohamed greeted me by name and insisted I try his special off-menu fish soup, a privilege usually reserved for regulars.
Day 2: Natural Wonders – Lake Assal & Lake Abbe
Day two takes you to Djibouti’s otherworldly landscapes—prepare for a long but rewarding day on the road.
Early Morning: Lake Assal
Depart Djibouti City by 6:00 AM to reach Lake Assal before the peak heat. Located about 120 km from the capital, Lake Assal is the lowest point in Africa and the third lowest point on Earth at 155 meters below sea level. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, winding through desert landscapes that gradually transition to volcanic terrain.
My first visit to Lake Assal taught me a painful lesson about desert heat. I brought only one liter of water, thinking the visit would be brief. Two hours later, with salt-crusted clothes and a pounding headache, I learned my lesson. Now I bring at least three liters per person, even for a short visit.
The lake’s beauty is otherworldly—a stark white salt crust surrounds a turquoise pool so laden with minerals that you’ll float effortlessly. Since 2023, there’s a small visitor center charging an entrance fee of 1,000 DJF, but it includes access to freshwater showers (essential after swimming).
What to Pack for Lake Assal:
- At least 3 liters of water per person
- Hat and high-SPF sunscreen
- Sturdy shoes (the salt crystals are sharp)
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel
- Plastic bag for wet, salty clothes
Sustainability Note: The salt pan is fragile, and increased tourism has taken its toll. Stay on marked paths, and don’t collect salt crystals as souvenirs—this practice is now discouraged to preserve the natural environment.
Lunch: Roadside Stop
After Lake Assal, you’ll continue toward Lake Abbe. Stop for lunch at the small settlement of As Eyla, about halfway between the two lakes. The unassuming roadside restaurant (it has no formal name) serves simple but delicious food to travelers.
Try the odkac (camel meat with rice) for 800 DJF—it’s gamy but tender when prepared properly. Wash it down with a bottle of locally-sourced mineral water.
Afternoon/Evening: Lake Abbe
Lake Abbe, straddling the border with Ethiopia, is about a 3-hour drive from Lake Assal. This lunar landscape served as the filming location for the opening sequence of “Planet of the Apes” (1968), and it’s easy to see why. Limestone chimneys rise like alien sentinels from the cracked earth, some reaching 50 meters high.
The most memorable experience here is watching sunset transform the landscape. During my second visit in 2019, I witnessed thousands of flamingos take flight against the setting sun—a moment so beautiful I actually teared up.
Since there’s no comfortable way to return to Djibouti City the same day, you’ll spend the night in a traditional Afar hut at the Camp Ourobock. These simple accommodations (around 7,000 DJF/$39 USD per person including dinner and breakfast) offer an authentic experience with nomadic Afar hosts.
The camp has improved significantly since my first visit. As of 2025, they’ve added composting toilets and basic solar showers, making the experience more comfortable while maintaining its rustic charm.
Evening with the Afar
Dinner at Camp Ourobock is a communal affair, typically featuring goat meat stew, flat bread, and rice eaten the traditional way—with your right hand. The Afar guides often perform traditional songs after dinner, and the star-gazing here is spectacular with minimal light pollution.
“My night with the Afar people taught me more about resilience and adaptation than any book ever could. Their hospitality in such a harsh environment is humbling.”
Day 3: Marine Life & Return to Djibouti City
Morning: Return Journey & Whale Shark Swimming
After a simple breakfast at Camp Ourobock (usually bread, honey, and strong coffee), begin the journey back toward Djibouti City. The return drive offers different perspectives of the landscapes you passed yesterday.
Depending on the season, arrange with your driver to stop at Arta Beach or the Gulf of Ghoubbet for a whale shark swimming experience. Between October and February, these gentle giants frequent Djibouti’s waters to feed on plankton.
My first whale shark encounter in 2017 was a comedy of errors—I was so excited I forgot to take the lens cap off my underwater camera. By the time I realized my mistake, the moment had passed. Fortunately, these creatures often stick around for extended periods, giving swimmers multiple opportunities.
| Tour Operator | Price (2025) | Includes | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dolphin Diving Center | 16,000 DJF ($90 USD) | Boat, guide, snorkel gear, drinks | 3-4 hours |
| Nautic Blue | 18,000 DJF ($101 USD) | Boat, guide, snorkel gear, lunch, drinks | 5-6 hours |
Insider Tip #4: If you’re visiting between November and January, book your whale shark experience in advance, as this is peak season and spots fill quickly. For February visits, you can often negotiate a 10-15% discount as operators are less busy.
Lunch: Seafood at Chez Youssouf
After your marine adventure, enjoy lunch at Chez Youssouf in the fishing village of Tadjoura. Their grilled fish platter (2,500 DJF/$14 USD) features the morning’s catch served with local vegetables and spiced rice.
The restaurant’s location offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Tadjoura, and the sound of gentle waves provides a soothing soundtrack to your meal. This place holds special meaning for me—it’s where I met an elderly fisherman named Omar on my second visit who spent an hour teaching me how to tie traditional fishing knots, skills I still use today when I go fishing back home.
Afternoon: Goda Mountains & Day Forest National Park
On your way back to Djibouti City, make a detour to the Goda Mountains and Day Forest National Park if time permits. This highland region offers a striking contrast to the desert landscapes you’ve been exploring, with juniper forests and cooler temperatures.
The park is home to endangered Djibouti francolins and various antelope species. Hiring a local guide at the entrance (1,000 DJF) supports conservation efforts and enhances your experience—they can point out wildlife you might otherwise miss.
During my visit in early 2024, I was saddened to see how climate change has affected the forest, with noticeably fewer trees than during my first visit. The local guides are now actively involved in reforestation projects, and you can contribute by purchasing a tree (500 DJF) that will be planted in your name.
Evening: Farewell Dinner & Cultural Show
For your final evening, head to Restaurant Al Bahri at the Kempinski Hotel. While pricier than other options (expect to pay around 6,000 DJF/$33.70 USD for a main course), their Thursday night cultural performances showcase traditional Afar and Somali dances.
This is where I made my third major Djibouti mistake: arriving too late and missing the show. The performances begin promptly at 8:00 PM and last approximately one hour, so be sure to make reservations for 7:30 PM to secure a good view.
Reflection on Today’s Experiences
What strikes me about this final day is how it encapsulates Djibouti’s diversity—from marine encounters to mountain forests to cultural performances—all within hours of each other. Few destinations offer such variety in such a compact area.
Parting Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Djibouti Adventure
As I reflect on my multiple visits to Djibouti, I’m struck by how this tiny nation continues to surprise me. Each return reveals new facets, hidden corners, and deepening connections with the resilient people who call this challenging landscape home.
Three days is just enough to scratch the surface, but it can provide a meaningful introduction if planned thoughtfully. The itinerary I’ve shared balances urban exploration, natural wonders, and cultural immersion—the three elements that make Djibouti truly special.
5-Step Action Plan for Your Trip
- Book accommodations early: Djibouti has limited quality hotels, and they fill quickly during peak season (November-February). I recommend the Kempinski Palace if your budget allows (approximately $200/night in 2025) or the more affordable Sheraton Djibouti ($120/night).
- Arrange a reliable driver in advance: The quality of your guide significantly impacts your experience. Use reputable companies like Djibouti Tourism or Djibouti I Love You rather than negotiating with drivers at the airport.
- Pack strategically: Bring lightweight, modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), serious sun protection, a reusable water bottle with filtration, and necessary medications (pharmacies are limited outside the capital).
- Learn basic French phrases: While not essential, even simple greetings in French will open doors and show respect for the local culture.
- Keep an open schedule for your final day: Flight delays and schedule changes are common in this region. Building flexibility into your final day prevents disappointment if adjustments become necessary.
Final Sustainability Notes
Djibouti faces serious environmental challenges, including water scarcity and plastic pollution. As visitors, we can help by:
- Using a refillable water bottle with a built-in filter (saving both money and plastic)
- Choosing tour operators with sustainable practices (like Dolphin Diving Center, which participates in beach cleanups)
- Supporting community-based tourism initiatives like the Afar Camp at Lake Abbe
- Respecting water restrictions at accommodations (shorter showers, reusing towels)
These small actions collectively make a difference in a country where resources are precious.
“My most meaningful Djibouti memories aren’t of the spectacular landscapes, but of small human connections—sharing tea with strangers, learning local fishing techniques, and being welcomed into homes with unforgettable generosity.”
With its otherworldly landscapes, rich marine life, and cultural significance as a crossroads of African and Middle Eastern influences, Djibouti offers experiences that few travelers can claim. Your three days here will yield stories and photographs unlike anywhere else—and possibly, like me, you’ll find yourself already planning your return before your plane even takes off.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Djibouti
Is Djibouti safe for travelers?
Yes, Djibouti is generally safe for travelers. The country has a significant international military presence and values its stability. Crime rates are low compared to many other destinations. However, standard precautions apply: avoid isolated areas after dark, keep valuables secure, and respect local customs. The most common issues travelers face are heat-related health problems and minor stomach upsets rather than security concerns.
Do I need special vaccinations for Djibouti?
Yes, several vaccinations are recommended. As of 2025, the CDC recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccines plus hepatitis A, typhoid, and potentially hepatitis B and rabies depending on your activities. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Malaria prophylaxis should be considered, especially if visiting rural areas during the rainy season (October-April).
What’s the best way to get to Djibouti?
Most international visitors arrive via Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport (JIB). As of 2025, direct flights are available from Paris (Air France), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Dubai (flydubai), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), and Nairobi (Kenya Airways). I’ve found Turkish Airlines typically offers the best combination of price and comfort from most international departure points.
Can I visit Djibouti during Ramadan?
Yes, but with considerations. During Ramadan, many restaurants close during daylight hours, and business hours can be shorter. However, hotels catering to international guests usually maintain normal service. As a sign of respect, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. The benefit of visiting during Ramadan is experiencing special evening festivities and generally lower tourist numbers.
Is three days really enough time in Djibouti?
Three days allows you to experience Djibouti’s highlights, but it’s tight. With five days, you could add excursions to the Goubet Al Kharab (Devil’s Cauldron) volcanic area and the Djibouti Francolin Reserve, or include diving at the Seven Brothers Islands. However, if three days is all you have, the itinerary outlined above maximizes your time and includes the country’s most significant experiences.
What’s the internet/cell service like in Djibouti?
As of 2025, 4G coverage is reliable in Djibouti City but spotty in rural areas. Wi-Fi is available in major hotels but can be slow. The most practical solution for visitors is purchasing a local SIM card from Djibouti Telecom at the airport (approximately 2,000 DJF for a SIM with 5GB of data). Connection speeds have improved significantly since my first visit but remain slower than what you might be accustomed to in Europe or North America.
Can I combine Djibouti with visits to neighboring countries?
Absolutely! Ethiopia makes the most practical combination, with regular flights between Djibouti City and Addis Ababa (1-hour flight). Somaliland is also accessible via land border crossing, though this requires more advanced planning and separate visas. For adventurous travelers, a Djibouti-Ethiopia-Somaliland circuit offers an incredible overview of the Horn of Africa’s diversity.
References and Further Reading
- Lonely Planet: Djibouti Travel Guide – Comprehensive overview of the country with practical information.
- U.S. Department of State: Djibouti Travel Advisory – Current safety information and travel recommendations.
- UK Foreign Office: Djibouti Travel Advice – British government travel guidance.
- Official Djibouti Tourism Office – The country’s tourism portal with events and official information.
- National Geographic: Otherworldly Landscapes of Djibouti – Beautiful photo essay on Djibouti’s unique geology.
- AFAR Magazine: The Hidden Beauty of Djibouti – In-depth travel feature with cultural insights.
- UNESCO: Djibouti Lake Assal Conservation – Video highlighting conservation efforts at Lake Assal.
- World Wildlife Fund: Marine Conservation in Djibouti – Information on whale shark protection initiatives.
- World Nomads: 5 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Going to Djibouti – Practical travel tips from experienced visitors.
- CDC: Health Information for Travelers to Djibouti – Current health recommendations and requirements.
- We Travel Djibouti: Best Time to Visit Djibouti – Seasonal information from a local tour operator.
- Djibouti Tourism: Whale Shark Encounters – Specific information about swimming with whale sharks.