Seven Brothers Islands

The Seven Brothers Islands are a small archipelago off Djibouti’s northern coast in the Obock Region, made up of a group of steep, rocky islands. They are notable for their seabird colonies and surrounding marine habitats.

The islands are volcanic in origin and rise steeply from deep water; they are primarily visited for seabird watching, sea-based wildlife observation and diving in the surrounding waters. Landing on the islands is limited and typically arranged from coastal towns by boat.

The archipelago lies in the Gulf area off northern Djibouti and forms a conspicuous set of offshore islets in a largely marine-dominated landscape.

• Access and marine life: Located off Djibouti’s northern coast in the Obock Region, the islands are reached by small boat and are known for steep cliffs and rich marine life.

The islands lie off the Obock coast in northern Djibouti. Day trips are arranged from Obock town (roughly a 3-4 hour drive north from Djibouti City along RN1 and local coastal tracks) or from Djibouti City by charter boat. Most visitors book a skipper in Obock; crossings take between 30 minutes and 2 hours depending on which islets are targeted and sea conditions.

• Visit by private boat early in the morning to see seabirds and avoid heat; many operators from Obock or Djibouti City run day trips.
• Bring snorkel gear: the reefs around the islets are shallow and clear but fragile-use a reef-safe sunscreen.
• Watch for currents when landing - don't attempt landings without a local skipper familiar with the tidal rips around Obock.
• Respect local fishing grounds; the islands are used seasonally by fishers and herders.