Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting spirit of Ethiopia and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether marveling at ancient ruins, trekking through verdant mountains, or simply soaking in the beauty of a sunset over Lake Tana, each moment is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of this extraordinary country. So pack your bags, and step into an adventure that is as transformative as it is unforgettable. Let’s embark on this incredible exploration together!
Along the way, you’ll forge meaningful connections with local communities, each encounter a glimpse into the rich mosaic of Ethiopian culture. Experience the warmth of hospitality, share laughter with locals during traditional ceremonies, and gain insights from those who call this breathtaking land home. Your journey will be seasoned with rich flavors, vibrant colors, and heartfelt narratives that will linger in your memory long after you return.
Day 1: Tour Starts in Addis Ababa
Meeting at our hotel this morning, enjoy some time to relax and freshen up before lunch. An orientation tour around Ethiopia’s colorful capital will include visits to Unity Park and the National Museum. In the evening, we’ll have an early dinner back at our hotel in preparation for the trip ahead.
Accommodation: Capital Hotel or similar
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Axum
A morning flight takes us to Axum, a town rich in over 2,500 years of history. We’ll visit key sites including the palace and tomb of King Kaleb, the UNESCO-designated stelae field, the tomb of King Remhay, and the church of St Mary of Tsion—alleged resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. Depending on time, we will also visit the Queen of Sheba’s Palace (if not the following morning). Should Axum be deemed unviable or unsafe at the time of departure, we’ll instead fly to Gonder and visit Gorgora for lunch by Lake Tana, followed by a visit to Debresina Mariyam church. We’ll return to Gonder later for dinner.
Accommodation: Sabean Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Axum – The Simien Mountains National Park
Continue your journey southwest (or northeast from Gonder) to the Simien Mountains National Park with lunch en route. The scenic drive includes photo opportunities along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk nearby to spot wildlife such as lammergeier vultures, Gelada baboons, and bushbuck. Approx. 6-7 hours driving if coming from Axum.
Accommodation: Simien Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Simien Mountains National Park
Today, immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the National Park. Carrying a picnic lunch, we’ll walk along the escarpment to admire breathtaking views. Expect to see Gelada baboons and possibly the elusive walia ibex during our explorations.
Accommodation: Simien Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Simien Mountains National Park – Gonder
Depart the mountains as we head to Gonder, where you’ll explore the key sites of this ancient capital, including the Debre Birhan Selassie church (Light of Trinity) with its wonderful murals and the medieval castles of the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Approx. 3 hours driving.
Accommodation: Goha Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Gonder – Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela, arriving late morning in this isolated town, famed for its remarkable rock-hewn churches. Once the capital of the Zagwe Dynasty, Lalibela is home to an astonishing group of churches believed to be carved by thousands of craftsmen. After checking in and having an early lunch, we’ll visit the first cluster of UNESCO World Heritage churches, including the famous St. George church (Bete Giyorgis). This evening, enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony at the home of a local family, immersing yourself in an essential Ethiopian cultural custom. Should flight schedules not permit, we will drive to Lalibela instead.
Accommodation: Maribela Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: In and around Lalibela
After breakfast, drive into the mountains to visit the stunning Yemrehana Kristos cave church, approximately 40 km from Lalibela. An example of late Axumite architecture, it features a fascinating wall and a spectacular wood-panel roof. Following lunch back in Lalibela, spend the afternoon visiting the second cluster of rock-hewn churches, followed by a trip to a tej house to sample local liquor and dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Accommodation: Maribela Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Days 8 – 9: Lalibela – Tesfa Trek (3000 meters)
Experience TESFA, a community-based enterprise that invites visitors to trek between villages, stay in traditional accommodations, and learn about the daily lives of people in the Ethiopian Highlands. The trek will provide a unique opportunity to engage with local communities and preserve their culture. The walk varies in length from 4-7 hours, focusing on the beauty of the countryside rather than rushing through. Depending on group size, there may be a division into smaller groups for a more intimate experience.
Accommodation: Specially constructed huts (tukuls) with shared facilities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Tesfa Trek – Bahir Dar
After a final morning walk to the trailhead, drive west to Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana. Freshen up and relax before dinner.
Accommodation: Avanti Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1: Tour Starts in Addis Ababa Meeting at our hotel this morning, enjoy some time to relax and freshen up before lunch. An orientation tour around Ethiopia’s colorful capital will include visits to Unity Park and the National Museum. In the evening, we’ll have an early dinner back at our hotel in preparation for the trip ahead. Accommodation: Capital Hotel or similar Meals: Lunch, Dinner
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