Quick Summary
11-Days Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia: 11-Day is a 11 days tour in Ethiopia via the Ethiopia route, starting from USD 1958. Below you'll find the latest itinerary, inclusions & exclusions, and how to book.
11 days
Ethiopia
USD 1958
Kitano Tours & Safaris
ABOUT 11-Days Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia: 11-Day
Join us for an 11-day trip through Northern Ethiopia. Discover ancient rock-hewn churches, beautiful landscapes, and lively cultures. Visit the historic sites of Lalibela, enjoy the stunning views of the Simien Mountains, and learn about the rich history of Axum and Gondar. This adventure combines history, nature, and real local experiences for an unforgettable journey.
- Duration: 11 days
- Route: Ethiopia
- Starts at: USD 1958
Highlights for 11-Days Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia: 11-Day
Day 1: Fly addis abeba to bahirdar
Day 2: Drive from bahirdar to Gondar
Day 3: Drive from Gondar to the simien mountains National park
Day 4: Sankaber campsite to Chennek campsite
Day 5: Drive Simien Mountains to axum
Day 6: Sightseeing of axum
Day 7: Axum to Yeha and Debre Damo
Day 8: Gheralta and Tigray Rock-Hewn Churche
Day 9: Mekelle-addis abeba and lalibela connection flight
Day 10: Asheton Mariam and Yimrehane Kirstos
Day 11: Lalibela to addis abeba
Itinerary Overview
| Day | Title |
|---|---|
| Day 01 | Fly addis abeba to bahirdar |
| Day 02 | Drive from bahirdar to Gondar |
| Day 03 | Drive from Gondar to the simien mountains National park |
| Day 04 | Sankaber campsite to Chennek campsite |
| Day 05 | Drive Simien Mountains to axum |
| Day 06 | Sightseeing of axum |
| Day 07 | Axum to Yeha and Debre Damo |
| Day 08 | Gheralta and Tigray Rock-Hewn Churche |
| Day 09 | Mekelle-addis abeba and lalibela connection flight |
| Day 10 | Asheton Mariam and Yimrehane Kirstos |
| Day 11 | Lalibela to addis abeba |
Day 01: Fly addis abeba to bahirdar
>> Fly from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar in the morning. Embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, exploring the historic monasteries located on its shores and islands, such as Urakidanemirt, Azwa Mariam, and Entos. You can also see hippos and many bird species, as well as the stunning Blue Nile Falls. Overnight in Bahir Dar.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)
Day 02: Drive from bahirdar to Gondar
>> Drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, taking in the rural villages along the way, which provide insight into the Amhara culture and traditional agricultural practices. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Enclosure and other historical sites. Overnight in Gondar.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Day 03: Drive from Gondar to the simien mountains National park
>> Travel from Gondar to Sankaber, approximately 136 km away. You will stop in Debark town to get the permit, scout, cook, and other supplies. Stop at the park head office in Debark to register and meet your trekking team. Enjoy a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, situated at 3,250 meters. Overnight camping at Sankaber.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP
Day 04: Sankaber campsite to Chennek campsite
>> Today is an early morning (8 AM) departure to the Jinbar waterfall. From here, you will go for an easy trek to the Geech Abyss, where you will see a large waterfall where the Jinbar River plunges into the abyss. This area is also a great place for viewing the endemic Gelada baboon, also known as the bleeding heart baboon due to the red patch of skin. Afterward, drive to Aynamed and walk for 2 hours to Chennek campsite. Stay overnight at Chennek camp.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP
Day 05: Drive Simien Mountains to axum
>> Chennek to Axum: After breakfast, walk around Chennek along the edge of the scarpments. You might see Walia ibex, Ethiopian wolves, and Gelada baboons. Then, drive back to Debark and start your journey. After lunch in Adarky, continue your drive through the Tekeze Valley to Axum, the heart of the ancient Axumite Empire. Overnight in Axum.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 06: Sightseeing of axum
>> Dedicate this day to exploring Axum’s historical sites, including the famous obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Bath, King Bazen’s tomb, and the Queen of Sheba’s Palace. Also, visit St. Mary of Zion Church, a significant site in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Overnight in Axum.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 07: Axum to Yeha and Debre Damo
>> After breakfast, drive to the ruins of Yeha, believed to be the capital of ancient Ethiopian civilization and home to some of the oldest structures in the country. Explore the impressive temple complex and learn about its historical significance. Next, visit Debre Damo Monastery, a remarkable site perched on a cliff, accessible only to men who must climb a 15-meter rope to enter. This ancient monastery, known for its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere, offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich religious heritage. After a day of exploration, unwind and enjoy the stunning views at Gheralta Lodge in Hawzien, where you’ll spend the night.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)
Day 08: Gheralta and Tigray Rock-Hewn Churche
>> Explore the less-visited rock-hewn churches of Tigray, known for their stunning architecture and unique locations carved into cliffs. These ancient churches, such as Abreha we Atsbeha and Maryam Korkor, offer a peaceful atmosphere and fascinating history, often surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. After your exploration, drive to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray, where you can enjoy local cuisine and experience the city’s vibrant culture. From Mekelle, Spend the night in Mekelle, reflecting on your incredible journey through Ethiopia’s rich history and stunning scenery.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Planet Hotel Budget hotel located in Mekele (City)
Day 09: Mekelle-addis abeba and lalibela connection flight
>> Take a morning flight to Lalibela. Spend the day visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches, starting with the Northwestern Cluster (including Bet Medhane Alem and Bet Maryam). After lunch, continue to the Southeastern Cluster (including Bet Gabriel-Rufael). Overnight in Lalibela.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10: Asheton Mariam and Yimrehane Kirstos
>> Hike up to the Asheton Mariam Monastery, located on a scenic hill that offers breathtaking views of Lalibela and the surrounding landscape. This monastery, dating back to the 13th century, is a peaceful place where you can admire ancient manuscripts and beautiful frescoes.
Afterward, visit Yimrehane Kirstos Church, known for its unique architectural style that blends local traditions with rock-hewn techniques. This church, built into a cave, features stunning stonework and intricate carvings. As you explore, learn about its historical significance and the legends associated with it. Both sites provide a deep insight into Ethiopia’s rich Christian heritage and the remarkable artistry of its ancient churches.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11: Lalibela to addis abeba
>> Lalibela to Addis Ababa
Depending on the day, attend early morning church services if it coincides with a Saints Day. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
Inclusions
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
- Camping equipment
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
- All flights during the tour
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Sleeping bag
Exclusions
- International flights (From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Bath towels
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees