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Just as the Gulf of Suez marks the opening to the Red Sea, Djibouti and the Seven Brothers protect the exit out to the Indian Ocean. This former French colony is now an independent nation that guards some remarkable diving. The rich marine life, so similar to the faces that inhabit the reefs further North, sits in stark contrast to the desert landscape. The famous Lake Assal (Salt Lake) is a testament to the remarkable local environment. Flights are with Daallo Airlines taking you right from London to Djibouti City, a 19th century sea port. Time spent on land in Djibouti will quickly reveal just what a buried gem of a destination this is.

Djibouti is one of the few locations in the world where divers can find whalesharks resting. Despite their size, whalesharks are surprisingly tricky to find as a diver. And yet, here they are often found in and around the harbour mouth and surrounding areas. As the nutrient loaded waters flow from the Red Sea to Indian Ocean, these behemoths make sure they stop every year in Djibouti to gorge on the plankton bloom. This is a great trip for divers and non divers. The emphasis is on enjoying the whaleshark encounters. And snorkeling allows you to get really up close and personal, while the luxurious liveaboard environment provides the ideal platform from which to explore this unknown corner of the Red Sea. Visit Djibouti now before the secret gets out!

Djibouti Travel Information

Location: Surrounded by Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia, Djibouti is a very small country. Independent from France since 1977, Djibouti has managed to make a name for itself and has a decent quality of life today. The country is a barren strip of land around the Gulf of Tadjoura, varying in width from 12 miles to 56 miles, with a coastline of 188 miles, much of it white sandy beaches.

Languages: French and Arabic are the official languages. Afar and Somali are the two inland dialects.

Religion: Islam is the state religion, 94% are Sunni Muslims, 6% are Christians. During Islamic events such as the months of Ramadan (please contact us to find out when this will be happening) shop hours are shorter and some hotel facilities or excursions may be limited or unavailable. Please respect local customs and dress appropriately.

Time: GMT + 3

Weather & Water Temperature: Djibouti benefits from the most amazing underwater life in a sea that is always at a good temperature of around 28°C throughout the year. Air temperature ranges from 25°C in November to 36°C in July.



Electricity: 200 volt AC. Plugs are the 2-pin continental type is the most common type used throughout Sudan and on our liveaboards. It’s advisable to take an adaptor, as they are not widely available. We also highly recommend that you take a surge adaptor with you if using expensive and valuable appliances. If you have a specific electrical requirement please contact one of the Scuba Team who can discuss this with you and advise you accordingly.

Currency: €’s and Djibouti Francs are recommended. Credit Cards are not accepted in Djibouti. Djibouti was a French colony and still has strong ties to France. US $’s will need to be exchanged in Djibouti town and they will not give you a good exchange rate. They will also only accept US $’s from 2003 and later.

Tipping: Tipping is completely at your discretion. If you are unsure what to give please do hesitate to speak with the local dive guide or contact us.

Visas: Entry visas are required by all nationalities except those of France. Please note passports must be valid for at least 6 months on entering the country. Our representative will take your passport when you arrive in Djibouti, which will be returned to you on departure. This is due to the lengthy process involved in obtaining your visa approx. 4 days. Non UK passport holders can contact the French embassy on +44 (0)207 073 1000.

Food & Drink: The biggest form of health problems with divers and tourists alike is being dehydrated. Please drink plenty of water before and after a dive as well as throughout the day. We also advise that you don’t drink the local water and only drink bottle water and wash all fruit beforehand. Please be aware also that Djibouti is a third world country and has to import everything. This means that prices for drinks and food are not cheap. Approx £5 for a beer and £15 for a pasta dish.

Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice: For up to date advice on foreign travel please visit http://www.fco.gov.uk.

Health & Vaccinations: Requirements vary from country to country, your own GP is the best person to speak to regarding relevant requirements. Make your GP aware that you will be scuba diving, as some medication is not recommended for Scuba divers.

Clothing: Towels are provided in the rooms but we recommend you take your own beach towel for after diving. Shorts, T-shirts and swimwear are the norm. Being a Islamic state women should dress modestly whilst ashore (covering their shoulders and legs) and respect local customs and sensitivities. More importantly take lots of sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses as the weather is nearly always sunny.

Passports: Passports much be valid for at least 6 months on your return to the UK.