$2,475 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Addis Ababa to Harar Cultural Journey
Addis Ababa to Harar Cultural Journey
Arrival in Addis Ababa and onward transfer by flight or scenic drive to Dire Dawa, followed by a road journey to the historic city of Harar. Upon arrival, explore the unique atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage city known for its ancient Islamic heritage and vibrant culture. The rest of the day is at leisure to walk through the old walled city (Jugol), experience local life, and enjoy the traditional surroundings of Harar before settling into your accommodation for overnight rest.
- Main Destination:
- Harar (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Harar Ras Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Harar Cultural Walking Experience
Harar Cultural Walking Experience
Full day dedicated to exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Harar, one of Africa’s oldest living cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the ancient Jugol walled city with its narrow alleyways, traditional Harari houses, and vibrant local markets. Discover the unique architecture and daily life of the community. In the evening, experience the famous hyena feeding tradition just outside the city walls, a rare cultural practice that has been preserved for generations.
- Main Destination:
- Harar (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Harar Ras Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Harar to Awash National Park Game Drive
Harar to Awash National Park Game Drive
After breakfast in Harar, drive through the scenic landscapes of the Ethiopian Rift Valley toward Awash National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive inside the park, home to diverse wildlife including Beisa oryx, Soemmering’s gazelles, warthogs, baboons, and various bird species. The park offers excellent views of volcanic formations and savannah ecosystems. This day combines overland travel with wildlife viewing in one of Ethiopia’s most accessible national parks. Overnight stay at a lodge near Awash.
- Main Destination:
- Awash National Park
- Accommodation:
- Doho Lodge & Hot Springs
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Awash to Semera Rift Valley Journey
Awash to Semera Rift Valley Journey
After breakfast in Awash, continue the journey north through the dramatic landscapes of the Ethiopian Rift Valley and volcanic plains toward Semera, the gateway to the Danakil Depression. En route, enjoy scenic views of desert terrain, lava fields, and remote Afar settlements. This is a full-day overland drive focused on exploration and landscape observation rather than wildlife activities. Arrive in Semera in the afternoon or evening and relax in preparation for the upcoming Danakil expedition into one of the hottest and most unique places on Earth.
- Main Destination:
- Semera (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Ruftana Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Semera to Danakil Depression Expedition
Semera to Danakil Depression Expedition
Early morning departure from Semera and drive deep into the extraordinary Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most geologically active regions on Earth. Explore the surreal landscapes of Dallol with its colorful hydrothermal formations, acid pools, and salt-carved terrain. Visit vast salt flats where traditional camel caravans transport salt blocks across the desert. Continue to Lake Assale, a striking salt lake reflecting the extreme environment of the region. This full-day expedition offers a unique insight into one of Ethiopia’s most remote and otherworldly landscapes before returning to the expedition base for overnight camping.
- Main Destination:
- Danakil Depression (Highlight)
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Erta Ale Volcano Night Trek Experience
Erta Ale Volcano Night Trek Experience
After breakfast at the Danakil expedition base, drive toward the Erta Ale volcanic region, one of the most active and remote volcanoes in the world. In the evening, begin the guided trek across volcanic terrain to reach the summit crater. Experience the unforgettable sight of the active lava lake glowing in the darkness, a rare natural phenomenon found in only a few places on Earth. Spend time observing the volcanic activity before camping near the crater under the stars. This day offers one of the most extraordinary adventure experiences in Ethiopia.
- Main Destination:
- Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7
Erta Ale to Semera Desert Return Drive
Erta Ale to Semera Desert Return Drive
Early morning descent from Erta Ale after the unforgettable volcanic experience. Meet your support team and begin the long drive back through the Danakil Desert landscape toward Semera. Enjoy changing scenery of volcanic terrain, salt plains, and remote Afar settlements along the way. This is a full-day overland journey focused on travel and recovery after the expedition. Arrive in Semera in the afternoon or evening and rest at your hotel or lodge, preparing for the next stage of the journey toward the Ethiopian highlands and Lalibela.
- Main Destination:
- Semera (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Ruftana Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 8
Semera to Lalibela Scenic Highland Drive
Semera to Lalibela Scenic Highland Drive
After breakfast in Semera, begin a full-day scenic drive toward the highlands of Lalibela. Travel through dramatically changing landscapes, from arid lowlands and volcanic plains to green highland terrain and traditional rural villages. Along the way, observe authentic Ethiopian countryside life and stunning mountain scenery. This overland journey offers a deep transition from the desert regions of the Danakil to the cultural heart of Ethiopia. Arrive in Lalibela in the evening and settle into your hotel for rest before exploring the famous rock-hewn churches the next day.
- Main Destination:
- Lalibela (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Tabor Hotel Lalibela
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 9
Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
Spend a full day exploring the legendary rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in the world. Visit the Northern and Southern church complexes, interconnected by narrow passages, tunnels, and carved trenches. Discover iconic churches such as St. George, carved in the shape of a cross, and experience centuries-old Christian traditions still practiced today. Guided by local experts, learn about the spiritual significance and architectural genius of these monolithic structures, offering a powerful cultural and historical experience in the heart of Ethiopia.
- Main Destination:
- Lalibela (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Tabor Hotel Lalibela
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 10
Lalibela to Addis Ababa Departure
Lalibela to Addis Ababa Departure
After breakfast in Lalibela, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy a short guided city tour depending on your schedule, including visits to cultural and historical highlights such as the National Museum, home to the famous Lucy fossil, and a drive through local markets or viewpoints such as Mount Entoto. This day offers a final glimpse of Ethiopia’s capital before your international departure. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your 10-day Ethiopian adventure.
- Main Destination:
- Addis Ababa (City)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: