2026 guide
Top 10 things to do in Djibouti
Sea, desert and mountains within a few hours of the capital — here are the ten best experiences, with real durations and prices.
1. A day on Moucha Island
Full day (8 h)from 6,000 DJF (~$34) per person
The number-one classic: 30 to 45 minutes by boat from Djibouti City, a turquoise lagoon, white sand, reefs reachable from the shore and the equipped Fun Park Beach. Shared trip on Fridays or private boat.
2. Swim with whale sharks
Full day (7 h)private boat 60,000 DJF (~$338)
From November to February, young whale sharks gather in Arta Bay. With a local captain, you snorkel a few metres from the largest fish in the world.
3. Lake Assal expedition
Full dayfrom 10,000 DJF (~$56) per person
Africa's lowest point (−155 m) and one of the saltiest lakes in the world (348 g/L): salt flats, turquoise water and black mountains, via the Ghoubbet.
4. Sunset at Lake Abbe
2 days / 1 nightfrom 22,500 DJF (~$127) per person
Steaming limestone chimneys, flamingos and a night under the stars in the lunar landscape of the rift.
5. Sable Blanc beach (Tadjourah)
Full dayfrom 6,000 DJF (~$34) per person
A long fine-sand cove north of Tadjourah, lined with coral reefs. Perfect for a quiet day of swimming and snorkeling.
6. Afternoon at Khor Ambado
Full dayfrom 6,000 DJF (~$34) per person
The closest beach to Djibouti City: ochre cliffs, clear water and famous sunsets. The easiest option when you only have half a day.
7. Day Forest & Goda plateau
Full dayfrom 10,000 DJF (~$56) per person
At 1,500 m altitude, the country's last juniper forest is about 15 °C cooler than the coast, with hiking trails and mountain villages.
8. Ardoukôba volcano trek
Full dayfrom 10,000 DJF (~$56) per person
Born from a 1978 eruption, this young volcano is climbed in under two hours and overlooks black lava flows down to the Ghoubbet.
9. Line fishing around the islands
Morning (until 1 pm)45,000 DJF (~$253) per boat
Early start with a local captain to fish around the islands of the gulf. Whole boat for your group, gear provided on board.
10. Starry camp in the Grand Bara
2 days / 1 nightfrom 20,000 DJF (~$113) per person
A night in a tent in the middle of the Grand Bara desert plain, under one of the clearest skies in the Horn of Africa.
Frequently asked questions
What is the number one thing to do in Djibouti?
A day on Moucha Island: a 30–45 minute boat ride from Djibouti City to a turquoise lagoon and an equipped beach, from 6,000 DJF (~$34) per person on the Friday shared trip.
What can you do in Djibouti in one day?
Choose between the sea (Moucha Island, from 6,000 DJF (~$34)), the desert (Lake Assal and the Ghoubbet, from 10,000 DJF (~$56)) or a beach close to the city such as Khor Ambado.
When can you swim with whale sharks in Djibouti?
From November to February in Arta Bay, with a local captain.
How do you pay for excursions in Djibouti?
On DjibShare, payment is in Djibouti francs: cash, D-Money or Waafi. Dollar amounts are shown as an indication only.