14-Day All Inclusive Danakil, Northern Ethiopia

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

Arrival Addis Ababa

Following your morning arrival and hotel transfer, your exploration begins at the excellent Ethnographic Museum. Housed within Haile Selassie's former palace, its exhibits on traditional crafts, spiritual practices, and royal history provide a perfect introduction to Ethiopia's diverse cultures.

Next, immerse yourself in the sensory spectacle of Mercato, one of Africa's largest open-air markets. Your guide will navigate you through its vibrant, bustling lanes, past aromatic spice stalls and artisans at work.

Your final visit is to the serene and majestic Trinity Cathedral. This important spiritual site, with its striking architecture, beautiful stained glass, and murals, is the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie, offering a poignant look into modern Ethiopian history.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Momona Hotel

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

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Meals & Drinks:

• Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Addis Ababa - Awash National Park - Semera

After an early breakfast and pickup from Momona Hotel, we begin our scenic drive eastwards, descending into the dramatic landscape of the Great Rift Valley. Our destination is the renowned Awash National Park, a vast savannah ecosystem defined by the Awash River and volcanic formations.

Upon arrival, we embark on an exciting game drive. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's diverse wildlife, including the elegant, long-horned Beisa Oryx, the strikingly striped Lesser Kudu camouflaged in the acacia woodlands, and troops of animated baboons. A highlight of our exploration is a visit to the thunderous Awash Falls, where the river cascades into a dramatic gorge.

After a picnic lunch in the park, we continue our journey north, witnessing the changing scenery as we drive towards the town of Semera, our gateway to the Afar Region. Check into your lodge for the evening to rest after a day of adventure.

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

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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:

Kuriftu Afar Semera Resort

• Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Semera - Lake Afrera - Ertale Volcano

Pickup from the resort and meet your specialized Afar guide and 4x4 vehicles to commence the expedition.

The journey is an adventure in itself, driving across a surreal, sun-baked plain. You'll pass the shimmering, mineral-rich waters of Lake Afdera, a vast salt lake where local Afar people harvest salt, set against a dramatic volcanic backdrop.

Arriving at the Ertale campsite in the afternoon, you'll prepare for the ascent. As the intense heat wanes, you begin the approximately 40-minute trek across the volcano's blackened basalt shield. Reaching the rim in the late afternoon is a moment of pure awe.

Before you lies Erta Ale, one of the planet's few permanent lava lakes. The sight of the churning, incandescent magma in its caldera is an unforgettable, primordial spectacle. You will spend the evening on the summit, witnessing the lake's hypnotic activity intensify under the starry desert sky—a truly unparalleled experience.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Erta'le Volcano - Lake Asale - Dalol

After an early breakfast at the campsite, we begin our drive across the otherworldly Danakil Depression. Our first stop is Lake Asebo, the primary salt mining area. Here, you will witness the ancient, back-breaking work of the Afar salt miners as they break the thick salt crust into large rectangular slabs, which are then loaded onto camel caravans for their long journey to the highlands.

We then continue to Dallol, a place that feels like another planet. Situated over 130 meters below sea level, it is one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. An excursion on foot will lead you through an impossible landscape of neon-yellow, green, and orange hydrothermal fields, bizarre sulfur formations, and bubbling acidic ponds—a breathtaking display of geological forces.

The day concludes with a visit to the vast, crystalline salt pans of Lake Assal before we set up our basic camping facilities for the night in the heart of this extraordinary desert, under an immense canopy of stars.

Main Destination:

Hamad Ela (Village)

Accommodation:

Mid-range camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Dalol - Tigray Churches

We begin before dawn, driving across the salt flats to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Dallol hydrothermal field. The low morning light sets the vibrant mineral deposits ablaze with color, creating an unforgettable photographic opportunity and a final farewell to this alien landscape.

After returning to camp for breakfast, we commence our long but fascinating drive west, ascending dramatically from the searing lowlands of the Danakil to the cool, rugged highlands of Tigray. This journey is a study in contrasts, as the stark desert gives way to mountainous terrain.

En route to our base in Hawzien, we will stop to visit one or more of the renowned Tigray churches. These remarkable sanctuaries, hewn directly into the faces of sheer sandstone cliffs, are accessible only by foot—sometimes involving a short, scenic hike or even a climb with rock-hewn steps. They offer a profound sense of peace, ancient history, and breathtaking views over the Gheralta plateau.

Main Destination:

Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gheralta - Axum

After an early breakfast, we drive into the stunning Gheralta mountains. Here, we embark on a memorable adventure: the climb to Abune Yemata Guh. This unique church is perilously perched high on a vertical cliff face, requiring a final ascent using hand and foot holds carved into the rock. The effort is immensely rewarded with breathtaking views and the chance to see the church's magnificent, well-preserved 5th-century frescoes in a truly awe-inspiring setting.

Descending, we begin the scenic drive towards the ancient city of Axum. En route, we step even further back in time with a visit to the Yeha Temple, a massive, pre-Christian structure dating to the 5th century BC, showcasing the sophistication of Ethiopia's earliest known civilization.

We continue to the Debre Damo Monastery, accessible only by climbing a 15-meter rope up a sheer cliff. (Please note: This site is traditionally for male visitors only). Its secluded plateau houses one of Ethiopia's oldest existing churches.

Main Destination:

Tigray

Accommodation:

Brana Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinks not included

Axum City Tour

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Axum, the once-great capital of a powerful empire

Our first stop is the legendary Stele Field, where you will stand before towering, intricately carved obelisks dating back over 1,700 years. These monumental granite tombs are a testament to the incredible engineering and artistry of the ancient Aksumite kingdom. We will also explore the underground tombs of the Kaleb and Gebre Meskel sites.

Next, we visit the sacred Church of St. Mary of Zion, a site of immense pilgrimage. It is within its complex that the Ark of the Covenant is believed to be housed. While the chapel containing the Ark is inaccessible to all but its guardian, the atmosphere of profound faith and mystery is palpable. We will tour the old church and the modern cathedral.

Our historical immersion concludes at the Axum Archaeological Museum, which provides fascinating context with its rich collection of artifacts, including ancient inscriptions, royal crowns, and potteries.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Brana Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Axum - Debark

After breakfast and checkout, we begin our scenic drive south from Axum. The journey itself is a highlight, traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Tigray region before ascending into the breathtaking highlands.

As we approach the Simien Mountains, the landscape transforms. You will be greeted by the majestic, jagged peaks and deep valleys of the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the "Roof of Africa." We will drive along one of the continent's most scenic roads, with opportunities to stop at viewpoints and soak in the stunning panoramas of this unique alpine environment.

Our destination is the town of Debark, the gateway to the national park. Here, we will complete the necessary park formalities and your guide will provide a briefing for the adventures that await over the next two days.

Main Destination:

Debark (Town)

Accommodation:

Ras Dejen Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Debark (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Morning Trek in the Semein mountain NP - Gondar

We depart early to maximize our time in the stunning Simien Mountains National Park. After arriving at the park headquarters, we embark on a breathtaking short trek along the escarpment edge. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the park's iconic landscapes of deep valleys and jagged peaks.

The highlight is an encounter with the charismatic Gelada baboons. These unique primates, found only in the Ethiopian highlands, are often seen in large troops grazing on the grassy plateaus. Unlike most baboons, they are peaceful and habituated, allowing for close and unforgettable observation and photography.

After our trek and a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery, we begin our scenic drive back towards civilization, descending from the highlands to the historical city of Gondar. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure to relax after a day of adventure.

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

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Golden Jackal Rare

Hyena Rare

Accommodation:

Goha Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Gondar - Bahirdar

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Gondar, the former imperial capital. Our first stop is the Royal Enclosure, a walled compound often called the "Camelot of Africa." Here, you will wander through a complex of majestic 17th-century castles and palaces built by a succession of Ethiopian emperors, each with its own unique architectural blend of Ethiopian, Arab, and European influences.

Next, we visit the enchanting Fasilidas's Pool, a massive, sunken bathing complex surrounded by ancient stone walls and sycamore trees. While no longer filled with water year-round, its grandeur is still evident, and it remains a site for the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations.

In the afternoon, we bid farewell to Gondar and embark on a scenic drive through the beautiful Ethiopian countryside, arriving in the lively lakeside city of Bahir Dar in the early evening.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar

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

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Bahirdar

After breakfast, we begin our day with a drive to the legendary Blue Nile Falls, known locally as Tis Issat—"Smoking Water." A scenic walk through a local village and across a historic 17th-century Portuguese bridge leads us to the thunderous spectacle of the falls, where the Nile plunges over a 45-meter basalt cliff, creating a permanent rainbow in the spray.

We return to Bahir Dar for lunch before embarking on a serene afternoon boat trip on the vast expanse of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. Our destination is the Zege Peninsula, a lush, forested sanctuary. Here, we will hike into the forest to visit one or two of its ancient and revered monasteries, such as Ura Kidane Mihret or Azwa Maryam. These circular churches, hidden for centuries, are famed for their vibrant, centuries-old wall paintings depicting biblical scenes and their tranquil, spiritual atmosphere.

Main Destination:

Lake Tana

Accommodation:

Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar

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

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Bahirdar - Lalibela

After breakfast, we check out and begin our full-day drive to the legendary town of Lalibela. This journey is a spectacular traverse through the heart of the Ethiopian highlands, offering a continuous panorama of rolling hills, vast agricultural plateaus, and traditional Amhara villages.

Our route takes us through Debre Tabor, a historic town that once served as a royal capital. We may stop here for a short break to stretch our legs and absorb the local atmosphere. The road winds through dramatic mountain passes and fertile valleys, providing countless opportunities for stunning photographs of rural Ethiopian life.

We anticipate arriving in Lalibela in the late afternoon. After checking into your lodge, the evening is at your leisure to relax and anticipate the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches you will explore tomorrow.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Mountain View Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela

Today is dedicated to exploring the breathtaking rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. This complex of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic churches was carved vertically down into the pink volcanic rock in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Your guide will lead you through a labyrinth of sacred tunnels and passageways connecting the two main church groups. You will witness the astonishing Bet Giyorgis (Church of St. George), a perfect cross-shaped church isolated in a deep trench, representing the pinnacle of this engineering feat.

Inside the otherworldly complexes, you will discover dimly lit sanctuaries adorned with ancient, vibrant frescoes, intricate carved reliefs, and priceless religious artifacts. The experience is not merely historical; it is a living spiritual center, where you will observe pilgrims and priests in daily worship, feeling the profound faith that has animated this site for over 800 years.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Mountain View Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela - Addis Ababa

Your final day offers an unforgettable, optional start: attending the early morning mass at one of Lalibela's rock-hewn churches. Experiencing the haunting chants and devout ceremonies in the cool, pre-dawn darkness, surrounded by the ancient stone, is a profoundly moving culmination of your journey.

After breakfast, we drive to Lalibela Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, the afternoon is yours to explore. Options include souvenir shopping for traditional crafts or a final cultural immersion at the National Museum, home to the famous fossil "Lucy."

In the evening, gather for a celebratory farewell dinner at a renowned cultural restaurant. Savor authentic Ethiopian cuisine while being captivated by a vibrant live performance of traditional music and dance from across the country, a final, joyful celebration of the rich heritage you've experienced. Afterwards, transfer to Bole International Airport for your late-night departure.

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.