22-Day Ethiopia Historical, Cultural&Adventure Expedition

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

Arrival in Addis Ababa – The Heartbeat of Africa

Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant highland capital located at 2,400 meters above sea level. After a warm airport welcome and hotel check-in, begin exploring the city’s cultural and historical highlights.

Visit the National Museum, home to the world-famous fossil “Lucy,” and the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie.

Drive up to Mount Entoto for sweeping views over the city and to learn about Addis Ababa’s imperial origins. Continue to the bustling Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, alive with colorful crafts, spices, and the aroma of freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee.

In the evening, relax at your hotel or enjoy an optional traditional dinner with live music and cultural dance performances.

Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel

• Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

From Addis Ababa - Lalibela – The Eighth Wonder of the World

Take a morning flight to Lalibela, the legendary town often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and begin exploring one of Ethiopia’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Visit the first group of rock-hewn churches, carved entirely out of volcanic rock in the 12th century by King Lalibela. Explore magnificent structures such as Bete Medhane Alem, the world’s largest monolithic church; Bete Maryam, known for its beautifully decorated interior; and Bete Meskel and Bete Denagel, which hold deep spiritual significance.

Walk through underground tunnels connecting the churches and witness pilgrims praying in white robes, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia’s ancient Christian traditions.

In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this sacred highland town.

Overnight: Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Tabor Hotel Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Full Day in Lalibela – Exploring Rock-Hewn Churches

Spend a full day discovering Lalibela’s extraordinary rock-hewn churches, a masterpiece of medieval Ethiopian architecture. Begin with the second group of churches, including Bete Amanuel, Bete Golgotha Mikael, and Bete Gabriel-Rufael, each carved from solid rock with intricate designs and religious murals.

Continue to the iconic Bete Giyorgis (St. George’s Church), famous for its cross-shaped structure and dramatic setting, often considered the crown jewel of Lalibela’s sacred sites. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as pilgrims and local worshippers gather to pray.

Optional in the afternoon, visit a nearby local village to observe traditional life, watch the injera-making process, and participate in an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a cherished cultural ritual.

Return to your hotel for the evening and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this highland town.

Overnight: Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Tabor Hotel Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Flight from Lalibela to Gondar – Drive to Bahir Dar

Take a morning flight from Lalibela to Gondar, the historic 17th-century capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, drive approximately 3 hours to Bahir Dar, a charming city on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile.

En route, enjoy scenic landscapes of rural villages, rolling hills, and farmland, offering a glimpse into everyday Ethiopian life. Upon arrival in Bahir Dar, take a brief orientation tour of the city and relax at your hotel.

In the evening, stroll along the lakeside or enjoy the tranquil surroundings of this beautiful highland city.

Overnight: Bahir Dar.

Main Destination:

Lake Tana

Accommodation:

Homeland Hotel Bahir Dar

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

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Bahir Dar – Lake Tana & Blue Nile Fall

Begin the day with a morning boat excursion on Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake and the source of the Blue Nile. Visit ancient monasteries on the lake’s islands, such as Ura Kidane Mihret, renowned for its colorful religious murals, historic manuscripts, and serene atmosphere.

In the afternoon, drive to the Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat), one of Africa’s most spectacular waterfalls. Enjoy a short hike to viewpoints to feel the cool mist and admire the thundering cascade surrounded by lush scenery.

Return to Bahir Dar in the evening and relax at your hotel, taking in the peaceful lakeside setting.

Overnight: Bahir Dar.

Main Destination:

Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Homeland Hotel Bahir Dar

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

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar – Castles and Churches of the Royal City

Drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, the 17th-century capital renowned for its historic castles and churches. Begin your exploration with the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring impressive castles, palaces, and fortified walls that showcase Ethiopia’s imperial past.

Visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted ceiling adorned with angel faces and vivid biblical murals. Stroll through Gondar’s old quarter, observing traditional houses, local markets, and the city’s unique architectural charm.

Spend the evening at your hotel, enjoying the historic ambiance of this fascinating city.

Overnight: Gondar.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Gondar Hills Resort

• Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

From Gondar to Simien Mountains – Trek to Sankaber

Drive from Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its dramatic landscapes and endemic wildlife. Upon arrival at the park entrance, begin a scenic trek to Sankaber Camp (3,200 m).

Along the trail, enjoy breathtaking views of deep valleys, jagged cliffs, and rolling highlands. Watch for Gelada baboons grazing on the plateaus and spot various bird species in their natural habitat. The trek offers both adventure and opportunities for stunning photography.

Settle into the campsite at Sankaber for a night under the stars, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Ethiopian highlands.

Overnight: Camping at Sankaber.

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 to Gich – Scenic Highlands and Wildlife

Continue your adventure deeper into Simien Mountains National Park with a trek from Sankaber to Gich (3,600 m). The trail winds through dramatic cliffs, rolling plateaus, and scenic viewpoints, offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains.

Along the way, keep an eye out for the park’s unique wildlife, including Walia ibex, endemic to Ethiopia, and various birds of prey soaring above the valleys. Enjoy the fresh highland air and the peaceful beauty of the park as you make your way to Gich Camp.

Settle into Gich Camp for the night, experiencing the tranquility of the highlands under a star-filled sky.

Overnight: Camping at Gich.

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 Chenek – Spectacular Scenery and Wildlife

Continue trekking through Simien Mountains National Park, moving from Gich to Chenek (3,620 m). This section of the trail crosses high plateaus with breathtaking vistas of deep valleys, towering cliffs, and dramatic escarpments.

Along the way, watch for Ethiopian wolves, the world’s rarest canids, as well as giant lobelias, unique to the Ethiopian highlands. The trek offers incredible photo opportunities and a chance to fully immerse yourself in the park’s rugged beauty and wildlife.

Arrive at Chenek Camp and enjoy the peaceful evening surrounded by the park’s majestic landscapes.

Overnight: Camping at Chenek.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Chenek – Mount Bwahit – Debark – Summit and Descent

Start the day with an early morning hike to Mount Bwahit (4,430 m), Ethiopia’s second-highest peak, enjoying panoramic views of the Simien Mountains, dramatic cliffs, and deep valleys.

After reaching the summit, descend through scenic trails toward Debark, the gateway town to Simien Mountains National Park. Along the way, spot endemic wildlife and admire the striking highland landscapes.

Arrive in Debark in the afternoon to rest and enjoy the comforts of your hotel after several days of trekking.

Overnight: Debark.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Ras Dejen Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Debark to Axum – Journey to the Ancient Capital

Drive north from Debark to Axum, passing through stunning Ethiopian landscapes of highlands, plateaus, and rural villages. Axum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the heart of the ancient Aksumite Empire and is considered the cradle of Ethiopian civilization.

Upon arrival, relax at your hotel or take a short orientation walk through the town, preparing for the next day’s exploration of its historic treasures. Axum is renowned for its monumental obelisks, ancient ruins, and sacred sites that reflect Ethiopia’s rich heritage.

Overnight: Axum.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Brana Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Axum to Gheralta – Ancient Churches and Cliffside Wonders

Spend the morning exploring Axum’s historic treasures, including the towering obelisks, the ruins of Queen of Sheba’s Palace, and the sacred St. Mary of Zion Church, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant.

Afterward, drive to the Gheralta Mountains in Tigray, famous for its dramatic cliffs and ancient rock-hewn churches perched high above the valleys. Upon arrival, settle into Gheralta Lodge or a similar accommodation, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Enjoy the evening taking in the serene mountain atmosphere, preparing for the next day’s exploration of cliffside churches.

Overnight: Gheralta Lodge / similar.

Main Destination:

Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gheralta to Mekele – Rock-Hewn Churches and Regional Capital

In the morning, hike to visit one of Gheralta’s famous rock-hewn churches, such as Abune Yemata Guh, perched on a cliff with ancient frescoes and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This remarkable site offers both spiritual and visual inspiration.

After the hike, drive to Mekele, the bustling capital of the Tigray region. Upon arrival, relax at your hotel or take a brief stroll to experience the city’s local markets and vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Mekele.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

Accommodation:

Homeland Hotel Mekelle

• Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mekele to Danakil Depression – Surreal Landscapes of Dallol

Drive from Mekele into the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. Explore the Dallol area, famous for its otherworldly landscapes of colorful sulfur fields, acid pools, salt formations, and steaming hot springs.

Witness the striking contrast of vibrant mineral deposits against the barren desert, a truly unique and surreal environment. Interact with local Afar communities along the way to learn about their traditional nomadic lifestyle.

Settle in for an overnight stay at a camp in the Dallol area, surrounded by this extraordinary and alien landscape.

Overnight: Camping in Dallol area.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

From Danakil Depression – Erta Ale Volcano Adventure

Begin the day with a visit to local salt-mining sites, where Afar nomads extract salt using traditional methods. Continue the journey to Erta Ale Volcano, one of the few continuously active lava lakes in the world.

In the evening, hike approximately 30 minutes to the crater rim to witness the glowing lava and feel the power of this extraordinary natural phenomenon. Experience the dramatic landscape and unique energy of one of Ethiopia’s most iconic volcanic sites.

Return to camp near the crater for an overnight stay under the star-filled desert sky.

Overnight: Camping near Erta Ale Volcano.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Erta Ale to Semera – Rest and Recovery

After sunrise, descend from Erta Ale Volcano and begin the drive to Semera, the capital of the Afar region. The journey offers views of the arid landscapes, lava fields, and salt flats unique to this part of Ethiopia.

Upon arrival in Semera, relax at your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved break after the adventure-filled days in the Danakil Depression. Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this remote region.

Overnight: Semera.

Main Destination:

Semera (Town)

Accommodation:

Kuriftu Afar Semera Resort

• Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Semera to Awash National Park – Wildlife and Scenic Landscapes

Drive from Semera to Awash National Park, one of Ethiopia’s oldest protected areas, known for its diverse wildlife and dramatic scenery. The journey passes through semi-arid plains and small villages, offering glimpses of local Afar and Oromo cultures.

Upon arrival, settle into Doho Lodge, located inside or near the park, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Take a short evening walk to spot wildlife and experience the peaceful environment before the next day’s safari adventure.

Overnight: Doho Lodge.

Main Destination:

Awash National Park

Best Time To Visit October to February (Little rain and less hot)

High Season September to April (The park is never busy)

Best Weather October to February

Wildlife in Awash NP

Olive Baboon Abundant

Beisa Oryx Common

Soemmerring's
Gazelle Common

Hamadryas
Baboon Common

Salt's Dik-dik Common

Show more

Lesser Kudu Occasional

Desert Warthog Occasional

Defassa Waterbuck Occasional

Nile Crocodile Occasional

Spotted Hyena Occasional

Guereza Monkey Rare

Ethiopian Wolf None

Gelada Monkey None

Walia Ibex None

Accommodation:

Doho Lodge & Hot Springs

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Awash NP

+10 Photos

+9 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Awash National Park – Safari and Hot Springs

Spend a full day exploring Awash National Park, home to a variety of wildlife including beisa oryx, kudu, gazelles, baboons, and ostriches. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives through scenic landscapes of acacia woodlands, volcanic ridges, and the Awash River valley.

Visit the Awash River Falls, a stunning cascade surrounded by lush vegetation, and relax at the natural hot springs near Doho Lodge. This day combines wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and opportunities for photography and nature appreciation.

Overnight: Doho Lodge.

Main Destination:

Awash National Park

Accommodation:

Doho Lodge & Hot Springs

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Awash NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

From Awash to Harar – Ancient Walled City and Cultural Immersion

Drive from Awash to Harar, a 16th-century walled Islamic city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take an evening walk through Harar’s narrow alleys.

Experience the famous Hyena Man show, where locals feed wild hyenas by hand, a unique tradition that has been practiced for generations. Wander through the colorful markets and soak in the spiritual and cultural atmosphere of this historic city.

Overnight: Harar.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Harar Ras Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Harar (Town)

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+5 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Full Day in Harar – Culture, History, and Markets

Spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Harar, known for its mix of Islamic and Ethiopian traditions. Visit Harar Jugol, the historic walled city, and explore its narrow alleys lined with colorful houses and mosques.

See Emir Nur’s Tomb and the house of poet Rimbaud, then immerse yourself in the lively local markets, where spices, textiles, and crafts reflect the city’s rich heritage. Learn about the traditions, rituals, and daily life of Harar’s residents while experiencing its unique cultural atmosphere.

Return to your hotel in the evening to relax and enjoy the city’s historic charm.

Overnight: Harar.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Harar Ras Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Harar (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Harar to Dire Dawa – Colonial Charm and Local Markets

Drive from Harar to Dire Dawa, one of Ethiopia’s major cities known for its blend of colonial and modern architecture. Upon arrival, explore the city’s highlights, including the Kafira Market, where local vendors sell spices, crafts, and everyday goods.

Stroll through the old French-built district, admiring its unique architecture and vibrant streets. Take time to experience the city’s cultural mix and lively atmosphere before returning to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Dire Dawa.

Main Destination:

Dire Dawa (Town)

Accommodation:

Dire Dawa Ras Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Dire Dawa (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Dire Dawa to Addis Ababa – Farewell to Ethiopia

Take a morning flight or scenic train ride from Dire Dawa back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy a final cultural experience with a traditional Ethiopian dinner, accompanied by music and dance that celebrate the country’s rich heritage.

After dinner, transfer to Bole International Airport for your evening international departure, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

End of Tour.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

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.