16-Day Discover Culture, Nature & Including Danakil Tour

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

Addis Ababa city tour

Start at the National Museum of Ethiopia to see Lucy, a key human ancestor fossil. Explore the vibrant Merkato market, then enjoy a traditional Ethiopian lunch. Continue to the Entoto Hills for city views and visit Entoto Maryam Church and Emperor Menelik II’s palace. Optionally stop at the Ethnological Museum. End with a coffee ceremony and overnight at Capital Hotel and Spa.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Capital Hotel & Spa

• 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)

Drive Addis Ababa to Bale Mountains

After breakfast, depart Addis Ababa and enjoy a scenic drive south toward the Bale Mountains National Park. Along the way, pass through changing landscapes, rural villages, and farmlands that reflect Ethiopia’s diverse culture. Arrive at the park headquarters in Dinsho and settle in for your first wildlife experience. In the afternoon, explore the area and spot endemic animals such as mountain nyala, warthogs, and various bird species. Overnight stay Nurobe Hotel.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Best Time To Visit November to February (Little rain)

High Season October to January (Park is never busy)

Best Weather November to February

Wildlife in Bale Mountains NP

Ethiopian Wolf Common

Mountain Nyala Common

Warthog Common

Menelik's
Bushbuck Occasional

Guereza Monkey Occasional

Show more

Olive Baboon Occasional

Bohor Reedbuck Occasional

Starck's Hare Occasional

Giant Mole-rat Occasional

Bale Monkey Rare

Giant Forest Hog Rare

Golden Jackal Rare

Gelada Monkey None

Walia Ibex None

Accommodation:

Nurobe Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Bale to Sanetti Plateau Exploration

Today you will drive up to the stunning Sanetti Plateau, one of Africa’s highest road-accessible plateaus. Enjoy a guided hike in the high-altitude environment, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and Afro-alpine vegetation. This area is home to the rare Ethiopian wolf, and with luck, you may observe them in their natural habitat. The day offers incredible photographic opportunities and a unique ecological experience. Overnight stay Nurobe Hotel.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Nurobe Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Bale to Harenna Forest Adventure

Descend into the lush Harenna Forest, a striking contrast to the alpine plateau above. Take a guided trek through the dense cloud forest, rich in biodiversity and endemic plant species. Keep an eye out for colorful birds, monkeys, and other forest wildlife. You will also visit remote villages, gaining insight into the traditional lifestyles of the local communities. Overnight stay Nurobe Hotel.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Nurobe Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Bale to Gasay / Rira Highlands Trekking

Travel toward the scenic highlands of Gaysay and Rira, known for their breathtaking views and peaceful landscapes. Enjoy a trekking experience through rolling hills, valleys, and traditional settlements. The area provides excellent opportunities to observe wildlife and endemic flora. This day blends nature, culture, and adventure in a tranquil setting. Overnight stay Nurobe Hotel.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Nurobe Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Bale to Rift Valley Lakes / Langano

Depart Bale and drive toward the beautiful Lake Langano in the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival, relax by the lakeside and enjoy the warm climate. Take a leisurely walk along the shore and observe a variety of birdlife in the area. End the day with a stunning sunset over the lake. Overnight stay Haile resort.

Main Destination:

Lake Langano

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Hawassa

• Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Rift Valley to Addis Ababa, Fly to Mekelle & Drive to Danakil

After breakfast, return to Addis Ababa and transfer to the airport for your flight to Mekelle. Upon arrival, begin your journey toward the otherworldly Danakil Depression. The drive takes you through dramatic desert landscapes and Afar communities. Arrive in the Danakil region and prepare for an extraordinary adventure. Overnight stay Camping.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Danakil to Erta Ale Volcano Trek

Drive deeper into the Danakil Depression to reach Erta Ale, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Begin your ascent in the late afternoon, trekking across lava fields under the setting sun. Reach the summit crater where you can witness the mesmerizing lava lake. Spend the night at a basic camp near the crater, experiencing the raw power of nature. Overnight stay Camping.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Danakil to Dallol

Today you will explore the surreal landscapes of Dallol, known for its vibrant colors and geothermal activity. Visit salt flats, acid pools, and unique mineral formations that create an almost alien environment. Observe traditional salt mining and caravans of camels transporting salt across the desert. This is one of the hottest and most fascinating places on Earth. Overnight stay Camping.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive Danakil to Mekelle

After breakfast, begin the drive back to Mekelle. Enjoy the changing scenery as you leave the harsh desert behind. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax after the intense Danakil experience. In the evening, take a walk around the city and enjoy the local atmosphere. Overnight stay Planet Hotel.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

Accommodation:

Planet Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Mekele (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly Mekele to Lalibela and Visit First Group of Churches

Take a morning flight to Lalibela, famous for its rock-hewn churches. Begin your exploration with the first group of these remarkable structures, carved directly into the rock. Learn about their historical, religious, and architectural significance. The spiritual ambiance of Lalibela offers a deeply moving experience. Overnight stay Mountain view Hotel.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Mountain View Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Lalibela Churches and Genna or Christmas Ceremonies

Continue visiting the second and third groups of churches, including the iconic Church of Saint George. Explore hidden tunnels and passageways that connect the sacred sites. If available, attend local religious ceremonies Genna or Christmas and witness traditional practices. This day deepens your understanding of Ethiopia’s rich Orthodox heritage. Overnight stay Mountain view Hotel.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Mountain View Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly Lalibela to Addis Ababa

Return by flight to Addis Ababa in the morning. In the afternoon, take a walk through local districts and experience daily urban life. Visit traditional coffee houses and enjoy Ethiopia’s famous coffee ceremony. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on your journey. Overnight stay Capital hotel and sap.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Capital Hotel & Spa

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly to Dire Dawa and Explore Walled City

Fly to Dire Dawa and begin your eastern Ethiopia adventure. Visit the nearby historic city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its ancient walls, narrow alleyways, and vibrant culture. The first impressions reveal a unique blend of history and tradition. Overnight stay Wonderland Hotel.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Wonderland Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Harar (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Harar Cultural Experience

Spend the day exploring Harar’s local markets and old town charm. Walk through colorful streets and discover traditional homes and cultural landmarks. In the evening, witness the famous hyena feeding ritual, a unique and memorable experience. This day offers deep cultural immersion. Overnight stay Wonderland Hotel.

Main Destination:

Harar (Town)

Accommodation:

Wonderland Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Harar (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Return to Addis Ababa and Farewell Dinner

Drive back to Dire Dawa and take a flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. In the evening, attend a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with music and dance. This marks the end of your unforgettable Ethiopian journey.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

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.