10 Days Northern Ethiopia Tour – Bahir Dar, Gondar, Simien Mountains & Lalibela

Overview

This 10-day Northern Ethiopia tour explores the historic route of Ethiopia, including Bahir Dar, Lake Tana monasteries, the Blue Nile Falls, Gondar, the Simien Mountains, and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. The journey combines cultural heritage, breathtaking mountain trekking, historical castles, and ancient religious sites.

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Arrival at Bole International Airport where you will meet Ethio Target Tours staff and transfer to the hotel for check-in. No activities are planned on this day.

Overnight: Triple E Hotel

Day 2: Fly Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar

In the morning, visit the island monasteries of Lake Tana including Kibran Gabriel, Entos Eyesus, Ura Kidane Mihiret, Azwa Mariam, and the source of the Blue Nile.

Overnight: Jacaranda Hotel

Day 3: Visit Blue Nile Falls

After breakfast, drive to Tis Abay (Tis Issat), meaning “Smoke of Fire,” named after the Blue Nile Falls. The round trip includes walking and a short boat ride across the Blue Nile River for spectacular views and the refreshing mist of the falls. Later, drive back to Bahir Dar and visit the fish market.

Overnight: Jacaranda Hotel

Day 4: Bahir Dar – Gondar

Drive to Gondar and visit the Royal Enclosure containing the 17th-century castles of King Fasilidas, King Iyasu, Queen Mentewab, and other historic buildings. Visit Fasilidas’ Bath and Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its beautifully painted angels. If time permits, also visit Kuskuwam Complex.

Overnight: AG Hotel

Day 5: Gondar – Sankaber – Gich

Drive from Gondar to Sankaber and begin trekking through the Simien Mountains National Park. The trek covers approximately 12 km and takes around 5–6 hours through grasslands, forests, cultivated fields, and dramatic escarpments. You may encounter Gelada baboons and enjoy views of Jinbar Falls.

Overnight: Camping

Day 6: Gich – Ambaras – Gondar

Today is the most spectacular stage of the trekking with stunning mountain scenery. Hike 5–6 hours including a detour to Imet Gogo (3925 m), which offers exceptional panoramic views. Giant lobelias, Lammergeyers, and thick-billed ravens are commonly seen. Later, drive back to Gondar.

Overnight: AG Hotel

Day 7: Gondar – Lalibela

Drive to Lalibela via Gashena while enjoying views of the countryside and highland landscapes.

Overnight: Panoramic View Hotel

Day 8: Visit the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Full-day visit to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. Explore the churches clustered in different groups separated by the River Jordan.

Overnight: Panoramic View Hotel

Day 9: Visit Yemrehane Kristos

After breakfast, drive to Yemrehane Kristos Church, one of Ethiopia’s best-preserved late Axumite churches. Located inside a natural cavern, the church predates Lalibela by almost a century and features beautiful wooden architecture and decorative carvings.

Overnight: Panoramic View Hotel

Day 10: Lalibela – Addis Ababa

After breakfast, transfer to Lalibela Airport for departure to Addis Ababa.