12 Days North & South Ethiopia Cultural Tour
Overview
Experience the best of Northern and Southern Ethiopia on this 12-day cultural journey. Explore Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Gondar, the Simien Mountains, Lalibela, Hawassa, Arba Minch, and Jinka while discovering Ethiopia’s rich history, tribal cultures, scenic lakes, wildlife, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Highlights include the Blue Nile Falls, Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, Lake Chamo boat trips, Dorze villages, and encounters with the Mursi tribe in the Omo Valley.
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Visit Entoto Hill and Unity Park while learning about Ethiopian history, culture, wildlife, and indigenous plants.
Overnight: Triple E Hotel, Addis Ababa
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar
Fly to Bahir Dar, visit the palace of Haile Selassie, the fish market, and the Blue Nile Falls.
Overnight: Jacaranda Hotel
Day 3: Bahir Dar – Gondar
Drive to Gondar and visit the Falasha village known for traditional crafts and pottery.
Overnight: AG Hotel
Day 4: Simien Mountains National Park
Drive to the Simien Mountains and trek through breathtaking scenery while observing endemic Gelada baboons.
Overnight: AG Hotel, Gondar
Day 5: Gondar – Lalibela
Travel to Lalibela and visit the first group of rock-hewn churches.
Overnight: Panoramic View Hotel
Day 6: Full-Day Visit in Lalibela
Explore the remaining churches of Lalibela including Bet Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic rock-hewn church in the world.
Overnight: Panoramic View Hotel
Day 7: Lalibela – Addis Ababa – Hawassa
Fly back to Addis Ababa and continue driving to Hawassa for an overnight stay.
Overnight: Haile Resort
Day 8: Hawassa – Arba Minch
Drive to Arba Minch and visit the Dorze people in the Gughe Mountains.
Overnight: Mora Heights Hotel, Arba Minch
Day 9: Arba Minch – Jinka
Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to see crocodiles and hippos before continuing to Jinka.
Overnight: Nassa Hotel, Jinka
Day 10: Visit Jinka & Mago National Park
Visit the Mursi tribe in Mago National Park and later explore the South Omo Museum and Research Center.
Overnight: Nassa Hotel, Jinka
Day 11: Jinka – Addis Ababa
Fly back to Addis Ababa and enjoy shopping in Merkato.
Overnight: Triple E Hotel, Addis Ababa
Day 12: Departure
Transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure flight.
Included
- Car with driver
- Park entrance fees
- Accommodation
- Guide
- Boat trips on Lake Tana and Lake Chamo
- Entrance fees
- Scout in the Simien Mountains
- Bottled water during the tour
Excluded
- Lunch and dinner
- Laundry service
- Tips in the villages
- Domestic flights
- Personal expenses
