Most foreign visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points in Djibouti, or apply for an e-Visa (electronic visa) online before departure. Typically, you’ll need a passport valid for at least six months, a return ticket, hotel reservations, and a travel itinerary. Visa fees and permitted length of stay are subject to the latest announcements from Djibouti’s immigration authorities. Djibouti’s visa policy changes frequently, so it’s advisable to double-check one to two weeks before your trip and carry a printed copy of your e-visa.
When entering, fill out the arrival card truthfully. If you’re transiting from a yellow fever–affected area, you may be asked to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate (yellow card), so it’s recommended to get it in advance and carry it with you.
| Category | Daily Cost (Excluding Flights) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $70–$115 | Basic hotels, local restaurants, shared transport |
| Comfortable | $140–$225 | Mid-range hotels, private day tours, diving experiences |
| High-end | $280 and above | International-standard hotels, professional diving, multi-day guided expeditions |
Prices in Djibouti are relatively high. Most trips to the salt lakes, deserts, and bays require private transport or joining organized tours, so transportation and guide fees make up a large part of the budget. Credit card use is limited, so it’s advisable to carry enough US dollars in cash in Djibouti City and exchange some small-denomination Djiboutian francs.
Djibouti is generally safe, but there is a border dispute with Eritrea. Some border areas near Somalia and Ethiopia, as well as parts of the coastal waters, pose security risks. It is advisable to avoid border zones and sensitive areas, choose reputable tour operators and guides, do not venture into remote locations unaccompanied, and purchase travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation and medical transport before you go.