Backpacking or travelling in Djibouti?

• Djibouti is a small country with big adventures. Situated at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, it offers a unique mix of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. The country has dramatic salt lakes, volcanic plains and a breathtaking coastline on the Red Sea, which invites you to adventure.
• Activities spotting: dive and snorkel in the Gulf of Tadjoura; visit the salt lake Lac Assal; hike in the Goda Mountains; take a day trip to the Ardoukoba volcano; kayak on Lac Abbé; explore the markets and colonial architecture of Djibouti City; camp in the desert; spot whale sharks; visit the Day Forest.
• Animal spotting: whale sharks, gazelles, ostriches, ibis, flamingos, eagles, coral fish, jackals, hyenas, dolphins.
• Food Spotting: skoudehkaris (rice with meat), lahoh (African-style pancakes!), sabayaad (flatbread), fah-fah (spicy soup with meat and vegetables), maraq (stew with meat), xalwo (sweet dessert), bariis (local spiced rice), fish stew, bananas with rice, shaah (spiced tea).

Studying in Djibouti?

• Djibouti has one university, so choosing is easy! The choice of studies is also limited. For example, you can follow studies in the field of law and economics, science, humanities and social sciences, medicine and engineering.
• Study cities: Djibouti City.
• Language: French, with some options in Arabic and English.

Internships in Djibouti?

• Djibouti offers interesting internships, especially in the field of international relations, maritime trade, and development work. NGOs and international organisations are often active here and offer internships focused on humanitarian aid and logistics.
• Competencies: intercultural communication, dealing with different work ethics, problem-solving skills, leadership, independent work, adaptability, language skills (French, Arabic).

Volunteering in Djibouti?

• There are plenty of opportunities for volunteering in Djibouti, especially in community development, education and healthcare. Local communities can use all the help they can get, and volunteer projects are often organised through NGOs.

Working in Djibouti?

• It is not easy to find a job in Djibouti. Most people come to Djibouti with a job through an international organisation. Expatriates often work in logistics, due to Djibouti's strategic port, or in NGOs, diplomacy and education.
• Work culture: the work culture in Djibouti is informal, but respect for hierarchy is important. Patience and adaptability are crucial qualities.

Working as a digital nomad in Djibouti?

• Djibouti is a complete unknown to most digital nomads. However, it is still fairly well connected, especially in the larger cities. While you won’t find a co-working space easily, you can still work in cafes and hotels.
• Favorite locations: Djibouti City.

Living in Djibouti?

• Living in Djibouti can be both challenging and rewarding. The capital offers amenities such as shops, restaurants and expat communities, but outside the city life is simple and often lacking in modern amenities.
• Education: There are a few international schools in Djibouti City that offer education in French and English.
• Expat community: Small but diverse, with many people working for embassies, NGOs and international organizations.
• Safety: The country is relatively stable, but it is important to keep up to date with local safety advice.
• Culture and religion: A rich culture, influenced by Arabic, French and African traditions. You can constantly find areas of lively markets, music, dance and friendly people. The majority of the people are Muslim, a small percentage are Christian.
• Climate: very hot and dry, there is hardly any rain.
• Be careful: the infrastructure outside the city is not good; people speak French and Arabic, so make sure you know something of the language; the climate can be tough for many people.
• Health insurance: public health care is of a lower standard and often limited in resources. So go to private clinics for good care and also make sure you have your own good health insurance.

Stories, tips and experiences from Djibouti