festivites
Djibouti celebrates several holidays and festivities throughout the year. Here are some of them:
1. Independence Day: Celebrated on June 27th, this day marks Djibouti's independence from France in 1977. The day is celebrated with parades, speeches, and cultural performances.
2. Ramadan: This is a month-long religious holiday observed by Muslims worldwide. It usually falls between April and May, and during this period, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. In Djibouti, Muslims break their fast with dates and traditional dishes in the evening.
3. Eid al-Fitr: This is a three-day festival marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal month. It involves prayers, exchanging gifts and sweets, and wearing new clothes. In Djibouti, the festival is celebrated with family gatherings and traditional dishes.
4. National Day: Celebrated on December 12th, this day commemorates the country's unity. It is marked with parades, cultural performances, and fireworks.
5. Christmas: Although not a public holiday in Djibouti, Christmas is celebrated by the Christian population in the country. It involves attending church services, decorating homes, and exchanging gifts.
6. New Year's Day: Celebrated on January 1st, this day marks the beginning of the year. It is celebrated with fireworks and social gatherings.
These holidays are usually celebrated with traditional clothing, dancing, and music, and they provide an opportunity for Djiboutians to come together and celebrate their culture and traditions.
seasons
Djibouti has two tourist seasons:
1. High Season: December to February. This is the best time to visit Djibouti as temperatures are moderate and ideal for outdoor activities, such as diving and snorkeling. It is recommended that visitors book accommodation and tours in advance, as this is a popular time for tourism.
2. Low Season: May to September. During this period, temperatures soar and humidity levels increase. However, it is an excellent time for spotting whale sharks and humpback whales at the Gulf of Tadjoura. It is recommended that visitors bring adequate protection from the sun and stay hydrated. Additionally, some tourist sites may be closed during this period due to maintenance or renovation work.
visa
Citizens of most countries require a visa to visit Djibouti. The following are some special visa rules for some countries:
1. United States citizens must obtain a visa prior to arrival in Djibouti. The cost is approximately $90.
2. Canadian citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in Djibouti. The cost is approximately $90.
3. European Union citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in Djibouti. The cost is approximately $90.
4. United Kingdom citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in Djibouti. The cost is approximately $90.
5. Australian citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in Djibouti. The cost is approximately $90.
Please note that the visa fees and application processes may vary based on the country of citizenship, and it is recommended to check with the Djiboutian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific information.
souvenirs
1. Frankincense: A resin used for incense and perfumes, harvested in the mountains of Djibouti. Average price: $10-$20 per 100g. Where to buy: Local markets and souvenir shops.
2. Traditional Clothing: Djiboutian traditional attire includes the "dirac" (a long, flowy dress) and the "macawiis" (a sarong-like garment worn by men). Average price: $10-$50 depending on quality and embroidery. Where to buy: Markets and souvenir shops.
3. Camel Milk Products: Camel milk is a popular drink in Djibouti, and products like camel cheese, ice cream, and soap are made from it. Average price: $5-$20 depending on the product. Where to buy: Specialty stores and markets.
4. Somali Coffee: Popular in Djibouti and Somalia, this coffee has a unique flavor and aroma. Average price: $10-$20 per pound. Where to buy: Coffee shops and markets.
5. Handmade Jewelry: Djiboutian artisans make beautiful jewelry using silver, beads, and other materials. Average price: $10-$100 depending on the piece. Where to buy: Markets and artisanal shops.
Note: Prices may vary depending on location and vendor bargaining skills.
If you have 1 week
Hi there, lucky traveler! As a DAN, I'm excited to suggest an adventurous and unforgettable week for you in Djibouti. Here are some must-visit places that you should add to your itinerary:
Day 1 - Experience the Beauty of Lake Assal: Start your week by visiting Lake Assal, which is the lowest point in Africa and the third-lowest point on Earth. Its salty waters create amazing formations that seem out of this world. You can hike up to the rim of the crater, take a dip in the saltwater lake, or even float effortlessly due to its high salt concentration.
Day 2 - Explore the Rich Culture of Djibouti City: Head over to Djibouti City and visit the Central Market. Browse through the colorful stalls selling spices, textiles, perfumes, and other souvenirs. Next, explore the National Museum of Djibouti, where you'll learn about the country's history, culture, and traditions. Lastly, visit the Presidential Palace and marvel at its beautiful architecture.
Day 3 - Discover the Fascinating Moucha Island: Take a boat from Djibouti City to Moucha Island for a day trip. Explore the island's white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and marine life. You can snorkel, scuba dive or just relax on the beach. Don't miss the stunning views of the sunset over the Red Sea.
Day 4 - Hike Up to Goda Mountains: Get up early and head to the Goda Mountains as they are best explored during the morning hours. The hike up to the top may be challenging, but it's worth it once you reach the summit. From the top, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and there's usually a refreshing breeze.
Day 5 - Visit Arta Beach: Drive about 50km southeast of Djibouti City to reach Arta Beach. The beach is known for its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and the surrounding cliffs. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or even take a camel ride along the shore. Don't forget to pack your camera as you'll want to capture the breathtaking views.
Day 6 - Go on a Whale Shark Expedition: Djibouti's waters are home to the largest concentration of whale sharks in the world. Take a guided tour to see these gentle giants up close. You can snorkel alongside them or simply watch them from the boat. It's an experience that will stay with you forever.
Day 7 - Relax in Lake Ghoubbet: End your week by relaxing at Lake Ghoubbet, which is located south of Djibouti City. This saltwater lake is surrounded by a stunning lunar-like landscape that's perfect for a quiet swim or picnic. In addition, it's known for its therapeutic properties so why not indulge in a mud bath!
These are just a few of the many exciting things you can do during your week in Djibouti. I hope this itinerary gives you an idea of what to expect and inspires you to make unforgettable memories!
If you have 2 weeks
As a DAN, I suggest that you spend your first day exploring the city of Djibouti. Start by visiting the Central Market, where you can find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and textiles. Then, head to the Presidential Palace, which is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning gardens.
On day two, take a trip to Lake Assal, which is located about 120 kilometers from Djibouti City. This lake is known for being the lowest point in Africa and the saltiest body of water on the planet. You can even float in the lake's dense water due to its high salt content.
Next, visit the Day Forest National Park, which is known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Here, you can go trekking through the forests, admire the waterfalls, and spot various species of birds and animals.
For day four, travel to Tadjoura, which is a small town located on the north coast of the Gulf of Tadjoura. This charming town offers beautiful beaches, colorful markets, and a rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights in Tadjoura is the beautiful Mosque of Tadjoura, which was built in the 19th century.
Day five is a perfect time to visit the Arta Beach, which is located near the town of Arta. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful sandy beaches. You can relax on the beach or participate in various water sports.
On day six, take a trip to the Moucha Islands, which are located off the coast of Djibouti. These islands offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving. You can also enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the coastline.
For day seven, head back to Djibouti City and explore the historical district of Maskali. This area is home to several colonial-era buildings and beautiful old homes. You can also visit the Mosque of Hamoudi, which is a famous landmark in the city.
On day eight, take a trip to the Goda Mountains, which are located near the Ethiopian border. Here, you can explore the beautiful landscapes, hike through the mountains, and spot various species of wildlife.
Days nine and ten can be spent exploring the town of Obock, which is located on the Gulf of Aden. This town offers beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and a rich cultural heritage. You can visit the Obock Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
For days eleven and twelve, head to the Goubet Al Kharab, which is a volcanic crater that is filled with saltwater. Here, you can admire the stunning landscapes, swim in the warm waters, and observe various species of birds and animals.
Finally, on days thirteen and fourteen, visit the Ali Sabieh Region, which is known for its rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife. Here, you can go trekking through the mountains, spot various species of animals, and relax in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Culture
Djiboutian attire reflects the region's hot and arid climate. When not dressed in Western clothing such as jeans and T-shirts, men typically wear the, which is a traditional sarong-like garment worn around the waist. Many nomadic people wear a loosely wrapped white cotton robe called a tobe that goes down to about the knee, with the end thrown over the shoulder (much like a Roman toga).
Women typically wear the dirac, which is a long, light, diaphanous voile dress made of cotton or polyester that is worn over a full-length half-slip and a bra. Married women tend to sport head-scarves referred to as shash and often cover their upper body with a shawl known as garbasaar. Unmarried or young women, however, do not always cover their heads. Traditional Arabian garb such as the male jellabiya (jellabiyaad in Somali) and the female jilbāb is also commonly worn. For some occasions such as festivals, women may adorn themselves with specialized jewelry and head-dresses similar to those worn by the Berber tribes of the Maghreb.
A lot of Djibouti's original art is passed on and preserved orally, mainly through song. Many examples of Islamic, Ottoman, and French influences can also be noted in the local buildings, which contain plasterwork, carefully constructed motifs, and calligraphy.
Somalis have a rich musical heritage centered on traditional Somali folklore. Most Somali songs are pentatonic. That is, they only use five pitches per octave in contrast to a heptatonic (seven note) scale such as the major scale. At first listen, Somali music might be mistaken for the sounds of nearby regions such as Ethiopia, Sudan or the Arabian Peninsula, but it is ultimately recognizable by its own unique tunes and styles. Somali songs are usually the product of collaboration between lyricists, songwriters and singers ( or "voice"). Balwo is a Somali musical style centered on love themes that is popular in Djibouti.
Traditional Afar music resembles the folk music of other parts of the Horn of Africa such as Ethiopia; it also contains elements of Arabic music. The history of Djibouti is recorded in the poetry and songs of its nomadic people, and goes back thousands of years to a time when the peoples of Djibouti traded hides and skins for the perfumes and spices of ancient Egypt, India and China. Afar oral literature is also quite musical. It comes in many varieties, including songs for weddings, war, praise and boasting.
Djibouti has a long tradition of poetry. Several well-developed Somali forms of verse include the, , , , , , and. The (epic poem) has the most complex length and meter, often exceeding 100 lines. It is considered the mark of poetic attainment when a young poet is able to compose such verse, and is regarded as the height of poetry. Groups of memorizers and reciters traditionally propagated the well-developed art form. Poems revolve around several main themes, including (elegy), (praise), (romance), (diatribe), (gloating) and (guidance). The baroorodiiq is composed to commemorate the death of a prominent poet or figure. The Afar are familiar with the, a kind of warrior-poet and diviner, and have a rich oral tradition of folk stories. They also have an extensive repertoire of battle songs.
Additionally, Djibouti has a long tradition of Islamic literature. Among the most prominent historical works is the medieval Futuh Al-Habash by Shihāb al-Dīn, which chronicles the Adal Sultanate army's conquest of Abyssinia during the 16th century. In recent years, a number of politicians and intellectuals have also penned memoirs or reflections on the country.
Football is the most popular sport amongst Djiboutians. The country became a member of FIFA in 1994, but has only taken part in the qualifying rounds for the African Cup of Nations as well as the FIFA World Cup in the mid-2000s. In November 2007, the Djibouti national football team beat Somalia's national squad 1–0 in the qualification rounds for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, marking its first ever World Cup-related win.
Recently, the World Archery Federation has helped to implement the Djibouti Archery Federation, and an international archery training center is being created in Arta to support archery development in East Africa and Red Sea area.
Djiboutian cuisine is a mixture of Somali, Afar, Yemeni, and French cuisine, with some additional South Asian (especially Indian) culinary influences. Local dishes are commonly prepared using a lot of Middle Eastern spices, ranging from saffron to cinnamon. Grilled Yemeni fish, opened in half and often cooked in tandoori style ovens, are a local delicacy. Spicy dishes come in many variations, from the traditional Fah-fah or "Soupe Djiboutienne" (spicy boiled beef soup), to the (spicy mixed vegetable stew). (pronounced "halwo") or halva is a popular confection eaten during festive occasions, such as Eid celebrations or wedding receptions. Halva is made from sugar, corn starch, cardamom powder, nutmeg powder and ghee. Peanuts are sometimes added to enhance texture and flavor. After meals, homes are traditionally perfumed using incense or frankincense, which is prepared inside an incense burner referred to as a dabqaad.
Religion
Djibouti's population is predominantly Muslim. Islam is observed by around 98% of the nation's population (approximately 891,000 ). , 94% of the population was Muslim whereas the remaining 6% of residents are Christian adherents.
Islam entered the region very early on, as a group of persecuted Muslims had sought refuge across the Red Sea in the Horn of Africa at the urging of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. In 1900, during the early part of the colonial era, there were virtually no Christians in the territories, with only about 100–300 followers coming from the schools and orphanages of the few Catholic missions in the French Somaliland. The Constitution of Djibouti names Islam as the sole state religion, and also provides for the equality of citizens of all faiths (Article 1) and freedom of religious practice (Article 11). Most local Muslims adhere to the Sunni denomination, following the Shafi'i school. The non-denominational Muslims largely belong to Sufi orders of varying schools. According to the International Religious Freedom Report 2008, while Muslim Djiboutians have the legal right to convert to or marry someone from another faith, converts may encounter negative reactions from their family and clan or from society at large, and they often face pressure to go back to Islam.
The Diocese of Djibouti serves the small local Catholic population, which it estimates numbered around 7,000 individuals in 2006.
Demographics
Djibouti has a population of about 921,804 inhabitants. It is a multiethnic country. The local population grew rapidly during the latter half of the 20th century, increasing from about 69,589 in 1955 to around 869,099 by 2015. The two largest ethnic groups native to Djibouti are the Somalis (60%) and the Afar (35%). The Somali clan component is mainly composed of the Issa, followed by the Gadabuursi and the Isaaq. The remaining 5% of Djibouti's population primarily consists of Yemeni Arabs, Ethiopians and Europeans (French and Italians). Approximately 76% of local residents are urban dwellers; the remainder are pastoralists. Djibouti also hosts a number of immigrants and refugees from neighboring states, with Djibouti City nicknamed the "French Hong Kong in the Red Sea" due to its cosmopolitan urbanism. Djibouti's location on the eastern coast of Africa makes it a hub of regional migration, with Somalis, Yemenis, and Ethiopians traveling through the country en route to the Gulf and northern Africa. Djibouti has received a massive influx of migrants from Yemen.
Djibouti is a multilingual nation. The majority of local residents speak Somali (524,000 speakers) and Afar (306,000 speakers) as first languages. These idioms are the mother tongues of the Somali and Afar ethnic groups, respectively. Both languages belong to the larger Afroasiatic Cushitic family. Northern Somali is the main dialect spoken in the country and in neighbouring Somaliland, in contrast to Benadiri Somali which is the main dialect spoken in Somalia. There are two official languages in Djibouti: Arabic and French.
Arabic is of religious importance. In formal settings, it consists of Modern Standard Arabic. Colloquially, about 59,000 local residents speak the Ta'izzi-Adeni Arabic dialect, also known as Djibouti Arabic. French serves as a statutory national language. It was inherited from the colonial period, and is the primary language of instruction. Around 17,000 Djiboutians speak it as a first language. Immigrant languages include Omani Arabic (38,900 speakers), Amharic (1,400 speakers), and Greek (1,000 speakers).
Djibouti's population is predominantly Muslim. Islam is observed by around 98% of the nation's population (approximately 891,000 ). , 94% of the population was Muslim whereas the remaining 6% of residents are Christian adherents.
Islam entered the region very early on, as a group of persecuted Muslims had sought refuge across the Red Sea in the Horn of Africa at the urging of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. In 1900, during the early part of the colonial era, there were virtually no Christians in the territories, with only about 100–300 followers coming from the schools and orphanages of the few Catholic missions in the French Somaliland. The Constitution of Djibouti names Islam as the sole state religion, and also provides for the equality of citizens of all faiths (Article 1) and freedom of religious practice (Article 11). Most local Muslims adhere to the Sunni denomination, following the Shafi'i school. The non-denominational Muslims largely belong to Sufi orders of varying schools. According to the International Religious Freedom Report 2008, while Muslim Djiboutians have the legal right to convert to or marry someone from another faith, converts may encounter negative reactions from their family and clan or from society at large, and they often face pressure to go back to Islam.
The Diocese of Djibouti serves the small local Catholic population, which it estimates numbered around 7,000 individuals in 2006.
The life expectancy at birth is around 64.7 for both males and females. Fertility is at 2.35 children per woman. In Djibouti there are about 18 doctors per 100,000 persons.
The 2010 maternal mortality rate per 100,000 births for Djibouti is 300. This is compared with 461.6 in 2008 and 606.5 in 1990. The under 5 mortality rate per 1,000 births is 95 and the neonatal mortality as a percentage of under 5's mortality are 37. In Djibouti the number of midwives per 1,000 live births is 6 and the lifetime risk of death for pregnant women 1 in 93.
About 93.1% of Djibouti's women and girls have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM, sometimes referred to as 'female circumcision'), a pre-marital custom mainly endemic to Northeast Africa and parts of the Near East. Although legally proscribed in 1994, the procedure is still widely practiced, as it is deeply ingrained in the local culture. Encouraged and performed by women in the community, FGM is primarily intended to deter promiscuity and to offer protection from assault.
About 94% of Djibouti's male population have also reportedly undergone male circumcision, a figure in line with adherence to Islam, which requires this.
Education is a priority for the government of Djibouti. , it allocates 20.5% of its annual budget to scholastic instruction.
The Djiboutian educational system was initially formulated to cater to a limited pupil base. As such, the schooling framework was largely elitist and drew considerably from the French colonial paradigm, which was ill-suited to local circumstances and needs.
In the late 1990s, the Djiboutian authorities revised the national educational strategy and launched a broad-based consultative process involving administrative officials, teachers, parents, national assembly members and NGOs. The initiative identified areas in need of attention and produced concrete recommendations on how to go about improving them. The government subsequently prepared a comprehensive reform plan aimed at modernizing the educational sector over the 2000–10 period. In August 2000, it passed an official Education Planning Act and drafted a medium-term development plan for the next five years. The fundamental academic system was significantly restructured and made compulsory; it now consists of five years of primary school and four years of middle school. Secondary schools also require a Certificate of Fundamental Education for admission. In addition, the new law introduced secondary-level vocational instruction and established university facilities in the country.
As a result of the Education Planning Act and the medium-term action strategy, substantial progress has been registered throughout the educational sector. In particular, school enrollment, attendance, and retention rates have all steadily increased, with some regional variation. From 2004 to 2005 to 2007–08, net enrollments of girls in primary school rose by 18.6%; for boys, it increased 8.0%. Net enrollments in middle school over the same period rose by 72.4% for girls and 52.2% for boys. At the secondary level, the rate of increase in net enrollments was 49.8% for girls and 56.1% for boys.
The Djiboutian government has especially focused on developing and improving institutional infrastructure and teaching materials, including constructing new classrooms and supplying textbooks. At the post-secondary level, emphasis has also been placed on producing qualified instructors and encouraging out-of-school youngsters to pursue vocational training. , the literacy rate in Djibouti was estimated at 70%.
Institutions of higher learning in the country include the University of Djibouti.
Cities:
