Dallol Volcanic Acid Pools

Dallol Volcanic Acid Pools

Geological one of the most active spots on Earth, the Dallol valley is a volcanic explosion crater in the Danakil Depression of Ethiopia–some 328 feet below sea level. A combination of subterranean basaltic magma (ie new sea floor) and salty water has created phreatic explosions–the latest one in 1926. These steam explosions create pockets of volcanoes, bubbling hot water pots, bright yellow sulfur fields, and expansive salt flats.  Numerous hot springs are discharging brine and acidic liquid here. Widespread are small, temporary geysers which are forming cones of salt.  

Dallol offers an opportunity to see the first signs of new ocean basin forming. South of the dormant Dallol volcano, rectangular salt slabs are cut and transported up into the highlands in a near endless procession of camel caravans. The salt canyons south of Dallol Mountain are some of the most impressive geological features in the area. But with the heavy geothermic activity, the basin shape, and the lack of wind, it’s also one of the hottest areas on earth. The mineral-rich pools avoid evaporation only by continuous feeding from thermal springs.