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Djibouti packs an incredible diversity of landscapes into a country smaller than New Jersey. Within a few hours' drive, you can go from volcanic deserts and ancient salt lakes to tropical coral reefs and pristine island beaches. Here are the must-visit destinations that make Djibouti a truly unique travel experience.

Lake Assal sits at 155 meters below sea level, making it the lowest point in Africa and the third lowest on Earth. Its waters are 10 times saltier than the ocean, creating surreal salt crystal formations along its shores. The turquoise-white color against the black volcanic backdrop is one of the most photographed scenes in the Horn of Africa.

Lake Abbe, near the Ethiopian border, features towering limestone chimneys that release steam at dawn — a landscape so alien it inspired the setting of "Planet of the Apes." The overnight camping experience here, with flamingos wading through the mist at sunrise, is one of Africa's most magical moments.

The Gulf of Tadjoura is a marine paradise home to whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. Moucha and Maskali Islands offer white sand beaches and world-class snorkeling just 30 minutes by boat from Djibouti City. The Ghoubbet-al-Kharab (Devil's Cauldron) is a dramatic enclosed bay surrounded by volcanic cliffs.