Djibouti Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Djibouti.
Spanish citizens can obtain an e-visa online for Djibouti. The process is straightforward through the official government portal. Djibouti is a small but strategically located country at the Horn of Africa.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, approved e-visa printed, proof of accommodation, and return ticket.
Fines and potential complications at departure.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Djibouti is one of the more stable countries in the Horn of Africa. The capital is generally safe but take normal precautions. Avoid the Eritrean border area. The presence of multiple foreign military bases contributes to stability. Check advisories for the northern border regions.
Money & Costs
Currency
Fdj Djiboutian Franc (DJF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $80 · Mid: $150 · Luxury: $350+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated. 10% in restaurants. Tips for guides and drivers are customary.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, E, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
17 (Police), 18 (Fire), 3510 (Medical)
Getting There
Main Airports
Djibouti City (JIB)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Djibouti is from November to March when temperatures are more bearable (25-30°C). April to October is extremely hot (up to 45°C or more). The whale shark season runs from October to February in the Gulf of Tadjoura. Winter months are ideal for most activities.
Cultural Notes
Djibouti is predominantly Muslim with Afar and Issa Somali ethnic groups. The country bridges African and Arab cultures at this strategic location. Traditional nomadic culture persists among the Afar people. French colonial influence remains in cuisine and architecture. Hospitality is valued.
Insider Tips
French and Arabic are official languages. The Djiboutian Franc is the currency; US dollars are also accepted. Djibouti is expensive due to importing most goods. The country is small and can be explored in a few days. Bring strong sun protection - it's one of the hottest places on Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an e-visa for Djibouti?
Apply for a Djibouti e-visa at evisa.dj. The process requires uploading passport scan, photo, and travel details. The fee is approximately $23 for a 31-day single-entry visa. Processing takes 24-72 hours. Print the approved e-visa and present it at immigration. The system is straightforward and efficient.
Can I swim with whale sharks in Djibouti?
Yes, Djibouti is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. From October to February, whale sharks gather in the Gulf of Tadjoura to feed on plankton. Tours depart from Djibouti City. The experience is more reliable and intimate than many other whale shark destinations. Snorkeling equipment is provided.
What is Lake Assal?
Lake Assal is a crater lake that is the lowest point in Africa (155m below sea level) and the third-lowest on Earth. It's also one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world - saltier than the Dead Sea. The otherworldly landscape with salt flats and vivid colors is a must-see. It's about 2 hours from Djibouti City.
Why are there so many foreign military bases in Djibouti?
Djibouti's strategic location at the southern entrance to the Red Sea makes it militarily significant. The US, France, China, Japan, and Italy all have military bases here. This makes Djibouti unusually secure for the region. The bases also contribute significantly to the economy. You may see military personnel around the city.
What other attractions does Djibouti have?
Besides whale sharks and Lake Assal, Djibouti offers: Lac Abbé with its surreal limestone chimneys and flamingos, the Goda Mountains (cooler climate with juniper forests), Day Forest National Park, and diving in pristine Red Sea waters. The Afar region has volcanic landscapes. The small size makes it easy to see multiple sites in a short trip.