Lake Assal — Africa’s Lowest Point

Lake Assal sits 155 metres below sea level — the lowest point in Africa and the third-lowest land surface on earth. The lake is ten times saltier than the ocean, making it one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet outside of Antarctica. Surrounded by black lava fields and blinding white salt crystals, the landscape is otherworldly.

The Experience

The hyper-salinity means travellers float effortlessly on the surface — no swimming required, just lie back. The white salt plains around the lake’s edge create a landscape unlike anywhere else in Africa. The Rift Valley setting — with the Ghoubbet volcanic crater lake nearby — makes for extraordinary photography.

Getting There

120km west of Djibouti City, approximately 2 hours by 4WD. Included in all Djibouti itineraries.