Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
L'Escale
In the early evening, the walk along the causeway northwest of the centre makes a very
pleasant stroll. The Moorish-inspired
presidential palace
(not open to the public) marks
one end, the harbour of L'Escale, the other. The little marina is home to a variety of boats,
from the traditional and picturesque Arab dhows to the simple local fishing skiffs and fer-
ries to Tadjoura and Obock.
Further north, running almost parallel to L'Escale, is the city's port proper, access to
which is restricted. From the marina you can see the imposing cranes and cargo boats.
MARINA
Plateau du Serpent & Îlot du Héron
These adjoining neighbourhoods north of the centre are residential areas where you'll find
many of the foreign embassies and residences, as well as lavish villas and Djibouti's
swankiest hotels.
NEIGHBOURHOODS
Beaches
For a capital that's surrounded by water, Djibouti City is not well endowed with beaches.
The only decent stretch of sand is at the
Djibouti Palace Kempinski
, but there's an en-
trance fee of DFr3000, and swimming is not
that
tempting, with shallow waters and a pro-
fusion of algae. There's also a postage stamp-sized beach at the
Sheraton Djibouti Hotel
Offline map
Google map
.
For a dip, your best bet is to use the pools at both hotels (DFr2000
at the Djibouti Palace Kempinski; no charge at the Sheraton).
GETTING TO A BEACH
Feeling disappointed by Djibouti City's lack of good beaches? Don't despair. Consider booking a trip to the easily
accessible Moucha Island (
Click here
)
, which features a good stretch of white sand and azure waters - perfect for
swimming and evening up your sunburn.
Activities
Diving, kitesurfing, whale-shark spotting and hiking can all be organised from Djibouti
City.
