16-Day Ethiopia Odyssey- Culture, Fire & Mountains

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

Arrival in Addis Ababa and Flight to Dire Dawa Gateway to the East

Begin your Ethiopian journey with a warm welcome at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, where your professional guide will assist with your domestic flight to Dire Dawa, one of the country’s oldest and most cosmopolitan cities. Upon arrival, enjoy a short exploration of Dire Dawa, a charming city known for its lively markets and diverse cultural influences.

Visit the historic old train station, a symbol of Ethiopia’s early railway heritage connecting Addis Ababa to Djibouti. Stroll through the colorful Kefira Market, where local artisans, spice traders, and merchants create a vibrant atmosphere filled with the scents and sounds of eastern Ethiopia.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel or take walk through the city’s leafy streets, observing the blend of old and new that defines Dire Dawa.

Overnight: Local Hotel, Dire Dawa
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

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

From Dire Dawa to Harar The Walled City of Color and Culture

After breakfast, drive to Harar, one of Africa’s oldest and most captivating cities. The route passes through scenic hills and small towns where locals trade and cultivate khat, a traditional plant of the region. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy lunch before exploring Harar Jugol, the UNESCO-listed walled city known for its narrow alleys, colorful houses, and deep spiritual heritage. Visit traditional coffee houses, lively markets, and historic gates that reveal Harar’s vibrant blend of cultures. In the evening, witness the legendary Hyena Feeding Ceremony, an extraordinary local tradition where residents feed wild hyenas by hand under the moonlight — a truly unforgettable experience.

Overnight Wonderland Hotel or similar, Harar
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Wonderland Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Harar (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

From Harar to Awash National Park Nature and Hot Springs

After breakfast, depart Harar and travel toward Awash National Park, passing through rural villages and local markets to experience everyday life in eastern Ethiopia. Upon arrival at Doho Lodge, settle in and enjoy the natural hot springs surrounded by acacia woodland and abundant birdlife. In the afternoon, relax with a warm swim or take a short walk in the peaceful surroundings, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The day offers a perfect blend of wildlife, nature, and relaxation, preparing you for the full park exploration the following day.

Overnight Doho Lodge, Awash
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

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

Full day Awash National Park Wildlife and Scenic Landscapes

Spend the full day exploring Awash National Park, Ethiopia’s oldest and most scenic wildlife reserve. Begin with a morning game drive to spot Beisa oryx, olive baboons, warthogs, kudu, and a variety of colorful bird species. Visit the Awash River Gorge and the park’s picturesque waterfalls, enjoying the dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. In the afternoon, return to Doho Lodge to relax in the soothing natural hot springs and take in the serene surroundings, making the most of this unique encounter with Ethiopia’s diverse flora and fauna.

Overnight Doho Lodge, Awash
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

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

Awash to Erta Ale Volcano Journey Across the Danakil Depression

Depart early for a long scenic drive across the Afar lowlands toward the Danakil Depression, passing through Semera and vast desert plains. Stop at Lake Afdera, known for its salt mining, and observe local life in this harsh but stunning landscape. Continue to the base of Erta Ale, one of the few active lava lakes in the world. In the evening, take a short trek to the volcano’s rim and witness the glowing molten lava inside the crater, an awe-inspiring and unforgettable spectacle of nature’s raw power.

Overnight Camping at Erta Ale
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Erta Ale to Dallol Across the Salt Plains

At sunrise, descend from Erta Ale and drive across the vast Danakil salt plains, one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth. Along the way, encounter Afar nomadic camps and camel caravans carrying salt blocks, witnessing traditional salt harvesting that has continued for centuries. Arrive at Hamed Ela near Dallol and enjoy the surreal landscape of colorful mineral deposits and shimmering salt flats. End the day with a stunning sunset over the desert, creating unforgettable photographic opportunities and a truly unique experience in one of the world’s most extreme environments.

Overnight Camping at Hamed Ela
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Dallol to Mekele Lakes and Mountains of Tigray

In the early morning, explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Dallol hydrothermal fields, where vibrant sulfur springs, acid pools, and salt formations create a surreal scenery. Continue to Lake Afdera, a striking salt lake ideal for a refreshing dip. Then drive through dramatic desert and mountain landscapes toward Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region. Along the way, enjoy the scenic contrasts of rugged mountains, wide valleys, and local villages, offering a glimpse into the diverse natural and cultural beauty of northern Ethiopia.

Overnight Libanos Hotel, Mekele
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

Accommodation:

Libanos Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City)

+5 Photos

+4 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mekele Leisure and Local Exploration

Spend a relaxed day in Mekele, the vibrant capital of the Tigray region. Take time to explore the town’s bustling local markets, where colorful crafts, textiles, and regional products offer insight into daily life. Visit the Tigray Martyrs’ Memorial Museum to learn about the region’s history and resilience. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely day at your hotel, soaking in the surroundings and preparing for the journey northward. This day provides a perfect balance of cultural insight and rest.

Overnight Libanos Hotel, Mekele
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

Accommodation:

Libanos Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mekele to Axum Through the Gheralta Mountains

Drive from Mekele through the dramatic Gheralta Mountains, home to ancient rock-hewn churches perched on cliffs. Visit one or two accessible churches such as Abune Yemata Guh or Mariam Korkor, famous for their frescoes and breathtaking settings. Continue through scenic valleys and rugged landscapes toward Axum, the legendary city of the ancient Axumite Empire. This historic city is often considered the cradle of Ethiopian civilization, offering a deep connection to the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Overnight Sabean Hotel or similar, Axum
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Axum Ancient Sites and Spiritual Treasures

Spend the day exploring the historic city of Axum, a center of ancient Ethiopian civilization. Visit Stelae Park to see towering obelisks, the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace, and royal tombs. Explore St. Mary of Zion Church, where Ethiopian tradition holds that the Ark of the Covenant is kept. Wander through local markets and streets to experience the city’s vibrant culture. This day offers a rich blend of archaeology, history, and spirituality, revealing Axum’s enduring significance in Ethiopia’s heritage.

Overnight Sabean Hotel or similar, Axum
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Axum to Debark Gateway to the Simien Mountains

After breakfast, drive from Axum to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Enjoy several scenic stops along the route for photography and to admire the dramatic landscapes of northern Ethiopia, including rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and local villages. Upon arrival in Debark, check in to your hotel and prepare for the next day’s adventure in the UNESCO-listed Simien Mountains, a region renowned for its breathtaking escarpments and unique wildlife.

Overnight Ras Dejen Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Debark (Town)

Accommodation:

Ras Dejen Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Debark (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Debark and Simien Mountains to Gondar Wildlife and Dramatic Landscapes

In the morning, explore Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and endemic wildlife including Gelada baboons and Walia ibex. Enjoy short treks and scenic viewpoints to fully appreciate the park’s natural beauty. After lunch, drive to Gondar, Ethiopia’s medieval capital, where you can begin exploring the city’s historical landmarks if time permits. This day combines the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Simien Mountains with a first glimpse of Gondar’s rich heritage.

Overnight Goha Hotel, Gondar
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

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:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gondar City Tour and Flight to Lalibela Castles and Rock Churches

Begin the morning with a Gondar city tour, visiting the Royal Enclosure with its 17th-century castles and the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted angel-filled ceiling. Explore Fasilides Bath, a historic site used for the annual Epiphany celebration, and stroll through local markets. After lunch, take an afternoon flight to Lalibela, known as the Jerusalem of Africa, renowned for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening in this historic town.

Overnight Tabor Hotel, Lalibela
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Tabor Hotel Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

+11 Photos

+10 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela The Rock Hewn Churches of Ethiopia

Spend the full day exploring Lalibela’s extraordinary rock-hewn churches, carved entirely from volcanic rock in the 12th century. Visit both the Northern and Southeastern church clusters, including the iconic Bet Giyorgis, Ethiopia’s most photographed and revered church. Admire intricate carvings, historic frescoes, and the architectural mastery of these sacred sites. In the evening, enjoy experiences such as traditional Ethiopian music performances or a visit to a local tej bet, a honey-wine house, for an authentic cultural experience.

Overnight Tabor Hotel, Lalibela
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Tabor Hotel Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela to Addis Ababa Relaxation and Flight

Fly back to Addis Ababa in the morning and check in to your comfortable hotel. Spend the day at leisure, enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere or relaxing after your northern adventures. Optional activities such as a short city walk, a visit to local markets, or simply resting at the hotel are available. In the evening, enjoy dinner and prepare for your final day in Ethiopia, with airport transfer services included for your convenience.

Overnight Addis Ababa Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Dinner.

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

Addis Ababa Leisure and Departure

Enjoy your final day in Addis Ababa at a relaxed pace. You may choose to explore the city with an optional half-day tour, visit museums, or shop for souvenirs at local markets. Spend time reflecting on your Ethiopian journey while enjoying the comforts of your hotel. Late check-out is arranged before your airport transfer, ensuring a smooth departure and a memorable conclusion to your 16-day discovery of Ethiopia’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

Meals Breakfast
Transfer Provided based on flight schedule.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Non-alcoholic drinks

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