Things To Do
in Djibouti
Djibouti is a small yet strategically located country in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia, with a coastline along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It serves as a critical shipping gateway for goods entering and leaving the East African highlands and hosts several foreign military bases due to its strategic maritime location.
Despite its arid climate, Djibouti's economy is bolstered by its port services, railway connections to Ethiopia, and burgeoning tourism sector, capitalizing on its volcanic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage.
- "Iskaafi" - Hello
- "Maalin wanaagsan" - Good morning
- "Mahadsanid" - Thank you
- "Nabad gelyo" - Goodbye
- "Soo dhawoow" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Presidential Palace and the beautiful Arta Beach. Enjoy breakfast at a local café to get a taste of Djiboutian cuisine.
Discover the vibrant Central Market for souvenirs and local delicacies. Visit the Mosque of King Hassan II, a stunning architectural site.
Have dinner at a seaside restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Tadjoura. Stroll along the waterfront to take in the evening atmosphere.
Drive to Lac Assal, the lowest point in Africa, and marvel at its unique salt formations. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Go for a swim in the hyper-saline waters and enjoy the unique experience. Have a picnic lunch with a view of the lake’s incredible landscape.
Return to Djibouti City and dine at a local eatery known for its traditional dishes. Relax at your hotel or enjoy nightlife at a nearby bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location near major shipping routes, enhancing trade opportunities.
- Stability compared to some neighboring countries, attracting foreign investment.
- Diverse culture influenced by various ethnicities and histories.
- Growing economy with developments in infrastructure and services.
- Access to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, providing opportunities for marine activities.
- Limited natural resources, leading to dependence on imports.
- High unemployment rates, particularly among youth.
- Challenges with climate change, including droughts and water scarcity.
- Political tensions and issues with human rights may concern investors.
- Basic public services such as healthcare and education may be underdeveloped.
Best Activities in Djibouti
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful coral reefs and marine life in the clear waters of the Gulf of Tadjoura.
Discover the rugged landscapes and volcanic formations of the Arta Region or Goda Mountains.
Take advantage of the steady winds and perfect conditions in places like Doraleh and Ghoubet for an exhilarating kiteboarding experience.
Experience the incredible underwater world with opportunities to dive among colorful fish, coral gardens, and even possible encounters with whale sharks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Djibouti with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Djibouti
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its striking salt formations and breathtaking sunset views, makes it an ideal spot for photography.
Famous for its otherworldly landscape with limestone chimneys and steam vents, offering unique photo opportunities.
Features pristine beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for capturing coastal beauty.
Food in Djibouti
Djibouti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular and traditional Djiboutian dish, skoudehkaris is a flavorful rice pilaf mixed with vegetables and often accompanied by tender, succulent pieces of lamb or goat. It's a staple dish in Djibouti and can be found in local eateries and households throughout the country.
Must-Try!
Fah-fah is a savory soup made with shredded pieces of injera (spongy flatbread), and it's commonly consumed for breakfast. The dish is often flavored with ghee, garlic, and a blend of spices, and it provides a comforting and hearty start to the day.
Buranbur is a sweet and sticky dessert made from millet flour, sugar, and flavored with fragrant spices like cardamom. It's a delightful treat that's enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations in Djibouti.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Djibouti City, the Central Market is a vibrant hub of local culinary treasures. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, seafood, and street food stalls, allowing visitors to experience the true flavors of Djibouti.
For seafood enthusiasts, the Fish Market at the Port of Djibouti is a must-visit. Here, one can witness the bustling trade of the day's catch, and even enjoy freshly prepared seafood dishes from the nearby street food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Djibouti is a predominantly Muslim country, so it's important to respect Islamic traditions such as modesty in dress, avoiding public displays of affection, and being aware of prayer times.
It's customary to greet people with a handshake and exchange pleasantries. When entering a room, it's polite to greet each person individually, starting with the oldest or most senior person.
In Djiboutian culture, elders hold a position of respect and authority. It's important to show deference to elders and address them using appropriate titles.
Safety
Tipping in Djibouti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Djibouti, but it is appreciated in upscale restaurants and for exceptional service. A service charge is often included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before tipping.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Djibouti, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments in urban areas. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling in Djibouti.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Djibouti, with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Very high temperatures, reaching above 40°C. Dry and dusty conditions with limited vegetation, making outdoor activities challenging.
Moderate temperatures with occasional heavy rainfall. Landscapes become greener and more lush, providing better conditions for wildlife spotting and outdoor adventures.
Interim period between the rainy and dry seasons. Temperatures begin to decrease, and occasional rainfall can still occur.
Djibouti at Night
Hiking in Djibouti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lush area perfect for hiking, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Located in the northern part of Djibouti, featuring diverse flora and fauna, with trails for varying skill levels.
A challenging hike that rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Aden.
Known for its unique limestone chimneys and surreal landscapes, offering hiking opportunities amidst stunning scenery.
A mountain range with multiple trails featuring panoramic views and rich biodiversity.
Airports
How to reach Djibouti by plane.
The main international airport serving Djibouti, located approximately 6 km from the city center.
Located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this is one of the busiest and largest airports in East Africa, approximately 1,000 km from Djibouti.
An international airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, serving as a gateway for pilgrims to Mecca, located about 1,700 km from Djibouti.
Kenya's main airport located in Nairobi, approximately 1,400 km from Djibouti, serving numerous international flights.
Located in Mogadishu, Somalia, this airport is around 500 km from Djibouti and serves various international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Djibouti, comprising a significant majority of the population. They predominantly speak Somali and are primarily Sunni Muslims.
The second largest ethnic group, also known as the Danakil, and primarily found in the southeast of Djibouti. They speak Afar and have their own distinct cultural practices.
A minority ethnic group in Djibouti, primarily comprising descendants of traders and settlers. They contribute to the country's culture and speak Arabic.
A small expatriate community, primarily involved in business and governmental roles. They generally speak French and often have historical ties to Djibouti through colonialism.
Includes various smaller groups such as Ethiopians, Somalis from neighboring regions, and other expatriates from various countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Djibouti, with a strong following and several local clubs and a national league.
Athletics, particularly long-distance running, enjoys popularity in Djibouti, producing several notable athletes who compete internationally.
Basketball is widely played among the youth in Djibouti, with various clubs and school teams participating in competitions.
Volleyball has a significant presence, with many local tournaments and a growing number of players participating in the sport.
Traditional wrestling is a cultural sport in Djibouti, often featured in local festivals and events, showcasing local heritage.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Djiboutian cuisine predominantly features meat and seafood, many local restaurants and eateries offer vegetarian and vegan options, often centered around an abundance of fresh vegetables, lentils, chickpeas, and couscous dishes.
Individuals adhering to a gluten-free diet will find various traditional Djiboutian dishes that are naturally gluten-free, such as grilled meats, fish, rice-based dishes, and vegetable stews. Furthermore, many restaurants are accommodating towards dietary needs and can provide suitable alternatives with prior notice.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Djibouti.