Mekdela: Walking in the Steps of the Barefoot Emperor

Duration 7 Nights/8 Days

Tour Code: EAET 903 A

The overnight trekking experience to Mekdela gives tourists the opportunity to step over a century back in time to relive one of most Ethiopia’s incredible chapters of history. Not to mention, a very off-the-beaten track excursion where you and your ground will be the only foreigners for three days. Emperor Tewodros ll (reign 1855-1868) is often considered Ethiopia’s most admired national hero. Mekdela was the third of Tewodroses’ capitals during his mandate as well as the site of his dramatic undoing and ultimate suicide.

Day 1: Arrival to Addis Ababa. Overnight Hotel

Day 2: Drive to Dessie and arrive in the afternoon. Spend the evening hiking to Mount Tossa or the surrounding mountainous area. Overnight Hotel

Day 3: Drive to Tenta, 135km Northwest of Dessie. Have lunch in Tenta. Hike the 17km journey to Mekdela (4-5hrs). Camping in Mekdela

Day 4: Full day in Mekdela: visit the sites of Mekdela with a local guide in the morning. Have lunch and enjoy the rest of the evening to explore the mountain on your own. Camping in Mekdela

Day 5: Hike back to Tenta (4-5hrs). Drive to Dessie, have dinner and spend the night in the Hotel. Overnight Hotel

Day 6: Drive to Bati: wake up early and drive to Bati to see the Market. Spend the night in Bati. Overnight local Hotel

Day 7: Drive to Addis Ababa: en route visit old growth forest. Overnight Hotel

Day 8: Addis Ababa: city tour and farewell dinner at cultural restaurant.