10 Interesting Facts About Djibouti You Probably Never Knew
Djibouti, a small country in the Horn of Africa, may be small in size, but it is big on history and culture. If you’re planning to visit this country, or just looking to expand your knowledge, here are 10 interesting facts about Djibouti that you probably never knew:
1. Lake Assal – The Saltiest Lake in the World
Located in the center of Djibouti, Lake Assal is one of the saltiest lakes in the world. Its salinity level is nine times saltier than the ocean, making it one of the most unique and fascinating natural wonders of Djibouti.
2. The Only Active Volcano in the World
Djibouti is home to the only active volcano in the world that lies underwater, known as the Ardoukoba volcano. It is located in the Gulf of Tadjoura and last erupted in 1978.
3. Diverse Wildlife
Although Djibouti is small, it is blessed with diverse wildlife. The country is home to over 820 species of animals and over 900 species of plants. Some of these endangered species include cheetahs, Arabian wolves, and the Djibouti francolin.
4. One of the Hottest Places on Earth
Djibouti has very high temperatures, with some parts of the country experiencing temperatures that can reach up to 50°C. This makes Djibouti one of the hottest places on earth.
5. The Land of Frankincense
Djibouti is historically known as the “Land of Frankincense”. Frankincense is a resin made from tree sap that can be used for incense and as a flavoring in food and drinks. This valuable commodity was highly sought after by the ancient world and was a major source of trade income for Djibouti.
6. The Home of the Afar People
The Afar people are an ethnic group that live in Djibouti, Eritrea, and Ethiopia. They are known for their unique culture and way of life, which revolves around raising livestock and living in one of the harshest environments on earth.
7. Djibouti’s Strategic Location
Djibouti is strategically located at the entrance of the Red Sea, making it an important shipping and trade hub for the region. It is also home to the only U.S. military base in Africa, Camp Lemonnier.
8. The Only Country in the World Without Forests
Djibouti is the only country in the world that has no forests. The harsh climate and lack of rainfall make it impossible for trees to grow in this region.
9. The Gateway to the East African Rift System
Djibouti is the gateway to one of the most diverse geological regions on earth, the East African Rift System. This region is known for its unique and diverse landscapes, including high mountains, deep rift valleys, and active volcanoes.
10. Celebrating Independence Day
Djibouti gained independence from France on June 27, 1977. Every year, Djiboutians celebrate their independence day with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
In conclusion, Djibouti may be small, but it has a rich history, culture, and natural wonders. From Lake Assal to the unique Afar people, Djibouti is a country that is sure to fascinate and intrigue anyone who visits or learns about it.
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