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Asa Koma: Echoes of Neolithic Life

Unearth Djibouti's Neolithic past at Asa Koma, an archaeological site revealing early pastoral life and cultural connections in the Horn of Africa.

Asa Koma, or 'Red Hill,' is an archaeological site in Djibouti dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. Located on the Gobaad Plain, it offers a glimpse into early human settlement in the Horn of Africa. Discoveries include decorated ceramics, stone tools, and bones of domesticated cattle, revealing insights into the lives of Neolithic communities who once thrived near Lake Abbe.

A brief summary to Asa Koma

  • 336F+2G5, دخيل, DJ

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Engage a local guide for a richer understanding of the site's history and significance.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
  • Wear comfortable footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Djibouti City, take a shared taxi or minibus to Dikhil. The fare is approximately 750 DJF. Upon arrival in Dikhil, hire a local taxi for the final 5km to Asa Koma. Negotiate the fare beforehand; expect to pay around 500-1000 DJF for a round trip.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Dikhil, Asa Koma is approximately a 20-30 minute walk from the central area of town. Head southeast towards the coordinates 11.0600194, 42.0738517 and follow local paths to the site. Ask locals for directions if needed.

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Discover more about Asa Koma

Asa Koma, an archaeological site near Lake Abbe in Djibouti's Dikhil Region, unveils a significant chapter in the prehistory of the Horn of Africa. Dating back to the 2nd millennium BC, this 'Red Hill' is a treasure trove of artifacts that illuminate the lives of early Neolithic societies. Excavations at Asa Koma have revealed much about the people who inhabited this area over 3,500 years ago. The discovery of long-horned humpless cattle bones indicates the presence of domesticated cattle, suggesting early herding practices in the region. Fishing was also a vital part of their subsistence, as evidenced by abundant fish remains. The ceramics found at Asa Koma are particularly noteworthy, adorned with punctate and incision geometric designs that bear similarities to those found in ancient Southern Arabian settlements. These cultural connections highlight the exchange of ideas and practices across the Red Sea during this period. As you explore Asa Koma, imagine the landscape as it was millennia ago: a slightly wetter environment with grassy savannahs surrounding the lake. The site itself rises 40 meters above the plain, covering an area of 100,000 square meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding terrain. While little remains of the structures built by these early inhabitants, the artifacts they left behind tell a compelling story of adaptation, innovation, and cultural exchange.

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