Dallol, Ethiopia

One of the most interesting attractions of Ethiopia is the town of Dallol. Today it’s uninhabited, but 50 years ago there was a large settlement; its inhabitants have been developing ore deposits found nearby. Dallol also has an extremely hot and dry climate. Active monitoring of temperature changes were held there from 1960 to 1966. During this time, it was found that the average annual temperature in the town is 34.4°C.

At first glance, this temperature seems to be quite low, but it should be emphasized that scientists have calculated the average. For months, temperature in Dallol can be above 38°C, whereas there is no exact difference between winter and summer time. Despite the fact that today the mining village is in ruins, it never ceases to attract tourists.

This ghost settlement is situated in the Afar Depression, a region of increased volcanic activity. The nearby Dallol volcano only reinforces the sultry weather and forms around the fabulously beautiful desert landscapes. It’s noteworthy that while the town was inhabited, there were no road links, so it would be possible to get to the desert settlement only in a caravan. Today, salt is mined around Dallol, so it’s quite impossible to call this hot place deserted. Scientists claim that landscapes that can be seen around Dallol bear a striking resemblance to the scenery of Jupiter's moon Io that makes this place even more mysterious. Next - Kebili