Timeless Ethiopia: Culture, Nature & History

Journey to Southern Ethiopia

Upon arrival in Addis Ababa Airport, connect to your domestic flight to Jinka. 

Embark on a one-hour drive to Mago National Park, one of Africa’s vast wildernesses established in the 1960s, encompassing dense acacia forests and open savannah. Visit the village of the fascinating Mursi tribe, renowned for their body scarification and the large circular clay labrets worn by the women in their lower lips. We will then continue driving for approximately three hours to Turmi, where we will rest for the night.

Different Tribes of Ethiopia

Following an early breakfast, drive to Korcho village for a visit to the Karo tribes. They are regarded as masters in the art of body painting, in which they engage when preparing for a dance or celebration. 

Afterwards, visit the lively Key Afer Market, the largest outdoor market in Omo Valley, and wander amongst the Valley’s diverse ethnic groups, such as the Tsemai, Hamer, and Bena tribes that gather every Thursday. 

Return to Turmi and visit the village of the Hamer tribe, renowned for their Bull-jumping Ceremony, and enjoy a private Evangedi (moonlight) Dance performance. 

Transfer to Bahir Dar

This morning, we drive about 3 hours to Jinka Airport, and take domestic flights to Bahir Dar via Addis Ababa. Bahir Dar, the capital of the Amhara region, is situated on the shores of Lake Tana. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. 

Vivid Bahir Dar

Hop on the boat to explore Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, dotted with numerous islands hosting monasteries dating from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Visit the monastery of Ura Kidane Mihret on the Zeghe Peninsula, offering insight into the splendour of Ethiopia’s religious heritage. Later, immerse yourself in the vibrant colours, aromas, and cultural exchanges at the Bahir Dar Market.

Journey to Simien Mountains

Embark on a scenic drive (approximately 5h) to Simien Mountains National Park, with an enroute stopover at Kossoye Viewpoint, with an elevation of about 2,300m and magnificent views of the Simien Mountain range and its lower ridges and valleys. As you continue on the drive to Sankaber at around 3,200m, keep a lookout for Ethiopia’s endemic Gelada monkeys. 

Simien Mountains Exploration

After breakfast, we will set out to soak in the scenic views of the mountains and Jinbar Falls. Journey further to Chennek at 3,620m, where you may chance upon the endemic Walia Ibex, as well as Klipspringers and Bushbucks. 

Gondar, “The Camelot of Africa”

Depart from the Simien Mountains, and drive about 2.5 hours to Gondar, the first capital of the Ethiopian empire. Dating back to the 17th century, Gondar is renowned for its historical castles and churches. Visit the UNESCO-listed Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), home to the palace of Emperor Fasilidas, and Kuskuam to see the castle of Empress Mentewab. Proceed to Debre Birhan Selassie, or “Trinity at the Mount of Light,” a charming church renowned for its remarkable ceiling and wall murals.

Transfer to Lalibela 

Early this morning, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Lalibela.

Africa’s Petra: Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn Churches 

Known as Africa’s Petra, Lalibela and its medieval rock-hewn churches are arguably Africa’s top attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set among the rugged Lasta Mountains at an elevation of 2,630m. You will visit what has been dubbed the 8th wonder of the world: the churches of King Lalibela (A.D. 1180 to 1220). According to legend, the 11 monolithic churches, hand-carved directly from the stone of the earth, required 25,000 people and 24 years to complete. This afternoon, explore the north-west cluster of churches, including the isolated monolith of Bet Giyorgis (the Church of St. George).

Exploring Lalibela

This morning, we will drive approximately 2 hours to visit the ancient cave church of Yemrehanna Kristos, one of Ethiopia’s best-preserved late Axumite churches, built around the 12th century from stone and wood.

Return to town for lunch before visiting the second group of rock churches of King Lalibela to delve into their historical and religious significance. This south-east cluster of churches features more irregular designs than the north-western cluster. According to legend, Bet Abba Libanos was built overnight by Lalibela’s wife, Meskel Kebre, with the assistance of a group of angels.

Transfer to Addis Ababa

Transfer to Lalibela Airport for your domestic flight to Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, proceed to Meskel Square, the bustling town square where a variety of events and festivals are held, providing a vibrant snapshot of city life. For the history buffs, a visit to the Red Terror Martyrs’ Memorial Museum offers insight into Ethiopia’s recent tumultuous chapter.

Addis Ababa Discovery 

Embark on a full day exploration of Addis Ababa, starting with a scenic drive to the peak of Entoto Hills at 3,200m, where the Entoto Maryam Church offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city below. A must-visit in the capital city is the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the star attraction “Lucy,” the remains of a 3.2 million-year-old hominid.

Proceed to explore Mercato, a sprawling open-air marketplace, teeming with vibrant local life and offering a vast array of products, from livestock to spices to handicrafts and more.

Conclude your day with a farewell dinner, savoring the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, before transferring to Addis Ababa Airport for your onward flight.