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Foret de Day: Djibouti's Emerald Jewel

Discover Djibouti's hidden gem: Foret de Day National Park, a lush mountain oasis with unique flora and fauna, offering a cool escape.

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Foret de Day National Park, nestled in the Goda Mountains, is Djibouti's largest and only remaining forest, a lush contrast to the country's arid landscape. This unique ecosystem is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endemic Djibouti francolin, offering a refreshing escape and a glimpse into a greener past.

A brief summary to Foret de Day

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Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to April) for pleasant hiking weather and wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
  • Hire a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the park's unique ecosystem.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach Foret de Day is by a 4x4 vehicle. From Djibouti City, take the Al Sabieh road north. The drive is approximately 60 kilometers and may take around 2 hours, depending on road conditions. Be prepared for some unpaved roads as you approach the park. There are no entrance fees, but hiring a local guide is recommended.

  • Taxi

    Hiring a taxi or private car from Djibouti City is another option. Negotiate the fare in advance, as taxis typically do not use meters. Expect to pay around 8,000-12,000 DJF for a round trip, including waiting time. Confirm that the driver is familiar with the route to Foret de Day. There are no entrance fees, but hiring a local guide is recommended.

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Discover more about Foret de Day

Foret de Day National Park, also known as Forêt du Day, presents a striking contrast to Djibouti's typically arid environment. Located north of Djibouti City in the Goda Mountains and Tadjourah Region, this protected area offers a refreshing, green escape with cooler temperatures due to its high elevation. Established in 2005, the park spans approximately 15 square kilometers, serving as a vital sanctuary for Djibouti's unique biodiversity. It's one of the few remaining forested areas in Djibouti, a country with minimal forest cover. The park encompasses a relict juniper forest at 1,500m altitude in the Goda massif. The park's vegetation includes ancient juniper forests, wild olive trees, boxwoods, dragon trees, ficus trees, and various other native plants, remnants of a time when the Sahara was far more verdant. The varying altitudes within the park create diverse microclimates, supporting a rich array of flora and fauna. The forest benefits from its proximity to Mt Goda. Rain clouds and mist from the mountain drift into the forest, considerable condensation forms. Birdwatchers can spot the endemic Djibouti francolin, a rare bird found only in this region. Other avian species include the Gambaga flycatcher, Somali bulbul, and Somali starling. Mammals such as baboons, gazelles, and Hunter's antelope also inhabit the park. The park offers trails for various skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. The Day Forest Loop Trail meanders through the forest, offering views of the landscape. A hike to Mount Goda offers panoramic vistas and a chance to observe the diverse plant life. The forest has been under long-term environmental threat. 88% of the Day Forest has been lost over the last two centuries, and more than 20% of the loss has occurred during the last 50 years.

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