Ali Sabieh is a town in the south of Djibouti, close to the border with Ethiopia. Its position makes it the country's gateway to its neighbour, and cross-border trade and everyday exchange between the two countries shape much of its street life.
What to expect
Ali Sabieh sits in a mountainous region, and the highland setting gives the town a noticeably different feel from the coastal capital. The air is generally cooler, and the surrounding landscapes are a welcome change for visitors who have spent time in the lowland heat. It is a good place to slow down and take in the scenery.
Because the town lies away from the main tourist centres, a visit tends to feel more like a window onto daily Djiboutian life than a set-piece sightseeing stop. You are likely to see the rhythm of a working border town, with traffic, markets and people going about their business.
Who it suits
- Travellers interested in the border between Djibouti and Ethiopia and the trade that crosses it
- Visitors who want to see local life beyond the capital
- Those looking for highland scenery and a cooler climate
Ali Sabieh is best approached with curiosity and an open pace. Plan your journey with care, check current conditions for travel in the area before you set out, and allow time to simply walk around and observe. For many visitors, the town's quiet authenticity is the reason to go.