Essence Ethiopia Tours

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$1,815 pp (USD)

2 travelers   on   Start date
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Breakdown of Costs
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Start Date
Age at the end of the tour
*This tour does not accept children under 5.
Travelers

Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

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

Day 1

Arrival in Addis Ababa – City Tour

Arrival in Addis Ababa – City Tour

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and a short rest, begin your exploration of Ethiopia’s vibrant capital.
Visit the renowned Ethnological Museum, located within Addis Ababa University, offering deep insight into Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and history. Continue to the historic Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in the country.
Later, explore Mercato, the largest open-air market in Africa, where daily life unfolds in a colorful and bustling atmosphere. End the day with a scenic drive up Entoto Hill for panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Addis Ababa’s origins.
Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Main Destination:
Addis Ababa (City)
Accommodation:
Sun View Addis Hotel
  • Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 2

Fly to Lalibela – Explore Rock-Hewn Churches

Fly to Lalibela – Explore Rock-Hewn Churches

Take a morning flight to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual heart. Upon arrival, begin exploring the extraordinary rock-hewn churches, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the first cluster, including the iconic Bete Medhane Alem, believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world, and the intricately carved Bete Maryam. Continue through interconnected tunnels and passageways to discover more sacred structures.
In the afternoon, visit the second cluster, highlighted by the world-famous Bete Giyorgis, a perfectly carved cross-shaped church standing in isolation.
After the visit, fly back to Addis Ababa.
Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Main Destination:
Lalibela (Town)
Accommodation:
Tabor Hotel Lalibela
  • Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 3

Fly to Gondar – Explore Royal Heritage

Fly to Gondar – Explore Royal Heritage

Fly to Gondar, often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa” for its medieval castles and royal history.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi, a complex of castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors in the 17th century. The architecture reflects a unique blend of Ethiopian, Portuguese, and Indian influences.
Continue to the beautifully decorated Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its ceiling adorned with angelic faces and vibrant biblical murals.
Overnight: Gondar.

Main Destination:
Gondar (City)
Accommodation:
Haile Resort Gondar
  • Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 4

DayTrip to Simien Mountains

DayTrip to Simien Mountains

After breakfast, drive to the breathtaking Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic landscapes.
Enjoy a scenic hike along the escarpments with stunning views of deep valleys and jagged peaks. Spot endemic wildlife such as the Gelada baboon, Walia ibex, and various bird species.
This day offers excellent opportunities for photography and experiencing Ethiopia’s natural beauty.
Return to Gondar in the afternoon.
Overnight: Gondar.

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

Accommodation:
Haile Resort Gondar
  • Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 5

Fly Gondar – Addis Ababa – Arba Minch – Visit Dorze Villages

Fly Gondar – Addis Ababa – Arba Minch – Visit Dorze Villages

Fly via Addis Ababa to Arba Minch, a scenic town overlooking the Rift Valley lakes.
In the afternoon, drive into the Guge Mountains to visit the Dorze people. Known for their unique beehive-shaped bamboo houses and weaving traditions, the Dorze offer a fascinating cultural experience. Learn about their way of life, traditional food (including enset/false banana), and enjoy beautiful panoramic views.
Overnight: Arba Minch.

Main Destination:
Arba Minch (City)
Accommodation:
Wubete Hotel
  • Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 6

Visit Lake Chamo – Return to Addis Ababa

Visit Lake Chamo – Return to Addis Ababa

In the morning, take a trip on Lake Chamo, located within Nech Sar National Park. The lake is famous for its large populations of crocodiles, hippos, and abundant birdlife. A highlight is the “Crocodile Market,” where dozens of giant Nile crocodiles bask along the shores.
After the excursion, transfer to the airport and fly back to Addis Ababa.

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)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

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

Interested in This Tour?

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  • Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
  • If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
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Your request will be sent directly to the operator

If preferred, you can contact the operator directly

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Disclaimer

  • This tour is offered by Essence Ethiopia Tours, not SafariBookings.
  • This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
  • If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
  • Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
  • The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
  • If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
  • This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Essence Ethiopia Tours.