5-Day Exploring Danakil (Volcano) & Tigray Churches

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

Fly Addis Ababa to Semera | Drive to the Danakil Depression

Fly Addis Ababa to Semera | Drive to the Danakil Depression
After an early morning flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, you will be met by your expedition team and begin the overland journey into the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. As you descend into this otherworldly landscape, the scenery transforms into vast salt flats, volcanic terrain, and shimmering mirages.
Along the way, experience the raw beauty of the Afar region and learn about the resilient nomadic communities who have adapted to this extreme environment.
Upon arrival at the camping site, enjoy dinner under the stars and prepare for an unforgettable desert adventure.

Overnight: Camping in the Danakil Depression.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Explore Dallol & Trek to Erta Ale Volcano

Explore Dallol & Trek to Erta Ale Volcano
Today is dedicated to exploring the surreal landscapes of Dallol, famous for its colorful sulfur pools, salt formations, acidic lakes, and steaming hydrothermal fields. The vivid yellows, greens, and whites create one of the most alien-looking places on the planet.
After visiting Dallol and the nearby salt flats, continue toward Erta Ale, Ethiopia’s most active volcano and home to one of the world’s few permanent lava lakes. In the late afternoon, begin the ascent to the volcano. After sunset, hike to the crater to witness the dramatic, glowing lava lake—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Overnight: Camping near Erta Ale Volcano.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Visit the Salt Mountains | Drive to Mekelle

In the morning, explore the salt mountains and vast salt flats, where Afar people continue the centuries-old tradition of cutting and transporting salt blocks by camel caravans. This cultural encounter offers insight into an ancient trade that once fueled regional commerce.
Afterward, begin the scenic drive from the Danakil Depression to Mekelle, ascending from the desert lowlands into the cooler highlands of Tigray. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Overnight: Mekelle.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Homeland Hotel Mekelle

• Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City)

+9 Photos

+8 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

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

Explore Abune Yemata Guh | Drive to Hawzen

After breakfast, drive to the Gheralta Mountains to visit Abune Yemata Guh, one of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary rock-hewn churches. The journey includes a short but adventurous climb involving rock scrambling and narrow ledges, rewarded by breathtaking views and a remarkable church interior adorned with ancient frescoes.
Following the visit, continue to Hawzen, passing through dramatic sandstone formations and traditional Tigrayan villages.

Overnight: Hawzen.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Visit Abreha We Atsbeha Church | Fly Back to Addis Ababa

On the final day, visit the magnificent Abreha We Atsbeha Church, a 10th-century rock-hewn church known for its impressive architecture, well-preserved paintings, and peaceful spiritual atmosphere.
After the visit, transfer for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of an extraordinary journey through Ethiopia’s most dramatic natural and historical landscapes.

End of the Trip.

Main Destination:

No major destination visited

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

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

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