29-Days Ethiopia Grand Tour: Culture...

>> You'll arrive at Bole International Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest. After lunch, you will enjoy a guided city tour of Addis Ababa, exploring key landmarks such as the National Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Bonanza Addis Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

>> Addis Ababa – Harar
You'll fly from Addis Ababa to Dire Dawa and then drive to Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. You'll explore the ancient 16th-century walled Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and colorful markets. You'll visit the house of French poet Arthur Rimbaud, where he lived in the late 19th century, and learn about his time in Harar and his influence on the city’s literary legacy. You will discover the unique blend of Islamic, African, and Christian cultures that makes Harar one of Ethiopia’s most fascinating cities.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Harar Ras Hotel Budget hotel located in Harar (Town)

>> You'll visit the lively Islamic market, the National Museum, and the Harari Museum. You'll explore the house of Ras Mekonnen, the father of Haile Selassie. In the evening, you'll experience the famous "Hyena Man" as he feeds hyenas outside the city in a unique tradition.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Harar Ras Hotel Budget hotel located in Harar (Town)

>> Harar – Arbaminch
You will drive back to Dire Dawa and then fly to Arbaminch via Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you'll check in at your hotel, have lunch, and visit Dorze village in the afternoon. You'll discover the traditional beehive-shaped houses, weaving techniques, and the unique lifestyle of the Dorze people.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Haile Resort Arba Minch Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

>> Arbaminch – Konso – Turmi
After breakfast, you will enjoy a boat ride on Lake Chamo, where you'll spot crocodiles, hippos, and birds. You will continue to Konso village, known for its terraced farming and wooden statues. You'll continue your journey to Turmi, stopping at the Arbore tribe village before checking in at your lodge in Turmi.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

>> Turmi – Dassench
You'll drive to Omorate to visit the Dassench tribe and take a boat ride on the Omo River. You'll return to Turmi for lunch, then visit the Hamar tribe, famous for their body painting and hairstyles. If possible, you'll witness a bull-jumping ceremony, followed by a traditional goat barbecue and dance performance.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

>> Turmi – Karo – Mursi
You'll drive to Murille to visit the Karo tribe and learn about their unique culture and traditions. You'll return to Turmi for lunch before exploring the local market, where the Ari, Tsemai, Hamar, and Benna tribes gather. You will continue your journey to Jinka for an overnight stay.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Jinka Resort Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

>> Mursi – Addis Ababa
You'll travel to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi, known for their distinctive clay lip plates, and Dunga, a traditional stick fight. You'll return to Jinka for lunch before flying back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you'll check in at your hotel for the night.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Harmony Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

>> Addis Ababa – Lalibela
You'll transfer to the airport for a flight to Lalibela and transfer to your hotel for check-in and lunch. In the afternoon, you will explore the first group of rock-hewn churches: Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, and Bet Mikael. In the evening, you will attend the Christmas Eve church service in Lalibela.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

>> Lalibela
You'll visit Yemrehanna Kristos Church in the morning, a 12th-century church built into a cave. After lunch, you will explore the second group of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, including Bet Gabriel & Rafael, Bet Emanuel, and Bet Abba Libanos. You'll end the day with a visit to St. George Church, known for its cross shape.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

>> Fly to Semera – Explore Afar Region
You'll fly to Semera, the capital of the Afar region, known for its unique landscapes, vast deserts, and striking volcanic terrains. You will explore the city’s fascinating culture and local attractions, offering a glimpse into the traditions and lifestyles of the Afar people. You'll visit surrounding areas for breathtaking views and insight into one of Ethiopia's most remote and intriguing regions. After your exploration, you will check in at your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping

>> Semera – Erta Ale
You'll drive to Erta Ale, one of Ethiopia’s most fascinating volcanoes, known for its permanent lava lake. After a short break at the campsite, you'll trek to the summit to witness dramatic lava activity. You'll return to the campsite for an unforgettable overnight stay under the stars.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping

>> Erta Ale – Danakil Depression
You'll explore the sulfur lake and visit traditional salt mining areas in the Danakil Depression. You'll join a caravan and experience the striking desert landscapes and sand driving. You'll visit Lake Afrera, where you can swim in its saltwater and enjoy a sunset over the salt flats. You'll camp under the stars for the night

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping

>> Danakil Depression – Mekele
You'll drive through the surreal landscapes of the Danakil Depression, stopping to explore the salt mountains, sulfur springs, and hot springs. You'll visit the Dallol volcanic area and Lake Assal before continuing your journey to Mekele, where you’ll stay overnight at a local hotel.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Planet Hotel Budget hotel located in Mekele (City)

>> Mekele – Hawzen
You'll drive from Mekele to Hawzen, enjoying scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, you will visit the semi-rock-hewn churches of Wukro Cherkos and Abraha Atsbeha, which showcase Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage and stunning architecture. You'll continue your journey through the picturesque countryside before reaching Dugum Sellase. You'll check in at your accommodation in Hawzen for a restful overnight stay, preparing for more adventures in this historic region.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

>> Hawzen – Abune Yemata
You'll embark on a challenging trek to the awe-inspiring Abune Yemata Guh church, perched high on a cliffside with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Along the way, you'll visit Mariam Korkur, Wukro Cherkos, and Daniel Korkur, remarkable churches carved into the rock. Abune Yemata Guh is famous for its beautifully preserved murals depicting biblical scenes, making it one of Ethiopia’s most remarkable sites. After soaking in the beauty and history of these ancient structures, you will return to Hawzen for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day's unforgettable experiences.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town)

>> Hawzen – Axum
You'll enjoy scenic views of the Gheralta Mountains before driving to Axum. You'll visit the ancient temple of Yeha, the oldest surviving structure in Ethiopia. You will explore Axum’s historical sites, including the Church of St. Mary of Zion, the Stelae Park, and the Tomb of Kaleb.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Consolar Hotel Aksum Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City)

>> Axum – Bahir Dar
In the morning, you'll continue exploring Axum's rich historical sites, the Church of St. Mary of Zion, and the Stelae Park. Afterward, you'll fly to Bahir Dar via Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy the serene atmosphere of this picturesque city by Lake Tana. You'll transfer to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, ready to explore the nearby Blue Nile Falls and ancient monasteries on the following day.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: Meals at own expense Drinks not included

•  Accommodation: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)

>> Bahir Dar – Blue Nile Falls
You'll take a boat ride on Lake Tana to visit its ancient monasteries, which are home to colorful frescoes. In the afternoon, you will head to the famous Blue Nile Falls, one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Africa, before returning to Bahir Dar for the night.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)

>> You'll drive to Gondar, a city renowned for its medieval castles and rich history. After arriving, you'll enjoy lunch before embarking on a guided tour of the Royal Enclosure, where you can explore the impressive Fasiladas' Castle. You'll learn about the fascinating history of Gondar, once the capital of Ethiopia, and its significance in the country’s royal heritage. You'll wander through the ancient walls, exploring the architectural marvels of the royal compounds and the stories they tell. After your tour, you'll check in at your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay, preparing for more adventures the next day.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

>> Gondar – Timkat Eve
You'll attend the Timkat (Epiphany) festival, beginning with the Ketera ceremony, where priests carry the Tabots (replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) to the Bath of Emperor Fasil. You'll participate in the grand processions and witness the spiritual rituals.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

>> Gondar – Timkat Ceremony
You'll start early and join the baptism ceremony at the Bath of Emperor Fasil, a major highlight of the Timkat festival. Later, you'll visit the famous Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its murals. You'll spend the day exploring the fascinating sites in Gondar.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

>> Gondar – Simien Mountains (Sankaber)
You'll drive to the Simien Mountains and begin your trek to Sankaber campsite, taking in breathtaking views of the lowland areas and the chance to encounter gelada baboons. You'll enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at the campsite surrounded by stunning countryside.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: Meals at own expense Drinks not included

•  Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP

>> Simien Mountains (Sankaber – Geech)
You will trek from Sankaber to Geech, passing through highland grasslands and forests. You'll visit the Jinbar Wenz waterfall and experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony in Geech village before spending the night at Geech campsite.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP

>> You'll hike to the panoramic viewpoints of Imet Gogo, Saha, and Kedadit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rugged Simien Mountains. You'll marvel at the dramatic landscapes, with deep valleys, towering cliffs, and expansive vistas. The hike provides an unforgettable experience of the Ethiopian Highlands' natural beauty. After a day of exploration, you'll return to Geech village for an overnight stay, reflecting on the stunning scenery and preparing for the next leg of your trek through the Simien Mountains. The tranquility of the surroundings makes it the perfect spot to unwind after an exhilarating day.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP

>> You will trek from Geech to Chenek, passing through stunning landscapes with panoramic views of the Simien Mountains. Along the way, keep an eye out for the rare Ethiopian wolf, a unique and endangered species native to the region. The hike takes you through rocky terrain and highland meadows, offering breathtaking vistas of valleys and cliffs. Chenek camp is an excellent place to rest, offering a tranquil environment surrounded by nature. You'll enjoy the evening at camp, reflecting on the day's adventure, and prepare for another exciting day of trekking through this extraordinary mountain range.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP

>> You will trek from Chenek to the summit of Mt. Bwahit, one of the highest peaks in the Simien Mountains. The trail takes you through rocky terrain and grassy slopes, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and rugged cliffs. On your ascent, you may encounter the elusive Walia ibex, a wild goat species native to these mountains. The summit provides panoramic views of the entire region, making it a rewarding climb. After reaching the top, you will return to Chenek for an overnight stay, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventure surrounded by the dramatic mountain scenery.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP

>> Chenek to Gondar
You'll trek back to Gondar, following a scenic route through the Simien Mountains. As you descend, you will enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain range, valleys, and cliffs. The area is rich in wildlife, so you may spot gelada baboons or the rare Ethiopian wolf along the way. Once you reach the town of Gondar, take some time to explore its historic sites. In the evening, you'll fly back to Addis Ababa. After arriving in Addis Ababa, you will drive to Lake Langano for a peaceful retreat. You'll unwind by the beach, surrounded by natural beauty, and relax after an adventurous trek.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: Hara Langano Eco Lodge Mid-range lodge located at Lake Langano

>> Lake Langano to Addis Ababa
You'll relax by the lake in the morning, then visit Abijata and Shala National Park to spot flamingos and other wildlife. Afterward, you will drive to Addis Ababa, enjoy a farewell dinner, and transfer to the airport for your departure.

End of tour.

• Time: 8-10Hrs
• Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

•  Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)