$3,905 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa and City Tour
Arrival in Addis Ababa and City Tour
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and a short rest, your introduction to Ethiopia begins with a guided exploration of the capital city, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and modern life.
Your first stop is the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the world-famous fossil “Lucy,” offering a fascinating insight into the origins of humanity. Continue to St. George Cathedral, a significant religious and historical landmark known for its unique octagonal design and important role in Ethiopia’s history.
The tour then proceeds to Entoto Hills, located on the northern edge of the city, where you will enjoy panoramic views over Addis Ababa. This area also provides a glimpse into the early history of the capital and the lifestyle of local communities.
Depending on time, a visit to Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, offers an authentic experience.
- Main Destination:
- Addis Ababa (City)
- Accommodation:
- Triple-E Hotel and Spa
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Fly to Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
Fly to Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
In the morning, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred and historically significant destinations. Often referred to as the New Jerusalem Lalibela is renowned for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the earth from solid volcanic rock in the 12th century.
Upon arrival, you will proceed directly to explore the first cluster of churches, which includes some of the most impressive architectural achievements of medieval Africa. These monolithic structures are interconnected by a network of tunnels, trenches, and passageways, creating a unique underground complex that continues to serve as an active place of worship.
Your guide will provide detailed historical and cultural context, explaining the religious symbolism, construction techniques, and significance of each church.
- Main Destination:
- Lalibela (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Top Twelve Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
More Exploration Lalibela
More Exploration Lalibela
Today is dedicated to a deeper exploration of Lalibela’s remarkable religious heritage. You will visit the second group of churches, including the iconic Bet Giyorgis (St. George), widely regarded as the finest example of rock-hewn architecture in Ethiopia. Carved in the shape of a perfect cross, this church is both architecturally impressive and spiritually significant.
Throughout the day, you will navigate a network of narrow tunnels and hidden passageways that connect the churches, enhancing the sense of discovery and immersion. Your guide will continue to share insights into the historical, architectural, and spiritual importance of each site, allowing you to fully appreciate the complexity and ingenuity of these structures.
- Main Destination:
- Lalibela (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Hill Top Lodge Lalibela
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Fly Lalibela to Gondar
Fly Lalibela to Gondar
Fly to Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia. Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring castles and palaces built by Ethiopian emperors. Continue to Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted ceiling of angels. The city reflects Ethiopia’s royal history and architectural heritage.
- Main Destination:
- Gondar (City)
- Accommodation:
- Haile Resort Gondar
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Simien Mountains National Park Excursion
Simien Mountains National Park Excursion
Drive to Simien Mountains National Park for a full-day excursion. This UNESCO-listed park is known for its dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and stunning views. Enjoy short walks and observe wildlife such as Gelada baboons, endemic to Ethiopia. The park offers excellent opportunities for photography and nature appreciation before returning to Gondar.
- Main Destination:
- Simien Mountains National Park
- Accommodation:
- Haile Resort Gondar
Wildlife in Simien Mountains NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Gondar Bahir Dar (Lake Tana)
Gondar Bahir Dar (Lake Tana)
Drive to Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to visit historic island monasteries, including Ura Kidane Mehret, known for its ancient murals and religious artifacts. The peaceful lake setting provides a relaxing contrast to previous days of travel.
Day 7
Blue Nile Falls Fly to Addis Ababa
Blue Nile Falls Fly to Addis Ababa
Today, you will enjoy a half-day excursion to the Blue Nile Falls in Bahir Dar, locally known as Tis Issat (“Smoking Water”). The falls are located approximately 30 km from Bahir Dar, and the drive takes around 45 minutes through scenic countryside. Upon arrival, you will take a short walk to reach the viewpoint, where you can admire the impressive waterfalls, especially during the rainy season when the flow is at its strongest. After the visit, you will return to Bahir Dar. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa.
- Main Destination:
- Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)
- Accommodation:
- Triple-E Hotel and Spa
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 8
Drive Addis Ababa to Hawassa ( Via Lake Ziway )
Drive Addis Ababa to Hawassa ( Via Lake Ziway )
Drive south through the Great Rift Valley, passing scenic landscapes and local villages. Stop at Abijata-Shalla National Park, known for flamingos and volcanic scenery. Continue to Hawassa, a lakeside city offering a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of Lake Hawassa.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Ziway
- Accommodation:
- Haile Resort Hawassa
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 9
Hawassa Arba Minch – Dorze Village
Hawassa Arba Minch – Dorze Village
After breakfast, depart from Hawassa and continue your journey south toward Arba Minch, one of the most scenic regions in southern Ethiopia. The drive offers beautiful views of the Great Rift Valley, passing local villages, farmland, and changing landscapes as you descend toward lower altitudes.
Upon arrival in Arba Minch, known as the “Forty Springs” due to its underground water sources, you will enjoy views of the twin lakes—Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo—separated by the lush Nech Sar National Park.
In the afternoon, drive up to the Dorze Highlands (approximately 45 minutes), where the climate is cooler and the scenery is mountainous and green. Visit a traditional Dorze village, famous for its unique elephant-shaped bamboo houses, some of which can last for decades.
During your visit, you will learn about the Dorze people’s way of life, including their renowned weaving traditions, production of enset (false banana), and local food preparation.
- Main Destination:
- Arba Minch (City)
- Accommodation:
- Haile Resort Arba Minch
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 10
Lake Chamo – Jinka via Key Afer Market
Lake Chamo – Jinka via Key Afer Market
After breakfast, begin the day with a boat excursion on Lake Chamo, one of the Rift Valley lakes known for its rich wildlife. The boat trip offers excellent opportunities to see large Nile crocodiles—some of the biggest in Africa—along with pods of hippos and a variety of water birds.
After the boat trip, start your drive toward Jinka, the gateway to the Omo Valley. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes and tribal regions, offering glimpses of rural life.
En route, stop at Key Afer (on market days – typically Thursday), one of the most vibrant and colorful markets in southern Ethiopia. Here, different ethnic groups such as the Hamer, Benna, and Tsemay gather to trade goods, livestock, and handmade items.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Chamo
- Accommodation:
- Nasa Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 11
Mago National Park Turmi Hamer Village
Mago National Park Turmi Hamer Village
Early in the morning, drive to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, one of the most well-known ethnic groups in Ethiopia. The Mursi are famous for the lip plates worn by women and their distinctive cultural identity.
During the visit, you will have the opportunity to observe their lifestyle, traditions, and body decorations, while your guide provides cultural context and ensures respectful interaction.
After the visit, return to Jinka and continue the drive to Turmi, the cultural center of the Hamer people. The journey passes through remote and scenic landscapes of the Omo Valley.
In the afternoon, visit a Hamer village to learn about their traditions, including their hairstyles, beadwork, and social customs. If available, you may also have the chance to witness a traditional ceremony or local gathering.
- Main Destination:
- Mago National Park
- Accommodation:
-
Buska Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 12
Karo Tribe Cultural Experience
Karo Tribe Cultural Experience
After breakfast, take an excursion to the Omo River to visit the Karo tribe, one of the smallest but most visually distinctive ethnic groups in Ethiopia. The Karo are especially known for their intricate body painting using natural pigments, often applied for ceremonies and social expression.
The setting along the Omo River provides a stunning backdrop for photography and cultural observation. You will learn about their way of life, traditions, and connection to the river.
In the afternoon, return to Turmi and visit a local market (depending on the day), where nearby communities gather. If your visit coincides with a bull-jumping ceremony—a significant rite of passage for young Hamer men—you may have the opportunity to witness this unique cultural event.
- Main Destination:
- Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village)
- Accommodation:
- Buska Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 13
Turmi Konso Cultural Landscape
Turmi Konso Cultural Landscape
After breakfast, depart Turmi and drive toward Konso, a region recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique cultural landscape.
The Konso people are known for their terraced farming system, which has been used for generations to manage the mountainous terrain. These terraces, along with fortified villages and wooden statues known as “waka,” reflect a highly organized and sustainable way of life.
Upon arrival, visit a traditional Konso village and learn about their social structure, agricultural practices, and cultural beliefs. The visit provides a deeper understanding of how the community has adapted to its environment over centuries.
- Main Destination:
- Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village)
- Accommodation:
- Kanta Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 14
Konso to Yirgalem
Konso to Yirgalem
After breakfast, depart from Konso and drive north toward Yirgalem, one of Ethiopia’s most renowned coffee-growing regions. The journey passes through the fertile landscapes of southern Ethiopia, with views of plantations, small villages, and lush greenery.
Upon arrival, check in at Aregash Lodge, a charming eco-lodge set within a forest environment known for its birdlife and peaceful atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit a nearby coffee farm. Depending on the season, you may observe different stages of coffee production, including harvesting, drying, or processing. Your guide will explain the traditional and modern methods of coffee cultivation, as well as the importance of coffee in Ethiopian culture.
- Main Destination:
- Yirga Alem (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Aregash Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 15
Yirgalem Addis Ababa Departure
Yirgalem Addis Ababa Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a short walk within the lodge area and visit the coffee farm on-site, where you will gain further insight into Ethiopia’s coffee heritage.
Later, begin the drive back to Addis Ababa, passing through scenic Rift Valley landscapes and local towns.
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for last-minute shopping or relaxation.
In the evening, enjoy an optional farewell cultural dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, music, and dance.
Finally, transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure.
- Main Destination:
- Addis Ababa (City)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
