Djibouti is extremely hot during its summer season with temperatures of up to 40°C, so visiting the country in the months of November to April (when the weather's a bit cooler) is the best time to go. During this time you might experience a bit of rainfall but showers generally don't last long, ensuring the sun is back out with plenty of time left in the day to continue exploring.

Geography and environment

Most of Djibouti's territory is a semi-arid to arid environment with 300km of coastline on its east side and a desert landscape that's broken up by salt water basins and oases. It can be divided into three distinct geographic regions: a coastal plain, mountainous regions, and a plateau behind the mountains.

Top 5 iconic sights in Djibouti

Two camels walking along the edge of Lake Assal on a murky day

1. Lake Assal

While it isn't a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site yet, Lake Assal or the "Honey Lake" as it's affectionately known, is one of the largest salt reserves in the world and is 155 metres below sea level (second only behind the Dead Sea).

2. Day Forest National Park

Classified as a closed-protected forest, the Day Forest National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts with a diverse ecosystem and rare birds - both the Toha and Djibouti sunbirds have only ever been seen inside the forest.

3. European Quarter

When walking around Djibouti City, visiting the historic European Quarter should be high on your priority list thanks to its whitewashed houses, Moorish arcades, and mix of trendy cafes and restaurants.

4. Les Caisses Market

If you're looking for a unique and somewhat traditional souvenir for your loved ones back home then you'll probably find it at the Les Caisses Market. From clothing and woodcarvings to food items and handicrafts, this market will ignite your senses.

5. Hamoudi Mosque

Recognised as one of Djibouti's most iconic buildings, the Hamoudi Mosque, located in the city's main square, is an architectural treasure. Not only is it one of the oldest Mosques in the country, but its distinctive minaret compliments the city's skyline and is well worth marvelling at.

Djibouti travel FAQs

All nationalities require a visa to visit Djibouti.

All nationalities – except for India, Syria and Yemen – can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. A tourist visa is valid for one month and costs around USD 55. A 3-day transit visa is also available at a cost of around USD 25. Proof of onward travel is also required.

If you arrive by land, visa arrangements should be made in advance from a Djibouti embassy in a neighbouring country. Where there are no Djiboutian consulates, visas can often be acquired from French embassies.

Leaving a small tip in restaurants is welcomed.

WiFi is increasingly common in hotels and restaurants, and there are internet cafes across Djibouti City. USB internet dongles can be purchased and loaded with data from a local provider.

Mobile coverage is generally good across the country. Your phone may work on roaming, depending on your home network. You can also purchase a local SIM card for around USD 11.

Very basic squat/pit toilets are the standard in Djibouti, except for western-style flushable toilets that are sometimes available in large hotels and other modern buildings. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper, as this is rarely provided.

Tap water isn't considered safe for travellers to drink. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Ask your leader and accommodation provider for local advice on where drinking water can be accessed. Also, avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Credit cards are accepted at upmarket shops and hotels, though some will place a surcharge on the payment.

There are ATMs in Djibouti City. They all accept Visa. Outside of the capital there are no such facilities. Be sure to have both the local currency (Djibouti franc) and US dollars/euros in cash. The Djiboutian Franc is pegged to the US dollar, but beware of the conversion rate offered in some places.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

SMALL GROUP TRAVEL THAT'S GOOD ALL OVER

We're here to do good by creating positive change through the joy of travel.

Our purpose

Djibouti tours & vacations

Our Djibouti trips

Get inspired on The Good Times

Djibouti at a glance

CAPITAL CITY

POPULATION

CURRENCY

LANGUAGE

TIME ZONE

CALLING CODE

ELECTRICITY

Learn more about Djibouti

1. Lake Assal

2. Day Forest National Park

3. European Quarter

4. Les Caisses Market

5. Hamoudi Mosque

Djibouti travel FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to Djibouti?

Is tipping customary in Djibouti?

What is the Internet access like in Djibouti?

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Djibouti?

What are the toilets like in Djibouti?

Can I drink the water in Djibouti?

Are credit cards accepted widely in Djibouti?

What is ATM access like in Djibouti?

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?