Hi guys! Welcome to my article on the Danakil Depression. My name is Tedla Fanta but friends call me Teddy. I was born in Ethiopia – in a town called Sodo, Welayta. I moved to the US at the age of 10. My passion for travel and content creation was inspired by my love for people and culture.
I started traveling in 2017. The more I traveled the more I fell in love with it and wanted to take photos and videos of people and places. I an into Henry from @canon_photos while my wife and I were on our honeymoon in the Maldives. He is the one who introduced me to photography/film.
Why Ethiopia Should be on your Bucket List
What makes Ethiopia a top destination is its rich culture and history that dates back centuries. Ethiopia is considered by most scholars as the “cradle of life”. Life is said to have originated in the Danakil Depression of Ethiopia.
We also have such a diverse group of people and cultures in this country. With some of the most indigenous tribes living in the Omo Valley and true nomadic tribes like the people of Afar. Ethiopia is also known for being the birthplace of coffee and has some of the most sought out beans in the world. The food, in combination with the coffee, is unique and flavorsome.
Another big factor is the wide array of natural attractions – from salt flats to mountains in the Bale Mountains National Park and Simien Mountains National Park. Add in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and numerous culture sites and you have yourself one incredibly special destination.
The Danakil Depression – A Highlight of Ethiopia
I wanted to visit the Danakil Depression because I was interested in seeing the Afar people. I also wanted to find out more about this place when I learned that life could have potentially originated from here! It’s considered to be one of the lowest places in the world – 125 metres below sea level. The depression is also hot, dry, inhabitable and overall – mysterious.
Capturing the salt flats and sulfuric acids of the Dallol area was a special experience. We were also able to take a dip in the salt pools. Because of the salt content, you float on the water! It’s such a cool experience. The Danakil Depression is amazing because of the Afar people, salt flats, colorful sulfurs and because it’s close to the Erta Ale volcano where one can trek.
Tips for Visiting the Danakil Depression
I would say bring a facemask with a filter when getting close to the sulfur. Also, I recommend a local tour guide to make the most of your trip. At the moment, it’s best to fly from Addis Ababa to Semera and stay in lodges there or you could drive to Danakil and camp there. This is just wonderful!
