17-Day Explore Northern Ethiopia 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

Welcome to Ethiopia! Arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day exploring the vibrant capital, visiting landmarks such as the National Museum, where you can see "Lucy," one of the oldest hominid fossils. Discover the bustling Mercato, one of Africa's largest markets, and enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Hotel Lobelia

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

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Addis Ababa to Danakil Depression

Semera and drive to Ragad (Asebo). Observe local salt miners at work, breaking salt from the ground and preparing it for transport. Continue to Dallol, known for its surreal landscapes formed by volcanic activity, including colorful salt flats and hot springs. Explore Lake Assal and witness the unique camel caravans. Engage with the Afar people and learn about their culture. Overnight in Hamadella.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Dallol to Erta Ale

Depart early for Erta Ale, the "smoky mountain." This shield volcano features the world’s only permanent lava lake. The journey to Dodom is challenging, with stunning landscapes of solidified lava and occasional palm oases. Arrive at the Dodom campsite and prepare for an overnight stay at Erta Ale, enjoying the stunning views of the lava lake at sunset.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Erta Ale to Mekelle

Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the crater, where the vibrant colors of dawn illuminate the rugged landscape. Spend the morning exploring both the northern and southern pits of Erta Ale, marveling at the unique geological features and the mesmerizing lava lake that glows with an otherworldly light.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the campsite, prepare for an exhilarating descent back to Dodom. Along the way, take in the dramatic views of the surrounding terrain, characterized by solidified lava fields and striking volcanic formations. Once you arrive in Dodom, you'll begin your drive to Lake Giulietti, a serene and picturesque spot known for its stunning vistas. Weather permitting, spend some time relaxing by the lake, capturing the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps spotting local wildlife.

Following your visit to Lake Giulietti, continue your journey to Mekelle.

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

Mekelle to Gheralta

Explore the lesser-known rock-hewn churches of Tigray, including mariam korkor and Abune Yemata Guh. These churches, carved into mountainsides, showcase Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage. After a day of exploration, drive to Hawzen for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Hawzen to Axum

Visit the ancient ruins of Yeha, believed to be the capital of the ancient Aksumite Empire. Explore the large temple ruins and learn about their historical significance. Next, visit Debre Damo Monastery, perched on a cliff and accessible only by a 15-meter rope climb. Return to Axum for the night.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Exploring Axum

Dedicate the day to Axum’s historical treasures, including the famous obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Bath, and St. Mary of Zion Church, which is said to house the Ark of the Covenant. After a full day of exploration, return to your accommodation in Axum.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Axum to Simien Mountains National Park

Drive through the scenic Tekeze Valley to Simien Mountains National Park. Stop at the park head office in Debark to register and meet your trekking team. Enjoy a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, located at 3,250 meters above sea level, where you can appreciate breathtaking views of the Simien escarpment. Overnight at Sankaber Camp.

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:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Trek from Sankaber Camp to Gich Camp

Set off on an exhilarating 6-hour trek from Sankaber to Gich Camp, where stunning landscapes await. As you leave Sankaber, the path winds through lush meadows and rocky terrain.

A highlight of the journey is Jinibar Falls, where cascading water creates a serene atmosphere. Take a moment to pause, capture photos, and enjoy the refreshing mist.

Continuing on, you'll ascend through varied landscapes, keeping an eye out for local wildlife like the Gelada baboon. Upon reaching Gich Camp at 3,600 meters, be captivated by breathtaking vistas that stretch across the Simien Mountains. Settle in, reflect on the day's adventure, and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, creating unforgettable memories.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Trek from Gich to Chennek

Trek to Chennek (3,620m) via Imet Gogo, known for its spectacular views of the Simien escarpment. Observe endemic species like the Giant Lobelia, Gelada monkeys, and Walia ibex. Trekking time is around 9 hours, offering a truly immersive experience in nature.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Summit Ras Bwahit

Ascend Ethiopia’s second-highest peak, Ras Bwahit (4,430m), and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, where the majesty of the landscape unfolds before you. As you stand atop the peak, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking vistas and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching such heights. After soaking in the scenery, return to Chennek Camp for an overnight stay, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventure amidst the serene mountain backdrop.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Morning Trek and Transfer to Gondar

Take a morning trek around Chennek to soak in the last views of the Simien Mountains, capturing the stunning landscapes one final time. As you wander through the trails, listen to the sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air, creating lasting memories of this breathtaking region. In the afternoon, transfer back to Gondar, where you can unwind and reflect on your incredible journey through the rugged beauty of Ethiopia.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Historical Gondar

Explore the historical city of Gondar, visiting the Royal Enclosure (Fasilidas' Castle), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Fasilidas Swimming Pool. Discover the Holy Trinity Church of Debre Birhan Selassie, renowned for its beautiful murals. Overnight 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 to Bahir Dar

Drive to Bahir Dar, taking in the rural villages along the way. Upon arrival, embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting historic monasteries such as Urakidanemirt and Kibran Gebreiel. Engage with the local community at the vibrant lakeside market.

Main Destination:

Bahir Dar (City)

Accommodation:

Lake Avenue Hotel

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

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Blue Nile Falls

Visit the stunning Blue Nile Falls, enjoying a scenic walk to view the falls' breathtaking beauty, where the thundering waters cascade dramatically into the river below. Take your time to explore the surrounding landscape, snapping photos and immersing yourself in the lush greenery that frames this natural wonder. Afterward, return to Gondar for an overnight stay, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day's adventures in this historic city.

Main Destination:

Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gondar to Lalibela

Fly to Lalibela in the morning and spend the day visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches, starting with the Northwestern Cluster. After lunch, explore the Southeastern Cluster, including Bet Gabriel-Rufael, where intricate carvings and spiritual history come alive. As you wander through these architectural marvels, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that went into their creation. Overnight in Lalibela, allowing you to bask in the rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Maribela Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela to Addis Ababa

Depending on the day, attend early morning church services if it coincides with a Saints' Day. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy sightseeing in Addis Ababa, exploring cultural landmarks such as the Ethnological Museum and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Overnight in Addis Ababa.

This comprehensive itinerary immerses you in Ethiopia's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

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.