Lake Assal Travel Guide: Top Sights in Djibouti, Tours & Travel

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Lake Assal- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Djibouti; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 4 hours

Lake Assal, or "Honey Lake," is a striking crater lake situated in central-western Djibouti, at the western end of the Gulf of Tadjoura. Nestled in the Afar Triangle, it lies 155 meters (509 feet) below sea level, making it Africa's lowest point and the third-lowest point on Earth. Known for its extreme salinity—ten times that of seawater—Lake Assal is one of the world's saltiest bodies of water. While the lake's salt is commercially exploited, it is also designated as a protected area under Djibouti's National Environmental Action Plan, highlighting the need for sustainable management to preserve its unique environment. The government has even proposed designating the lake and nearby Ardoukoba volcano as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Operators offering tours in Djibouti

Happy Explore Safari *

Attractions in Djibouti

Djibouti City

Tadjoura

4.4

Day Forest National Park

4.4

Ardoukoba

Obock

Reviews of Lac Assal

Ian Warner

5
Reviewed: 2024-09-04

Excellent excursion and unlike Abbe the road is fully paved the whole way. Surreal environment and the lowest point on the continent. Was able to walk in part of the crusted salt lake but didn’t go out too far.
nathan bemis

4
Reviewed: 2024-04-12

Pretty solid, bring some shoes for the water as the salt crystals are sharp. The locals have salt knick knacks for sale in the parking lot that they will attempt to make you pay parking for. The water tastes like a salted lays potato chip and is worth a float if you got fresh water to wash of with after
Lara Askey

5
Reviewed: 2024-04-07

We had a great day trip to the Lake. It is definitely a worthwhile trip, as you get to see the country outside Djibouti City. The Lake itself is beautiful, and the trip provides a range of scenic views.
Swaraj Shahid

5
Reviewed: 2024-04-02

It’s amazing lake , so salty that u float without any effort . Do not forget to carry plants of plane water to clean urself after salty bath . If you are visiting this place carry food and drinking water , nothing around . Do not forget to take bath close to this lake in hot salty volcanic water , it’s heavenly experience .
Jun Amano

5
Reviewed: 2023-10-01

This is superbly amazing location, spot where you can see the crystal view of the Salt Lake. Even though the warm wind which includes the salt in the air is not so comfortable, but that will be blown out by the notion that you are in a very beautiful place. Amazing, and you need to visit here.