Danakil Depression

A geological depression caused by the continental drift of three tectonic plates, the Danakil Depression is one of Earth's most unusual environments. Renowned as the 'hottest place on the planet' and home to salt lakes, lava lakes, volcanoes, and colorful acidic springs - it's a wonderful, alien environment.

The Danakil Depression is home to some of the most fascinating geological structures on the planet. Since the Red Sea pours over into the rift, creating a new ocean that divides the African continent in two, the Danakil is a new ocean basin, which means that millions of years from now, the Danakil will be covered in water.

Lying a bit over 330 feet below sea level, it’s one of the world’s lowest and most inhospitable environments. The landscape is dotted with numerous acidic ponds and geysers, along with two highly active volcanoes that occasionally spew ash into the air to complete the ‘apocalypse’ look.

The Danakil Depression remains an active site for biologists and other researchers. The acid pond and lakes are, surprisingly, teeming with an array of microorganisms not found anywhere else on Earth.

Location: Afar region, Ethiopia