Historic North Ethiopia Tour: Lalibela, Gondar, Simien Mountains & Lake Tana – 5 Days
Tour Highlights
- Discover Addis Ababa – Visit the National Museum, home of the famous fossil “Lucy,” the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Africa’s largest open-air market, Merkato. Take in panoramic city views from Entoto Mountain.
- Explore Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn Churches – Marvel at the 12th-century UNESCO-listed churches carved entirely out of rock, considered the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
- Uncover Gondar’s Royal Legacy – Tour the historic Royal Enclosure, Fasilides’ Bath, and the beautifully frescoed Debre Berhan Selassie Church.
- Trek the Simien Mountains – Enjoy breathtaking scenery and a chance to spot rare endemic wildlife including Walia Ibex, Gelada baboons, and Klipspringers in one of Africa’s most dramatic mountain ranges.
- Experience Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls – Take a serene boat trip to island monasteries on Ethiopia’s largest lake, and witness the power of the Blue Nile Falls.
- Cultural Farewell in Addis Ababa – Conclude your journey with a traditional Ethiopian dinner, complete with live music and cultural dance performances.
Day 1: Addis Ababa and sightseeing
Arrive in Addis Ababa at Bole International Airport, where our staff will meet you at the exit gate holding a welcome sign with our company’s logo. You will then be transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a city tour, including:
- The National Museum of Ethiopia, one of the best-organized museums in sub-Saharan Africa, home to the famous fossil “Lucy.”
- Holy Trinity Cathedral, an important religious site and resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
- Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, offering an authentic local shopping experience.
- Entoto Mountain, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Addis Ababa from an altitude of 3,000 meters.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Addis Ababa.
Day 2: Transfer to airport for your flight to Lalibela
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lalibela, home to Ethiopia’s most remarkable rock-hewn churches. Spend the day exploring:
- The eleven monolithic rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the rock in the 12th century under King Lalibela.
- These UNESCO-listed churches are considered the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
Overnight stay at a hotel in Lalibela.
Day 3: Transfer to airport for your flight and Sightseeing in Gondar
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Gondar, Ethiopia’s medieval capital. Upon arrival, visit:
- The Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO-listed site featuring castles built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors.
- Fasilides’ Bath, a historical site still used for religious ceremonies.
- Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted ceilings and walls, showcasing Ethiopia’s finest religious art.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Gondar.
Day 4: Simien Mountain National park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Simien Mountains National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes, Afro-alpine vegetation, and unique wildlife. Here, you may spot:
- The endemic Walia Ibex, found only in the Simien Mountains.
- Gelada baboons, known for their striking red chests.
- Klipspringers and other rare wildlife.
After a full day of exploration, return to Gondar.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Gondar.
Day 5: Drive to Bahirdar & fly to Addis Ababa
In the morning, drive to Bahir Dar, a city on the shores of Lake Tana. Highlights include:
- A boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting ancient monasteries on the lake’s isolated islands.
- An afternoon drive to the Blue Nile Falls, located 35 km south of Bahir Dar, famous for its thundering cascades.
In the evening, take a flight back to Addis Ababa. Before departure, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with cultural music and dance.
Includes
Fees
Excludes
Flights
