17 days North Ethiopia History and Nature Tours

Tour itinerary: Addis Ababa → Mekele → Aksum → Debark → Gondar → Bahir Dar → Lalibela

Day 1:Arrival in Addis Ababa
Welcome to Ethiopia! You'll arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel. You'll spend the day exploring the vibrant capital, visiting landmarks such as the National Museum, where you can see "Lucy," one of the oldest hominid fossils. You'll discover the bustling Mercato, one of Africa's largest markets, and enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Day 2:Addis Ababa to Danakil Depression
Semera and drive to Ragad (Asebo). You'll observe local salt miners at work, breaking salt from the ground and preparing it for transport. You'll continue to Dallol, known for its surreal landscapes formed by volcanic activity, including colorful salt flats and hot springs. You'll explore Lake Assal and witness the unique camel caravans. You'll engage with the Afar people and learn about their culture. Your overnight stay will be in Hamadella.
Day 3:Dallol to Erta Ale
You'll depart early for Erta Ale, the "smoky mountain." This shield volcano features the world’s only permanent lava lake. The journey to Dodom is challenging, with stunning landscapes of solidified lava and occasional palm oases. You'll arrive at the Dodom campsite and prepare for an overnight stay at Erta Ale, enjoying the stunning views of the lava lake at sunset.
Day 4:Erta Ale to Mekele
You'll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the crater, where the vibrant colors of dawn illuminate the rugged landscape. You'll spend the morning exploring both the northern and southern pits of Erta Ale, marveling at the unique geological features and the mesmerizing lava lake that glows with an otherworldly light.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the campsite, prepare for an exhilarating descent back to Dodom. Along the way, you'll take in the dramatic views of the surrounding terrain, characterized by solidified lava fields and striking volcanic formations. Once you arrive in Dodom, you'll begin your drive to Lake Giulietti, a serene and picturesque spot known for its stunning vistas. Weather permitting, you'll spend some time relaxing by the lake, capturing the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps spotting local wildlife.
Following your visit to Lake Giulietti, you'll continue your journey to Mekelle.

Day 5:Mekelle to Gheralta then axum.
You'll explore the lesser-known rock-hewn churches of Tigray, including Mariam Korkor and Abune Yemata Guh. These churches, carved into mountainsides, showcase Ethiopia's rich Christian heritage. After a day of exploration, you will drive to axum for an overnight stay.
Day 6:Exploring Axum
You'll dedicate the day to Axum’s historical treasures, including the famous obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Bath, and St. Mary of Zion Church, which is said to house the Ark of the Covenant. After a full day of exploration, you'll return to your accommodation in Axum
Day 7:Axum to debark via the lowland of simien mountains National park 
You'll drive through the scenic Tekeze Valley to Simien Mountains National Park head quarter town debark stay overnight. 
Day 8:debark to Sankaber campsite simien mountains National park.
You'll stop at the park head office in Debark to register and meet your trekking team. You will enjoy a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, located at 3,250 meters above sea level, where you can appreciate breathtaking views of the Simien escarpment. You have the chance to spot the endemic Gelada baboons Your overnight stay will be at Sankaber Camp.
Day 9:Trek from Sankaber Camp to Gich Camp
You'll set off on an exhilarating 6-hour trek from Sankaber to Gich Camp, where stunning landscapes await. As you leave Sankaber, the path winds through lush meadows and rocky terrain.
A highlight of the journey is Jinibar Falls, where cascading water creates a serene atmosphere. You'll take a moment to pause, capture photos, and enjoy the refreshing mist.
Continuing, you'll ascend through varied landscapes, keeping an eye out for local wildlife like the Gelada baboon. Upon reaching Gich Camp at 3,600 meters, you'll be captivated by breathtaking vistas that stretch across the Simien Mountains. You'll settle in, reflect on the day's adventure, and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, creating unforgettable memories.
Day 10:Trek from Gich to Chennek
You'll trek to Chennek (3,620m) via Imet Gogo, known for its spectacular views of the Simien escarpment. You'll observe endemic species like the Giant Lobelia, Gelada monkeys, and Walia ibex. Trekking time is around 9 hours, offering a truly immersive experience in nature.
Day 11:Summit Ras Bwahit
You'll ascend Ethiopia’s second-highest peak, Ras Bwahit (4,430m), and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, where the majesty of the landscape unfolds before you. As you stand atop the peak, you'll take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking vistas and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching such heights. After soaking in the scenery, you'll return to Chennek Camp for an overnight stay, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventure amidst the serene mountain backdrop.
Day 12:Morning Trek and Transfer to Gondar
You'll take a morning trek around Chennek to soak in the last views of the Simien Mountains, capturing the stunning landscapes one final time. As you wander through the trails, listen to the sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air, creating lasting memories of this breathtaking region. In the afternoon, you'll transfer back to Gondar, where you can unwind and reflect on your incredible journey through the rugged beauty of Ethiopia.
Day 13:Historical Gondar
You'll explore the historical city of Gondar, visiting the Royal Enclosure (Fasilidas' Castle), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Fasilidas Swimming Pool. You'll discover the Holy Trinity Church of Debre Birhan Selassie, renowned for its beautiful murals. Your overnight stay will be in Gondar.
Day 14:Gondar to Bahir Dar
You'll drive to Bahir Dar, taking in the rural villages along the way. Upon arrival, you will embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting historic monasteries such as Urakidanemirt and Kibran Gebre-Mariam. You'll engage with the local community at the vibrant lakeside market.
Day 15:Blue Nile Falls
You'll visit the stunning Blue Nile Falls, enjoying a scenic walk to view the falls' breathtaking beauty, where the thundering waters cascade dramatically into the river below. You'll take your time to explore the surrounding landscape, snapping photos and immersing yourself in the lush greenery that frames this natural wonder. Afterward,have lunch in bahirdar relax then take evening flight to Addis Ababa. 
Day 16:Addis to Lalibela
You'll fly to Lalibela in the morning and spend the day visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches, starting with the Northwestern Cluster. After lunch, you will explore the Southeastern Cluster, including Bet Gabriel-Rufael, where intricate carvings and spiritual history come alive. As you wander through these architectural marvels, you'll take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that went into their creation. Your overnight stay will be in Lalibela, allowing you to bask in the rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 17 :Lalibela to Addis Ababa
Depending on the day, you'll attend early morning church services if it coincides with a Saints' Day. After breakfast, you'll transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa.