Djibouti

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Eco-friendly travel guide to Djibouti advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Djibouti, Africa.

Djibouti


  • Air quality: 3.7 / 5
  • Bus connections: 3.3 / 5
  • Train connections: 3.5 / 5
  • Hitchhiking: 3.6 / 5
  • National parks: 3.2 / 5
  • Outdoor activities: 3.8 / 5
  • Locals' English level: 3.7/ 5
  • Safety: 4.0 / 5
  • Accommodation: US$85 - $111
  • Budget per day: US$96 - $127

Responsible Travel

Djibouti is a small nation located on the northeast coast of the horn of Africa. It was formally known as French Somaliland until 1977 when it gained independence from France. the capital city, Djibouti city, is built on coral reefs that extend into the southern entrance of the Gulf. Major towns include Tadjoura, Arta, Obock, and Dikhil. Djibouti's borders include Ethiopia to the west, Eritrea to the night, and Eritrea to the north. the country is famous as a geologic treasure trove. There are two large ethnic groups in this region, namely the Afar and Somali. Both groups speak the Cushitic languages. The country has 938,000 people within its boundaries, with 60% being Somali, 35%Afar, and 5% represent other smaller groups like Arabs, French, and Italians. In this part of the region, the primary religion is Islam, with 94% while christens represent the remainder 6%. The major attractions in this region include excellent beaches, excellent climate, and islands. The country receives over 54,000 arrivals every year. Significant activities to indulge in include scuba diving, hiking, fishing, and jet skiing. To get to know the city better and in an eco-friendly manner, you can opt to walk, cycle or pick a public bus. The methods will contact you to interact with native people, which will help you understand their culture. Another suitable way to leave Djibouti state better than you found it is by buying from local shops. Promoting these local businesses boosts the growth of local startups, which later enable the nation's development.


Air Quality and Pollution

A large part of Djibouti is wreathed in air containing high levels of nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, and biological materials. According to (World Health Organization) WHO, these pollution paradoxes affect the residents' health in this city. According to (World Health Organization) WHO, Djibouti's air quality is considered unsafe, especially for sensitive groups. The air quality index of Djibouti is 53, which is moderate. Air pollution is causing chronic diseases, breathing problems, and premature mortality to some residents. The government has placed strict measures to curb this danger by laying a plan to reduce the total amount of carbon emission.


Respect the Culture

Djibouti is a multi-ethnic country rich in an interwoven culture based on tribal traditions. primary inhabitants of the state include the Afars and Issa's clans. Europeans, Arabs, and Ethiopians represent the remaining portion. Due to the many influences, Djibouti is a country with a combination of the ancient and the modern. the multilingual and multi-ethnic groups speak Somali and Afar as their mother tongues, but the official languages include French and Arabic. When it comes to religion, most people are Sunni Muslims adhering to the Shafii tradition. Others belong to the Ahmadi, Salihi Sufi, and Qadiri orders. Christianity is followed by a minority of people with just less than 4% .music is also an essential thing in Djiboutian cultures. Their musical tradition dates back to the nomadic days when the communities traded goods with the Chinese and Egyptians. Primary folk songs include wedding songs, praise songs, and songs of war. Major traditional ceremonies include the Muslim feasts like id al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and id al-Adha, which marks the culmination of the hajj. In addition to those, another major holiday in this region is independence day, celebrated on June 27. Djibouti is a great nation with deep roots in Islam culture.


Top 10 Places to Visit

Djibouti is among the few places with various landscapes like sinking plains, volcanoes, limestone chimneys with steam coming from the top, gorgeous plateaus, salt lakes, and grand canyons. There are many outdoor adventures and activities to engage in. popular activities include diving, snorkeling, hiking and kite surfing.

  • Djibouti city: Djibouti city is among the most visited parts of the region. The city receives a large number of visitors all year long. It features lots of great bars, restaurants and quality hotels. The place is secure and filled with welcoming and lovely people. The city also has all social amenities within walking distance. While here, make sure to interact with the locals by buying from their shops and volunteering in various activities like keeping the city clean.
  • Lake Assal: Lake Assal, also known as the honey lake, is a crater lake located at the Gulf of Tadjoura. It is 155 meters below sea level, making it the second-lowest land depression on earth after the dead sea. Locals also consider it as a tressure due to its large salt reserves.

The lake is in the process of becoming one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. It's a great place to visit and enjoy the unbelievable views.

  • Tadjoura: This is among the oldest towns on the Africans east coast, dating from the 12th century. the town was once a trendy port for goods between Djibouti and Ethiopia. the town was also known as Ville Blanche, or white town, due to its many whitewashed homes. It is also a great place with great views. The place has several mosques and also a great place to relax.
  • Ali Sabieh: Ali Sabieh is a famous city located near the border of Somalia and Ethiopia. Fantastic deserts surround the place. The city has large numbers of food stalls, great markets, and narrow alleys. The place receives a large number of visitors all year long. while here, check out Petit Bara and Grand Bara to see the desert at its best. There are also many sports activities to engage in, including windsurfing and camel riding.
  • The Gulf of Tadjoura: This is among the most visited area in this part of the region. It receives a large number of both local and foreign visitors all year long. The Gulf is surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Lush Goda, which reach heights of up to 1300 meters. There are

several significant activities to enjoy. The popular ones include snorkeling with whale sharks and diving. The place is easily accessible and also close to many restaurants, bars, and hotels.

  • Goba'ad plain: This is another popular destination among both local and foreign tourists. It is located between the Hanle plain and Lake Abhe. It's an excellent place for people who love bird watching. It's the only place in this region with an active breeding ostrich population.

Other major bird species include Arabian Bustard, Crombec, crown sparrows, and many more. This popular lowland area is covered with acacia scrub and large sand flats. It's an excellent destination for nature lovers.

  • Hanle Plain: This is another popular tourist destination in this part of the region. It receives a large number of visitors all year long. The plain is located adjacent to the Goba'ad table, and the ecosystem is very similar. The lowland valley has every steep mountain surrounding it and is populated by small freshwater lakes. It's also an excellent place for nature lovers. It is populated with many bird species varieties, with the most popular being black crake, Egyptian Goose, and the three-banded plover.
  • Dorale and khor Ambado: These are the two famous beaches in this region. They attract many local and foreign visitors all year long. The two beaches are located about 17 kilometers from Djibouti city. The place is also easily accessible via public transport. Here you will find some great swimming and black lava cliffs that neighbors the beach. There are too many water sports you can engage in, including swimming, boat riding, jet skiing, and diving. The sunsets of the Khor Ambao beach are considered among the most beautiful in the country.

This is a great place to hang out with friends and family for some days. The beaches are also close to restaurants and bars where you can grab a few foods and drinks. The attendants are also very welcoming and super friendly.

  • Tropical Aquarium: This is among the top tourist destinations in this part of the region. It receives a large number of visitors all year long. The aquarium is located in the historic part of town and is also considered among the best in Africa. It gives a great feeling like you're underwater and getting a first-hand look at marine life. It's an excellent place for those who love marine life. While here, also pay a visit to the neighboring Marche Central, a lively and chaotic market. It's a great place to spend a weekend with friends and family.
  • Day forest national park: This is a large forest located in an oasis in the Djibouti desert. It is situated about 20km from the Gulf of Tadjoura. It's a great place to spend a weekend hiking, especially for nature lovers. The forest is surrounded by a desert and among the few protected forested areas in the country. It's a great place with some unique wildlife like the Toha sunbird, which has only ever been seen inside the forest.
Lake Assal


Explore

Djibouti is an African nation rich in cultural and luxurious sites to visit and have fun. There is a wide range of beaches, parks, museums, and dining places and many other places you can spend your weekends and holidays. Some of the famous, exciting places you can explore include:


City Parks

City parks are natural areas in major urban environments. Djibouti has several city parks where people relax and enjoy the cool air away from the city rush. Many of these parks have some simple wildlife like birds, lizards, and baboons. the most popular ones include:

  • Lagarde park: Lagarde Park is among the most visited city parks in the region. It receives a large number of visitors, especially locals. It is located a few minute's drives from the capital city of Djibouti. It is owned and managed by the city council .it is clean and well maintained. There are lots of benches to relax and also playfields for kids to play with. Parking is offered

at reasonable prices.

  • Decan Refuge: This is a nature reserve located about 11 kilometers southeast of Djibouti city. It's an association that rescues endangered animals and keeps them under monitoring and protection. Major endangered animals are often victims of poaching. Major animals in the reserve include ostriches, lions, cheetahs, and caracals. They also run education programs for kids. It's a great place to learn about endangered animals. The guides are very welcoming, super friendly, and knowledgeable about their craft. It's a great place to hang out with friends and family during weekends and holidays.
Decan Refuge


National Parks

Though being located in a dry area, Djibouti has a few major national parks and protected areas to visit. The national parks are home to over 40 reptiles,300 different birds,60 species of mammals, and 800 species of plants.

  • Day forest national park: This is the most popular national park in Djibouti. It is located along the Al Sabieh road to Djibouti city in the northern part of the state. Significant attractions in the park include exotic plants like ficus trees, Euphorbia and Ziziphus. The park also has

some endemic birds, including the Djibouti francolin and mammals like a baboon, gazelle, Grevy's Zebra, warthog, and many others.

  • Djibouti national park: This is among the most visited national parks in this part of the region. It receives many local and foreign visitors all year long. It is located in the Goda mountains of Djibouti. The park includes some exotic plants like the Ficus, Euphorbia, and Ziziphus. It's a great place easily accessible via public transport. The park is also home to lots of wildlife ranging from gazelles, baboons, and warthogs. It's a great place to visit with friends and family.
  • Yoboki national park: This is another famous national park in this part of the region. The Boboli national interest receives a large number of visitors all year long. It is located in the town of Yoboki, which was initially a French military base. It is home to a large number of birds, reptiles, mammals, and plant species. Major attractions include the steppe eagles, Egyptian vultures, and European roller birds. It's an excellent destination for nature lovers.
Djibouti national park


Beaches

  • Ras Bir Beach: This is among the most visited beaches in this part of the region. It receives a large number of visitors, especially during summers. Ras Bir Beach is located in Obock, Djibouti. with clean, clear waters, this fantastic beach has one of the perfect landscapes to relax in. the neighboring areas are great for hiking, with the Ras Bir lighthouse offering breathtaking views. You can also engage in many activities while here, including snorkeling, dining, or even rent a kayak. The place is less crowded, but it gets a little busy during weekends. It's a great place to hang out with friends and family.
  • Khor Ambado beach: This is a popular tourist destination in this part of the region. It receives a large number of both local and foreign visitors all year long. It's a quiet beach located in Khor Abbado. There are no direct public transport services to take you there, so you have to have your means. Along the shores, you will see tiny houses made of logs of woods and fabric roofs. It's an excellent place for those who love snorkeling and diving. All facilities on this beach are clean and well maintained. It's a great place to come with kids since there is a lot for them to enjoy. There are also some local cafes and a few restaurants offering a great selection of foods and drinks.
  • Mangrove beach, Djibouti: Mangrove beach is among the most popular beaches, especially among local tourists. it is located on the eastern coast of Moucha Island. The beach features soft white sand and crystal clear waters and offering a relaxing atmosphere. The clear waters are home to some beautiful marine animals, making it an excellent spot for snorkelling. The best way to get to this isolated part of the nation is by ferry or boat, then proceed the remaining distance by foot. It's a great place with a lovely atmosphere and quiet surroundings.
  • Beach of Douda: This is an excellent spot for hanging out and connecting with nature. It is located in Arta, Djibouti. Its extensive and relaxing beach is offering breathtaking sunrise views. It also has shallow and calm waters safe for swimming for both kids and adults. The beach also features a playground that's enough for kids o play. The neighboring mangrove forest is also an excellent spot for hiking and connecting with nature. It's a great place with hotels, bars, and restaurants within walking distance. Attendants are very welcoming and kind, with all facilities clean and well maintained. It's an ideal location for a family visit.
  • La siesta beach: La siesta beach is among the most loved beaches by local and foreign visitors due to its ease of access. The beach is located within the capital city of Djibouti. It receives a large number of visitors all year long. The beach features some stunning coastal views and an active party-like the atmosphere, making it a perfect place to hang out with friends. The waters here are calm and warm but with some aspects of litter. The beach is overcrowded during weekends, so the best time to visit is during weekdays when there are fewer people. It s a great place to hang out with friends.
  • Heron beach: Heron Beach is a famous sandy beach located in Plage Du Heron, Djibouti. It is a fantastic beach featuring many major water sports. While here, you can engage in diving,jet-skiing, canoeing, and many more activities. The waters are calm and warm, making it great for swimming. There are also a few bars and restaurants where you can grab a few foods and drinks. The attendants are very welcoming and ready to help in case the need arises. The facilities are all clean and well maintained.
La siesta beach


Landmarks

Djibouti is a small country with little natural and human-made heritage. Though negligible, some very inspiring landmarks include lake Abe and the eerie landscape of limestone chimneys, among others.

  • Day forest(Goda mountains): This is the largest forest in this part of the region. It receives a large number of visitors all year long. It's among the most vegetated areas in the state of Djibouti. The forest is home to a large number of wildlife and different tree species. the major dominant plant species is the East African juniper, which grows to a height of 20 meters. It's a great place to visit when in this part of the region.
  • Lake Assal: It's among the most saline lakes in the world, surfacing around 155 meters below sea level. Its also the world's largest salt reserve, with an estimation of over 300 million tonnes of salt. This lake is a major tourist attraction in this part of the region. It receives a large number of both local and foreign visitors all year long. It's a great place to hang out on the weekend.
  • Limestone chimneys of lake Abbe.: This is among the significant landmarks that attract a large number of both local and foreign visitors. It is located a few minute's drive from Lake Abbe. It contains thousands of limestone chimneys which are arranged in rows and rise to 50 meters tall. The vents are formed from events of volcanic steam resulting in some beautiful and unusual landscape. It's a great place to hangout with friends and take some photos.
  • Asa Koma: This is another famous landmark in this part of the region.it contains ruins of a prehistoric settlement from the second millennia BC.these ruins mainly include rectangular platforms and circular enclosures.
  • Goubet Al-Kharab sea monster: This is another famous landmark located in Arta, Djibouti. It receives a large number of visitors, especially the locals. The location holds stories of a monster who lives in the deep waters of the sea bay. This story is among the most told in this part of the region.
  • About Rock Art Site: This art site dates back to the Neolithic times with a great collection of well-preserved rock engravings. Central engravings include those of antelopes, giraffes, cows, oryxes, and kudus. A team of French archaeologists uncovered the rock artwork in the year 2008. the place is located in the northeast of Randa and can only be accessed by foot.
  • Hamoudi mosque: This is among the best monuments in Djibouti, which is also an iconic building. This is among the must-visit places in Djibouti. The Mirante is the dominant of this imposing mosque. It is also known as the place, Rimbaud. The mosque receives many visitors all year long, especially those from the local communities.
  • Ras Bir lighthouse: Ras Bir Lighthouse is among the popular tourist destinations in this part of the region. It's among the well-kept lighthouses around the world. It's among the top monuments in this part of the area. It is located in a silent place away from the city rush giving it an eerie atmosphere. While here, make sure to take some photos for remembrance.


Museums

  • Gobaad Plain: This is among the most visited museums in this part of the region. It is located a few minute's drives from the capital Djibouti. . The staff is very welcoming and knowledgeable about most of the artifacts. They are also willing to share their knowledge with interested parties. It's an

excellent place for people interested in the history of Djibouti.

  • DJI APT.: This is another popular tourist destination in this part of the region. It is located less than 20 kilometers from the city of Djibouti.

The museum receives a large number of visitors all year long. The site is rich in fascinating history. The attendants are very knowledgeable and informative. It's an excellent place for people interested in research and history.

  • Chez Kabila.: This is a popular museum locatd in Balbala , Djibouti. The museum receives a large number of visitors, especially from local communities. The staff is friendly and professional and ready to assist in case the need arises. It's a great place to learn the history of Djibouti and its communities. The site is clean, orderly, and also well maintained. The attendants are also very knowledgeable and ready to share their knowledge with interested visitors.


Eat

Djibouti has a wide range of hotels and restaurants offering a wide range of foods and drinks. The eateries range from vegetarian and vegan restaurants to gluten-free options. Most of the restaurants serve breakfast, light lunch, and delicious dinner at favorable prices. While here, try traditional dishes. Primary foods on the island include sambuusa, Fah Fah ,Cambaboor, and Skudahkharis. Many foods in this region are expensive since very little is produced in their lands. Most of their foods are imported. The significant eateries include;

  • Melting Pot Restaurant Djibouti: This is among the most visited restaurants in this part of the region. It is located in Rue Bernard Djibouti. Primary foods include heated pots of chocolate and cheese. They offer excellent food, which is traditional primarily but innovative. The food is authentic and very delicious. The place is super clean, well-organized, and arranged. Staff is courteous, kind, and ready to help if the need arises. It's an excellent place for a visit with friends and family.
  • Restaurant La Chaumière: This is a famous French restaurant located in the heart of Djibouti. it is located in Rue de Foucald, Djibouti. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeaway services to its customers. The staff is welcoming, super friendly, and ready to help in case the need arises. The cost of food may not be the most affordable choice for many people, but it's well worth the money. This hotel's foods and services are a top-notch—great place to visit with family and friends during special events.


Drink

There are excellent drinking places in Djibouti. The most popular drinks on the island include tap water, beers, and cocktails. Most of these products are locally produced while others are imported. Public display s of drunkenness can result in two-year imprisonment, so while here, always watch your intake levels.


Tap-water

Tap water in Djibouti city is perfectly safe to drink, although some locals still encourage drinking bottled water. Though drinkable, sometimes the water may be contaminated with chlorine substances. Since there is no general information on WHO's water safety, it's advisable to check from locals and check the locals' water rating in every region you travel to. As a precaution, always drink boiled water or bottled water while on the island. When it comes to rural areas, safe drinking water is a day-to-day challenge. Most of the water here comes from groundwater resources which are of poor quality and difficult to access.


Activities

There are many fun activities you can engage with while in Djibouti, especially water sports. These outdoor activities help improve physique, the feel-good factor, and improved bonding. The primary activities to engage in time on the island include scuba diving, canoeing, scuba diving, jet-skiing and hiking.


Accommodation

Djibouti offers clean accommodation facilities, neat, and affordable. The types of accommodation facilities available include apartments, luxury lodges, hostels, and guest houses. The accommodation facilities are readily available and at fair prices.


Green Hotels

  • Djibouti Palace Kempinski: This is a 5-star hotel located in Djibouti palace Kempinski Du Heron, Djibouti. its mong of the most visited hotels in this part of the region. This luxurious hotel features a restaurant, a heated outdoor pool, and a bar. The staff are very welcoming, helpful and will make you feel comfortable. The rooms are spacious and well furnished, with all amenities included. It's a great place to visit with family.
  • Sheraton Djibouti: This is a 4-star hotel located in plateau de serpent, Djibouti. The hotel can be easily accessed via public transport and close to shops and restaurants. The rooms are modest and with essential amenities. The rooms feature a restaurant, outdoor pool, dining area, bars, and a spa. The location is easily accessible via public transport. Its premises are clean, neat, and well maintained. The staff is very professional, super friendly, and courteous. They also offer complimentary breakfast to their customers. It's a great place to spend your weekend and holidays.
  • Hotel Auberge Boulaos: This hotel is among the most popular among the locals. It receives a large number of visitors all year long. The hotel can be easily accessed via public transport and close to shops and restaurants. The staff are very welcoming, helpful and will make you feel comfortable. The rooms are spacious and well furnished, with all amenities included. It's a great place to visit with family.
  • Acacias Hotel: This is a 4-star hotel located in a lot du Herin Boite Postal, Djibouti. The hotel is modern, well decorated, and furnished. The hotel features an onsite bar, restaurant, free limited parking, and spacious rooms. The staff is accommodating and super friendly, making it easy to interact with. It's an ideal place for a family visit.


Hostels and Guest Houses

  • City Guest: This is a famous guest house located in Djibouti plateau de Marabout Djibouti, Djibouti. The guest house receives many visitors all year long. The rooms are clean and well decorated, with most foods and drinks available on site. The pricing is also very generous, with the staff being super friendly.
  • Oceania apart-hotel: This is another popular apartment popular among backpackers. It receives significant numero visitors all year long. The rooms are large enough, clean, and well-arranged. The staff is lovely, kind, and ready to help in case the need arises. The location is convenient and easily accessible through public transport while shops and social amenities are within a walk distance.
  • Auberge Boulos: This is among the most visited hostels in this part of the region. They ate located in Zone Idustrielle Sud, Djibouti. The rooms are spacious and feature a large TV and fridge. The place is also spotless, well maintained, and furnished. The attendants are kind, welcoming, courteous, and super friendly.


Apartments

  • Oceania apart-hotel: This is another popular apartment popular among backpackers. It receives significant numero visitors all year long. The rooms are large enough, clean, and well-arranged. The staff is lovely, kind, and ready to help in case the need arises. The location is convenient and easily accessible through public transport while shops and social amenities are within a walk distance.


Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing in Djibouti helps you discover unique places that you would never have got to know. The residents of the state are welcoming and willing to share their culture with interested visitors. To get businesses to go or people willing to hold you, visit Couchsurfing sites or even connect with people during events or even social media platforms.


Camping

Many picnic and camping sites are clean and well maintained in Djibouti. These camps provide beautiful scenery and other facilities like the playgrounds, parking spaces, toilets, water services. Most picnic sites are free, while others will require you a small fee.


Regions

Map of Djibouti


Cities


Getting There and Moving Around

To get to Djibouti, you can use both air, road, or water, depending on which part of the region. Both international and domestic travel connections are excellent.


Air

Air is among the most convenient means to get to Djibouti. Major airports include the Ambouli Airport, which has significant flight services connecting to the rest of Africa and European nations. the most popular flight services include Air France, Ethiopian Airways, Turkish Airlines, Fly Dubai and Kenya airways.

Ambouli Airport


Bus

Buses are a primary means to get to and around Djibouti. the bus services connect between major towns like Tadjoura, Dikhil, Galafi, and Obock. Many of the bus services are cheap but infrequent in most remote areas.


Train

Rail transport in Djibouti is administered through Ethio-Djibouti standard gauge rail, a bi-national company between Djibouti and Ethiopia. The rail transport was opened in January of 2018 to replace the international meter gauge railway. The fence is among the cheapest and most convenient means of transportation for many residents.


Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking in Djibouti is widespread, making it one of the traditional means of transport. Though fun, hitchhiking can be tiresome, especially in the hot summer months. Hitchhikers in this part of the region are advised to wear sunglasses and sunhats in summer as a way of protection while waiting for a free ride.


Others

Other modes of transport that get you to Vanuatu include:

  • Ferry
  • Personal cars


Sustainable Shopping

Sustainable shopping mode ensures that everything we buy has health, social and environmental benefits. Sustainable shopping gives visitors a chance to support the local fabrics, shops, markets, and eco-friendly factories.


Recycling

Recycling is a beautiful and vital way to keep Djibouti clean. Recycling prevents the pollution of air and water bodies. Major recyclable items in the country include plastic bags, plastic bottles, deodorant bottles, old clothing, and batteries.


Waste

The amount of waste collected in the country is still low due to poor accessibility, especially in rural areas. Private and public waste collection systems provide limited coverage in rural and urban areas of the island. Most of the waste is burned without proper disposal, which poses considerable risk to the island's residents. The government is working on a project to ensure that all waste is collected and brought together for sorting and later recycling.


Work and Study Abroad

Djibouti is home to major companies in this region. These companies are an excellent source of jobs for the locals. Major companies include hotels, financial companies, construction companies, and shipment companies.


Exchange Student

Djibouti is home to some of the major universities in the region. The universities majors in construction and tech courses due to the rising demand for tech and construction engineers. one of the famous universities in this region is Université de Djibouti.


Au Pair

Djibouti residents choose to pick Au pairs from their localities or even from families and friends due to trust issues. Most people who need au pairs are the working class. The residents opt for au pairs who have good skills in English other local languages.


Volunteering

There are numerous volunteer activities you can engage in Djibouti to give back to society. Volunteering helps deepen your relationship with the community and also learn about their culture. Volunteer groups you can join include:

  • Nature and water sources preservation
  • Teach English as a second language


See Also

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