12-Day Historic North Circuit Ancient Kingdoms

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

Arrival & City Discovery in Addis Ababa

Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. After airport pickup and hotel check-in, take time to relax before exploring the heart of the city. Visit the Italian-built Piazza, the Grand Anwar Mosque, and Ragual Church, symbols of Ethiopia’s religious harmony. Wander through Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market, and enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony. Explore the National Museum, home of Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil, and visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Drive up Mount Entoto for panoramic views of the capital and stop at Shiro Meda, famous for its handwoven traditional clothes. In the evening, experience Ethiopian culture with dinner and dance performances at a renowned traditional restaurant.
Optional for an extra cost: upgrade to Capital Hotel & Spa for enhanced comfort.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Caravan Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lake Tana Monasteries & Blue Nile Falls

Take a short morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, one of Ethiopia’s most attractive cities set beside Lake Tana. Embark on a scenic boat trip across the lake, visiting historic island monasteries and the Zege Peninsula, home to Ura Kidane Mehret Church, renowned for its centuries-old colorful frescoes. Stroll through lush coffee plantations and meet local farmers while spotting pelicans and other birdlife along the way. In the afternoon, drive to the spectacular Blue Nile Falls—known locally as Tis Abay or “Smoking Water.” Witness the powerful cascades plunging 42 meters into the gorge below and visit the historic 17th-century stone bridge built during Emperor Fasilides’ reign. Return to Bahir Dar for a relaxing evening by the lake.

Main Destination:

Bahir Dar (City)

Accommodation:

Sky Resort

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

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Fly from Bahir Dar to Lalibela, the UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches. Carved directly from solid volcanic rock in the 12th and 13th centuries, these eleven monolithic structures remain one of the world’s great architectural wonders. Explore Biete Medhane Alem, believed to be the largest rock-hewn church in the world, and continue through narrow passageways to discover Biete Ghiorgis, the most iconic and beautifully preserved of all. Learn about King Lalibela’s vision to create a “New Jerusalem” and the spiritual devotion that shaped these masterpieces. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the remarkable Ben Abeba restaurant, known for its panoramic views over the surrounding highlands.
Optional for an extra cost: upgrade to Mezena Lodge or Maribela Hotel for superior comfort and stunning mountain views.

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

Castles & Churches of Gondar

Fly from Lalibela to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia and home to the country’s most impressive royal architecture. Often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar is renowned for its 17th-century castles built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors. Visit the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring beautifully preserved palaces, banquet halls, and ancient imperial baths. Continue to Fasilides’ Bath, where the annual Timkat (Epiphany) festival is celebrated with colorful religious ceremonies. End your tour at the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its intricate ceiling decorated with angelic faces—one of Ethiopia’s most iconic artworks. Enjoy the evening at your hotel overlooking the city.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

HaZ Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Simien Mountains National Park Exploration

Depart from Gondar for a scenic drive to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking landscapes of deep valleys, jagged peaks, and dramatic escarpments. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided hike through the park’s unique Afro-alpine ecosystem, encountering endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons, Walia ibex, and, with luck, the elusive Ethiopian wolf. Stop at viewpoints like Sankaber for awe-inspiring vistas of the Simien highlands and the plunging Geech Abyss. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by soaring cliffs and endless panoramas. In the late afternoon, relax at your Camping area, perched high on the escarpment with sweeping sunset views.

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

Ancient Obelisks & Archaeological Wonders of Aksum

Drive through the dramatic mountain scenery from the Simien region to Aksum, the cradle of ancient Ethiopian civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the capital of the powerful Aksumite Kingdom, this city was one of the great civilizations of the ancient world, trading with Egypt, Rome, and India. Visit the Stelae Field, home to towering granite obelisks that served as royal tomb markers—some reaching over 23 meters in height. Explore the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace and the Ark of the Covenant Chapel, where Ethiopians believe the sacred Ark is kept. Continue to St. Mary of Zion Church, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred religious sites. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner and reflect on Aksum’s deep historical and spiritual heritage.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches & Gheralta Mountains

Drive from Aksum to the Gheralta Mountains, an area famous for its stunning landscape of red sandstone cliffs and hidden rock-hewn churches. Spend the day exploring some of the most remarkable Tigray churches, such as Abuna Yemata Guh, known for its breathtaking location high in the cliffs, accessible via a short but thrilling climb. Inside, admire centuries-old frescoes and biblical paintings that have survived untouched for generations. Visit other nearby churches such as Maryam Korkor or Daniel Korkor, offering panoramic views over the rugged valleys below. This region combines spiritual heritage with dramatic natural beauty, making it a highlight for adventurous travelers. Enjoy the peaceful evening ambiance and sunset over the Gheralta escarpment from your lodge.

Main Destination:

Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Fly to Addis Ababa & Continue to Arba Minch

In the morning, take a scenic flight back to Addis Ababa and connect onward to Arba Minch, a lush town beautifully set between Lakes Abaya and Chamo in southern Ethiopia. Upon arrival, transfer to your resort overlooking the Rift Valley lakes and enjoy some leisure time. In the afternoon, visit the Dorze village, known for its beehive-shaped bamboo houses and vibrant weaving traditions. Learn how local families use bamboo and false banana plants to craft houses, food, and textiles. Witness a cultural performance or try traditional kocho bread made from enset. The Dorze people are renowned for their hospitality, colorful clothing, and ancient weaving skills. Return to Arba Minch for a relaxing dinner at your resort with lake views.

Main Destination:

Arba Minch (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Arba Minch

• Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lake Chamo Boat Safari & Konso Cultural Village

Start your morning with a relaxing boat trip on Lake Chamo, part of Nechisar National Park. Glide across the lake’s shimmering waters to see massive Nile crocodiles basking on the shores, pods of hippos, and a variety of birdlife including African fish eagles and pelicans. After the cruise, drive south through the scenic Rift Valley to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its unique terraced hills and rich cultural heritage. Visit a Konso village, where stone-walled terraces, wooden waka totems, and traditional houses reveal a deep sense of community and history. Learn about the Konso people’s ancient agricultural systems and social organization, which have sustained them for centuries in this arid landscape. Enjoy an authentic local dinner and overnight stay at your lodge surrounded by acacia trees.

Main Destination:

Konso (Cultural Village)

Accommodation:

Kanta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Ari Village & Cultural Encounters in Jinka

Drive from Konso to Jinka, the gateway to the South Omo Valley, a region famous for its incredible ethnic and cultural diversity. Along the way, pass through beautiful rolling hills and traditional farmlands. In the afternoon, visit the Ari people, known for their pottery, blacksmithing, and traditional enset (false banana) cultivation. Walk through their villages to observe daily life and learn about their unique traditions and crafts. Continue to the South Omo Research Center Museum, which provides a fascinating introduction to the valley’s many ethnic groups, including the Mursi, Hamar, and Karo. Enjoy a quiet evening at your lodge surrounded by nature.

Main Destination:

Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Eco Omo Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mago National Park & Visit to the Mursi Tribe

Early morning departure to Mago National Park, home to the famous Mursi tribe, one of the most iconic groups in the Omo Valley. The Mursi are known for their unique cultural traditions, especially the distinctive clay lip plates worn by women and the elaborate body decorations of men. Accompanied by your local guide, visit a traditional Mursi village to respectfully learn about their customs, lifestyle, and social structures. Explore the surrounding savannah and grasslands of Mago National Park, where wildlife such as buffalo, antelope, and warthogs can occasionally be seen. Return to Jinka for lunch and relax at your lodge. In the evening, enjoy a cultural discussion or storytelling session around the campfire.

Main Destination:

Mago National Park

Best Time To Go June to February (Little rainfall)

High Season October to January (It might be busier)

Best Weather

Accommodation:

Jinka Resort

• Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Return to Arba Minch & Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure

After breakfast, drive back from Jinka to Arba Minch, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Omo Valley one last time. Upon arrival, take your flight to Addis Ababa, where your northern and southern Ethiopia adventure comes to an end. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a short city tour or some last-minute shopping for Ethiopian coffee, spices, and traditional crafts. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant featuring live traditional music and dance performances from across the country. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Bole International Airport for your international departur.

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.