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Day Forest National Park: Djibouti's Verdant Oasis

Discover Djibouti's hidden gem: a lush mountain oasis with unique wildlife, scenic trails, and breathtaking views in the Goda Mountains.

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Escape the arid Djibouti landscape at Day Forest National Park, a lush, high-altitude forest in the Goda Mountains. This protected area is home to unique flora and fauna, including the endemic Djibouti francolin, offering a refreshing contrast to the desert with cool temperatures and scenic hiking trails.

A brief summary to Day Forest National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to April) for pleasant hiking conditions.
  • 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 take you to the park entrance, which is about 10 km away. Negotiate the fare with the taxi driver; expect to pay around 2000 DJF for the trip to the park entrance.

  • Driving

    From Djibouti City, take the RN1 highway towards Ali Sabieh. After approximately 50 km, look for signs directing you towards Day Forest National Park and Airolaf. Follow the road towards Airolaf; the park entrance is about 10 km from the main highway. Note that the road may be unpaved in some sections, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

  • 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 located in the Goda Mountains of Djibouti. Established in 1939, this park stands as a remarkable contrast to the country's predominantly arid environment, offering a lush, green escape that beckons nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Encompassing approximately 15 square kilometers, Day Forest National Park represents the largest forest area in Djibouti. Its high-altitude setting contributes to a cooler climate and supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a unique and invaluable ecosystem in the Horn of Africa. The park's vegetation includes ancient juniper forests, wild olive trees, boxwoods, dragon trees, ficus and 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. Birdwatchers can spot the endemic Djibouti francolin, as well as the Gambaga flycatcher, Somali bulbul, and Somali starling. Mammals such as baboons, gazelles, and Hunter's antelope also inhabit the park. The park offers a network of trails catering to various skill levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes. To fully appreciate the park's beauty and biodiversity, consider visiting during the cooler months (November to April) when the weather is more pleasant for hiking and wildlife spotting.

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