Lower Valley of the Awash

The Lower Valley of the Awash extends through an arid landscape with volcanic formations, natural hot springs, and diverse geological features spanning multiple kilometers.

Scientists discovered the famous 'Lucy' fossil in 1974, representing a 3.2-million-year-old Australopithecus afarensis specimen that transformed understanding of human evolution.

The Afar people maintain traditional pastoralist practices across the valley, living in settlements while managing their livestock through seasonal migrations.

Access to the excavation sites requires permits, local guides, and preparation for temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, with travel times of 3.5 hours from Semera.

The valley contains multiple layers of sediments preserving fossils from different periods, creating a continuous record of human ancestors spanning 4 million years.

Location: Afar Region

GPS coordinates: 11.10000,40.57940

Latest update: June 17, 2025 18:51