Erta Ale, Shield volcano in Kilbet Rasu, Ethiopia
Erta Ale rises in the Danakil Depression and is built from dark basalt rock deposited over thousands of years. The caldera at the summit contains several craters, one of which holds a continuously active lava lake.
The volcano has been continuously active since the early 20th century, making it an extraordinary example of sustained volcanic processes. Scientists have documented its activity for over a century, with the lava lake almost never going dormant.
The name comes from the Afar language and means smoking mountain, referring to the constant fumes rising from the crater. Nomads in the region have long known this volcano and often avoid its immediate surroundings due to the heat and gases.
Access usually takes place at night through a several-hour walk from the base camp to avoid the extreme daytime heat. Visitors should bring enough water and wear sturdy footwear, as the terrain consists of sharp volcanic rock.
The lava lake is among the few worldwide that exist permanently and offer researchers direct insight into volcanic processes. The surface of the lake glows red at night and shows constant movements of the magma layers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
