7-Day Northern Ethiopia Historical Tour with Lalibela and Simien

7 Days Round trip from Addis Ababa Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, carved from solid rock in the 12th century
  • 02 Discover the royal castles and palaces of Gondar at the historic Fasil Ghebbi UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • 03 Trek through the breathtaking Simien Mountains and spot Gelada baboons and the Ethiopian wolf
  • 04 Experience vibrant Addis Ababa with visits to the National Museum, Merkato, and a traditional coffee ceremony

Explore the highlights of northern Ethiopia on this 7-day journey from Addis Ababa. Tour the vibrant capital before flying to Bahir Dar for a boat trip on Lake Tana and visits to its historic monasteries. Discover the royal castles of Gondar and experience the dramatic scenery and endemic wildlife of the Simien Mountains. Continue to Lalibela to explore the extraordinary UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches, including the iconic Church of Saint George, on an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and nature.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Addis Ababa, Gondar, Bahir Dar, Lalibela, Simien Mountains National Park, Mount Entoto
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Addis Ababa and City Highlights

  • Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, guests will be warmly welcomed and transferred to their hotel.
  • Guests will begin their exploration of Addis Ababa with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home of the famous fossil Lucy.
  • The tour continues to Merkato, one of Africa's largest open-air markets, followed by a visit to Holy Trinity Cathedral.
  • In the afternoon, guests will drive up to Mount Entoto for panoramic city views.
  • The day concludes with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and cultural dinner.

Overnight in Addis Ababa.

2
Day 02

Bahir Dar Flight and Lake Tana Monasteries

  • Guests will take a morning flight to Bahir Dar and transfer to their hotel.
  • A boat trip on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, will be enjoyed during the day.
  • Guests will visit historic monasteries, including Ura Kidane Mehret Monastery, known for its colourful murals, and Betre Mariam Monastery.
  • The evening will be spent relaxing in the peaceful lakeside atmosphere.

Overnight in Bahir Dar.

3
Day 03

Scenic Drive to Gondar and Fasil Ghebbi

  • After breakfast, guests will drive through scenic countryside to Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia.
  • Guests will visit the famous Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring castles and palaces built in the 17th century.
  • The tour includes an exploration of the royal baths and historic architecture that reflect Ethiopia's rich imperial history.

Overnight in Gondar.

4
Day 04

Simien Mountains National Park Excursion

  • Guests will drive to Simien Mountains National Park, one of Africa's most spectacular landscapes.
  • The day features breathtaking mountain scenery, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs.
  • Guests will have the opportunity to spot endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons and the Ethiopian wolf.
  • After exploring and short hikes, guests will return to Gondar in the afternoon.

Overnight in Gondar.

5
Day 05

Fly to Lalibela and Visit the Rock-Hewn Churches

  • Guests will fly to Lalibela, famous for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches.
  • After hotel check-in and lunch, guests will visit the first group of UNESCO-listed churches carved from solid rock in the 12th century.
  • Guests will discover the architectural brilliance and spiritual significance of these remarkable structures.

Overnight in Lalibela.

6
Day 06

Lalibela Churches and Local Culture

  • After breakfast, guests will continue exploring Lalibela's remarkable churches, including the iconic Church of Saint George (Bete Giyorgis), known for its unique cross-shaped design.
  • Guests will learn about the religious traditions and local culture of Lalibela.
  • The afternoon includes lunch at a local restaurant and time to relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight in Lalibela.

7
Day 07

Return to Addis Ababa and Departure

  • After breakfast, guests will transfer to the airport for their flight back to Addis Ababa.
  • In the afternoon, guests will enjoy last-minute shopping or relaxation before a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant.
  • Guests will later transfer to the airport for their international departure.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Addis Ababa 6 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Domestic flights within Ethiopia
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Private transportation
  • Hotel accommodation
  • Daily breakfast
  • Entrance fees to all sites
  • Airport transfers

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Lunch and dinner
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities

What to bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light jacket
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Personal medications
  • Modest clothing for religious sites

Know before you go

  • Moderate walking is involved at historical sites.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Some destinations are located at high altitude.
  • Domestic flight schedules may vary depending on the weather.
  • Respectful clothing is recommended for church visits.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Tour start
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 7 days finish where they began, in Addis Ababa.

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