$1,760 to $1,870 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Departure from Gondar to Simien Mountains
Departure from Gondar to Simien Mountains
At approximately 7:30 AM, our vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Gondar. We will drive 100 km north to Debark, a small town near Simien National Park.
After completing the necessary formalities at the national park headquarters and collecting our cook and scouts, we will continue to the Sankaber area at an elevation of 3,100 m. Here, we will embark on a short acclimatization walk of 2-3 hours, allowing us to enjoy impressive views of the dramatic mountain range and observe local flora, including the Giant Heather Tree, St. John’s Wort, and Abissinian Wild Rose. This region is also home to a large population of Gelada Baboons.
Overnight, Sankaber Campsite (3,250 m).
- Main Destination:
- Simien Mountains National Park
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
Wildlife in Simien Mountains NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Jinbar Waterfall to Chennek Campsite
Jinbar Waterfall to Chennek Campsite
After an early breakfast, we will depart around 8:30 AM for a hike to Jinbar Waterfall. Hikers should carry only light daypacks with water, a camera, a light jacket, and personal items.
We will traverse the northern escarpment, descending to enjoy stunning views of the Jinbar Waterfall. The gorge is home to various bird species, including Griffon and Nubian Vultures, as well as the endemic Abissinian Catbird. Mammals such as Klipspringers and Menelik's Bushbucks may also be spotted.
Following our hike, we will drive 40 minutes to Aynameda before ascending the grasslands to Inatye (4,070 m) for a lunch break. Here, we will enjoy breathtaking views over the surrounding mountain villages.
After lunch, we will descend to our campsite at Chennek (3,620 m), known for its wildlife, including Gelada Baboons, Walia Ibex, and occasionally Ethiopian Wolves.
(5 to 6 hours total walking )
Accommodation:Chennek Campsite.
- Main Destination:
- Simien Mountains National Park
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Climb Ras Bwahit and Return to Gondar
Climb Ras Bwahit and Return to Gondar
We will begin our day early, departing from Chennek. Our hike will first take us up to Pass Bwahit (approximately 4,200 m), where we may encounter Walia Ibex. If fitness levels permit, we will continue to the peak of Ras Bwahit (4,430 m), one of the highest points in the region.
After descending back to Chennek, we will return to Debark via a rough road then 2 hours drive to Gondar.
Overnight Gondar.
- Main Destination:
- Simien Mountains National Park
- Accommodation:
-
Goha Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Gondar to Lalibela
Gondar to Lalibela
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to the town of Lalibela. Spend the day exploring the remarkable rock-hewn churches, including the iconic cross-shaped Church of St. George. The Lasta Region is home to over 200 churches, many hidden within enormous caves, but the 11 churches in Lalibela are particularly noteworthy for their exceptional craftsmanship and engineering. Often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, these churches were constructed during the reign of King Lalibela in the 12th and 13th centuries, when Lalibela (then known as Roha) served as the capital of the Zagwe dynasty.
- Main Destination:
- Lalibela (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Sora Lodge Lalibela
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Return to Addis Ababa and Fly to Mekelle
Return to Addis Ababa and Fly to Mekelle
After breakfast, continue your exploration of additional rock-hewn churches in Lalibela. Following your visit, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you will then take a connecting flight to Mekelle.
Upon arrival in Mekelle, you will be transferred to your designated location.
- Main Destination:
- Lalibela (Town)
- Accommodation:
- Planet Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Mekelle to Hamedela via Berhale
Mekelle to Hamedela via Berhale
Depart from Mekelle and drive to Hamedela, passing through the small town of Berhale. The Danakil Depression, known as one of the most inhospitable yet spectacular regions in the world, is characterized by its vibrant colors, particularly in the sulfur springs. This desert area includes regions that lie more than 100 meters (328 feet) below sea level.
During your journey, observe the long camel caravans as they travel to and from the salt mines, a testament to the unique culture of the region. After a 3-4 hour drive, you will arrive at Camp Hamedela, a village home to approximately 500 residents.
Enjoy the breathtaking sunset at Dallol before settling in for an overnight camping experience at Hamedela.
- Main Destination:
- Danakil Depression (Highlight)
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7
Morning Tour to Ragad (Asebo) and Return
Morning Tour to Ragad (Asebo) and Return
In the morning, visit the local salt mining areas where you can witness the traditional process of extracting salt from the ground, cutting it into rectangular pieces, and loading it onto camels.
Next, drive to Dallol to explore the extraordinary landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Dallol is located 120 meters (394 feet) below sea level, making it one of the lowest places on Earth.
Experience the vibrant salt mining operations, visit Lake Assal, follow camel caravans, and engage with the Afar people. After your explorations, drive back to Hamedela and continue your journey to Mekelle.
- Main Destination:
- Danakil Depression (Highlight)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
