Inclusions
- Return International Flights
- Daily breakfast throughout the tour
- 2 nights accommodation in Addis Ababa
- 2 nights accommodation in Axum
- 2 nights accommodation in Bahir Dar
- 2 nights accommodation in Simien Mountains
- 1 night accommodation in Gondar
- 2 nights accommodation in Lalibela
- Transportation: All ground transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver
- Airport Transfers: Meet-and-greet services and all arrival and departure airport transfers
- Domestic Flights: Addis Ababa ✈ Axum ✈ Bahir Dar (via Addis Ababa), Gondar ✈ Lalibela
- Sightseeing: Guided sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary
- Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to monuments, museums, churches, monasteries, and national parks mentioned
- Lake Tana Boat Excursion: Cruise to island monasteries including Azuwa Maryam and Ura Kidane Mehret
- Simien Mountains National Park: Entry permits and guided exploration
- Professional Guides: Services of experienced, English-speaking local guides throughout the tour
- Cultural Experiences: Traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, Local market visits and cultural interactions
- Government Taxes: All applicable local taxes and service charges
You'll Love
- Standing before Lucy, one of the oldest human ancestors ever discovered
- Exploring Axum’s towering stelae and the legendary Church of St. Mary of Zion
- Cruising Lake Tana to hidden island monasteries rich in art and folklore
- Witnessing the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains National Park
- Spotting endemic wildlife like Gelada baboons and Walia ibex
- Walking among the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches of Lalibela
- Experiencing a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a true symbol of hospitality
- Tasting authentic Ethiopian cuisine and engaging with welcoming local communities
Overview
Discover the soul of Ethiopia on this immersive 13-day journey through one of Africa’s oldest civilizations and most dramatic landscapes. From the energetic streets of Addis Ababa to the sacred cities of Axum and Lalibela, this tour reveals a country where ancient history, living faith, and natural beauty intertwine seamlessly. Travel through regions that shaped early human history, powerful empires, and enduring religious traditions, gaining deep insight into Ethiopia’s unique cultural identity.
The journey combines Ethiopia’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites with unforgettable scenic experiences. Explore the towering stelae of Axum, cruise across Lake Tana to centuries-old island monasteries, and stand in awe before the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela—often described as the eighth wonder of the world. In the Simien Mountains National Park, witness breathtaking highland scenery and encounter endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons and the rare Walia ibex.
Balanced between guided exploration and cultural immersion, this tour also offers authentic local encounters, from bustling markets and traditional villages to an intimate Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Designed at a comfortable pace with domestic flights and quality accommodations, this itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful blend of history, spirituality, culture, and nature in the remarkable land known as the Cradle of Humankind.
When/Date
Itinerary
Arrive in Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, Addis Ababa, where you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your accommodation with sightseeing along the way. After settling in, begin your introduction to the country with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the world-famous fossil “Lucy,” one of the oldest known hominid remains dating back over 3.2 million years. Continue to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, built in 1945 and admired for its impressive architecture and striking stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes. Later, experience the lively atmosphere of Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market, where locals trade everything from spices and handicrafts to livestock, offering a fascinating glimpse into everyday Ethiopian life.
Today is dedicated to an in-depth exploration of Addis Ababa. Drive to the scenic Entoto Hills, rising to about 3,200 metres, where Entoto Maryam Church stands and panoramic views of the sprawling city unfold below. Continue to the National Palace, constructed in the 1950s to commemorate Emperor Haile Selassie’s Silver Jubilee. Explore its grand halls, historical rooms, galleries, and museums adorned with fine artworks, antique furniture, and royal memorabilia that vividly recount Ethiopia’s imperial past. The remainder of the day allows time to further absorb the rhythm of the capital before returning to your hotel.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Axum, one of Ethiopia’s most historically significant cities. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation with sightseeing en route. Once the capital of the powerful Axumite Empire, Axum was a major trading hub in antiquity. Visit the tombs of Kings Kaleb and Gebre Meskel, pass by Mai Shum, and see the legendary King Ezana’s Stone. Marvel at the remarkable Axum stelae, the tallest monoliths in the world, carved from single pieces of stone. The day concludes with a visit to the revered Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant and regarded as the oldest church in Africa.
Today, journey to Yeha, believed to have been the pre-Axumite capital of Ethiopia. Visit the impressive Temple of Yeha, one of the oldest standing structures in sub-Saharan Africa, dating back over 2,500 years and dedicated to the moon god Almaqah. The finely cut stonework reflects the advanced architectural skills of ancient civilizations. Nearby, explore the church dedicated to Abba Aftse, one of the Nine Saints who played a crucial role in spreading Christianity throughout Ethiopia. Return to Axum for an overnight stay.
Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bahir Dar via Addis Ababa. On arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation with sightseeing along the way. Enjoy a scenic viewpoint from Bezawit Hill overlooking Lake Tana and the surrounding landscape. Later, visit the bustling Bahir Dar Agelgil Market, where you can mingle with locals and observe daily life as traders sell fresh produce, spices, and traditional goods.
This morning, travel to the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the Nile River system. If weather conditions permit, enjoy a walk to the base of the falls and meet local villagers, gaining insight into traditional cotton-spinning practices over a short coffee break. Later, embark on a boat cruise across Lake Tana to explore its island monasteries. Visit Azuwa Maryam Monastery and the vividly painted Ura Kidane Mehret, renowned for their vibrant frescoes illustrating Ethiopian folklore and Christian stories. Continue to the monastery museums, including the Zege Satekela Museum, showcasing traditional tools and musical instruments, before returning to Bahir Dar.
After breakfast, depart by road for the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its dramatic escarpments and deep valleys. The scenic drive of approximately 5.5 hours winds through highland landscapes and rural villages before reaching your lodge in the mountains, where you can relax and enjoy the cool alpine atmosphere.
Today is devoted to exploring the breathtaking Simien Mountains. Set out to admire sweeping mountain vistas and the impressive Jinbar Falls. Continue towards Chennek at an altitude of about 3,620 metres, an excellent area for wildlife viewing. Here, you may encounter endemic species such as the rare Walia Ibex, along with Klipspringers and Bushbucks, all set against a backdrop of rugged peaks and dramatic cliffs.
Begin the day with a visit to Sankaber, situated at approximately 3,200 metres, offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Ethiopia. Keep watch for the famous Gelada baboons, often seen grazing in large groups. If desired, take a short walk across uneven terrain to a nearby waterfall. After further exploration, depart the Simien Mountains and travel approximately 2.5 hours to Gondar, where you will check in to your hotel and rest for the night.
Explore Gondar, Ethiopia’s imperial capital during the 17th century and often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa.” Visit the UNESCO-listed Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), featuring castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilidas and his successors. Continue to Kuskuam, the palace complex of Empress Mentewab, before visiting the beautiful Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famed for its angel-covered ceiling and vibrant wall murals. If time allows, visit a nearby museum showcasing illustrated manuscripts or explore local markets and craft shops. In the evening, you may sample traditional Ethiopian cuisine accompanied by live music and dance performances.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Lalibela. On arrival, proceed to your accommodation with sightseeing along the way. Known as “Africa’s Petra,” Lalibela is set high in the rugged Lasta Mountains and is home to a remarkable complex of 11 rock-hewn churches carved directly into solid stone during the reign of King Lalibela in the 12th century. Begin exploring the north-western cluster of churches, including Bet Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic church in the world, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, and Bet Golgotha. Visit the iconic Bet Giyorgis (Church of St. George), carved in the shape of a perfect cross. End the day with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a meaningful cultural experience symbolizing friendship and respect.
Continue your exploration of Lalibela with a visit to the cave church of Yemrehanna Kristos, one of Ethiopia’s best-preserved late Axumite churches built of stone and wood in the 12th century. Later, explore the south-eastern cluster of Lalibela’s churches, known for their irregular and interconnected design. These include Bet Abba Libanos, Bet Gebriel-Rafael, Bet Emanuel, Bet Mercurios, and Bet Lehem, each rich in legend and spiritual significance. Time permitting, visit local markets and participate in a cooking experience to learn how to prepare injera, Ethiopia’s traditional flatbread.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lalibela Airport in time to connect with your international flight home, bringing your unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and living traditions to a close.
