The best accommodations Semara

The latest Kuriftu opened at the gateway to the Danakil desert in 2019. Semara, a town rarely visited by tourists, has become the base camp for expeditions. With its desert-appropriate architecture (a modern sand-colored building with little height), it offers all the comforts of an Addis Ababa hotel. In all, 148 rooms with king-size beds and luxury amenities (air-conditioning, of course). On site: a lovely restaurant, a swimming pool (!) and a complete spa center to unwind after a day of hot, chaotic 4 x 4 driving.

One of the only hotels in town and even in the region apart from the Kuriftu Afar resort, but here at more modest prices. Erta Ale Motel is a new building with large, clean rooms equipped with air-conditioning and hot water, which is essential for a minimum of comfort in an arid, ultra-hot area, especially before setting off on an expedition into the Danakil desert, where it will be downright scorching. To make matters worse, the restaurant serves good Ethiopian cuisine. A good address for those on a budget.