Essence Ethiopia Tours

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$1,980 pp (USD)

2 travelers   on   Start date
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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 a short rest, begin exploring Ethiopia’s dynamic capital.
Visit the Ethnological Museum, offering a rich introduction to Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic cultures and history.
Proceed to Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, where you’ll witness the vibrant rhythm of local life. End the day with a drive to Entoto Hill for panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its origins.
Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Main Destination:
Addis Ababa (City)
Accommodation:
Sun View Addis Hotel
  • Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals 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, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred destinations. Upon arrival, explore the remarkable rock-hewn churches, carved directly into volcanic rock in the 12th century.
Visit the first cluster, including Bete Medhane Alem, believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world, and Bete Maryam, known for its intricate carvings.
Continue to the second cluster and visit the iconic Bete Giyorgis, a perfectly shaped cross carved into the rock. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as pilgrims gather for prayer.
In the afternoon, return flight to Addis Ababa.
Overnight: Addis Ababa.

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

Day 3

Fly to Gondar – Royal Enclosure & Churches

Fly to Gondar – Royal Enclosure & Churches

Fly to Gondar, once the imperial capital of Ethiopia.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi, a fascinating complex of castles built in the 17th century by Emperor Fasilides. The architecture reflects a unique blend of Ethiopian and foreign influences.
Continue to Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its ceiling decorated with vivid angelic faces and biblical murals one of the finest examples of Ethiopian religious art.
Overnight: Gondar.

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

Day 4

Drive to Simien Mountains – Trek to Sankaber Camp

Drive to Simien Mountains – Trek to Sankaber Camp

After breakfast, drive to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic escarpments and unique ecosystems.
Upon arrival, begin a scenic trek to Sankaber (approx. 3–4 hours). Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of deep valleys and highland plateaus. You may encounter troops of Gelada baboon grazing peacefully along the cliffs.
Arrive at Sankaber campsite, where you will settle in and enjoy the tranquil mountain environment.
Overnight: Camping at Sankaber.

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:
Budget camping
  • Inside Simien Mountains NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 5

Trekking in the Simien Mountains – Sankaber to Geech

Trekking in the Simien Mountains – Sankaber to Geech

After breakfast, continue trekking deeper into the Simien Mountains. This is one of the most scenic trekking days.
Hike from Sankaber to Geech Camp (5–7 hours), passing through spectacular landscapes including escarpments, valleys, and waterfalls such as the Jinbar Falls viewpoint. Wildlife sightings may include Walia ibex and various endemic bird species.
Arrive at Geech Camp, situated on a high plateau with stunning sunset views.
Overnight: Camping at Geech.

Main Destination:
Simien Mountains National Park
Accommodation:
Budget camping
  • Inside Simien Mountains NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 6

Morning Exploration – Return to Gondar

Morning Exploration – Return to Gondar

Enjoy a morning walk around Geech, taking in the fresh mountain air and panoramic scenery.
After breakfast, trek back toward the park entrance where your vehicle will be waiting. Drive back to Gondar, with scenic stops along the way.
Overnight: Gondar.

Main Destination:
Simien Mountains National Park
Accommodation:
Haile Resort Gondar
  • Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 7

Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure

Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure

Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your international departure time, enjoy optional last-minute shopping or a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
You will then be transferred to the airport for your international departure.

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.

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  • 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.