23-Day Grand Ethiopia Adventurenorth, South and Danakil

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

Addis Ababa City Tour

Discover the vibrant capital city of Addis Ababa, the political and cultural heart of Ethiopia. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to see the famous fossil remains of Lucy and fascinating archaeological treasures. Drive up to Entoto Hills for panoramic city views and historic churches. Explore the bustling Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. End the day with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and overnight stay in Addis Ababa.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Triple-E Hotel and Spa

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

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly Addis Ababa to Semera and Drive to Hamdella

Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, the gateway to the Afar Depression. Begin an adventurous drive through dramatic desert landscapes and volcanic terrain. Stop at Lake Afdera to admire its vast salt flats and geothermal scenery. Continue across the harsh yet beautiful Danakil Depression toward the remote settlement of Hamed Ela. Spend the night camping under the stars in one of the hottest places on Earth.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Lake Afdera, Dallol & Erta Ale Trek Start

Start the day with spectacular views over the shimmering waters of Lake Afdera. Continue to Dallol, famous for its colorful hydrothermal formations and mineral deposits. Explore the surreal landscape of salt terraces, sulfur springs, and vibrant geological features. After lunch, drive toward Erta Ale Volcano through a rugged volcanic desert. Begin the evening trek toward the volcano base camp for an unforgettable adventure.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

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

Erta Ale Volcano & Drive to Mekelle

Wake early to hike to the summit of Erta Ale and witness its active lava lake. Enjoy sunrise views over one of the world's most fascinating volcanic landscapes. Descend to the base camp and take time to rest before continuing the journey. Drive across dramatic desert scenery toward Mekelle. Arrive in Mekelle and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Mekele (City)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive to Axum via Hawzen

Travel through the scenic highlands of Tigray, passing spectacular cliffs and valleys. Stop in the Hawzen area to admire the region's unique landscapes and cultural heritage. Continue to the ancient city of Axum, once the capital of a powerful kingdom. Visit the famous Obelisk of Axum and other archaeological treasures. Overnight in Axum and experience the city's historic atmosphere.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Abuna Yemata Guh Church Visit

Journey to the remote mountains of Tigray to visit the remarkable Abuna Yemata Guh church. Climb steep rock faces and narrow ledges to reach this extraordinary cliffside sanctuary. Admire centuries-old frescoes preserved inside the church. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Return to your accommodation for a relaxing overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Hawzen (Town)

Accommodation:

Vision Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Wukro Churches & Fly to Addis Ababa

Explore the impressive rock-hewn churches around Wukro. Visit Abreha Atsbeha Church, one of Ethiopia’s most significant ancient churches. Learn about the history and traditions of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Spend the evening relaxing in the capital city.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Triple-E Hotel and Spa

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly to Bahir Dar from Addis Ababa and discover Lake Tana and the spectacular Blue Nile Falls

Catch a flight to Bahir Dar, located by Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. Take a boat ride to visit the beautiful monasteries on the islands of Lake Tana, and then head to the Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most famous natural attractions. The spectacular waterfall and its surrounding lush scenery are a perfect way to begin your journey through northern Ethiopia.

Main Destination:

Bahir Dar (City)

Accommodation:

Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar

• Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly Bahir Dar to Gondar and Visit Gondar Castles & Debre Birhan Selassie Church

Fly from Bahir Dar to Gondar, known for its medieval architecture and historical significance. Explore the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the impressive Gondar Castles, and visit the Debre Birhan Selassie Church, renowned for its beautiful ceiling murals. Discover Gondar’s rich history as you wander through the city’s ancient streets.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

AG Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive from Gondar to Simien Mountains Sankaber Trek

Travel to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin a scenic trek from Sankaber through dramatic escarpments and valleys. Observe large troops of gelada baboons grazing in their natural habitat. Enjoy spectacular views of rugged peaks and deep gorges. Overnight at a lodge or campsite within the park.

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

Gelada Monkey Abundant

Walia Ibex Occasional

Ethiopian Wolf Rare

Klipspringer Rare

Bushbuck Rare

Show more

Golden Jackal Rare

Hyena Rare

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

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

Chenek Trek & Return to Gondar

Continue trekking through the breathtaking landscapes of Simien Mountains National Park. Hike toward Chenek, one of the park’s most scenic viewpoints. Look for endemic wildlife including the rare Walia ibex and Ethiopian wolf. Enjoy unforgettable mountain panoramas and fresh highland air. Return to Gondar for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

AG Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

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

Fly Gondar to Lalibela Churches

Fly to Lalibela, renowned for its remarkable rock-hewn churches. Explore the first group of churches carved directly into solid rock. Discover interconnected passageways and underground tunnels. Learn about the religious and historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight in Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Mountain View Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Lalibela & Return to Addis Ababa

Continue exploring the remaining churches and sacred sites of Lalibela. Visit hidden chapels, underground passages, and remarkable architectural masterpieces. Gain insight into Ethiopia’s rich Orthodox Christian traditions. Fly back to Addis Ababa in the afternoon. Enjoy a traditional farewell dinner and cultural performance.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Triple-E Hotel and Spa

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive from Addis Ababa to Hawassa

Drive south through the scenic Great Rift Valley toward Hawassa. Stop at viewpoints overlooking lakes and volcanic landscapes. Observe daily life in rural villages along the route. Arrive in Hawassa and stroll along the shores of Lake Hawassa. Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay by the lake.

Main Destination:

Awasa (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Hawassa

• Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive from Hawassa to Arba Minch

Continue your journey through fertile valleys and picturesque countryside. Pass traditional villages and colorful local markets. Arrive in Arba Minch, known for its beautiful lakes and lush surroundings. Take in views of the surrounding highlands and Rift Valley landscapes. Overnight in Arba Minch.

Main Destination:

Arba Minch (City)

Accommodation:

Wubete Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Lake Chamo & Nechisar Area

Take a boat excursion on Lake Chamo to observe giant crocodiles and hippos. Explore wetlands rich in birdlife and natural beauty. Visit viewpoints overlooking Nechisar National Park. Learn about the park’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Return to Arba Minch for the night.

Main Destination:

Lake Chamo

Accommodation:

Wubete Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive from Konso & Turmi Cultural Journey

Visit the UNESCO-listed Konso Cultural Landscape and its terraced villages. Learn about the unique traditions and agricultural practices of the Konso people. Continue through scenic landscapes toward Turmi. Meet local communities and experience the cultural diversity of the Omo Valley. Overnight in Turmi.

Main Destination:

Konso (Cultural Village)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

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Meals & Drinks:

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

Karo & Hamar Tribes Experience

Visit Karo villages located along the banks of the Omo River. Learn about traditional body painting and cultural customs. Continue to meet the Hamar people and discover their pastoral lifestyle. Observe local ceremonies, crafts, and daily activities when available. Return to Turmi for an overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

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

Dassanech, Mursi & Return to Addis

Travel toward the Omo Delta to visit the Dassanech community. Continue to Mago National Park to meet the Mursi people. Learn about their unique traditions, cultural practices, and way of life. Return to Addis Ababa by flight or road depending on arrangements. Overnight in the capital.

Main Destination:

Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Triple-E Hotel and Spa

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Addis Ababa to Goba (Bale Mountains)

Journey southeast toward Goba, the gateway to the Bale Mountains. Enter Bale Mountains National Park and admire its stunning landscapes. Enjoy opportunities to spot endemic wildlife along the way. Take scenic stops for photography and nature observation. Overnight in Goba.

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:

Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive to Sanetti Plateau & Tullu Dimtu

Explore the spectacular Sanetti Plateau, one of Africa’s highest plateaus. Search for rare wildlife including the Ethiopian wolf. Hike toward Tullu Dimtu, Ethiopia’s second-highest peak. Enjoy breathtaking views of alpine landscapes and open grasslands. Return to Goba for overnight accommodation.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Drive To Harenna Forest Exploration

Descend into the lush Harenna Forest. Explore dense vegetation, waterfalls, and wild coffee forests. Look for unique wildlife species found only in this ecosystem. Learn about the ecological importance of one of Ethiopia’s largest forests. Return to your lodge for the final night in the Bale region.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba

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

Meals & Drinks:

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

Return to Addis Ababa

Travel back to Addis Ababa by road or domestic flight. Enjoy free time for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing before departure. Visit local craft markets to purchase souvenirs and handmade products. Reflect on your incredible journey through Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and landscapes. Transfer to the airport for your international departure or additional overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

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

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