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Gada Ale Volcano | Dr John Seach
Last updated: January 2026
Erta Ale Range, Afar Region, Ethiopia
13.98 N, 40.41 E
summit elevation 287 m
Stratovolcano
(Kebrit Ale)
The volcano is located at the northern end of Erta Ale Range.
Fumarolic activity is present at the volcano.
The volcanic area is located at the northern apex of the Erta Ale range. Gada Ale volcano dominates Karum and Bakili lakes, which lie in the most depressed part of northern Afar (120 m below sea level). At this latitude, the range has its smallest lateral extension of 13 km.
The area is mostly covered by basaltic lava erupted from fissures over the flat surface of the salt plain at altitudes from 20 to 40 meters below sea level.
At the South-East of Gada Ale volcano, an open fissure with small spatter cones has been recently active.
Warning: Remote and extreme environment with high temperatures, difficult terrain, and potential for sudden fissure activity or gas emissions. Access requires permits, experienced guides, and preparation for harsh conditions.
Geology and Volcanology
Gada Ale is a stratovolcano at the northern end of the Erta Ale Range in the Afar Depression rift system. Dominated by fissural basaltic activity with spatter cones and lava flows over salt plains. Part of the East African Rift with extensional tectonics. Persistent fumarolic activity indicates ongoing hydrothermal system. Monitored remotely by Ethiopian authorities.
Current Activity (January 2026)
Gada Ale remains in a quiescent phase with persistent fumarolic emissions. Low seismicity. No eruptive activity. Remote monitoring ongoing.
Gada Ale volcano photos by Dr John Seach
Gada Ale volcano from the west. March 2024 expedition by Dr John Seach
Further reading
Amelung, F. et al., 2000. Ground deformation near Gada Ale Volcano, Afar, observed by radar interferometry. Geophysical Research Letters, 27(19), pp.3093-3096.
Gada Ale Activity
Ongoing fumarolic activity. No recent eruptions.