Discover the wonders of ancient civilizations, traditional churches, and historic palaces, all while enjoying wildlife encounters and exploring the origins of the Blue Nile, Africa’s longest river. This journey is ideal for those who crave a blend of culture and nature.
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Google Map)
Discover the wonders of ancient civilizations, traditional churches, and historic palaces, all while enjoying wildlife encounters and exploring the origins of the Blue Nile, Africa’s longest river. This journey is ideal for those who crave a blend of culture and nature.
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, guests will be greeted by a representative and taken to their hotel. After a brief rest, the adventure begins with a tour of Addis Ababa. Highlights include the stunning views from Entoto Hills, the historic Menelik Palace with its authentic artifacts, the National Museum of Ethiopia showcasing significant archaeological finds, and the bustling Mercato, the largest open market in East Africa.
Overnight at The Magnolia Hotel or similar – Breakfast.
After enjoying breakfast, guests will transfer to the airport for a flight to Bahir Dar. Following hotel check-in, the journey continues to Tissisat Falls, the source of the Blue Nile. After lunch at the hotel, an afternoon city tour will take place, including a visit to the village of Woito, famous for its Tankwa reed boats. The day will also feature a tour of the old palace of Emperor Haile Selassie in Bezawit, along with a stroll through local markets.
Overnight at the Abay Minch Lodge or similar – Lunch, dinner, and breakfast.
The day starts with breakfast, followed by a scenic boat ride on Lake Tana to explore monasteries dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. These include the Ura Kidane Mehret and Mariam Azewa churches on the Zeghe Peninsula, the church of Dek Stefanos, the church of Kibran Gabriel (which is closed to women), and the church of Narga Selassie. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed on the boat before heading to Gorgora town to visit the Debreseina Mariam church. The journey continues by road from Gorgora to Gondar city, located 60km away.
Overnight at the Hotel Taye Belay or similar – Dinner and breakfast.
After enjoying breakfast, guests will leave the hotel for a full-day exploration of Gondar, a city established by Emperor Fasiladas. The itinerary includes visits to Fasil Gibbi (the Royal Enclosure), various emperors’ castles, the baths of King Fasilidas, and the Debre Berhane Selassie Church, renowned for its stunning murals adorning the walls and ceiling. Lunch will be served at the hotel. In the afternoon, guests will explore the ruins of Queen Mentowab’s palace and the Qusquam Mariam Church, perched on a hill just outside the village.
Overnight at Hotel Taye Belay or a similar accommodation – Lunch, dinner, and breakfast included.
Following breakfast, the group will head to Simien Mountains National Park, a journey lasting 3-4 hours. A picnic lunch will be provided. In the afternoon, guests will delve into the Sankaber region of the park, home to unique wildlife such as the walia ibex, the endangered Ethiopian wolf, and the gelada baboon. Check-in at Simien Lodge, the highest hotel in Africa, situated at 3,260 meters above sea level.
Overnight at Simien Lodge – Dinner and breakfast included.
After breakfast, the tour will set off early for Axum, crossing the Tekeze River canyon while enjoying views of the Simien Mountains. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed en route to Axum. Upon arrival, guests will check in at the hotel.
Overnight at Consolar Hotel – Dinner and breakfast included.
After breakfast, guests will embark on a tour of Axum. The itinerary includes visits to the Church of Santa Maria de Sion, the impressive granite monoliths of Axum, the tombs of the Kaleb emperors, and the Mai Shum, also known as the baths of the Queen of Sheba.
Overnight at Consolar Hotel – Lunch, dinner, and breakfast included.
Following breakfast, guests will be taken to the airport for a flight to the historic town of Lalibela. This remarkable destination is famous for its rock-hewn churches, which are still actively used and are considered one of the world’s greatest wonders. After checking into the hotel, guests will explore the churches of Beth Golgotha, Bet Mikael, Beth Mariam, Bet Meskel, Bet Denagel, and Bet Medhane Alem. In the afternoon, they will visit the Church of St. George, accessible only through a tunnel. The remainder of the day is free for guests to wander around the city.
Overnight at the Roha Hotel – Lunch, dinner, and breakfast.
After breakfast, guests will embark on an early morning drive to the 12th-century church of Yemrehene Christos, which is uniquely built inside a cave featuring alternating levels of wood and stone. Afterward, they will return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, guests will visit the Lalibela churches located south of the Jordan River.
Overnight at the Roha Hotel – Lunch, dinner, and breakfast.
After breakfast, guests will be transferred to the airport for their flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, they will be taken to the hotel for day-room use until 8 PM. A farewell dinner will be held at one of the finest traditional restaurants in the city before transferring to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
