Best things to do in Djibouti

A historical attraction by day, Place Menelik, transforms into a nightlife hub after dark. At night, you can barhop or grab a meal at one of the restaurants that line the streets around the square. If you visit during the day, you can see centuries-old buildings that have preserved their original architecture, and peruse the markets selling everything from food to household items.

Watch green crabs and look for seashells at Khor Ambado Beach, a long stretch of brown sand gently sloping into the water. Sheltered in a small cove just past a French military base, the family-friendly beach includes shaded beach chairs and tables. Clear waters and a diverse marine life provide good snorkeling, and you can safely swim in the calm sea. During low tide, wade through the water to examine a shipwreck lying in the shallows. There are few eateries available, but you need to tell them in advance that you'll be using their service.

Dip your feet in the salty waters of Lake Assal, a crater lake situated at the top of the Great Rift Valley in the Danakil Desert. Although rich in minerals, the lake water does not support any life other than bacteria. Still, salt collection here--in the world's largest natural salt deposit--provides an income for local farmers. One of the hottest places on earth, the underground of the lake continuously evaporates, creating ever more layers of solid salt bed, over which you can even drive a car. Gaze at the surreal, sunken landscapes with scant thorny bushes, camels, lizards, small birds, and insects.

Explore the largest forest in country, Day Forest National Park--known for gigantic trees reaching 20 m (66 ft) in height and endemic species of birds. Surrounded by semi-desert landscape, these forests of East African junipers, olives, and camphor bushes (sometimes reaching 6 m [20 ft]) grow in abundance as the altitude rises. Observe the endemic Djibouti francolin bird and Djibouti sunbird, found only in the park. The dry forest and scarcity of green vegetation creates a desert-like ambiance.

Built in 1906, Hamoudi Mosque stands as one of the oldest mosques in the city. Its simple yet captivating design reflects the much older Abbasid style, with white and green walls, stone carvings, massive wooden doors, and yellow arched windows. Although located at a busy crossroads and near a small market, the mosque serves as an active sanctuary with a capacity of 1,000 worshipers.

A paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving, Arta Beach offers sights of great whale sharks and a vibrant coral reef. Admire the gentle giants passing by, as they stretch their large mouths to feed off plankton and small fish. Due to the concentration of sharp rocks, the shore here usually doesn't serve for regular beach activities. Check out local tour operators for organized snorkeling and diving excursions.

Shop for designer-brand perfumes at L'ELIXIR parfumerie. At this top quality store, you can purchase perfumes without having to worry if they’re real. The helpful, friendly staff will attend to you and answer any questions you might have. The store is well-maintained, with all items nicely arranged.