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Day Forest National Park: Djibouti's Green Jewel

Discover Djibouti's hidden gem: a lush, high-altitude forest teeming with unique wildlife and stunning scenery in the heart of the Goda Mountains.

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Escape the arid landscapes of Djibouti in Day Forest National Park, a lush, high-altitude oasis in the Goda Mountains. Established in 1939, this park is home to unique flora and fauna, including the endemic Djibouti francolin, offering a refreshing contrast and a haven for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Day Forest National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to April) for pleasant hiking conditions and optimal wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Rent a 4x4 vehicle for easier access to the park, as public transport is limited and roads can be unpaved.
  • Bring plenty of water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Hire a local guide to learn about the park's unique flora, fauna, and cultural significance.
  • Keep an eye out for the endemic Djibouti francolin, a rare bird found nowhere else on Earth.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Djibouti City, take a bus or shared taxi heading towards Ali Sabieh. The cost is approximately 500 DJF. Upon reaching the exit for Airolaf, hire a local taxi to the park entrance, about 10 km away. Negotiate the fare with the taxi driver; expect to pay around 2000 DJF for the trip to the park entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi from Djibouti City directly to Day Forest National Park can be arranged, but it is the most expensive option. The cost can range from 8,000 to 12,000 DJF, depending on the negotiation and the vehicle. Ensure the driver knows the exact location of the park entrance.

Unlock the Best of Day Forest National Park

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Discover more about Day Forest National Park

Day Forest National Park, also known as Forêt du Day National Park, is a captivating natural sanctuary nestled in Djibouti's Goda Mountains. Established in 1939, the park encompasses approximately 15 square kilometers and stands as the largest forest area in Djibouti, offering a remarkable contrast to the country's predominantly arid environment. Rising to an altitude of 1,500 meters, the park boasts a relict juniper forest, the only one of its kind in Djibouti, and enjoys the wettest microclimate in the country. The varying elevations contribute to diverse vegetation, including ancient juniper trees, wild olive trees, ficus, mimosa, boxwood, and dragon trees. Day Forest National Park is a haven for wildlife, including gazelles, warthogs, baboons, antelopes, and over 60 species of birds. Birdwatchers will be especially delighted by the chance to spot the endemic Djibouti francolin, a rare bird found nowhere else on Earth. Hiking through the park's trails offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with opportunities to discover cooling waterfalls and interact with local communities. However, the forest faces long-term environmental threats, with a significant percentage lost over the last two centuries. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this unique ecosystem and its biodiversity.

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