Djibouti Liveaboards

Situated at the point where the Red Sea flows into the Indian Ocean, the small, stable country of Djibouti offers divers an incredibly diverse range of marine life. The relative absence of tourism is a large part of its appeal, ensuring the pristine dive sites remain unspoilt.

Encounters with Whale Sharks

From mid October to February plankton ‘blooms’ develop in an enclosed bay near Djibouti town called the Goubet al Kharab (the Devil's Cauldron). Although Whale Sharks can be seen throughout the year, encounters are especially common from October to February.

These plankton-rich waters attract many of the great pelagic species into the area surrounding Djibouti. Recent research has recognised the particular importance of the bay in the development of juvenile Whale Sharks, which stay within the safe confines of Djibouti’s coast line.

Regaldive have individual departures and full boat charters offered over this period that are timed to maximise the likelihood of diving and snorkelling with these gentle giants.

Whales, Sharks and Dolphins

The rich feeding grounds that make up Djibouti’s coastal waters attract a range of different species. Alongside Whale Sharks, divers can encounter Manta Rays, Beaked and Pilot Whales. Most species of Dolphin are represented in numbers off Djibouti’s coast, and are often seen ‘running’ the bow wave of your boat. Where there are Dolphins there are invariably Sharks. Grey and Nurse Sharks are the most commonly encountered species, whilst both Tiger and Blue Sharks have occasionally been seen.

Spectacular Corals and Reefs of the Seven Brothers

Djibouti itself is a dry, mountainous country, shaped by volcanic activity. The fascinating, arid landscape contrasts sharply with the incredible bio-diversity of the waters off Djibouti.

There are over 200 recorded species of coral, some of which are endemic to the region. The lack of any rivers, combined with the volcanic base to many reefs, has prompted extremely healthy coral growth. Extensive reefs cover much of Djibouti’s coastline. Marine species that are regularly seen off Djibouti are largely similar to those found in the northern Red Sea. However, it is the sheer abundance of life that is so impressive, with dense shoals of fish being a feature of most dives. Large schools of Barracuda, Jacks and Snapper are often seen feeding off the reef and add excitement to many dives.

Outside of the main whaleshark season, MY Deli offers the chance to dive these spectacular reefs.

Please note that liveaboard itineraries can change without notice. The itinerary will depend on several factors including, but not limited to, weather, diving ability of guests & the number of other boats already present at the various dive sites. All dive sites visited are subject to weather conditions and are at the discretion of your dive guides and vessel captain.

View a sample Djibouti Liveaboard itinerary >

Flights

Flights are with Ethiopian Airlines. You may travel earlier or later if you wish to explore Djibouti on land in greater depth.

Although Air France have a route to Djibouti, they do not allow UK tour operators access to trade air fares, so we are not able to offer this service.

A connection on FlyDubai is available from Dubai to Djibouti, schedule may require extra nights' stay.

Flight duration: Approx. 12 hours incl. flight change.

Departure tax: $20 is levied on all passengers (Does not apply if travelling on Ethiopian Airlines)

Passports

Passengers travelling to Djibouti must have six months valid on their passport from the date of return travel from Djibouti.

Visas

An entry visa is required for Djibouti. This can be obtained on arrival at Djibouti airport. The current cost is $90. The immigration office may keep your passport for up to 48 hours; the boat operator will take care of this.

Vaccinations

Protection against Malaria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid are strongly recommended. Contact your travel clinic or GP for the latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria and check the latest requirements for yellow fever. If you are flying via Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, but not stopping over, you do NOT require the yellow fever certificate.

Vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure. For the most up to date advice please consult your travel clinic.

Further information regarding vaccinations for travel to this country can be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk and from your local healthcare provider.

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