Travel to Djibouti: A Comprehensive Guide

Djibouti has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Afar and Somali ethnic groups, as well as Arab and French colonial history. Islam is the predominant religion, and it's important for travelers to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

• Dress Code: Modest dress is generally recommended, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should consider covering their shoulders and knees. Men should also dress respectfully.
• Greetings: Handshakes are common greetings. It's polite to greet people before starting a conversation.
• Hospitality: Djiboutians are known for their hospitality. Accepting offers of tea or coffee is a customary gesture of goodwill.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or traditional settings. Avoid photographing military installations or sensitive government buildings.
• Ramadan: If traveling during Ramadan, be mindful that eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours is generally not practiced and can be offensive. Many restaurants may be closed during the day.

The official languages of Djibouti are French and Arabic. Somali and Afar are also widely spoken as national languages.

In Djibouti City, particularly in business circles and tourist areas, French is commonly used. English may be spoken by some individuals in the tourism industry, but it's not as widespread. Learning a few basic phrases in French or Arabic can be helpful and appreciated by locals.

• Hello (French): Bonjour
• Thank you (French): Merci
• Yes/No (French): Oui/Non
• Hello (Arabic): Salam Alaikum
• Thank you (Arabic): Shukran

The official currency is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF). The DJF is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate (approximately 1 USD = 177.721 DJF, but this should be verified).

• Cash: Cash is widely used, especially outside of major hotels and businesses in Djibouti City. It's advisable to carry a sufficient amount of local currency for daily expenses, markets, and smaller establishments.
• Credit Cards: Major international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in larger hotels, some restaurants, and supermarkets in Djibouti City. However, their acceptance is limited in smaller towns and rural areas.
• ATMs: ATMs are available in Djibouti City, primarily at banks and some larger hotels. They usually dispense Djiboutian Francs. It's a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
• Currency Exchange: US Dollars and Euros are the easiest foreign currencies to exchange. Exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and authorized exchange offices. It's recommended to exchange currency at official places to get fair rates and avoid scams.

Getting around Djibouti can be done through various means:

• Taxis: Taxis are common in Djibouti City. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey, as taxis may not always use meters. Ride-sharing apps might not be widely available.
• Buses: Public buses operate within Djibouti City and to some regional towns. They are a more economical option but can be crowded and may not follow strict schedules.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car, especially a 4x4, is an option if planning to explore areas outside the capital. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended along with your national driving license. Road conditions can vary, with paved roads in the city and major routes, but unpaved or rough tracks in remote areas.
• Domestic Flights: For longer distances within the country, domestic flights might be available to certain regional airfields, though services can be limited.
• Boats: For travel to islands like Moucha and Maskali, boat services are available from Djibouti City.

Djibouti has an arid desert climate, characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year, especially along the coast.

• Hot Season (May to September): Temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), particularly in June and July. This period can be extremely challenging for outdoor activities.
• Cooler Season (October to April): This is generally considered the best time to visit. Temperatures are more moderate, typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The "Khamsin" wind, a hot, dry, and dusty wind, can occur during this period.

Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen) is recommended year-round. Sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, is essential. Staying hydrated is crucial due to the heat.