Erta Ale: Hiking to Ethiopia's Lava Lake

Erta Ale is one of the few volcanoes on Earth with a persistent lava lake, and the night hike to its rim is one of Africa's great adventure experiences. It's also demanding: heat, dust, altitude gain on rough ground and a very basic camp on the rim.

The hike

You leave base camp after dark, when temperatures drop, and walk 2–3 hours to the rim. Porters and camels often carry supplies. The final approach is on loose rock — headlamps and walking poles help.

At the rim

Sleeping arrangements are open-air with mattresses. You'll see the glow of the lava lake below and — depending on conditions — the actual surface. Guides decide how close you can safely go.

Safety and permits

The region requires permits and an armed escort. Conditions change, and we monitor them closely.