Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera

Dallol - Day 01: Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera

Begin the journey by exploring the Danakil Depression, descending into the hottest place on Earth. Despite being one of the world’s most inhospitable areas, it is breathtakingly beautiful, with vibrant colors. Along the way, witness long caravans heading to the salt mines and others leaving the Danakil with camels laden with salt. Upon reaching the campsite, unload the vehicle and drive to the Salt Lake to enjoy the stunning sunset.

Drive to Erta Ale

Erta Ale - Day 02: Drive from Dallol to Erta Ale

After breakfast, drive into the heart of the depression. Prepare to experience the heat and breathe in various minerals like potassium and salt. Continue to the Salt Mountains and observe traditional salt mining, witnessing one of the toughest jobs on Earth.

Proceed to the base campsite of Erta Ale, passing through landscapes of solidified lava and rock. After arriving at the base camp, have an early dinner and begin trekking from Dodom to Erta Ale. Reach the summit of Erta Ale to witness the dramatic boiling lava. Erta Ale hosts the world’s only permanent lava lake, offering an unforgettable night atop the mountain.

Drive to Semera

Afdera - Day 03: Drive from Erta Ale to Semera

After exploring the active volcano, descend from Erta Ale to the base camp for breakfast. Drive to Lake Afdera to refresh in the beautiful Salt Lake, where swimming and relaxation await after the Danakil Depression treks. After lunch, drive to Semera for an overnight stay at a hotel.

Drive to Lalibela

Lalibela - Day 04: Drive from Semera to Lalibela

Embark on a drive to Lalibela, a less-traveled but refreshingly scenic route showcasing typical countryside settlements and landscapes. Overnight at a hotel in Lalibela.

Explore Rock Churches of Lalibela

Lalibela - Day 05: Visit the Rock Churches of Lalibela

Lalibela, known as the “Jerusalem of Africa,” features extraordinary underground rock-cut churches. Explore each one, starting with the Northwestern Cluster of churches - Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Mikael, and Bet Golgotha.

After lunch, continue to the Southeastern Cluster, including Bete Gabriel & Rufael, Bete Merkorios, Bete Emanuel, Bete Libanos, and finally, the elegant church of Saint George, the large cross-shaped one. End the day with cultural music and a traditional drink called Tej, a pure honey wine.

Drive to Gondar

Gondar - Day 06: Drive from Lalibela to Gondar

Drive to Gondar and visit the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the early 17th century. Enjoy another breathtaking drive and visit the church of Debre Birhan Selassie, renowned for its religious art and iconic ceiling depicting angels. Overnight at a hotel.

Simien Mountains National Park

Simien Mountains National Park - Day 07: Drive from Gondar to the Simien Mountains National Park

Travel to Ethiopia’s largest national park. Upon arrival at the park headquarters, meet the crew and pack camping equipment. Drive to the starting point at Sankaber. Begin trekking at Jinbar, a popular landmark on the first day of a Simien trek, where the Jinbar River plunges over 500 meters into the Gich Abyss, a remarkable sight. Continue trekking to the Gich campsite, rewarded with a sunset view at the viewpoint. Overnight at the campsite in Gich.

Trekking in the Simien Mountains

Simien Mountains National Park - Day 08: Trek from Gich to Chenek

Start the day with breakfast and continue trekking to Chenek. Along the route, spot endemic wildlife such as the rare wolf and elusive Walia Ibex. This trek is challenging yet enjoyable for most hikers. From Imet Gogo, follow the most scenic route along the escarpment, coming close to sheer cliffs before reaching Chenek.

Trekking in the Simien Mountains

Simien Mountains National Park - Day 09: Drive from Simien Mountains to Gondar

Begin the day with a sunrise and breakfast. Trek around to spot the unique Ibex, then drive to Gondar for an overnight stay at a hotel.

Fly to Addis Ababa - to Jinka

Omo National Park and River - Day 10: Fly from Gondar to Jinka

Arrive at Jinka airport, where the driver will meet you. Continue driving to Turmi, home to the Hammer tribes, known for their traditional night dancing, Evangadi, and the bull-jumping wedding ceremony. If available, witness these events on the same day. Overnight in Turmi at a lodge.

Omo Valley, Ethiopia

Omo National Park and River - Day 11: Drive to Omo River

After breakfast, drive to Omorate and cross the Omo River by local boat to visit the Dasennech tribe, also known as the Galeb tribe. Return to Turmi for lunch.

Continue driving to visit the Karo tribes, the smallest group in the Omo Valley, living along the east banks of the Omo River. The Karo people are distinguished by their exceptional body and face painting. Drive to Jinka for an overnight stay at a hotel.

Mursi Tribe

Jinka - Day 12: After breakfast, drive to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, known for their lower lip plates. Return to Jinka for an afternoon flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, visit Merkato, Africa’s largest market of its kind, for shopping. Conclude with Ethiopian coffee at TOMOCA coffee shop. Enjoy a farewell party with cultural foods and drinks, accompanied by traditional live music.

• On-board WiFi
• Professional and helpful driver
• Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Comfortable A/C-equipped vehicle

• Alcohol beverage
• Personal spending for entertainments
• Souvenir shoppings
• Service trips
• Extra service uses

• Explore the breathtaking escarpments of the Simien Mountains
• Observe rare wildlife like the Walia Ibex and Gelada Baboon
• Admire the awe-inspiring monolithic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela
• Experience the vibrant and colorful landscapes of Dallol
• Hike to Erta Ale to witness the thrilling spectacle of boiling lava
• Learn about the vibrant cultures of the Omo Valley tribes in Ethiopia

Adefa Tours has curated an itinerary featuring Ethiopia’s most captivating and unique attractions. This enlightening tour is crafted to guide travelers through the Danakil Depression, the Omo Valley, the Simien Mountains, and the rock churches of Lalibela. Adefa Tours showcases the highlights of Ethiopia’s stunning rock-hewn churches, the Danakil Depression, the Simien Mountains, and the Omo Valley.

This tour package includes:

• All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Entrance fees for all attractions
• Village fees in the Omo Valley

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.