Meeting Point

Addis Ababa, airport

Day 1 : Arrival in Addis Ababa

Welcome to Ethiopia! You'll arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel. You'll spend the day exploring the vibrant capital, visiting landmarks such as the National Museum, where you can see "Lucy," one of the oldest hominid fossils. You'll discover the bustling Mercato, one of Africa's largest markets, and enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine at a local restaurant

Day 2 :Addis Ababa to Danakil Depression

Semera and drive to Ragad (Asebo). You'll observe local salt miners at work, breaking salt from the ground and preparing it for transport. You'll continue to Dallol, known for its surreal landscapes formed by volcanic activity, including colorful salt flats and hot springs. You'll explore Lake Assal and witness the unique camel caravans. You'll engage with the Afar people and learn about their culture. Your overnight stay will be in Hamadella.

Day 3 :Dallol to Erta Ale

You'll depart early for Erta Ale, the "smoky mountain." This shield volcano features the world’s only permanent lava lake. The journey to Dodom is challenging, with stunning landscapes of solidified lava and occasional palm oases. You'll arrive at the Dodom campsite and prepare for an overnight stay at Erta Ale, enjoying the stunning views of the lava lake at sunset.

Day 4: Erta Ale to Mekele

Day 5: Mekelle to Gheralta

You'll explore the lesser-known rock-hewn churches of Tigray, including Mariam Korkor and Abune Yemata Guh. These churches, carved into mountainsides, showcase Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage. After a day of exploration, you will drive to Hawzen for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Hawzen to Axum

You'll visit the ancient ruins of Yeha, believed to be the capital of the ancient Aksumite Empire. You will explore the large temple ruins and learn about their historical significance. Next, you'll visit Debre Damo Monastery, perched on a cliff and accessible only by a 15-meter rope climb. You'll return to Axum for the night.

Day 7 :Exploring Axum

You'll dedicate the day to Axum’s historical treasures, including the famous obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Bath, and St. Mary of Zion Church, which is said to house the Ark of the Covenant. After a full day of exploration, you'll return to your accommodation in Axum

Day 8 Axum to Simien Mountains National Park

You'll drive through the scenic Tekeze Valley to Simien Mountains National Park. You'll stop at the park head office in Debark to register and meet your trekking team. You will enjoy a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, located at 3,250 meters above sea level, where you can appreciate breathtaking views of the Simien escarpment. Your overnight stay will be at Sankaber Camp.

Day 9: Trek from Sankaber Camp to Gich Camp

Day 10 :Trek from Gich to Chennek

You'll trek to Chennek (3,620m) via Imet Gogo, known for its spectacular views of the Simien escarpment. You'll observe endemic species like the Giant Lobelia, Gelada monkeys, and Walia ibex. Trekking time is around 9 hours, offering a truly immersive experience in nature.

Day 11 :Summit Ras Bwahit

You'll ascend Ethiopia’s second-highest peak, Ras Bwahit (4,430m), and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, where the majesty of the landscape unfolds before you. As you stand atop the peak, you'll take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking vistas and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching such heights. After soaking in the scenery, you'll return to Chennek Camp for an overnight stay, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventure amidst the serene mountain backdrop.

Day 12: Morning Trek and Transfer to Gondar

You'll take a morning trek around Chennek to soak in the last views of the Simien Mountains, capturing the stunning landscapes one final time. As you wander through the trails, listen to the sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air, creating lasting memories of this breathtaking region. In the afternoon, you'll transfer back to Gondar, where you can unwind and reflect on your incredible journey through the rugged beauty of Ethiopia.

Day 13 :Historical Gondar

You'll explore the historical city of Gondar, visiting the Royal Enclosure (Fasilidas' Castle), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Fasilidas Swimming Pool. You'll discover the Holy Trinity Church of Debre Birhan Selassie, renowned for its beautiful murals. Your overnight stay will be in Gondar.

Day 14 :Gondar to Bahir Dar

You'll drive to Bahir Dar, taking in the rural villages along the way. Upon arrival, you will embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting historic monasteries such as Urakidanemirt and Kibran Gebre-Mariam. You'll engage with the local community at the vibrant lakeside market.

Day 15 :Blue Nile Falls

You'll visit the stunning Blue Nile Falls, enjoying a scenic walk to view the falls' breathtaking beauty, where the thundering waters cascade dramatically into the river below. You'll take your time to explore the surrounding landscape, snapping photos and immersing yourself in the lush greenery that frames this natural wonder. Afterward, you will return to Gondar for an overnight stay, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day's adventures in this historic city.

Day 16 :Gondar to Lalibela

Early morning Drive Gondar to Lalibela in the morning and spend the day visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches, starting with the Northwestern Cluster. After lunch, you will explore the Southeastern Cluster, including Bet Gabriel-Rufael, where intricate carvings and spiritual history come alive. As you wander through these architectural marvels, you'll take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that went into their creation. Your overnight stay will be in Lalibela, allowing you to bask in the rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 17 :Lalibela to Addis Ababa

Depending on the day, you'll attend early morning church services if it coincides with a Saints' Day. After breakfast, you will drive to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy sightseeing in Addis Ababa, exploring cultural landmarks such as the Ethnological Museum and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Your overnight stay will be in Addis Ababa.

Ending Point

Addis Ababa