10-Day Ethiopian Discovery Expedition

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

Addis Ababa and City Tour

Arrival in Addis Ababa: Upon arrival, rest and recover from your flight. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour including the National Museum, home to the famous fossil “Lucy,” and Mount Entoto, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding highlands. Explore local culture, architecture, and historical landmarks at a relaxed pace before continuing your journey.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Magnolia Hotel

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

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Flight Lalibela

Your journey begins in Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred destinations. After
settling into your accommodation, you’ll enjoy your first visit to the historic
rock-hewn churches, offering a gentle introduction to Lalibela’s spiritual
atmosphere and unique architectural heritage.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Exploration of Lalibela

Today you’ll continue exploring Lalibela’s extraordinary monolithic churches,
including the world-renowned St. George (Bet Giyorgis). This day offers
meaningful cultural moments, spiritual insights, and a closer look at centuries-old
craftsmanship and devotion.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Journey to Semera

After breakfast, drive to the nomadic lands of the Afar people via a scenic road, passing through the rugged landscapes of the Ethiopian highlands and desert plains. Along the way, observe the unique lifestyle of the Afar, who are known for their resilience and traditional cattle-herding practices.

Main Destination:

Semera (Town)

Accommodation:

Ardi Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Semera (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Denekil Depression and Era Ale

The journey continues toward the otherworldly Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most geologically fascinating places on Earth. Travel via Lake Afdera, a striking saltwater lake known for its vivid reddish waters caused by algae and mineral deposits. Along the way, witness traditional salt caravans carried by camels across the shimmering salt flats, colorful mineral formations, steaming volcanic vents, and vast lava fields. Observe the unique lifestyle of the Afar people who inhabit this harsh environment, and marvel at the stark contrast between arid desert plains and dramatic volcanic mountains, creating a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water & beer and wine (Other drinks not included)

Denakil Depression, Dallol

A memorable sunrise awaits at the crater, painting the rugged volcanic landscape in hues of orange and gold. After descending, continue driving deeper into Afar territory, where the vast desert plains meet dramatic lava fields and colorful mineral formations. Along the way, engage with the local Afar communities, learning about their nomadic lifestyle, traditional huts, and cattle-herding practices. The journey toward Hamed Ela offers opportunities for photography, observing salt caravans, and enjoying the stark, otherworldly scenery. Upon arrival, take time to rest and refresh, reflecting on the day’s volcanic adventure and preparing for the next stage of exploration in this extraordinary region.

Main Destination:

Hamad Ela (Village)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water & beer and wine (Other drinks not included)

Journet to Gheralta Mountains

This morning, you’ll explore the otherworldly geothermal formations of Dallol, where vibrant pools of sulfur, salt, and minerals create a surreal landscape of yellows, greens, and reds. Visit the nearby salt fields and, with some luck, witness traditional camel caravans crossing the vast white plains, a centuries-old method of transporting salt. Afterward, continue your journey to the Gheralta region, famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and ancient rock-hewn churches perched high above the valleys. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views, observe local village life, and capture the unique natural and cultural landscapes of this extraordinary part of Ethiopia.

Main Destination:

Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Experience Gheraltha Churches and vicinities

Start the day with a short hike and an assisted climb to reach the extraordinary cliff-church of Abune Yemata Guh, perched high on the Gheralta sandstone cliffs. This remarkable church is not only a spiritual site but also an architectural marvel, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Along the way, observe the stunning landscapes dotted with traditional villages and terraced farmland. Nearby, the historic Mariam Korkur church adds cultural depth, reflecting centuries-old Ethiopian Orthodox traditions. The area is rich in local history, with vibrant rock paintings, ancient crosses, and unique local customs, making this excursion an unforgettable blend of adventure, spirituality, and cultural discovery.

Main Destination:

Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range)

Accommodation:

Gheralta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Tigray

Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinks not included

Journy to Axum

In the morning, drive to Axum, the legendary city of kings and a center of ancient civilization. Upon arrival, explore its historic sites, including the iconic obelisks, St. Mary of Zion Church, and the ancient royal tombs. Learn about the fascinating history of the Axumite Kingdom, one of Africa’s greatest empires, and immerse yourself in the local culture while visiting the markets and traditional neighborhoods. Axum offers a unique blend of archaeology, spirituality, and living history, making it a highlight of your Ethiopian journey.

Main Destination:

Axum (City)

Accommodation:

Sabean International Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Axum (City)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Axum And fly Back to Addis Ababa

Further explore Axum in the morning, visiting additional historical sites such as ancient stelae, the Queen of Sheba’s purported palace, and local markets to experience the vibrant culture. In the afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy some leisure time to relax or explore the city at your own pace. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating your unforgettable Ethiopian journey with traditional cuisine, music, and cultural performances.

Main Destination:

No major destination visited

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinks not included

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