Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa, offers a variety of stunning sceneries to explore. The country is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from pristine beaches to rugged mountains and vast deserts.
…
Read more
backpacking Africa Djibouti
Explore Democratic Republic of the Congo
Explore Egypt
Backpacking Djibouti in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Djibouti with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Djibouti
Welcome to Djibouti, a compact gem on the Horn of Africa inviting backpackers with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness. Pros? Immerse in unique landscapes, from salt flats to pristine beaches, and experience a rich blend of African and Middle Eastern cultures. The compact size facilitates easy exploration. However, infrastructure and budget-friendly options may be limited. For the intrepid backpacker seeking an offbeat destination, Djibouti's distinct charm and authenticity make it a unique African adventure, where the convergence of landscapes and cultures provides a truly memorable experience.Why to go?Why backpacking in Djibouti
Scenery
Uniqueness
Exploring Djibouti is a unique and off the beaten track experience due to its untouched natural beauty and cultural diversity. Located in the Horn of Africa, Djibouti offers a range of experiences that are not commonly found in other tourist …
Read more
Read more
💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Djibouti
- Visit Lake Assal: Lake Assal is a unique natural wonder and the lowest point in Africa. Its salt-rich waters create stunning white and pink landscapes, making it a must-visit attraction.
- Explore the Day Forest National Park: This national park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Djibouti Francolin. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking amidst the beautiful nature.
- Discover the Goda Mountains: The Goda Mountains offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience Djibouti’s rugged terrain. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the diverse landscapes, encounter wildlife, and even spot the endemic Djibouti golden mole.
- Experience the Gulf of Tadjoura: The Gulf of Tadjoura is a paradise for water lovers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in its crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Visit the historic city of Djibouti: Explore the capital city’s rich history and culture. Visit landmarks like the Presidential Palace, Central Market, and the Grand Mosque. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine and vibrant markets for a true taste of Djibouti.
But Djibouti offers more...[click to explore]
regions
national parks
hikes
cities
festivals
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Djibouti
The best time to visit Djibouti for backpacking is during the cooler months of November to February. During this time, temperatures are more comfortable, ranging from 25 to 30 °C (77 to 86 °F). It is also the driest period, with minimal rainfall and lower humidity levels. This allows for better exploration of Djibouti's natural attractions, such as the stunning landscapes of Lake Assal and the Ardoukoba Volcano. Additionally, the cooler weather makes hiking and outdoor activities more enjoyable.🦜 How to communicate?Language in Djibouti
The main language in Djibouti is Somali. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Somali skills have become a bit rusty.In Djibouti, English is not the primary language, but it is widely understood, especially in urban areas and among the younger population. The official languages are French and Arabic, with French being the more commonly used in government, education, and business. English is increasingly taught in schools and is often spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
While you may encounter many locals who can communicate in English, particularly in the capital city, Djibouti City, fluency levels can vary. In more rural areas, English proficiency may be limited, so having basic French phrases can be helpful. Overall, travelers should find that English is sufficiently spoken to navigate most situations, but learning a few words in French or Arabic can enhance the experience and foster better interactions with locals.
👛 A typical day in DjiboutiAverage daily cost for backpacking in Djibouti
Backpacking in Djibouti can be relatively affordable, but costs can vary based on your travel style. On average, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day.Accommodation: Dormitory beds in hostels or budget hotels typically range from $15 to $30 per night.
Food: Local meals can be quite cheap, with street food or small restaurants costing about $5 to $10 per meal. Budget around $15 to $25 for three meals a day.
Transportation: Public transport is affordable, with local buses costing around $1 to $3 for short distances. If you plan to hire a taxi or take longer trips, expect to spend $10 to $30.
Activities: Entry fees for parks or guided tours can vary. Budget around $10 to $30 for activities like visiting Lake Assal or snorkeling in the Gulf of Tadjoura.
Overall, with careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a unique backpacking experience in Djibouti without breaking the bank.
Risk level: medium (50%)Safety advice for Djibouti
- Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Djibouti. Al-Shabaab maintains a strong interest in attacking targets in Djibouti. Public places, tourist areas, places of worship, embassies and airports are potential terrorist targets. Check for security warnings before you visit potential targets and be alert in these locations. Monitor the media for new threats and follow the instructions of local authorities.
- There's a high risk of kidnapping within 10km of Djibouti's border with Somalia. Don't travel to this area.
- Pirate attacks are a serious threat. Pirates have attacked vessels and held foreigners hostage for ransom in and around Djibouti's waters and the Gulf of Aden
- Regional conflict can cause civil unrest. Public gatherings can turn violent. Avoid protests.
- Petty crime occurs. Risks increase at night and in isolated locations. Be vigilant and avoid walking alone after dark.
- Bandit groups operate in lawless areas outside the capital. Only drive outside the capital during daylight hours and in a convoy.
- From May to October, Djibouti can experience dust storms and temperatures over 50°C. Be prepared for impacts to essential services, including food and water availability.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
source: www.gov.uk
DjiboutiMy tips to get you on the way!
Does Djibouti sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Djibouti. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Djibouti may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Djibouti. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Djibouti may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Djibouti, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Djibouti, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
.jpg)
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”