Geotouristic attractions of the Danakil Depression

Abstract

Geotourists and unconventional tourists will be definitely interested in the Danakil Valley. It is rarely visited place but absolutely extraordinary in many ways. It is in an area of divergence of lithosphere plates and, therefore connected to that, seismic and volcanic activity can be observed. Stunning terrain forms, geological structures, colours and diversity seem to be unreal. This desert is very inhospitable due to poisonous exhalations, omnipresent salt, an extremely hot climate, water deficiency and the fact that fauna and flora don’t exist here. Despite all of these inconveniences, the Danakil Valley is inhabited by the Afars, a population thriving mainly on primitive salt production. Their rare culture is worth attention too. Not so long ago they were hostile and even now natives can be unpredictable and dangerous. Additionally, visitors should remember other difficulties: legal, organisational, financial and, above all, natural and climatic ones.