Danakil Depression

The Danakil Depression, located in the northern part of the Afar Triangle, is one of the most extreme environments on Earth. With temperatures regularly exceeding 50°C (122°F) and dropping below sea level (at its lowest point, it's 125 meters below sea level), it ranks as one of the hottest and lowest places on the planet.

This geological wonder was formed by the divergence of three tectonic plates in the Horn of Africa, creating a landscape that appears almost alien. The region features a remarkable diversity of geological phenomena, including active volcanoes, hot springs, salt canyons, and acid lakes.

Perhaps the most iconic sight in the Danakil Depression is Dallol, a volcanic crater with fluorescent green and yellow hot springs, salt formations, and acidic pools. The vibrant colors come from the various minerals brought to the surface by geothermal activity. These otherworldly landscapes have been compared to what scientists imagine the surface of other planets might look like.

Another highlight is Erta Ale, one of the world's few continuously active lava lakes. This "smoking mountain" as locals call it, offers the rare opportunity to witness molten lava bubbling just meters away—an experience both terrifying and mesmerizing.

The Danakil is also home to the Afar people, who have adapted to this harsh environment over centuries. Salt mining remains an important economic activity, with camel caravans still transporting hand-cut salt blocks from the vast salt flats to markets in the highlands, continuing a trade that has existed for millennia.