At South Ethiopia
Essence Ethiopia Tours
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2018)
- Tour Types:
- Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $56 to $561 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
PL
Email Mateusz | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
everything was great. the trip was organized at the highest level
everything was great. the trip was organized at the highest level. the trip plan was realized 100%. the organizer of the trip was very helpful. you could always count on him. he reacted quickly to problems, e.g. no hot water in the hotel - he immediately changed our hotel
PL
Email Lukas | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Danakil Depression Experience
I recently joined the 3-day tour to the Danakil Depression with Essence Ethiopia Tours, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The landscapes were absolutely surreal — from the vibrant sulfur springs of Dallol to the lava lake at Erta Ale, every day offered something unique and spectacular.
The tour was very well organized from start to finish. The logistics were seamless, and everything ran on time. Our drivers were excellent — skilled, friendly, and always helpful, even on the rough off-road sections. The vehicles were in good condition and surprisingly comfortable, considering the harsh terrain. The guides were knowledgeable and eager to share information about the geology, local culture, and history of the area.
One of the highlights was the chance to interact briefly with the Afar people and see how they extract salt in the traditional way. Sleeping under the stars in such a remote and alien landscape was also a one-of-a-kind experience.
However, travelers should be prepared for extremely basic camp conditions. There were no proper toilets, no running water, and no showers available at any of the campsites. Some shelter from the wind would have been appreciated, especially at Erta Ale where strong winds made the night rather uncomfortable. While this is understandable given the remoteness of the area, it’s important to set expectations accordingly.
Overall, I highly recommend this tour for adventurous travelers looking for a raw, otherworldly experience. Just make sure to pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and be ready to rough it a little — the payoff is absolutely worth it!
RO
Email Ioana | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very attentive organizer, very good itinerary.
Before arriving in Ethiopia I spoke with five companies, disappointed by the attitude and price offered. In the last few days I spoke with this organizer and he was very professional, fair price and complex route. Every day we had combined activities. I was with an 8-year-old boy and this was taken into account. The guide in Lalibela was the best I could have had. He is a priest who told us a lot of information about those places. We will definitely call on the same man when we return.
(automatic translation from Romanian)
IL
Email Etay | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
We had a great time.
We really enjoyed the tour!!! The monestery was beautiful and the view was incredible. After that we went and saw hippos which are just really lovely. Than we went to the hotel for the night and on the morning we went to the falls and they were very pretty.
SA
Email Maria | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Do not miss it
The overall trip was a great experience. The tour operator Tsehaynew, although he was not at tge trip, he well organized everything and was following up the group closely. He responded immediately to my text, questions, requests for info.
Tge lalibea tour guide, Wendy, he was unbelievable... he had knowledge of history and religion.
Addis, is not so interesting place. 2 days are enough. Danakil Depression is AMAZING place to visit.
National museum is closed due to renovation.
Note: Although you can pay with USDs or EURs, currently, exchanging currencies into USDs or EUR is not legal / ot allowed in Ethiopia, even in banks.
I recomend this tour operator
11 days well organized. All the guides (they changed from place to place) were professional and friendly. I felt very confortable traveling alone.
Etiopia is really very interesting place to see 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
AE
Email Svitlana | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Best tour in Ethiopia!
I would highly recommend this tour which combines all the most interesting destinations in Ethiopia. It was reliable and efficient from the beginning to the end! Big thanks to our guides which make this experience unforgettable in the best ways.
IN
Email Vivek | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Ethiopian Adventure
I recently had the most incredible experience on a tour arranged by Mr. Tsehaynew (Essence Ethiopia tours ) from 31-Mar-2025 to 02-Apr-2025. The entire journey was seamless, exciting, and deeply enriching. Our itinerary included some of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet—Ethiopia's hot springs, the Erta Ale volcano, and the Danakil Depression—each of which offered a unique adventure.
First, the hot water springs were a perfect blend of relaxation and wonder. Nestled in a remote area, the springs offered a peaceful escape, with natural pools surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The warm, mineral-rich waters were incredibly soothing, and the tranquility of the location made it feel like a hidden gem.
The Erta Ale volcano was a true highlight. The active lava lake was mesmerizing, and our guide provided excellent insight into the volcanic activity and the region's geology. The hike to the summit was challenging but rewarding, and witnessing the raw power of the volcano in person was something I will never forget.
Finally, the Danakil Depression was like stepping onto another planet. The landscape is otherworldly, with vast salt flats, vibrant mineral deposits, and incredible geothermal activity. It was truly humbling to see one of the hottest and most hostile places on Earth up close. The guide’s expertise was invaluable, providing us with the context and history of the region.
What truly stood out, though, was the attention to detail and exceptional service provided by “Mr. Tsehaynew”. The entire trip was carefully organized, from transportation to accommodations and every logistical detail in between. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the places we visited. Safety and comfort were always prioritized, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, I recommend Mr. Tsehaynew (Essence Ethiopia tours). They exceeded all expectations and created a memorable experience that I’ll cherish for years to come. Thank you for an unforgettable journey!
RU
Email Aleks | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Recommend!
I booked a tour to Danakill, it was good and interesting, one of the best attractions in Africa. Thanks Tsehaynew and team! In Essence tour you can also book transfers and accomodations, and it will be even cheaper if you will do it together 😁
IT
Email Andrea | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Reliable
The tour was well organized.
The guys were always up to par, helpful, kind and very professional. I recommend their services, Ethiopia is wonderful!