Djibouti is a small country, but getting around takes more effort than the distances suggest. Outside Djibouti City, roads range from decent tarmac to rough tracks, and public transport is limited.
Minibuses link the capital with most towns for low fares, but they leave only when full, which can mean a long wait. The main routes run to Tadjoura, Ali Sabieh, and Dikhil.
4WD with driver is the practical way to reach Lake Assal, Lac Abbe, and other inland sites. You can arrange this through hotels or tour operators in Djibouti City. Driving yourself is possible but roads are unmarked and fuel stations are scarce outside the capital.
Boats cross the Gulf of Tadjoura from L'Escale in Djibouti City to Tadjoura and Obock. Schedules are loose — departures depend on demand and weather. The crossing takes a few hours and is scenic.
Taxis are the main way to get around Djibouti City itself. They are not metered, so agree on a fare before you get in. Shared taxis run fixed routes through the city for a few hundred francs.
The railway to Addis Ababa passes through the south of the country but currently does not stop for domestic passengers at intermediate stations in a practical way.