Overview

Djibouti, a tiny coastal African country, is bejeweled with balmy beaches and idyllic islands. It is bordered by Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, as well as the Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea. Unlike other African countries that feature dozens of nationalities, Djibouti contains two main ethnic groups only: Somali and Afar, with a sparse population of French, Arab, Ethiopians and Italians. The chief religion is Islam, with a small Christian population.

Activities & Attractions

The ideal time to take a trip to Djibouti is between November and April, because the weather is hot, yet mild. The temperature of this place skyrockets during the rest of the year. The green bay at the west of the Gulf of Tadjoura is an enticing site, which acquired its greenish hue from the black lava that poured into the bay. Several volcanoes are still active in the area. The regions around the Gulf of Tadjoura are ringed with sandy beaches and the steep cliffs in the gulf also add to the drama. Diving is a major attraction of this gulf region and most tourists explore this water sport to get a glimpse of the whale sharks that are found during the months of February, March and April.

Mt. Goda features a national park, Forest of the Day, which houses some of the rare species of trees that are preserved and cherished. Lake Abbe in the south is an ideal sanctuary for waterfowls such as ibis, flamingos and pelicans. In Ali Sabieh, you can spot the red mountains and watch gazelles enjoying themselves within the confines of a protected national park.

Djibouti has a flourishing market in the heart of the city and a public aquarium.

Lodging

The cost of your accommodation when you tour Djibouti largely depends on your choice of hotel. Your estimated daily budget per day in Djibouti ranges from $80 to $230, depending on the cost and quality of the lodgings you choose.

The Djibouti Palace Kempinski, for instance, is a beachfront hotel located at Heron Bay, between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. This large and luxurious hotel is fashioned out of combined architectures, which draws from both African and Arab styles. This hotel offers all amenities to its inhabitants and is in the vicinity of many shops, restaurants and bazaars. However, you'll spend about $230 for a night's stay here.

Transportation

Djibouti has a dozen airports that connect it to the rest of Africa, and a railway network that travels into Ethiopia. Unfortunately, the rail route is sabotaged at times.

Intercity travel in Djibouti is unreliable and can be fairly perilous. The only public transportation available is the bus or the ferry that connects Djibouti City, Tadjoureh, and Obock. If you plan to hire a car for your travel, choose a four-wheeler and carry extra supplies such as water. Street crime is a common phenomenon. So, avoid traveling during the night and refrain from going north of Djibouti City. This area is extremely unsafe for isolated vehicles and tourists.