19-Day Ethiopia Adventure

19 Days

Overview

This journey takes you through Ethiopia’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and
diverse cultures, from the ancient wonders of Bahir Dar and Lalibela to the dramatic
landscapes of the Simien Mountains and Danakil Depression, ending with an
unforgettable cultural experience in the Omo Valley.

Trip Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arrival in Addis Ababa

Arrive in Addis Ababa and explore key landmarks like the National Museum, Holy Trinity
Cathedral, and Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market.

Day 2 :

Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar

Fly to Bahir Dar and take a boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting ancient island monasteries.
In the afternoon, drive to the Blue Nile Falls for a short hike and scenic views.

Day 3 :

Bahir Dar to Gondar

Drive to Gondar, Ethiopia’s former royal capital, and explore the UNESCO-listed Fasil
Ghebbi castle complex, Debre Berhan Selassie Church, and the ancient bath of
Emperor Fasilides.

Day 4 :

Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park

Drive to the Simien Mountains, home to stunning landscapes and unique wildlife like
Gelada baboons and Ethiopian wolves. Enjoy a light hike and overnight in the park.

Day 5 :

Full Day in the Simien Mountains

Spend the day hiking in the Simien Mountains, exploring breathtaking viewpoints such
as Imet Gogo and spotting diverse wildlife.

Day 6 :

Simien Mountains to Lalibela

Drive or fly to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual heart, known for its rock-hewn churches.

Day 7 :

Exploring Lalibela (First Group of Churches)

Visit the famous 11 rock-hewn churches, beginning with the first group, including Bet
Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, and Bet Meskel.

Day 8 :

Exploring Lalibela (Asheten Maryam & Second Group of Churches)

Take a morning hike to Asheten Maryam, a hilltop monastery offering panoramic views.
In the afternoon, explore the second group of churches, including Bet Gabriel-Rufael
and the iconic Bet Giyorgis.

Day 9 :

Lalibela to Semera

Drive to Semera, the gateway to the Danakil Depression.

Day 10 :

Mekele to Danakil Depression (Dallol & Salt Flats)

Drive to the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth. Explore Dallol’s
colorful sulfur springs, the salt flats, and traditional salt mining at Lake Karum

Day 11 :

Danakil Depression – Erta Ale Volcano Trek

Drive to Erta Ale, an active lava lake volcano. Trek overnight to the summit for a
mesmerizing view of the lava lake.

Day 12 :

Drive from Erta Ale to Mekele

Descend from Erta Ale and drive back to Mekele for a well-earned rest.

Day 13 :

Mekele to Arba Minch via Addis Ababa

Fly from Mekele to Addis Ababa, then take a connecting flight to Arba Minch, the
gateway to the Omo Valley.

Day 14 :

Arba Minch – Lake Chamo & Dorze Village

Take a boat safari on Lake Chamo, home to crocodiles and hippos. Visit the Dorze tribe,
famous for their beehive-shaped huts and weaving culture.

Day 15 :

Arba Minch to Turmi via Konso

Drive to Konso, a UNESCO-listed cultural site known for its terraced agriculture.
Continue to Turmi, home of the Hamer tribe, known for their bull-jumping ceremonies

Day 16 :

Turmi – Karo & Hamer Tribes

Visit the Karo people in Korcho village, overlooking the Omo River. Return to Turmi for
more cultural experiences, possibly witnessing the Evangadi dance.

Day 17 :

Turmi to Jinka – Dassanech Tribe

Travel to Omorate to visit the Dassanech tribe, crossing the Omo River by canoe.
Continue to Jinka for an overnight stay.

Day 18 :

Jinka – Mursi Tribe & Flight to Addis Ababa

Visit the Mursi tribe, famous for their lip plates, before flying back to Addis Ababa.

Day 19 :

Departure from Addis Ababa

Transfer to the airport for your international flight, concluding your Ethiopian adventure.