Quick Summary
9-Day Ethiopia Historic Route Tour is a 9 days tour in Ethiopia via the Historic Route Tour route, starting from USD 1870. Below you'll find the latest itinerary, inclusions & exclusions, and how to book.
9 days
Historic Route Tour
USD 1870
Kitano Tours & Safaris
ABOUT 9-Day Ethiopia Historic Route Tour
Explore the wonders of Ethiopia on this 9-day tour, beginning in Addis Ababa with a city tour featuring the Entoto Mountains and National Museum. Fly to Bahir Dar to witness the stunning Tana Lake and its monasteries, then marvel at the Blue Nile Falls. Discover the historical treasures of Gondar, Axum, and Lalibela, known for its rock-hewn churches. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Simien Mountains and immerse yourself in local culture at Mercato, Africa’s largest market.
- Duration: 9 days
- Route: Historic Route Tour
- Starts at: USD 1870
Highlights for 9-Day Ethiopia Historic Route Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Day 2: Addis abeba -Bahirdar and Lake Tana
Day 3: Blue Nile Falls and Gonder
Day 4: Exploring Gonders Castles and Churches
Day 5: Journey to Axum
Day 6: Historical Sites of Axum
Day 7: Lalibela – The 8th Wonder of the World
Day 8: More Churches and Scenic Views
Day 9: Return to Addis Ababa and Departure
Itinerary Overview
| Day | Title |
|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrival in Addis Ababa |
| Day 02 | Addis abeba -Bahirdar and Lake Tana |
| Day 03 | Blue Nile Falls and Gonder |
| Day 04 | Exploring Gonders Castles and Churches |
| Day 05 | Journey to Axum |
| Day 06 | Historical Sites of Axum |
| Day 07 | Lalibela – The 8th Wonder of the World |
| Day 08 | More Churches and Scenic Views |
| Day 09 | Return to Addis Ababa and Departure |
Day 01: Arrival in Addis Ababa
>> Arrive in Addis Ababa via Ethiopian Airlines, where you'll be greeted by a friendly representative who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, enjoy an afternoon city tour of Ethiopia's vibrant capital. Begin with a visit to the Entoto Mountains, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views over the city. Continue to the National Museum, home to the famous fossilized remains of "Lucy," one of the oldest known hominids. Conclude your day with a visit to St. George’s Church, an architectural marvel and significant religious site.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Caravan Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)
Day 02: Addis abeba -Bahirdar and Lake Tana
>> After breakfast, fly to Bahirdar and transfer to your hotel for check-in. If time permits, visit Bezait, a scenic viewpoint offering stunning vistas of Lake Tana and the Blue Nile River. In the afternoon, embark on a boat trip on Lake Tana, lasting about 3-4 hours. This serene journey will take you to several beautiful monasteries located on the islands, where you can admire ancient religious art and learn about the rich history of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)
Day 03: Blue Nile Falls and Gonder
>> Start your day with a morning drive to the magnificent Blue Nile Falls, known locally as Tis Issat, where you can witness the power and beauty of nature. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Bahirdar before continuing your journey to Gonder, the historic city famous for its castles and churches. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Day 04: Exploring Gonders Castles and Churches
>> Dedicate the day to exploring Gonder’s remarkable heritage. Visit the castle compound, where you’ll see the impressive structures that once served as royal palaces. The highlight of the day will be the Debre Birhan Selassie Church, known for its stunning murals depicting biblical scenes. Explore the King Fasiladas Bath, an ancient pool associated with Ethiopian royalty, and the Empress Mentewab’s second palace. If time allows, take in the panoramic views of the spectacular Simien Mountains from various vantage points.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
- Accommodation: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)
Day 05: Journey to Axum
>> Drive to Axum, a city rich in history and often referred to as the cradle of Ethiopian civilization, with roots stretching back over 3,000 years. As you travel, enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Simien Mountains. Upon arrival in Axum, check in to your hotel and prepare for a fascinating exploration of the area’s archaeological treasures.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 06: Historical Sites of Axum
>> Spend a full day visiting the remarkable stelae, which are monumental obelisks that mark the graves of ancient kings. Explore various archaeological sites, including the palace and bath of the legendary Queen of Sheba, as well as the Tomb of Kings. Don’t miss the Church of St. Mary of Zion, where it is said the Ark of the Covenant is kept, brought from Israel by King Menelik I. This church is a cornerstone of Ethiopian heritage and spirituality.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 07: Lalibela – The 8th Wonder of the World
>> Fly to Lalibela, often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world due to its extraordinary rock-hewn churches. In the afternoon, visit the first group of these iconic churches, carved directly into the rock, showcasing incredible engineering and artistic achievement.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 08: More Churches and Scenic Views
>> Begin your day with a visit to one of the churches located outside the town. For a unique experience, consider an excursion by mule to the Asheten Mariam Church, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, you can visit the cave church of Naktule'ab by car. In the afternoon, explore the remaining churches in Lalibela, each with its own unique history and architectural style.
- Time: 8-10Hrs
- Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 09: Return to Addis Ababa and Departure
>> Fly back to Addis Ababa, enjoying the picturesque views from above. Upon arrival, visit the Mercato, the largest open-air market in Africa, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and shop for souvenirs. After a day filled with exploration, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure.
- 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)
- 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)
Exclusions
- International flights (From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- 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