Day Forest National Park

Day Forest National Park, located in the Goda Mountains of Djibouti, represents one of the last remaining patches of primary forest in the Horn of Africa. This unique ecosystem sits at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level, creating a dramatically different climate from the surrounding desert landscape. The park protects the remnants of an ancient Afromontane forest that once covered much of the region, now reduced to just 15 square kilometers of precious woodland. The forest is home to endemic species including the critically endangered Djibouti francolin and various rare plant species found nowhere else on Earth. Towering juniper trees, wild olive groves, and dense undergrowth create a mystical atmosphere often shrouded in mist. This remarkable oasis provides crucial habitat for wildlife and serves as an important watershed for the surrounding communities, making it both an ecological treasure and a vital natural resource.

Dining options near Day Forest are limited to basic local establishments in nearby communities and Tadjoura town, serving traditional Djiboutian cuisine featuring rice, pasta, and grilled meats. Most visitors bring packed lunches or arrange meals through their tour operators. The nearby Afar communities may offer traditional meals as part of cultural experiences, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. It's advisable to bring water and snacks, as commercial dining facilities are scarce in this remote mountain location.

The optimal time to visit Day Forest National Park is during the cooler months from October to March when temperatures are more comfortable for hiking and wildlife is more active. The brief rainy season from July to September brings lush vegetation but can make roads impassable and trails muddy. Early morning visits year-round offer the best conditions with cooler temperatures, active wildlife, and often mystical mist effects that enhance the forest's ethereal beauty.