Djibouti, or more accurately known as the Republic of Djibouti, is a small country located in eastern Africa on the Horn of Africa. The country is near international shipping lanes in Red Sea and Indian Ocean, making it multiethnic and multicultural. It is also one of the safest places to visit in Africa partly due to the sizeable presence of Western military forces. Djibouti is a fantastic location for wildlife with a lot of scenic sight-seeing spots like Lake Assal which is one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth. This country boasts a unique culture and tradition because of its French and Arabic roots. If these things entice you to plan a trip here soon, then check out our list of the top things to do in Djibouti.
1. Pay tribute at The People's Palace
The People’s Palace in Djibouti is one of the most famous and must-see sites in the country. Since it was built in 1984 and opened in 1985, this has become the symbol of the Djibouti people’s struggle for freedom. This historical site consists of Monument of Martyrs which commemorates the people who fought and died for the country’s independence. Numerous flag poles mark the perimeter around the massive square in The People’s Palace, while the flag of the Republic of Djibouti is flying proudly from the top of the masts, making it an imposing sight.
The People's Palace
Address: The People’s Palace, Rue de Geneve, Djibouti
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 8am - 4pm (closed on Fri & Sat)
2. Explore your wild side with Dolphin Excursions Djibouti
Dolphin Excursions Djibouti is one of the safest and most popular marine adventures and tour agencies in Djibouti. As the only PADA Divecentre in the country, the company is the best choice for visitors looking for a custom marine sight-seeing trip or diving and snorkelling adventures. Some of the recommended spots are Lake Abbe, Lake Assal, Seven Brothers, and Ghoubbet Bay where you can see the best of Djibouti’s natural landscape. During the months of October to January, Dolphin Excursions Djibouti can even arrange a tailored whale shark viewing trip that will take your breath away.
Dolphin Excursions Djibouti
Address: Corner of Route de la Siesta and Haramous, Djibouti
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 1pm, 3pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)
3. Strike it big at Aden Bay Casino
Aden Bay Casino is located in Sheraton Hotel Djibouti and offers games such as Blackjack and Roulette. This luxurious casino offers all the amenities of a world-class facility and includes a restaurant and bar within the premises. Guests do not have to stay at the hotel to enter the Aden Bay Hotel but do note that there is a dress code in place. After winning big at the gaming tables, stroll around the hotel and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean that can be seen from the outdoor patio.
Aden Bay Casino
Address: Sheraton Hotel Djibouti, Bp 1924. Plateau Du Serpent, Djibouti
Website: Aden Bay Casino
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 6pm - 4am; Thu - Fri: 6pm - 5am; Sat: 6pm - 12am
4. See "white gold" at Lake Assal
Lake Assal is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world! A crater lake in the Danakil Desert in central Djibouti, Lake Assal’s saltwater comes from hot springs produced by dormant volcanos and black lava fields in the area. At more than 150 metres (492 feet) below sea level, it is the lowest point in the whole of Africa. One of the most popular spots for photo-taking in Lake Assal is the dry section of the lake which features a pure white salt bed. The salt here is also extracted for use after refinement and is widely known in the country as “white gold” for the high prices it commands.
Lake Assal
Address: Saline lake, central Djibouti
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Lose yourself in Djibouti City
Djibouti City is the capital of Djibouti and is famous for its 19th-century architecture with influences from the French and Moorish periods. It also has a port that serves as the entrance to the Red Sea and is an important spot for the country’s economy. A nice area of Djibouti City to visit is the European Quarter where there are many local shops selling unique local products and authentic Djibouti delicacies. The pale buildings built during the Western occupation juxtapose interestingly with exquisite Moorish arches and tiles, giving the city a romantic old-world vibe.
Djibouti City
Address: Djibouti City, Djibouti
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Hike and birdwatch in Day Forest National Park
Day Forest National Park or Forêt du Day National Park is a national park nestled in the far reaches of Goda Mountains in the Tadjourah region of Djibouti. As the largest forest in the country, it is deemed significant since it protects one of the two closed forest areas and sanctuary for many wildlife in Djibouti. This park is occupied by an ancient juniper forest with other flora such as wild olive trees, boxwood, dragon trees, and other Djibouti native plants. Visitors can try hiking the lower reaches of the forest, while more experienced hikers can challenge the arduous trails that increase in difficulty as the altitude rises and vegetation becomes thicker.
Day Forest National Park
Address: Airolaf, Djibouti
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. See Dijibouti's national symbol in Ali Sabieh
Ali Sabieh is the second-largest city in Djibouti after the capital city. It is best known for the country’s massive national symbol that is carved into the foothills of Ali Sabieh Mountain. Originally, French colonisers of Djibouti placed the Cross of Lorraine on the mountainside in 1945, but it was finally removed in 1977 upon Djibouti’s independence. Today, the national emblem of Djibouti can be seen from a distance as a reminder of the country’s hard road toward independence. Arrei Mountains or The Roof of Ali Sabieh, the highest point in Ali Sabieh, is also a popular birdwatching attraction for its Egyptian vulture populations.
Ali Sabieh
Address: Ali Sabieh, Djibouti
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Bask in the sun on the Gulf of Tadjoura
Gulf of Tadjoura is a popular tourist spot in Djibouti for its clean sandy beaches, clear waters, and good weather. The gulf lies in Indian Ocean, south of Bab-el-Mandeb’s straits which is also known as the entrance to the Red Sea. The beaches in Gulf of Tadjoura are also the few beaches that permit the use of beachwear and swimwear, making it particularly attractive among foreign tourists. You can either bask in the sun at the beach, dive into the clear waters, or take great underwater shots.
Gulf of Tadjoura
Address: Gulf of Tadjoura, Djibouti
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Be amazed at Tropical Aquarium Djibouti's marine life
Tropical Aquarium Djibouti is a lovely attraction in Djibouti city that is situated in the old quarter. This aquarium houses many communities of marine wildlife that can be found in the region, showcasing the work that goes into conservation of the ocean. It also displays exotic fish and rare varieties of marine flora and fauna. For a respite from the sun or for children and visitors who do not snorkel or dive, Tropical Aquarium Djibouti is a great place to learn about the underwater world.
Tropical Aquarium Djibouti
Address: La Plaine, Djibouti
Opening hours: 4am - 6:30pm (daily)
10. Swim and snorkel at Khor Ambado Beach
Khor Ambado Beach is nicknamed the “French Beach” by locals as this was a spot where French military families used to spend their summers. This beach is also relatively unspoilt due to its inaccessibility. This is a great time to rent a four-wheel-drive as the only path to the beach is unpaved and mostly sandy. However, when you get to the beach, your reward is a wide variety of water sports such as snorkelling in the crystal clear waters. There are also some small local restaurants on the beach that serve fresh and seasonal seafood.
Khor Ambado Beach
Address: Djibouti
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Enjoy the glittering city of Djibouti
Djibouti is unlike any other city. With its attractions ranging widely from historical and cultural sites to beautiful landscapes, you will never run out of activities to try and places to explore here. If you are planning to take your friends or family with you, don’t forget to include our list of top things to do in Djibouti, East Africa, in your itinerary. Your visit to this East African country will be spoilt for choice.
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