Lac Assal – Tadjourah, Djibouti - Atlas Obscura

Lac Assal

Tadjourah, Djibouti

Rimmed by white crusts of salt on every edge, Lac Assal is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world.  

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Lac Assal is the third saltiest body of water on the planet, saltier even than the Dead Sea. The lake lies at the bottom of a crater at the lowest point in Africa. Surrounding the lake are several dormant volcanoes and lava fields. The location has been used by locals for decades to harvest salt; hauling the goods away on camelback. 

While the surrounding desert and volcanos are beautiful, the turquoise blue lake contrasted against the brilliantly white salt fields is breathtaking. Every bit of ground and rock in and around the lake is coated in a thick layer of salt. Local vendors often sell salt crystals, salt incrusted rocks, skulls, and other trinkets from Lac Assal. 

Know Before You Go

There aren't any facilities in the area so if you are planning on going for a dip, you'll want a way to wash the salt off. Lake Goubet or the hot springs that feed Lac Assal are both nearby options.

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January 25, 2020

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