Overview

This program is designed to introduce you to Ethiopia’s remarkable history and breathtaking natural landscapes. Northern Ethiopia is especially renowned for its rich historical heritage, and this carefully crafted itinerary allows you to explore the country’s most iconic historical and cultural sites alongside outstanding natural attractions. On this journey, you will visit Bahir Dar and Lake Tana, Gondar and its royal castles, Lalibela and its eleven rock-hewn churches, the dramatic Simien Mountains National Park, and the fortified old city of Harar. In addition to major landmarks, the program includes rich cultural encounters that will delight and inspire you throughout your exploration.

Day 1: Arrival – Addis Ababa

Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, meet our team and transfer to your hotel. If time permits, visit the Ethnographic Museum, an excellent introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. Continue with a tour of Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. Overnight: Hotel Lobelia

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar

After breakfast, take a morning flight to Bahir Dar with Ethiopian Airlines. Enjoy a boat tour on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile and visit the ancient island monasteries scattered across the lake. Overnight: Jacaranda Hotel

Day 3: Bahir Dar – Gondar

In the morning, drive to visit the magnificent Blue Nile Falls. Return to Bahir Dar for lunch, then continue driving north to Gondar, stopping en route at the community village of Awra Amba. Overnight: Haile Hotel

Day 4: Gondar

Visit the remote ruins of Kuskuam, built for Empress Mentewab in the 18th century. After lunch, explore the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five castles built by successive Ethiopian kings starting in the early 17th century. Despite surviving wars and air raids during World War II, these castles stand as powerful symbols of Ethiopia’s historic empire. Continue to Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautiful religious artwork and iconic ceiling of painted angels. Overnight: Haile Hotel

Day 5: Gondar – Excursion to Simien Mountains National Park

Drive to Sankaber, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy light hiking in the afternoon and spot wildlife such as the endemic Gelada baboon, Menelik’s bushbuck, Ethiopian klipspringer, and other species. Return to Gondar in the evening. Overnight: Haile Hotel

Day 6: Gondar – Flight to Lalibela (Eight Wonders of the World)

After breakfast, fly to Lalibela with Ethiopian Airlines. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as the “New Jerusalem,” is internationally renowned for its rock-hewn churches, considered among the Eight Wonders of the World. After hotel check-in, begin exploring the Northwestern Cluster of churches: Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel and Bet Mikael & Bet Golgotha. Conclude the visit at the iconic Bet Giyorgis (St. George’s Church), a monolithic church carved in the shape of a cross and dedicated to Ethiopia’s patron saint. Overnight: Top Twelve Hotel

Day 7: Lalibela

After breakfast, drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a beautiful church built within a shallow cave and predating the Lalibela churches. The journey offers scenic views of the Ethiopian highlands and rural villages. In the afternoon, continue visiting the remaining churches of Lalibela. Overnight: Top Twelve Hotel

Day 8: Lalibela – Dire Dawa – Harar

Visit the remaining churches in Lalibela with a local guide, then transfer to Lalibela Airport. Fly to Dire Dawa via Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, drive to Harar, stopping at Awodai, Ethiopia’s largest khat market.

In the evening, witness the famous Hyena Man feeding hyenas outside the city walls—a unique cultural tradition. With courage, you may also participate. Overnight: ZM Hotel

Day 9: Harar City Tour

After breakfast, explore the ancient walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the vibrant Muslim and Christian markets known for spices, local museums, and traditional Harari houses within the historic city walls.

Overnight: ZM Hotel

Day 10: Dire Dawa – Addis Ababa – Departure

Fly back to Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines. Visit either the Ethnographic Museum or the National Museum, home of the 3.18-million-year-old fossil “Lucy.” Enjoy optional souvenir shopping in the afternoon. In the evening, attend a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring live music and cultural dances from different ethnic groups. Transfer to the airport for late-night departure if required.

Included

• All airport transfers and ground transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
• Domestic flights with Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar, Gondar – Lalibela, Lalibela – Dire Dawa, Dire Dawa – Addis Ababa)
• Accommodation in the listed hotels or similar, based on twin sharing
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• All entrance fees to historical sites, museums, churches, national parks, and monuments mentioned in the itinerary
• Boat trip on Lake Tana to visit island monasteries
• Guided visits in Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Gondar, Lalibela, Simien Mountains, and Harar
• Excursion to Simien Mountains National Park including park entrance fees
• Services of experienced, licensed local guides at all destinations
• Cultural experiences as outlined in the itinerary, including the Hyena Man experience in Harar
• Government taxes and service charges

 Excluded

• International flights to and from Ethiopia
• Visa fees and travel insurance
• Lunches and dinners not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, alcoholic drinks, and souvenirs
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
• Camera and video fees where applicable
• Any optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
• Expenses caused by flight delays, cancellations, or unforeseen circumstances
• Any services not clearly listed under Services Included