Complete Guide to Djibouti: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
Welcome to the Complete Guide to Djibouti — the strategic Horn of Africa nation where Africa, Arabia, and Europe meet. Home to Lake Assal (lowest point in Africa), whale sharks (Nov–Feb), and one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors, Djibouti is a hidden adventure and logistics superpower. This guide covers everything: eVisa, top attractions, investment via DPFZA, independence June 27, 1977, President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, and practical tips.
Whale shark encounter & Lake Assal – Icons of Djibouti
Introduction
Djibouti sits at the entrance to the Red Sea and hosts military bases from the USA, China, France, Japan, Italy, and others. With 90% of Ethiopia’s trade passing through its ports and GDP growth averaging 6–7% (2025 forecast), Djibouti is Africa’s fastest-growing logistics hub.
Independence & Key Facts
Independence from France: June 27, 1977
Capital: Djibouti City
President: Ismaïl Omar Guelleh (since 1999)
Currency: Djiboutian Franc (DJF) – fixed to USD (1 USD = 178 DJF)
Visa – Fast eVisa or On Arrival
Apply online at evisa.gouv.dj in minutes:
- 14-day eVisa: USD 23
- 31-day eVisa: USD 29
- Visa on arrival available at Ambouli Airport (same price)
Top Places to Visit in Djibouti
- Lake Assal – Lowest point in Africa (−155 m), salt flats
- Lake Abbe – Flamingos & surreal chimneys
- Gulf of Tadjoura – Whale shark snorkeling (Nov–Feb)
- Day Forest National Park – Ancient juniper trees & wildlife
- Moucha & Maskali Islands – Diving & beaches
- Tadjoura – “White City”, oldest town
- Ardoukoba Volcano & Grand Barra desert
Investment Opportunities – Africa’s Logistics Powerhouse
Register via Djibouti Ports & Free Zones Authority (DPFZA) – 100% foreign ownership allowed.
- Doraleh & Ghoubet multipurpose ports
- Djibouti Free Zone (tax-free)
- Renewable energy – 100% renewable target by 2035 (geothermal, wind, solar)
- Tourism – luxury eco-lodges & diving resorts
- Railway & logistics (Addis–Djibouti railway)
President & Politics
President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh (RPP) won 2021 election with 97%. Freedom House: “Not Free”, but stable and business-friendly.
SIM Card & Connectivity
Buy Djibouti Telecom SIM at airport (2,000–5,000 DJF). Tourist bundle: 15GB for ~8,000 DJF.
Safety & Travel Tips
- Very safe in tourist areas
- Best time: November–April (cooler)
- Fly via Addis Ababa, Dubai, Istanbul, or Nairobi
- French & Arabic dominant; English in hotels
Conclusion
Djibouti is one of Africa’s most underrated destinations — from swimming with whale sharks to standing at the lowest (and saltiest) lake on Earth. Whether you’re here for adventure or logistics investment, this Complete Guide to Djibouti has you covered. Need fast regional access? KiliFlying Air offers charter flights from Tanzania, Kenya, or Ethiopia. Call +255 744 303 141.