Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa and City Tour

   • Arrive in Addis Ababa and begin a guided city tour.
   • Visit the National Museum, home to the famous fossil Lucy.
   • Explore the Holy Trinity Cathedral and learn about Ethiopian history.
   • Drive to Mount Entoto for panoramic views of the capital.
   • Enjoy lunch at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant.
   • Walk through Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, either by drive-by or guided visit.
   • Attend a cultural dinner with traditional music and dance.

2. Day 2: Addis Ababa to Chebera Churchura National Park

   • Drive from Addis Ababa to Chebera Churchura National Park via Jimma.
   • Enjoy scenic landscapes and changing vegetation along the route.
   • Arrive near the park and settle into the lodge or camp for the night.

3. Day 3: Chebera Churchura National Park Safari

   • Spend a full day exploring Chebera Churchura National Park.
   • Join a game drive to spot elephant herds, buffalo, antelope, and diverse birdlife.
   • Take a guided nature walk and enjoy birdwatching in the park.
   • Return to the lodge or camp for overnight stay.

4. Day 4: Chebera Churchura to Arba Minch

   • Drive south from Chebera Churchura to Arba Minch.
   • Stop along the way for cultural encounters and scenic viewpoints.
   • Arrive in Arba Minch and relax after the journey.

5. Day 5: Nech Sar National Park and Lake Chamo

   • Enjoy an early morning game drive in Nech Sar National Park.
   • Spot zebras, gazelles, greater kudu, monkeys, and a wide variety of birdlife.
   • Admire panoramic views over Lakes Abaya and Chamo.
   • Take an afternoon boat trip on Lake Chamo.
   • Observe Nile crocodiles, hippos, pelicans, and fish eagles during the cruise.

6. Day 6: Arba Minch to Awassa

   • Drive from Arba Minch to Awassa through the scenic Rift Valley.
   • Pass lakes, farmland, and small villages along the way.
   • Enjoy views of southern Ethiopia’s landscapes and local life.
   • Arrive in Awassa and settle in for the evening.

7. Day 7: Awassa and Wondo Genet Excursion

   • Spend the morning at Lake Awassa, enjoying a boat ride, birdwatching, and time to relax by the shore.
   • Visit the Awassa Fish Market in the late morning to observe the fresh fish trade and local atmosphere.
   • Drive to Wondo Genet in the afternoon, taking approximately forty five minutes.
   • Explore the hot springs and enjoy a forest walk in the Wondo Genet area.
   • Return to Awassa town in the evening and enjoy dinner by the lake.

8. Day 8: Awassa to Addis Ababa

   • Travel approximately 275 kilometres between Awassa and Addis Ababa.
   • Expect a driving time of around four to five hours, depending on traffic and stops.
   • Pass through Shashemene town, known for its Rastafarian community and lively local markets.
   • Stop at Bale coffee plantations and roadside cafés to taste freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee.
   • Enjoy birdwatching and scenic Rift Valley lake views near Lake Ziway, if taking an optional detour.
   • Continue through Butajira, a small town offering local culture and roadside craft shops.

9. Day 9: Debre Libanos Day Trip

   • Depart Addis Ababa early in the morning and drive for approximately two hours to Debre Libanos Monastery.
   • Visit Debre Libanos Monastery and explore its historic church and impressive architecture.
   • Stop at the Blue Nile Gorge viewpoint to enjoy dramatic cliffside scenery.
   • Walk to the Portuguese Bridge for a short hike and photo opportunities.
   • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or a picnic in the surrounding area.
   • Take an optional short hike along the gorge or nearby trails in the afternoon.
   • Drive back to Addis Ababa in the evening, taking approximately two hours.