Ethiopia · Trekking

9-Day Ethiopia Adventure Tour with Lalibela, Simien and Erta Ale

9 Days Round trip from Lake Tana Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the otherworldly landscape of the Danakil Depression with active volcanoes and salt flats
02 Discover Bahir Dar's serene beauty and Lake Tana's ancient monasteries
03 Trek in the stunning Simien Mountains, spotting endemic Gelada baboons
04 Marvel at the rock-hewn wonders of Lalibela's iconic churches
05 Immerse in the vibrant history of Gondar's ancient castles and Addis Ababa's cultural sites

Embark on a 9-day adventure through Ethiopia's stunning landscapes, from the Blue Nile Falls and Simien Mountains to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the mesmerizing Erta Ale Volcano. Explore cultural sites, trek through national parks, and witness natural wonders like the Dalol Depression and Lake Afdera.

Trek to the stunning Jinbar Waterfall, also known as "Ethiopia's Grand Canyon".

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Addis Ababa, Gondar, Bahir Dar, Lalibela, Simien Mountains National Park, Semera, Debarq, Afdera, Erta Ale, Dallol, Mount Entoto

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Fly to Bahir Dar and Visit Lake Tana

Morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar.
Explore Lake Tana's papyrus boats.
Visit the stunning Blue Nile Falls.

Overnight at Jacaranda Hotel.

Day 02

Drive to Gondar, the Former Imperial Capital

Drive to Gondar, Ethiopia's former imperial capital.
Visit Fasilides' Palace, Fasilides' Bath, and Qusquam Church.
Explore the beautifully decorated Debre Berhan Selassie Church.

Overnight at Ag Palace Hotel.

Day 03

Trek in Simien Mountains National Park

Drive to Debark and register at Simien Mountains National Park.
Trek to Sankaber Camp (3,200m).
Spot endemic Gelada baboons and enjoy spectacular mountain views.

Overnight camping at Sankaber Camp.

Day 04

Trek to Jinbar Waterfall and Return to Gondar

Trek to the stunning Jinbar Waterfall, also known as "Ethiopia's Grand Canyon".
Return to Gondar.

Overnight at Ag Palace Hotel.

Day 05

Fly to Lalibela and Explore the First Churches

Fly to Lalibela.
Visit the first group of rock-hewn churches, including Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Mariam, and Bet Meskel.

Overnight at Lal Hotel.

Day 06

Visit Lalibela Churches and Fly to Addis Ababa

Visit the second group of churches, including Bet Gabriel, Bet Amanuel, and Bet Abba Libanos.
Fly back to Addis Ababa and explore the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Entoto Hills.

Overnight at Damat Hotel.

Day 07

Fly to Semera and Drive to Hamed Ela

Fly to Semera and drive through the Afar region.
Stop at Lake Afdera for a swim and lunch.
Visit Lake Asale for a golden sunset over the salt flats.

Overnight open-air camping at Hamed Ela.

Day 08

Explore Dalol and Trek to Erta Ale Volcano

Explore the colorful Dalol Depression and traditional salt mining.
Trek to Erta Ale Volcano to witness its mesmerizing lava lake.

Overnight camping near Erta Ale Volcano.

Day 09

Visit the Lava Lake and Return to Addis Ababa

Visit the lava lake in the morning.
Drive back to Semera.
Fly to Addis Ababa for a farewell dinner before departure.

Where this trip takes you

Erta Ale Volcano, Dalol Depression salt flats, Simien Mountains National Park, Blue Nile Falls

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Lake Tana 11 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Domestic flights
All entrance fees
Government tax
Accommodation with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Camping accommodations
4x4 car with fuel
Unlimited bottled water
Local guides
Scout guide
Coffee or tea

What's Not Included

International flights
Personal expenses such as laundry service and shopping
Tips

What to bring

Clothing: Light clothes with warm layers for evenings, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and modest attire for religious sites.
Essentials: Camera, power bank, small backpack, water bottle, toiletries, and optional binoculars.
Health: Insect repellent, personal medications, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and anti-malaria medication.
Money & documents: Ethiopian Birr in small bills, passport/ID, and travel insurance.
Extras: Power bank, snacks for long trips, and a journal.

Know before you go

Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites. Always ask permission before taking photos, especially in rural areas.
Weather: Expect warm temperatures, but bring layers for cooler evenings and mornings, particularly in the mountains.
Travel times: Distances between destinations can be long, so be prepared for long drives and occasional bumpy roads.
Health & safety: Carry bottled water, use insect repellent, and avoid raw foods to stay healthy.
Money: Carry Ethiopian Birr in small denominations, as credit cards are rarely accepted in rural areas.
Electricity & connectivity: Power may be limited in remote areas, so bring a power bank. Wi-Fi and phone service may be spotty.
Respect local traditions: Ethiopia is a deeply religious country; show respect when visiting sacred sites or interacting with locals.

Logistics