Discover Simien Tour

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$1,430 pp (USD)

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Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

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

Day 1

Addis Ababa to Dallol via Afdera

Addis Ababa to Dallol via Afdera

After breakfast, we will depart for Dallol. Our first stop will be at Ragad (Asebo) to observe traditional salt mining practices. You will witness local artisans expertly extracting salt and loading it onto camels. Continuing to Dallol, immerse yourself in stunning volcanic landscapes, vibrant salt formations, and the remarkable Lake Assal. Engage with the Afar people and observe camel caravans. We will then 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

Day 2

Hamad Ela to Erta Ale

Hamad Ela to Erta Ale

Your adventure continues with a drive to Erta Ale, known as the "smoky mountain." This shield volcano features the world’s only permanent lava lake. Departing at 9:00 AM, we will navigate one of the roughest roads over an 80 km route, taking approximately six hours. Enjoy breathtaking views of solidified lava and unique rock formations. Upon reaching Dodom, the base camp for Erta Ale, you will have dinner around 17:00. After a brief rest, we will trek to the summit at 20:00 to 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

Day 3

Erta Ale to Afdera, then drive to hawzen

Erta Ale to Afdera, then drive to hawzen

Awake early to witness a stunning sunrise over the main pit crater. After breakfast, we will descend from Erta Ale, aiming to return to Dodom by approximately 10:30. If time permits, we will visit Lake Giulietti (or Lake Afrera), where you can observe the Afar people harvesting salt. We will then drive to hawzen for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Accommodation:
Vision Hotel
  • Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 4

Hawzen – Gheralta – Axum

Hawzen – Gheralta – Axum

We will begin with an early morning drive from Mekele to Gheralta, followed by a trek to Abune Yemata. This challenging hike offers breathtaking scenery and requires some climbing. We will also visit the Mariam Korkor and Daniel Koror churches before proceeding to Axum for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:
Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range)
Accommodation:
Yared Zema International Hotel
  • Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 5

Axum to Simien Mountains National Park

Axum to Simien Mountains National Park

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tekeze Valley to Simien Mountains National Park. After registering at the park head office in Debark, you will set off on a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, located at 3,250 meters above sea level. 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

Accommodation:
Budget camping
  • Inside Simien Mountains NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 6

Sankaber to Gondar

Sankaber to Gondar

We will depart early for the Jinbar waterfall and then take an easy trek to the Geech Abyss, known for its stunning views. This area is also a great spot for viewing the endemic Gelada Baboon. After our exploration, we will drive to Gondar for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:
Simien Mountains National Park
Accommodation:
Goha Hotel
  • Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 7

Fly to Lalibela from Gondar

Fly to Lalibela from Gondar

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and take you to explore the rock-hewn churches, including the cross-shaped St. George church. Lalibela is home to 11 remarkable churches, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Overnight in Lalibela.

Main Destination:
Lalibela (Town)
Accommodation:
Maribela Hotel
  • Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 8

Back to Addis Ababa

Back to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, we will visit more rock-hewn churches in Lalibela before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation.

Main Destination:
Lalibela (Town)
Accommodation:
No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

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

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Disclaimer

  • This tour is offered by Discover Simien Tour, not SafariBookings.
  • This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
  • The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
  • If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.