Northern Ethiopia 12 Day Cultural Historical and Nature Tour

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12 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 10 more

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Northern Ethiopia on this immersive 12-day tour. Start in Addis Ababa, visit the National Museum and Ethnological Museum, then fly to Bahir Dar for a boat trip on Lake Tana. Experience the majestic Blue Nile Falls and the royal heritage of Gondar including Fasil Ghebbi. Trek through the breathtaking Simien Mountains, explore the UNESCO-listed Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches, and uncover ancient wonders in Axum. This journey is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and cultural explorers alike, with knowledgeable local guides enhancing your experience.

- 12 days of guided exploration through Ethiopia's historic route
- Visit UNESCO sites including Lalibela and the Axum Obelisks
- Engage with diverse cultures and natural beauty in Simien Mountains
- Includes accommodations, transport, and local guide fees, with optional activities available

What's Included

Private transportation
Locker
Entrance fee
Landing and facility fees
Accomodation
Fuel surcharge
Meals
Domestic flights

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

The driver or guide will meet guests at the confirmed meeting point or pick-up location specified in their booking. For airport pick-ups, the driver or guide will wait in the arrivals hall holding a sign displaying the lead traveler's name, making them easy to identify.

For hotel pick-ups, our driver or guide will meet guests at the hotel entrance or reception area at the scheduled pick-up time. Guests will receive the necessary pick-up details in advance.

We will also provide the contact information and remain available to assist guests if they have difficulty locating their driver or guide.

OR
Meeting point
Bole Addis Ababa International Airport

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport: After collecting their luggage and completing any arrival formalities, travelers should proceed to the arrivals exit of their terminal. The representative will meet them outside the exit, holding a sign displaying the lead traveler’s name.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 12 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    National Museum of Ethiopia

    3 stops
  • 1
    National Museum of Ethiopia

    Visit one of Africa's most important museums and discover the famous fossil Lucy (Dinkinesh), along with archaeological treasures, historical artifacts, and exhibits showcasing Ethiopia's ancient civilization.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Ethnological Museum

    Explore Ethiopia's diverse cultures, traditions, and lifestyles through fascinating exhibits housed inside the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie at Addis Ababa University.

    1 minute • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Entoto Natural Park

    Drive to the historic Entoto Hills for panoramic views of Addis Ababa, eucalyptus forests, fresh mountain air, and an introduction to the city's history and heritage.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
    • Day 2

    BAHIR DAR

    3 stops
  • 4
    Lake Tana

    Enjoy a scenic boat excursion on Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, while visiting ancient island monasteries surrounded by beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

    3 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Ura Kidane Mihret

    Visit one of the most beautiful monasteries on Lake Tana, renowned for its colorful murals, sacred treasures, and traditional Ethiopian religious art.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 6

    Explore this peaceful lakeside monastery and discover centuries of Ethiopian Orthodox history, culture, and spiritual traditions.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
    • Day 3

    GONDAR

    1 stop
  • 7
    Blue Nile Falls

    Witness the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, locally known as Tis Issat, meaning "Smoking Water." Enjoy scenic walking trails and stunning views of one of Ethiopia's most famous natural attractions.

    2 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 4

    GONDAR ROYAL HERITAGE

    2 stops
  • 8
    Fasil Ghebbi

    Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Royal Enclosure, featuring castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilides and other Ethiopian rulers during the 17th century.

    2 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 9
    Debre Birhan Selassie Church

    Discover one of Ethiopia's most treasured churches, renowned for its magnificent angel-covered ceiling and remarkable religious artwork.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
    • Day 5

    SIMIEN MOUNTAINS

    2 stops
  • 10
    Simien Mountains National Park

    Travel into the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and spectacular mountain scenery.

    3 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 11
    Simien Mountains National Park

    Stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking dramatic escarpments and rugged landscapes considered among Africa's most impressive mountain scenery.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
    • Day 6

    FULL DAY SIMIEN MOUNTAINS

    1 stop
  • 12
    Sankaber Simien Mountains National Park

    Experience guided hiking through breathtaking mountain landscapes while learning about the unique ecology and wildlife of the Simien Mountains.

    3 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 7

    GONDAR TO LALIBELA

    3 stops
  • 13
    Simien Mountains National Park

    Enjoy a scenic morning drive from the Simien Mountains back to Gondar, passing dramatic landscapes, mountain views, and traditional highland villages along the way.

    3 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 14
    Lalibela

    Take an afternoon domestic flight from Gondar to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia's most important spiritual and historical destinations.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 15
    Lalibela

    Arrive in Lalibela and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening in this historic town before beginning the rock-hewn church tour the next day.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
    • Day 8

    LALIBELA

    1 stop
  • 16
    Lalibela - Rock-Hewn Churches

    Explore the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lalibela, where medieval churches were carved directly from solid rock over 800 years ago.

    4 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 9

    LALIBELA TO ADDIS ABABA

    1 stop
  • 17
    Lalibela

    Explore one of Lalibela's historic churches representing the spiritual heritage of the Holy Land.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
    • Day 10

    AXUM

    1 stop
  • 18
    Axum

    Visit the famous Axum Stelae Field, home to ancient granite obelisks that symbolize the power of the Axumite Kingdom.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
    • Day 11

    GHERALTA ROCK-HEWN CHURCHES

    1 stop
  • 19
    Abune Yemata Guh Church

    Embark on an adventurous hike and climb to one of Ethiopia's most spectacular cliff-top churches, famous for its ancient frescoes and breathtaking views.

    3 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 12

    MEKELLE TO ADDIS ABABA

    1 stop
  • 20
    Mek'ele

    Enjoy a final sunrise experience overlooking the magnificent landscapes of northern Ethiopia before departure.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by GERD Tours
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Tags

Multi-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Audio Guides
Air Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
4WD Tours
Archaeology Tours
Water Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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