Explore the Danakil Depression including ErtaAle and Tigray mountain churches " Abune Yemata Guh and Mariam Korkor. Join our 4-day tour combining the Danakil Depression with the ancient rock-hewn churches of the Tigray Mountains. This journey offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and historical exploration, creating a unique and unforgettable experience in Ethiopia.
We always provide airport pickups for clients arriving at Semera airport. Additionally, for clients already in Semera, we offer pickups from their specified location upon request.
At 8:00 AM, our guide and driver will pick you up from Semera Airport and take you for a short coffee and juice break in town. Semera serves as the capital of the Afar Regional State. Shortly after the coffee break, you will embark on a leisurely drive to Afdera.
Afdera serves as a prominent hub for salt production and distribution. It is situated at an impressive depth of -102 meters below sea level, making it one of the lowest points in the Danakil Depression. After enjoying lunch in this town, we will glimpse the nearby salt lake before indulging in a swim and float in its saline waters. Following this refreshing experience, we will proceed to visit the renowned Erta Ale volcano.
From Lake Afdera we will continue with a relaxed and leisurely drive to Erta Ale Volcano. You will arrive at the base camp around 6:00 p.m. From there, you will embark on a 30-minute hike to the rim of the Erta Ale volcano. After ample time exploring Erta Ale, one of the few active lava lakes in the world, we will set up camp near the rim to capture stunning sunrise photos.
Starting at 8:30 AM, you will depart from the base camp at Erta Ale. Along the way, you will see the magnificent and majestic Borele Ale Stratovolcano Mountain ranges in the distance and take a lunch break in the wilderness, surrounded by volcanic formations and sandy desert. it is 90km drive but 5 hours long.
By 4:00 PM, you will arrive in Hamedela, a small town founded by salt miners. and once we unload the camping gear and our cook in this village we will continue to Lake Asale Salt flats.
You will experience a stunning sunset at Lake Asale (Lake Karum), where the serene waters and unique salt flats create a breathtaking and unforgettable view. Witness the magnificent scene of camel caravans transporting salt to Ahmedela town, where they will spend the night before continuing to Mekele. At Lake Asale, our tour will host a small party, and shortly before sunset, we will drive back to Ahmedela for dinner and camping.
Dallol is one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth, situated 130 meters below sea level. It is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and vibrant mineral deposits.
The salt canyons west of Mount Dallol are characterized by bizarre towers and pinnacles, creating a unique and surreal landscape.
Bubbling springs of hypersaline water dot the landscape near Dallol, their striking black color likely attributed to dissolved potassium salts.
This saline pond is characterized by its turquoise color, a result of the minerals dissolved in the water. The pond's high temperature and salinity create a challenging environment for life, yet it supports extremophiles adapted to such harsh conditions.
Assa Ale is a vast salt flat situated 130 meters below sea level. Here, you'll witness timeless camel caravans crossing the desert to transport salt bricks made from Lake Asale. You will explore the Lake Asale salt flats and observe traditional salt excavation methods, offering a firsthand glimpse into the enduring practices of the local communities in this remarkable landscape.
After a day of breathtaking natural wonders and cultural encounters, we'll drive back to Mekele. You will arrive in Mekele around 4:30 PM and you will be transferred to a hotel of your choice.
Abuna Yemata Guh is an extraordinary church located in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia. Known for its dramatic location and remarkable history, it’s one of the most unique and adventurous destinations for travelers interested in history, religion, and trekking.
Mariam Korkor is another remarkable rock-hewn church located in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia. It is part of a group of ancient churches carved into the mountains of the Gheralta range, known for their historical significance and stunning landscapes. Mariam Korkor, along with Daniel Korkor, is among the most famous of the Gheralta churches. These churches are known for their impressive architecture, beautiful frescoes, and the adventurous hikes required to reach them. Mariam Korkor dates back to the 6th or 7th century and is named after the Virgin Mary. Late Afternoon we will drive back to Mekele airport at 6pm you will arrive at the airport.
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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