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Djibouti City

Officially the Capital City of the Republic of Djibouti, is a country in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Somaliland to the south, Ethiopia to the southwest, Eritrea in the north, and the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to the east.

Djibouti City

Djibouti City is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa.

Djibouti City is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa. As the country’s primary economic and cultural hub, it is a popular destination for business travelers.

Get in:

Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport (JIB) is the main point of entry for international visitors, with flights to and from various destinations in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Taxis are readily available outside the airport, but be sure to agree on a fare with the driver before setting off.

Visas are required for most visitors to Djibouti, but they can be obtained on arrival at the airport or at the country’s embassies and consulates abroad. Check the latest visa requirements before you travel.

Get around:

Taxis are the most convenient way to get around Djibouti City, but be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey. Buses are also available, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.

If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing or business travel within the city, it may be worth renting a car or hiring a driver. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and most signs are in French and Arabic.

See and do:

Djibouti City offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and French cultures, with plenty of historic landmarks, museums, and markets to explore. Some of the top attractions include:

  • The Presidential Palace, a striking colonial-era building that serves as the official residence of the President of Djibouti
  • The Hamoudi Mosque, one of the largest and most ornate mosques in the city
  • The Djibouti Museum of History and Ethnography, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage
  • The Central Market, a bustling open-air market where you can find everything from spices and textiles to souvenirs and jewelry.

Eat and drink:

Djiboutian cuisine is a mix of African, Middle Eastern, and French influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and aromatic spices. Some popular dishes to try include:

  • Skoudehkaris, a flavorful rice and meat dish
  • Fah-fah, a hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices
  • Lahoh, a spongy bread similar to Ethiopian injera.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes throughout Djibouti City, serving everything from traditional Djiboutian fare to international cuisine. Some popular spots include La Chaumiere, Le Cafe de la Gare, and La Siesta.

Stay:

Djibouti City has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some top choices include:

  • Sheraton Djibouti, a five-star hotel with stunning sea views and a range of amenities
  • Hotel Residence de l’Europe, a boutique hotel with a relaxed, homely atmosphere
  • Djibouti Palace Kempinski, a lavish hotel with a private beach, spa, and multiple restaurants.

Overall, Djibouti City is a fascinating and dynamic destination that offers a rich cultural experience for business travelers. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic landmarks or sampling its delicious cuisine, there’s plenty to see and do in this vibrant African capital.