29-Day Ethiopia Grand Tour: Culture, History, and Nature

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival in Addis Ababa - City Tour

Arrive at Bole International Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest. After lunch, enjoy a guided city tour of Addis Ababa, exploring key landmarks such as the National Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Bonanza Addis Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Addis Ababa – Harar

Addis Ababa – Harar
Fly from Addis Ababa to Dire Dawa, then drive to Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. Explore the ancient 16th-century walled Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and colorful markets. Visit the house of French poet Arthur Rimbaud, where he lived in the late 19th century, and learn about his time in Harar and his influence on the city’s literary legacy. Discover the unique blend of Islamic, African, and Christian cultures that makes Harar one of Ethiopia’s most fascinating cities.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Harar Ras Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Harar (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Discover harer city

Visit the lively Islamic market, the National Museum, and the Harari Museum. Explore the house of Ras Mekonnen, the father of Haile Selassie. In the evening, experience the famous "Hyena Man" as he feeds hyenas outside the city in a unique tradition.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Harar Ras Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Harar (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Harer to ArbaMinch

Harar – Arbaminch
Drive back to Dire Dawa, then fly to Arbaminch via Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel, have lunch, and visit Dorze village in the afternoon. Discover the traditional beehive-shaped houses, weaving techniques, and the unique lifestyle of the Dorze people.

Main Destination:

Arba Minch (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Arba Minch

• Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Arbaminch – Konso – Turmi

Arbaminch – Konso – Turmi
After breakfast, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Chamo, where you'll spot crocodiles, hippos, and birds. Continue to Konso village, known for its terraced farming and wooden statues. Continue your journey to Turmi, stopping at the Arbore tribe village before checking in at your lodge in Turmi.

Main Destination:

Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Turmi – Dassench

Turmi – Dassench
Drive to Omorate to visit the Dassench tribe and take a boat ride on the Omo River. Return to Turmi for lunch, then visit the Hamar tribe, famous for their body painting and hairstyles. If possible, witness a bull-jumping ceremony, followed by a traditional goat barbecue and dance performance.

Main Destination:

Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Turmi – Karo –jinka

Turmi – Karo – Mursi
Drive to Murille to visit the Karo tribe and learn about their unique culture and traditions. Return to Turmi for lunch before exploring the local market, where the Ari, Tsemai, Hamar, and Benna tribes gather. Continue your journey to Jinka for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village)

Accommodation:

Jinka Resort

• Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mursi – Addis Ababa

Mursi – Addis Ababa
Travel to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi, known for their distinctive clay lip plates and Dunga, a traditional stick fight. Return to Jinka for lunch before flying back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for the night.

Main Destination:

Mago National Park

Best Time To Go June to February (Little rainfall)

High Season October to January (It might be busier)

Best Weather

Accommodation:

Harmony Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Addis Ababa – Lalibela

Addis Ababa – Lalibela
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Lalibela and transfer to your hotel for check-in and lunch. In the afternoon, explore the first group of rock-hewn churches, Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, and Bet Mikael. In the evening, attend the Christmas Eve church service in Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela _Yemrehanna Kristos Church

Lalibela
Visit Yemrehanna Kristos Church in the morning, a 12th-century church built into a cave. After lunch, explore the second group of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, including Bet Gabriel & Rafael, Bet Emanuel, and Bet Abba Libanos. End the day with a visit to St. George Church, known for its cross shape.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela – Semera

Fly to Semera – Explore Afar Region
Fly to Semera, the capital of the Afar region, known for its unique landscapes, vast deserts and striking volcanic terrains. Explore the city’s fascinating culture and local attractions, offering a glimpse into the traditions and lifestyles of the Afar people. Visit surrounding areas for breathtaking views and insight into one of Ethiopia's most remote and intriguing regions. After your exploration, check in at your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Semera – Erta Ale

Semera – Erta Ale
Drive to Erta Ale, one of Ethiopia’s most fascinating volcanoes, known for its permanent lava lake. After a short break at the campsite, trek to the summit to witness dramatic lava activity. Return to the campsite for an unforgettable overnight stay under the stars.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Erta Ale – Dallol (Hamedela)

Erta Ale – Danakil Depression
Explore the sulfur lake and visit traditional salt mining areas in the Danakil Depression. Join a caravan and experience the striking desert landscapes and sand driving. Visit Lake Afrera, where you can swim in its saltwater, and enjoy a sunset over the salt flats. Camp under the stars for the night.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Danakil Depression – Mekele

Danakil Depression – Mekele
Drive through the surreal landscapes of the Danakil Depression, stopping to explore the salt mountains, sulfur springs, and hot springs. Visit the Dallol volcanic area and Lake Assal before continuing your journey to Mekele, where you’ll overnight at a local hotel.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

Accommodation:

Planet Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Mekele (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mekele – Hawzen

Mekele – Hawzen
Drive from Mekele to Hawzen, enjoying scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, visit the semi-rock-hewn churches of Wukro Cherkos and Abraha Atsbeha, which showcase Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage and stunning architecture. Continue your journey through the picturesque countryside before reaching Dugum Sellase. Check in at your accommodation in Hawzen for a restful overnight stay, preparing for more adventures in this historic region.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Hawzen – gerhalta mountains (Abune Yemata)

Hawzen – Abune Yemata
Embark on a challenging trek to the awe-inspiring Abune Yemata Guh church, perched high on a cliffside with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Along the way, visit Mariam Korkur, Wukro Cherkos, and Daniel Korkur, remarkable churches carved into the rock. Abune Yemata Guh is famous for its beautifully preserved murals depicting biblical scenes, making it one of Ethiopia’s most remarkable sites. After soaking in the beauty and history of these ancient structures, return to Hawzen for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day's unforgettable experiences.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Hawzen – Axum

Hawzen – Axum
Enjoy scenic views of the Gheralta Mountains before driving to Axum. Visit the ancient temple of Yeha, the oldest surviving structure in Ethiopia. Explore Axum’s historical sites, including the Church of St. Mary of Zion, the Stelae Park, and the Tomb of Kaleb.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Consolar Hotel Aksum

• Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Axum – Bahir Dar

Axum – Bahir Dar
In the morning, continue exploring Axum's rich historical sites, the Church of St. Mary of Zion and the Stelae Park. Afterward, fly to Bahir Dar via Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy the serene atmosphere of this picturesque city by Lake Tana. Transfer to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, ready to explore the nearby Blue Nile Falls and ancient monasteries on the following day.

Main Destination:

Bahir Dar (City)

Accommodation:

Lake Avenue Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinks not included

Bahir Dar – Blue Nile Falls

Bahir Dar – Blue Nile Falls
Take a boat ride on Lake Tana to visit its ancient monasteries, which are home to colorful frescoes. In the afternoon, head to the famous Blue Nile Falls, one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Africa, before returning to Bahir Dar for the night.

Main Destination:

Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Lake Avenue Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Bahir Dar – Gondar

Drive to Gondar, a city renowned for its medieval castles and rich history. After arriving, enjoy lunch before embarking on a guided tour of the Royal Enclosure, where you can explore the impressive Fasiladas' Castle. Learn about the fascinating history of Gondar, once the capital of Ethiopia, and its significance in the country’s royal heritage. Wander through the ancient walls, exploring the architectural marvels of the royal compounds and the stories they tell. After your tour, check in at your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay, preparing for more adventures the next day.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Exploring sightseeing of Gonder

Gondar – Timkat Eve
Attend the Timkat (Epiphany) festival, beginning with the Ketera ceremony, where priests carry the Tabots (replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) to the Bath of Emperor Fasil. Participate in the grand processions and witness the spiritual rituals.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gondar – debrebirhan selassie church (Ceremony/if in january)

Gondar – Timkat Ceremony
Start early and join the baptism ceremony at the Bath of Emperor Fasil, a major highlight of the Timkat festival. Later, visit the famous Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its murals. Spend the day exploring the fascinating sites in Gondar.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gondar – Simien Mountains (Sankaber campsite)

Gondar – Simien Mountains (Sankaber)
Drive to the Simien Mountains and begin your trek to Sankaber campsite, taking in breathtaking views of the lowland areas and the chance to encounter gelada baboons. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at the campsite surrounded by stunning nature.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Best Time To Visit September to December (Beautiful scenery)

High Season October to April (Lodges are busy)

Best Weather October to April

Wildlife in Simien Mountains NP

Gelada monkey Abundant

Walia ibex Occasional

Ethiopian wolf Rare

Klipspringer Rare

Bushbuck Rare

Show more

Golden jackal Rare

Hyena Rare

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinks not included

Simien Mountains (Sankaber – Geech campsite)

Simien Mountains (Sankaber – Geech)
Trek from Sankaber to Geech, passing through highland grasslands and forests. Visit the Jinbar Wenz waterfall and experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony in Geech village before spending the night at Geech campsite.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Simien Mountains (Geech – Imet Gogo)

Hike to the panoramic viewpoints of Imet Gogo, Saha, and Kedadit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rugged Simien Mountains. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes, with deep valleys, towering cliffs, and expansive vistas. The hike provides an unforgettable experience of the Ethiopian Highlands' natural beauty. After a day of exploration, return to Geech village for an overnight stay, reflecting on the stunning scenery and preparing for the next leg of your trek through the Simien Mountains. The tranquility of the surroundings makes it the perfect spot to unwind after an exhilarating day.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Trek from gich campsite to Chennek campsite

Trek from Geech to Chenek, passing through stunning landscapes with panoramic views of the Simien Mountains. Along the way, keep an eye out for the rare Ethiopian wolf, a unique and endangered species native to the region. The hike takes you through rocky terrain and highland meadows, offering breathtaking vistas of valleys and cliffs. Chenek camp is an excellent place to rest, offering a tranquil environment surrounded by nature. Enjoy the evening at camp, reflecting on the day's adventure, and prepare for another exciting day of trekking through this extraordinary mountain range.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Trek Chennek to mount buwahit _back to chennek

Trek from Chenek to the summit of Mt. Bwahit, one of the highest peaks in the Simien Mountains. The trail takes you through rocky terrain and grassy slopes, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and rugged cliffs. On your ascent, you may encounter the elusive Walia ibex, a wild goat species native to these mountains. The summit provides panoramic views of the entire region, making it a rewarding climb. After reaching the top, return to Chenek for an overnight stay, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventure surrounded by the dramatic mountain scenery.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Chenneck _Gondar _addis abeba _Langano

Chenek to Gondar
Trek back to Gondar, following a scenic route through the Simien Mountains. As you descend, enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain range, valleys, and cliffs. The area is rich in wildlife, so you may spot gelada baboons or the rare Ethiopian wolf along the way. Once you reach the town of Gondar, take some time to explore its historic sites. In the evening, you'll fly back to Addis Ababa. After arriving in Addis Ababa, drive to Lake Langano for a peaceful retreat. Unwind by the beach, surrounded by natural beauty, and relax after an adventurous trek.

Main Destination:

Lake Langano

Accommodation:

Hara Langano Eco Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located at Lake Langano

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lake Langano to Addis Ababa

Lake Langano to Addis Ababa
Relax by the lake in the morning, then visit Abijata and Shala National Park to spot flamingos and other wildlife. Afterward, drive to Addis Ababa, enjoy a farewell dinner, and transfer to the airport for your departure.

End of Tour.

Main Destination:

Abijatta-Shalla National Park

Best Time To Go October to February (Flocks of flamingo)

High Season October to January (The park is never busy)

Best Weather

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.