14-Day Northern Part of Ethiopia Including Abune Yemata
Overview
Tour Overview
Ethiopia Safari: Embark on a 14-day adventure through Ethiopia’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders. Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the
Day by Day
Itinerary
Addis Ababa city tour
Day 1Addis Ababa city tour Addis Ababa city tour Arrive in Addis Ababa and begin your city tour, visiting the National Museum to see the famous "Lucy" fossil and exploring the Holy Trinity Cathedral. You’ll also get a chance to experience the vibrant Merkato, one of the largest outdoor markets in Africa. The day will end with a relaxing visit to Mount Entoto for panoramic views of the city. Overnight Capital hotel and Spa. Main Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Accommodation: Capital Hotel & Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) +6 Photos +5 Photos Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Fly Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
Day 2Fly Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar Fly Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar Fly to Bahir Dar and take a boat ride on Lake Tana to visit the ancient monasteries on its islands, including the 14th-century Ura Kidane Meheret Monastery. In the afternoon, travel to the nearby Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular natural wonders. Enjoy the stunning views and have the chance to hike along the falls for a closer look at the cascading waters. Overnight Jacaranda Hotel. Main Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Accommodation: Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) +3 Photos Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Fly to Gondar
Day 3Fly to Gondar Fly to Gondar Fly to Gondar and begin exploring the Royal Enclosure, home to the iconic castles of the Ethiopian kings, including the 17th-century Fasilides Castle. Visit the nearby Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its colorful ceiling murals depicting biblical scenes. Wander through the Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about Gondar’s historical significance. Overnight Haile resort. Main Destination: Gondar (City) Accommodation: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) +4 Photos +3 Photos Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive from Gondar to Cheneck Camp
Day 4Drive from Gondar to Cheneck Camp Drive from Gondar to Cheneck Camp Drive from Gondar to Cheneck Camp in the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes. Once you arrive, enjoy a hike through the highlands, where you’ll have the chance to spot rare Gelada baboons in their natural habitat. The breathtaking mountain views and diverse wildlife will make this an unforgettable day. Overnight Camping. Main Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Best Time To Visit September to December (Beautiful scenery) High Season October to April (Lodges are busy) Best Weather October to April Wildlife in Simien Mountains NP Gelada Monkey Abundant Walia Ibex Occasional Ethiopian Wolf Rare Klipspringer Rare Bushbuck Rare Show more Golden Jackal Rare Hyena Rare Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals & Drinks: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to Jinbar River
Day 5Drive to Jinbar River Drive to Jinbar River Continue your exploration of the Simien Mountains, visiting the Walia Ibex, an endangered species endemic to the region, and the picturesque Jinbar River. Enjoy a scenic trek through the rugged terrain, taking in the sweeping views of the mountain ranges. The area is a haven for photographers, with plenty of opportunities to capture the unique wildlife and landscapes. Overnight camping. Main Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Accommodation: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals & Drinks: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Back to Gondar
Day 6Back to Gondar Back to Gondar Drive from Debark back to Gondar, where you can relax and enjoy the city’s rich historical and cultural offerings. Spend the day at leisure, perhaps visiting additional sites like the Gondar Market or taking a walk through the city's charming streets. Enjoy a leisurely evening with delicious local Ethiopian cuisine. Overnight Haile resort. Main Destination: Gondar (City) Accommodation: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Fly Gondar to Lalibela
Day 7Fly Gondar to Lalibela Fly Gondar to Lalibela Fly to Lalibela and dive into the wonder of the rock-hewn churches, starting with the First and Second Groups, which include the famous Church of St. George. Marvel at the intricate carvings and the fact that these structures were carved from solid rock over 800 years ago. Learn about the history and significance of these churches as you explore one of Ethiopia’s holiest sites. Mountain view Hotel. Main Destination: Lalibela (Town) Accommodation: Mountain View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Visit 3rd Group and fly back to Addis Ababa
Day 8Visit 3rd Group and fly back to Addis Ababa Visit 3rd Group and fly back to Addis Ababa In the morning, visit the Third Group of churches in Lalibela, including the lesser-known but equally stunning Bet Abba Libanos. Afterward, fly back to Addis Ababa, where you can spend the afternoon at leisure. Whether exploring the local shops or simply relaxing, enjoy your last evening in the capital before your next adventure. Capital hotel and Spa. Main Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Accommodation: Capital Hotel & Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Fly Addis Ababa to Semera
Day 9Fly Addis Ababa to Semera Fly Addis Ababa to Semera Fly to Semera and begin your journey into the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most arid places on earth. Visit the Hamedella villages, where you’ll meet the Afar people and learn about their traditional nomadic lifestyle. Then, head to Lake Asale, a saline lake surrounded by salt flats, where you’ll witness salt mining activities. Overnight Camping. Main Destination: Hamad Ela (Village) Accommodation: Budget camping Meals & Drinks: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to Dallol
Day 10Drive to Dallol Drive to Dallol Today, visit the active Erta Ale Volcano, known for its bubbling lava lake, one of the few in the world. Trek across the harsh desert terrain to reach the volcano’s summit, and marvel at the otherworldly landscape as you stand near the flowing lava. This volcanic experience offers an unforgettable view into the heart of Ethiopia’s geological wonders. Overnight Camping. Main Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Accommodation: Budget camping Meals & Drinks: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to Mekele
Day 11Drive to Mekele Drive to Mekele Explore the surreal Dallol area, famous for its colorful hot springs, salt formations, and volcanic craters. The landscape here is unlike anywhere else, with vibrant colors contrasting against the barren desert. Afterward, drive to Mekelle, where you can relax and enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere. Overnight Planet Hotel. Main Destination: Mekele (City) Accommodation: Planet Hotel Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) +5 Photos +4 Photos Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive Hawzen to Abune Yemata
Day 12Drive Hawzen to Abune Yemata Drive Hawzen to Abune Yemata Drive from Hawzen to the cliffside church of Abune Yemata, one of the most impressive rock-hewn churches in the Tigray region. A challenging hike will reward you with incredible views and the chance to see ancient murals inside the church, which is carved into the face of a mountain. Learn about the history and significance of this remote pilgrimage site. Overnight Vision Hotel. Main Destination: Hawzen (Town) Accommodation: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Explore Axum
Day 13Explore Axum Explore Axum Drive from Hawzen to Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Kingdom and home to remarkable archaeological sites. Visit the stelae fields, where towering obelisks mark the graves of ancient kings, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, said to house the Ark of the Covenant. Axum’s rich history and spiritual significance make it a highlight of your Ethiopian journey. Overnight Sabean international hotel. Main Destination: Axum (City) Accommodation: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Fly Axum to Addis Ababa
Day 14Fly Axum to Addis Ababa Fly Axum to Addis Ababa Fly from Axum back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of your incredible Ethiopian adventure. You’ll have time to relax or shop for souvenirs in Addis before your flight home. Reflect on the many unforgettable experiences from your 14-day journey through Ethiopia’s stunning landscapes, history, and culture. Main Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals & Drinks: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included) End of tour (See Getting There for more details)End of tour (See Getting There for more details) Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport. Interested in This Tour? Request a Quote We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators (Learn why) Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly Next: Overview Next: Day by Day Next: Rates Next: Inclusions Next: Getting There Next: Offered By Best price guarantee Your request will be sent directly to the operator If preferred, you can contact the operator directly Next: Request a Quote Request a Quote Disclaimer This tour is offered by Ethio Top Land Tours, not SafariBookings. This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings. If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change. Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour
What's covered
Included & Excluded
Included
- A transfer from and back to the airport is included
- What is included in this tour
Not Included
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
What travellers say
Verified Reviews
I want to say a big thank you to Ethio Top Land Tours for our tour to the Danakil Depression. We had an accident during the tour, and from my experience traveling to 100 countries, operators can react very differently in such situations....
Good communication, very good service, knowledgeable guide
We (me and my girlfriend) can only say that we had the best experience. Our expectations were surpassed. Our guide tours were taking care of us every minute, and so gentle all the time, they took care of every detail to make sure our...
The tour itself is excellent. It worth the money.Tour guides and drivers are experience,and helpful. I have nothing to complain.
Trip was great and very enjoyable, and food was good too. We are very happy with the tour guide Eshetu in this journey too, thank you for his attentive service and professional attitude. 👍👍👍
Frequently Asked Questions