North of the Great Rift Valley, in the Danakil depression (Afar region), Erta Ale — "the smoking mountain" to the Afar people — is one of the rare volcanoes in the world to host an active lava lake sustained over time. This shield volcano peaks at approximately 613 m and is part of a volcanic alignment that includes Gada Ale, Alu-Dala Filla, Boral Ale, Hayli Gub and Ale Bagu.

Why visit Erta Ale

Erta Ale ranks among the very few volcanoes on the planet to have sustained nearly permanent lava lake activity since at least 1967, and possibly since 1906. This permanence depends on a delicate balance between heat input and loss, magma feeding and drainage.

The summit caldera, 1,600 m long by 700 m wide, hosts two circular pit craters occupied, depending on the period, by one or two lava lakes. The site demands respect: it is reached at the end of a nocturnal trek through one of the globe's most arid and hottest environments, making it a volcanological experience reserved for well-prepared travelers.

History and volcanic activity

The first documented manifestations of the volcano date back to 1906. Modern scientific interest crystallized in the 1960s: in 1968, a Franco-Italian expedition of volcanologists reached the summit and described two lava lakes of 100 m and 65 m diameter, located at approximately 165 m depth. The first formally documented ascent dates to 1973.

Activity has been marked by several notable episodes:

• 1972: lava overflow following a prolonged rise in lake level.
• 2001: lake measured at 80 m depth, with fountains reaching up to 10 m in height.
• Late 2016: new overflows reported.
• Early 2017: fissure eruption, with opening of a 6 km volcanic fissure and formation of a small secondary lava lake.

According to sources, Erta Ale is cited as the third volcano in the world to feature a permanent lava lake, though this ranking varies with the respective activity of other volcanoes in question. The historical lake is moreover subject to significant level variations, and its exact state evolves from season to season.

What to see on site

The summit caldera

An elongated platform 1,600 m by 700 m, the caldera offers a panorama of the entire volcanic system. It is from its rim that the pit craters are observed.

The lava lake(s)

The main lake has reached an area of around 12,000 m² with lava heated to approximately 1,200 °C. Cooled crusts form and break as magma rises. Depending on the volcano's state at the time of visit, you may observe an active lake, an emptied crater in residual activity, or episodic lava fountains.

The 2017 eruptive fissure

Lava flows from the 6 km fissure opened in 2017 remain visible in the landscape. They temporarily formed a small secondary lava lake, fed by episodic events.

The summit bivouac

The night spent near the crater, on mats laid directly on basaltic rock, is an integral part of the experience. It is at night that the incandescence is most visible.

Practical information

• Mandatory guidance: the Danakil depression requires travel in an organized group, with local guide and armed escort provided by Afar regional authorities.
• Physical level: approach hike of approximately 3 to 4 hours at night over irregular volcanic terrain, with minor elevation change but noticeable residual heat.
• Equipment: closed hiking shoes, headlamp, covering clothing despite the heat (for protection from debris and abrasive ground), mask for fumaroles, adequate water.
• Eruptive activity: the state of the lava lake is volatile. Check conditions at departure time, as access may be restricted in case of increased activity or security concerns.
• Circuit duration: the visit is generally part of a 3 to 4-day circuit combining Erta Ale, Dallol and Assale salt lake.

When to go

The most practicable period extends from November to March, during the dry season, when temperatures become more bearable — though they remain high. From June to September, heat in the Danakil frequently exceeds 45 °C, making the trek arduous and potentially dangerous; most operators suspend departures during this period.

How to get there

The logistical starting point is Mekele (Tigray), accessible by domestic flight from Addis Ababa. From Mekele, transportation is by 4x4 convoy to the base camp at the foot of Erta Ale, a day's drive across the Danakil. The ascent itself takes place at night to avoid daytime heat. An independent vehicle is not feasible: only organized expeditions are authorized.

Nearby

• Danakil: the depression itself, one of the lowest and hottest points on the planet.
• Dallol and Assale lake: colorful hydrothermal fields and salt expanse, generally combined with the Erta Ale circuit.
• Omo Valley and Mursi people: to extend the journey with an ethnographic stop to the south.
• Fasilidas Castle in Gondar: another major Ethiopian historical landmark.

FAQ

Preparing your visit

Erta Ale cannot be visited independently: access requires precise logistical organization and local guidance. To include this volcano in a broader itinerary, consult our Éthiopie travel proposals.