Essence Ethiopia Tours

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$990 pp (USD)

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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 – Welcome & City Tour

Arrival in Addis Ababa – Welcome & City Tour

Upon arrival at Addis Ababa, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to Sun View Hotel for check-in and a short rest.

Depending on your arrival time, you will begin a guided city tour of Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, a fascinating blend of history, culture, and modern life.

Highlights of the day include:

National Museum of Ethiopia – home to the famous fossil “Lucy” (Dinknesh), offering insights into early human history.
Mercato – the largest open-air market in Africa, bustling with local life, colors, and traditions.
Entoto Hill – offering panoramic views over the city and a glimpse into Emperor Menelik II’s historic settlement.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with cultural music and dance (optional).

Overnight: Sun View Hotel – 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 Gondar – Explore the Royal Enclosure

Fly to Gondar – Explore the Royal Enclosure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Gondar, often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa.”

Upon arrival, begin exploring the city’s remarkable historical treasures:

Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a complex of castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors in the 17th century.
Debre Berhan Selassie Church – famous for its stunning ceiling adorned with angelic faces and vibrant biblical murals, considered one of Ethiopia’s most beautiful churches.
Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this former imperial capital as you walk through its historic streets.

Overnight: Haz Hotel – Gondar.

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

Day 3

Drive to Bahir Dar – Lake Tana Monasteries

Drive to Bahir Dar – Lake Tana Monasteries

After breakfast, depart for a scenic drive to Bahir Dar, passing through rural landscapes, villages, and rolling hills.

Upon arrival, enjoy a boat excursion on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. The lake is dotted with ancient monasteries, many of which date back to the 14th century.

Visits include:

Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery – the most famous monastery on the lake, known for its circular architecture and vividly painted religious murals depicting biblical scenes.
Azwa Maryam Monastery – a peaceful and less-visited monastery offering an authentic spiritual atmosphere.
You will also explore the area where the Blue Nile begins its long journey:

Blue Nile Outlet – the point where the Nile starts flowing out of the lake toward Sudan and Egypt.
Overnight: Lake Avenue Hotel – Bahir Dar.

Main Destination:
Bahir Dar (City)
Accommodation:
Lake Avenue Hotel
  • Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 4

Blue Nile Falls – Return to Addis Ababa

Blue Nile Falls – Return to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, visit the magnificent:

Blue Nile Falls (locally known as “Tis Issat,” meaning “Smoking Water”) – one of Ethiopia’s most iconic natural attractions. A short walk through rural countryside leads you to breathtaking views of the falls, especially impressive during the rainy season.
After the visit, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa.

This marks the end of your memorable journey through Ethiopia’s historic north.

Main Destination:
Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)
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 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.