Grand Bara: Djibouti's Desert Heart
Explore the vast, surreal landscapes of Djibouti's Grand Bara desert, a former lakebed offering adventure and stark beauty.
The Grand Bara is a vast desert in southern Djibouti, characterized by expansive salt flats, sparse vegetation, and extreme temperatures. Once a dried-up lakebed, it now serves as a vital transportation route and offers a unique landscape for adventure and exploration.
A brief summary to Grand Bara
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Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (November to April) to avoid the extreme heat.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for sun protection.
- A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for navigating the unpaved and sandy tracks.
- Be aware of potential sandstorms and high winds, especially in desert regions.
- Consider experiencing sand yachting for a unique and thrilling way to see the desert.
Getting There
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Driving
From Djibouti City, take the RN1 highway south towards Ali Sabieh. The drive to Grand Bara is approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the specific area you plan to visit. The RN1 is a paved road, but be prepared for unpaved or sandy tracks as you venture deeper into the desert. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. There are no tolls on the RN1. Parking is generally available at the desert's edge and is free.
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Public Transport
To reach Grand Bara via public transport, take a local bus or shared taxi from Djibouti City towards Dikhil or Ali Sabieh. Inform the driver of your destination. Travel time can be around 1.5 to 2 hours. The fare from Djibouti City to Grand Bara ranges from 200 to 500 DJF, depending on the type of transport.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis or ride-sharing services can be hired from Djibouti City, but this is not a common practice and requires negotiation. Expect to pay a premium for the long distance and the driver's return trip, potentially around 5,000-10,000 DJF (approximately $28-$56 USD) or more, depending on your bargaining skills and the destination within the desert.
Discover more about Grand Bara
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hospital Dr. Absieh D'ali-Sabieh Al Qubaisi
13.3 km
Explore healthcare excellence at Hospital Dr. Absieh D'ali-Sabieh Al Qubaisi, a symbol of community wellness in Ali Sabieh, Djibouti.
Ali Sabieh Old Stadium
13.7 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of local culture at Ali Sabieh Old Stadium, where community and sports unite in a historic venue.
Ali Sabieh Bus Station
14.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ali Sabieh Bus Station, the gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Djibouti.
Buurta Calanka — Montagne de l'Emblème
14.6 km
Explore Buurta Calanka — Montagne de l'Emblème, a historical landmark in Djibouti offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Ali-Sabieh Airport
15.0 km
Experience the charm of Ali-Sabieh Airport, your entry point to the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Djibouti.
Stade Ali-Sabieh
15.5 km
Experience the heart of Djibouti's sporting culture at Stade Ali-Sabieh, where community spirit and excitement come alive.
Place de Dikhil
29.8 km
Discover Djibouti's hidden gems from Place de Dikhil: Tours, culture, and adventure await in this vibrant transportation hub.
Dikhil
29.8 km
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Boutique Adam Ebraahim
32.2 km
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Handoga
42.5 km
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Arta Maison des Randonneurs
43.1 km
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Ambado
51.3 km
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Douda
58.5 km
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Foret de Day
59.4 km
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Le Dauphin Khor Ambado
59.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ali Sabieh Mountain
14.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ali Sabieh Mountain, a natural wonder in Djibouti that offers stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Vélo Rails d'Ali LIAQUAT
20.7 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Dasbyio at Vélos Rails d'Ali LIAQUAT, a unique pedal-powered railway adventure perfect for all ages.
The memorial of two Japanese, Arta, Djibouti
22.6 km
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Cheick Farah Matan
23.9 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich culture of Cheick Farah Matan, a must-see tourist attraction in Dewele, Ethiopia.
Belvedere sul canyon
24.0 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas of Belvedere sul Canyon, a natural marvel in Djibouti offering unforgettable views and unique geological wonders.
Mosquée de Dikhil
29.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Mosquée de Dikhil, a must-visit landmark in Djibouti.
Shark Pit
39.8 km
Experience the thrill of diving with sharks in the stunning Shark Pit at Lac du Goubet, a natural wonder for adventure seekers and marine life enthusiasts.
Parc Ou Est Mon Camarade
41.5 km
Explore the serene landscapes and unique wildlife at Parc Ou Est Mon Camarade, a must-visit ecological park in Arta, Djibouti.
Randonnée Pédestre d'Arta
42.5 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Randonnée Pédestre d'Arta, where stunning views and natural beauty await every adventurer.
Arta Beach
45.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Arta Beach, a serene oasis on Djibouti's coastline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and underwater adventures.
Kaleidoscope Culvert
48.1 km
Experience the vibrant beauty of Kaleidoscope Culvert, a mesmerizing tourist attraction in Sagallo that combines art and nature for a captivating adventure.
Lac 'Assal
52.0 km
Explore Lac 'Assal, Djibouti's stunning saline lake, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich cultural experiences in a serene natural setting.
Ferme Animalière de Douloul
53.1 km
Explore Ferme Animalière de Douloul in Sagallo for an unforgettable experience with diverse animals in a beautiful natural setting.
Day Forest National Park
58.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Day Forest National Park in Airolaf, an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Residence du gouverneur
59.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Residence du Gouverneur in Airolaf, an essential stop for cultural enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Cheer Kadra
13.5 km
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Boutique okar abdillahi Saïd
29.8 km
Experience authentic Djiboutian cuisine with a modern twist at Boutique Okar Abdillahi Saïd in Dikhil.
Okareh Boys Band Ethio Fast Food
29.8 km
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Restaurant Fatouma Moussa
30.8 km
Experience authentic Djiboutian flavors at Restaurant Fatouma Moussa – a must-visit culinary destination for tourists in Djibouti.
Lucy Restaurant
31.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at Lucy Restaurant in Dikhil, where local flavors and global cuisine come together in perfect harmony.
Restaurant
40.4 km
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Prive
41.5 km
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trois plages
54.6 km
Experience authentic Djiboutian cuisine at Trois Plages – where stunning views meet delightful flavors.
Arrey Restaurant
59.7 km
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مطعم كعبول
60.3 km
Experience authentic Djiboutian flavors at مطعم كعبول – where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
Kayla dahab
63.6 km
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Deeqsan café & Restaurant
63.9 km
Experience authentic Djiboutian cuisine at Deeqsan Café & Restaurant in Cité Hodan – where flavor meets hospitality.
New era
65.3 km
Experience authentic Djiboutian cuisine at New Era Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
MOUKBASSA SABA
65.7 km
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Aboubaker Bachir Obsieh
65.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SOHOCAFE
13.1 km
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Pharmacie Aska
13.2 km
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Bunna house
13.5 km
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Boutique koubayo
13.7 km
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Ferme agro pastorale de mouloud
13.7 km
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Boutique elmikonton
13.8 km
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Farah Arab boutique
13.8 km
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Chez affi
13.8 km
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Magasin chez choli
13.9 km
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M-Towsan
13.9 km
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Coiffure OBOLEY
13.9 km
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HIMILO ELECTRONICS&COSMETICS
13.9 km
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Alla aamiin collection
13.9 km
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Kartee halgan doukan djilal
14.1 km
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Épicerie lalayeh
14.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Cafetería Neñoland
14.6 km
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Arta
40.7 km
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Beauty Bar djibouti
41.5 km
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mirandwa@gmail
65.7 km
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Ayan
65.7 km
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fatouma mahamed hamed
65.7 km
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La maison Kader
65.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Maison Kader, a bar in Day offering local drinks and a lively atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
Satta niwas
65.7 km
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Yacin El loco
65.7 km
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Al-Hama Restaurant
65.7 km
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Kiosque pk12
65.7 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sunny Hill Center
40.7 km
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Arta Plage
45.2 km
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B.SALE
65.0 km
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Irmaan Exchange
65.4 km
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Cantina
67.8 km
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Restaurant La Mer Rouge
68.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of seafood and international cuisine at Restaurant La Mer Rouge in Djibouti, a culinary delight for every traveler.
Terrain municipale de tadjourah
68.3 km
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11 Degrees North
68.4 km
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Djib-Dance
69.0 km
Explore the vibrant dance culture in Djibouti at Djib-Dance, where every step brings you closer to the local beat.
Arta electronique
69.2 km
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Poso papa hq
69.3 km
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ROYAL PLAZA Hotel
70.7 km
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Pizzaiolo Haramous
70.8 km
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Club Hermes
70.8 km
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Djibouti at Club Hermes, where music and culture intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Pub Palmier Zink
70.9 km
Experience the lively nightlife and refreshing drinks at Pub Palmier Zink, a must-visit bar in the heart of Djibouti.
