The Afar region's salt plains and lakes form one of the most mesmerizing and extreme landscapes on Earth. Lake Assal and Lake Afrera are among the region’s well-known saline lakes, surrounded by vast salt flats that create a glistening, otherworldly panorama. These salt plains, especially the Danakil Depression, are often covered with pure white salt crusts stretching for miles, contrasting with the surreal mineral colors and geothermal activity in the area.

For centuries, Afar's salt plains have been a hub for traditional salt mining. Local Afar people continue to extract salt slabs by hand, a practice passed down through generations and transported by camel caravans across the desert. This region’s unique combination of harsh beauty, ancient trade routes, and vibrant mineral landscapes makes it a fascinating destination for explorers and photographers alike.