5-Day Ethiopian Odyssey; Lalibela & Danakil Wonders

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

Arrival in Lalibela from addis abeba

After breakfast, take a flight to Lalibela. Upon checking into your hotel, embark on a guided exploration of the remarkable rock-hewn Ethiopian Orthodox Churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the architectural marvels of the 12th-century monolithic churches, including the Northwestern cluster, which features Bet Medhane Alem, the largest church, alongside five additional sacred structures. Marvel at the beautifully painted interiors and the fascinating internal channels connecting the churches.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

+3 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Southeastern Cluster Churches & Journey to Semera

Begin your day with a visit to the Southeastern cluster churches of Lalibela. If you completed your exploration on the first day, start your scenic drive to Semera. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you traverse through charming villages and small towns. Arrive in Semera for an overnight stay, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Main Destination:

Semera (Town)

Accommodation:

Erta Ale Motel

• Budget hotel

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Semera to Dallol via Afdera

Following breakfast, depart for Dallol. First, stop at Ragad (Asebo) to witness traditional salt mining practices. Observe local artisans skillfully extracting salt, cutting it into rectangular blocks, and loading it onto camels. Continue to Dallol, where you will encounter stunning volcanic landscapes, vibrant salt formations, and the striking Lake Assal. Experience the local culture by interacting with the Afar people and witnessing camel caravans. After a fulfilling day, drive to Hamed Ela for an overnight stay at Hamadella.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Hamad Ela to Erta Ale

Your adventure continues with a drive to Erta Ale, known as the "smoky mountain" in the Afar language. This remarkable shield volcano boasts the world’s only permanent lava lake, situated at an elevation of 613 meters. Depart early at 9:00 AM, navigating one of the roughest roads in the world over an 80 km route, which takes approximately six hours. Enjoy breathtaking views of solidified lava, unique rock formations, and occasional palm-fringed oases. Upon reaching Dodom, the base camp for Erta Ale, enjoy dinner around 17:00. After a brief rest, trek to the summit at 20:00, where you will camp on the volcano's rim, witnessing the mesmerizing spectacle of bubbling lava throughout the night.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Erta Ale to Afdera, Semera, and Departure

Awake early to witness a stunning sunrise over the main pit crater, an impressive 200 meters deep and 350 meters wide. After a hearty breakfast, begin your descent from Erta Ale around 9:00 AM, aiming to return to Dodom by approximately 10:30. If time permits, visit the enchanting Lake Giulietti (or Lake Afrera), a picturesque saltwater lake located over 100 meters below sea level. Observe the Afar people harvesting salt through evaporation amidst stunning landscapes. After your visit, return to Semera for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your departure schedule, a farewell dinner at one of the finest traditional Ethiopian restaurants can be arranged, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

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.