Ethiopia Holiday to the Historical Highlights

Travel: 1 h, 30 km

Upon your arrival and completion of immigration, you will be warmly greeted by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel or lodge for a refreshing break. Depending on your arrival time, your guide will take you on a scenic tour of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant and dynamic capital. Visit the National Museum, where you can explore the cradle of mankind and view the famous 'Lucy' skeleton. For a peaceful retreat from the city, head to Entoto Mountain, surrounded by lush Eucalyptus forests, where you'll discover Mariyam Church and Menelik Palace, the former residence of the Emperors. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of one of the city's weekly markets. Your guide will work with you to customize an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Caravan Hotel or similar (check-in after 12pm), Addis Ababa

Travel: 4-5 h, 220 km

The journey to Debre Libanos takes you through the picturesque highlands north of Addis Ababa, offering a stunning view of Ethiopia's charming village landscapes. As you approach Debre Libanos, a breathtaking gorge, over 1,000 meters deep, suddenly opens before you. Take a moment to rest at the top of the gorge, where you can spot a variety of bird species. Next, enjoy a short, scenic hike (about 1 hour) that leads you across an old bridge, once used for trade purposes, to reach a terraced waterfall and caves where monkeys make their home.

In the afternoon, visit the sanctuary, where the renowned Debre Azbo monastery (later known as Debre Libanos) was founded in the 13th century. The monastery was destroyed in 1937 during the Italian occupation. Explore the octagonal church, adorned with the stunning glass paintings of Afework Tekle, the artist behind the windows of the Africa Hall in Addis Ababa. Also, visit the newly built museum, which showcases priceless art treasures from the monastery's history.

In the late afternoon, you will return to Addis Ababa, filled with memories of a day well spent in the heart of Ethiopia's rich heritage.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Caravan Hotel or similar, Addis Ababa

Flight time: 1 h

Travel: 1 h, 30 km

Hiking: 1 h, 2 km (difficulty: easy, altitude difference: ↑100m, ↓100m)

Take a domestic flight to the charming lake town of Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. Surrounded by lush tropical beauty, this serene setting is the perfect escape. Embark on a peaceful boat cruise, ideal for birdwatching, as you glide toward the Zeghe Peninsula. Here, hidden deep within the thickets of a coffee forest, you'll find ancient monasteries dating back over 700 years. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage before returning by boat to your lodge in town.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Shimela Lodge or similar, Bahir Dar

Travel: 2 h, 80 km

Hiking: 2-3 h, 4-5 km (difficulty: moderate, altitude difference: ↑150m, ↓150m)

Today you drive to Tis Issat just outside of Bahir Dar where the Blue Nile Falls are situated. Directly at the waterfalls you undertake a 2-3 hours hike and thus have the opportunity to experience the falls from different perspectives, cross over two bridges bridge (one being the historical Portuguese bridge), then the Blue Nile by boat and see sugar cane plantations. In the afternoon we reach a viewpoint where former emperor Haile Selassie built his summer residential palace.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Shimela Lodge or similar, Bahir Dar

Travel: 3-4 h, 200 km

This morning, embark on a scenic drive to the ancient capital of Gondar, with a unique stop at the Awura Amba Community Project. Home to around 500 people, this remarkable community has chosen to live in harmony, renouncing traditional beliefs to pursue collective happiness. During your visit, meet Zumra Nuru, the founder of Awura Amba, and explore the village’s key sites, including the old people's home, weaving mill, library, and school. Awura Amba, once struggling with poverty, has risen to a level of prosperity that has drawn both admiration and tension from neighboring communities. This thought-provoking stop will surely spark many questions and reflections. Continuing along the eastern shore of Lake Tana, you’ll journey through the Tara Gedam Mountains and lush forests before arriving in Gondar, often called the “Camelot of Ethiopia,” in the afternoon.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Inn of the Four Sisters or similar, Gondar

Gondar’s 17th-century castles, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a glimpse into Ethiopia’s royal past. Begin your exploration at the Royal Enclosure, home to five impressive palaces. Then, visit the Debre Birhan Selassie Church (Church of the Holy Trinity), where the interior is adorned with stunning 17th-century religious paintings. This church is widely considered one of the most beautiful in Ethiopia, with its vibrant frescoes and rich history.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Inn of the Four Sisters or similar, Gondar

Travel: 3-4 h, 130 km

Hiking: 1-2 h, 4k m (difficulty: easy/moderate, altitude difference: ↑100m, ↓150m)

This morning, continue your journey into the breathtaking Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established to protect rare and endemic wildlife, the park is home to the Walia Ibex, Ethiopian Wolf, Blood-breasted Baboons, and remarkable bird species like the Thick-billed Raven and Bearded Vulture. As you explore this stunning landscape, you’ll be surrounded by endless views, rugged cliffs, and dramatic vantage points. The Simien Mountains also boast Ethiopia’s highest peak, Ras Dashen, standing tall at 4,550 meters. On leisurely walks, you'll encounter the rare afro-alpine flora, including juniper, St. John’s Wort, heather, Kniepofia, tree heather species, and the Kosso tree. Enjoy an overnight stay in a cozy lodge nestled within the national park, immersed in nature's beauty.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Simien Lodge or similar, Simien Mountain National Park

Flight time: 1 h

Travel: 4-5h; 160 km

You will return back to Gondar for you domestic flight to the holy city of Lalibela (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Its 12th century eleven rock-hewn churches are truly mysterious as they are chiselled out of solid rock. Legends claim this miracle as the work of angels. You arrive at Lalibela town in the late afternoon for your check in at the hotel. On the way from the airport to town you will have the chance to enjoy views of the Lasta mountains and your guide will show you the Neakto Laab Church out of town which was build inside a cave where holy water drops down from the cliff. Its forest is also a beautiful spot to rest and do some bird watching.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Lalibela Lodge or similar, Lalibela

Today, immerse yourself in the heart of Ethiopia’s holy city. On a guided personal tour, you'll navigate the labyrinthine trenches and tunnels that lead to the extraordinary eleven rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Marvel at the architectural masterpieces of Beta Medane Alem (“Church of the World Saviour”) and Beta Gyorgis (“St. George Church”), among the largest and most impressive rock churches in Ethiopia. Equally captivating is Beta Mariam (“Church of St. Mary”), with its beautifully painted interior and intricate frescoes. Explore the southern cluster of churches, once an ancient fortress, where narrow, winding pathways lead to hidden gems. Spend the entire day uncovering the rich history and intricate details of these sacred sites before enjoying a sunset dinner with breathtaking views of the Lasta Mountains.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Lalibela Lodge or similar, Lalibela

Travel: 2h; 30 km

Hiking: 2-3 h, 8 km (difficulty: moderate, altitude difference: ↑300m, ↓400m)

Mount Asheton (3,300 meters above sea level) has stood majestically over the city of Lalibela throughout your stay. Today, you’ll get the chance to get closer to this stunning peak with a panoramic hike along its base, leading you to the nearby rock church of Asheton Mariam. Here, you’ll discover ancient parchments—800-year-old manuscripts written on goat skin. If you'd prefer a gentler experience, you can shorten the hike to just 30 minutes by using a vehicle that takes you nearly to the top, or stay in Lalibela to visit the local market or simply unwind in the peaceful garden of your hotel.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: Lalibela Lodge or similar, Lalibela

Flight time: 1 h

Travel: 1 h, 40 km

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, your driver will transfer you to Lalibela Airport in the late morning for your flight to Addis Ababa. If time permits before your departure, enjoy a visit to one of Addis Ababa's bustling markets or shops, where you can pick up unique souvenirs. To wrap up your trip, indulge in a traditional Ethiopian dinner, complete with vibrant music and dance performances. Your adventure concludes with a final farewell, depending on your flight schedule.

Meals: B/L/D

Accommodation: ---

• All (3) domestic flights in Ethiopia with Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa-Bahir Dar, Gondar-Lalibela, Lalibela-Addis Ababa), Note: If the international flight is with a carrier other than Ethiopian Airlines, there will be a supplement of US$ 240 for the domestic flights;
• All accommodations in double rooms with private toilet/shower in hotels or lodges (1x high-range, 9x mid-range);
• All transfers and travels in Ethiopia with private car (minivan & 4x4);
• Boat cruise on Lake Tana;
• Full board (1 drink per meal included, alcoholic drinks excluded);
• All entrance fees and permissions at tourist attractions, churches, museums and national parks;
• All persons for safety and security (when prescribed);
• All tips for meals;
• All (mandatory) Local guides in the single destinations;
• All Taxes and administrative fees;
• 24/7 Emergency assistance;
• Experienced SimienEcoTours Tour Guide (fluently in English & Amharic speaking), other language guide on request with surcharge.

• International flights;
• Travel insurance;
• Visa for Ethiopia (currently US$ 62);
• Alcoholic beverages;
• Tips;
• Photo and video fees (if applicable);
• All extras and personal expenses.