Dallol Lake situated in the Danakil depression, Ethiopia ©Einat Klein Photography / Shutterstock
Each month, our editors sift through standout blog articles and Instagram posts submitted by the Lonely Planet Pathfinders community.
For November, we're showcasing a film by Hanna and Zach of Handzaround, who have documented spellbinding vistas from across Africa's wildly varied landscapes.
Hanna and Zach recount that the Afar Triangle of Africa is celebrated for housing the Danakil Depression, Erta Ale Volcano, Salt Lake Assale, and Dallol. Conditions there — heat and elevation — rank among the most extreme anywhere on Earth. They hiked toward the volcano and dedicated four full days to navigating the Danakil Depression. Though the heat felt relentless and the journey tested their endurance, the vistas seemed almost extraterrestrial.
LP Pathfinders Featured Video: November 2017
Handzaround's Afar Triangle Journey
The clip crafted by Hanna and Zach beautifully conveys the enchantment of east Africa's varied and breathtaking scenery. Blending sweeping drone perspectives, personal camera work, and time-lapse sequences, viewers get a sense of joining the journey firsthand. Their editing craftsmanship deserves recognition.
We extend gratitude to every Pathfinder who contributed this month — the caliber was impressive! Standouts included an Icelandic expedition with The World Pursuit, along with We Tour the World's coverage of part of their trek through Lesotho.
Stay tuned to our Thorn Tree forum for the upcoming submission invitation. Explore further adventures from the Lonely Planet Pathfinders (or join the program yourself!) via the Pathfinders video playlist, and make sure to follow our YouTube channel for updates.
