15 Days Special Christmas and Epiphany Tours

With our 15 Days Special Christmas and Epiphany Tours, where you will journey through Ethiopia’s captivating landscapes and immerse yourself in its profound traditions. This unique itinerary blends celebrations of Christmas and Timkat, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and spiritual insights.

Experience the Joy of Ethiopian Christmas
The tour kicks off with the celebration of Christmas, which in Ethiopia is observed on January 7th, according to the Julian calendar. During this period, towns and villages come alive with colorful decorations and festive gatherings. The heartfelt melodies of Ethiopian carols fill the air as families come together for communal feasts, sharing traditional dishes like injera doro wat. Witness the unique Ethiopian customs, such as the lively midnight mass held in beautifully adorned churches, where the faithful gather to sing hymns and reflect on the birth of Christ in an atmosphere of reverence and joy.

Exploration of the Historic Wonders
As we journey through Ethiopia, we will explore remarkable sites of historical and cultural significance. Our itinerary includes visits to the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you will marvel at the incredible architectural achievements of these sacred spaces, each carved intricately into solid rock. We will also traverse the enchanting landscapes of the Simien Mountains, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for memorable hikes.

Celebrate Timkat, the Festival of Epiphany
As Christmas festivities conclude, our tour transitions into the exhilarating celebrations of Timkat, where the spirit of community and devotion shines brightest. Experience the grandeur of the Epiphany processions, where priests bear the Ark of the Covenant through the streets, accompanied by vibrant music, dance, and fervent prayers. The atmosphere is electric as participants don white robes, symbolizing purity and devotion, engaging in jubilant celebrations that merge faith and culture.

Transport: Surface and flight
Duration: 15 days and 14 nights
Fixed Departure: January 5-19

Day 1: January 5 – Arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
Upon your arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide, who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Once you’ve settled in, take the time to relax and prepare for the adventures that await. Enjoy an overnight stay in Addis Ababa.

Day 2: January 6 – Fly to Lalibela
After a hearty breakfast, catch a flight to Lalibela. Once you arrive, take a moment to refresh before embarking on a visit to the Northern Cluster of rock-hewn churches, each carved from a single block of stone. Explore the six remarkable churches: Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Mikael, and Bet Golgotha. In the evening, experience the Christmas Eve ceremony at Bete Mariam church amidst thousands of pilgrims from around the world. Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 3: January 7 – Full Day in Lalibela
Start your day early by attending a vibrant morning mass celebration at the churches. After breakfast, continue your exploration with a visit to the Southeastern Cluster of churches, including Bet Gabriel-Rufael, Bet Merkorios, Bet Amanual, and Bet Abba Libanos. Conclude your day at the stunning Bet Giyorgis, a massive monolith dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Ethiopia. Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 4: January 8 – Fly to Bahir Dar & Visit Lake Tana Monasteries
Early morning, board a short flight to Bahir Dar. Upon arrival, our guides will greet you and help you check into your hotel. After breakfast, enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Tana, visiting ancient Ethiopian Orthodox churches amid stunning wildlife. In the afternoon, drive 32 km to witness the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls. Overnight in Bahir Dar.

Day 5: January 9 – Drive and Visit the Fasiladas Castles
Post-breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Gondar, where you’ll check into your hotel. After a short break, visit the Royal Castles of Gondar, built in the 17th century and surrounded by ancient stone walls. Explore the royal enclosure and the stunning church of Debre Birhan Selassie, known for its exquisite wall paintings. Overnight in Gondar.

Day 6: January 10 – Drive to Simien Mountains National Park
After breakfast, drive to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. On the way, visit the Felasha Village, home to the Ethiopian Jews. After lunch, venture into the park with our organized crew and enjoy a two- to three-hour trek alongside troops of cheerful Gelada Baboons. Overnight at Sankaber campsite.

Day 7: January 11 – Trek to Gich
After a restorative breakfast, continue your trek down the main route to enjoy spectacular views, including the Jinbar-Wenz waterfalls. Walk through the valley of Giant Lobelia to Saha before reaching Gich for the night. Overnight at Gich campsite.

Day 8: January 12 – Trek to Chenek
Prepare for an 8- to 9-hour trek through stunning landscapes, where you’ll witness the diverse wildlife in the area. Visit Imit-Gogo at 3900m above sea level for breathtaking views. (Additional trekking options available upon request.) Overnight at Chenek campsite.

Day 9: January 13 – Drive to Axum
Before breakfast, take a short walk to observe the rare Walia ibex. After breakfast, drive to Axum, enjoying scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, visit the famous Obelisks of Axum and the archaeological sites connected to the legendary Queen of Sheba. Overnight in Axum.

Day 10: January 14 – Drive from Axum to Mekele
After an early breakfast, visit the amazing Mariam Korkor church, nestled on top of a cliff in the Gehralta cluster. After lunch and some rest, proceed to Mekele, admiring the stunning landscapes of the Tigray region along the way. Overnight in Mekele.

Day 11: January 15 – Drive to Hamedela via Berhale
Post-breakfast, drive to Hamedela, with a stop in Berhale to obtain the permit for the Afar region. Enjoy lunch before continuing to Hamedela, where you can enjoy an enchanting camel caravan amidst a spectacular sunset. Overnight at Hamedela campsite.

Day 12: January 16 – Drive to Erta Ale
This morning, drive to Dallol, a geologically fascinating area filled with colorful landscapes. Visit Lake Asale, observing the local salt mining activities. After lunch, embark on a rugged drive to Erta Ale. Enjoy an early dinner at Dodom before trekking up to the volcano, where you’ll experience the thrill of camping on a live volcano under a starlit sky.

Day 13: January 17 – Drive to Mekele
Begin your journey back by walking down to Dodom for breakfast. After enjoying a picnic lunch at a nearby Afar village, head back to Mekele to catch your evening flight back to Addis Ababa.

Day 14: January 18 – Full Day in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival, embark on a full-day city tour, visiting key attractions such as the National Museum, home of “Lucy,” and the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. After lunch, witness the eve of Timkat (Epiphany) ceremony, known as Ketera, where the Tabot is taken out for the grand festivities. Enjoy the vibrant processions as you return to your hotel. Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 15: January 19 – Full Day in Addis Ababa
In the morning, attend early prayers and the baptism ceremony, where priests bless the assembled congregation. At 10 a.m., participate in the procession as the Tabot is returned to its place of residence, accompanied by music and dance.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the Entoto Historical Museum, Mercato, the largest outdoor market in East Africa, and the Ethnological Museum, housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. Finally, enjoy a farewell dinner at a renowned cultural restaurant featuring live performances and delightful Ethiopian cuisine.

After dinner, you will be transferred to Bole International Airport for your return flight home. Safe travels!