You will pick up from your hotel or airport and then drive ahead to Unity Park located within the Grand Palace and that embodies generational legacy of Ethiopians.

Unity Park features a wide Banquet hall made of wood and leather ropes, the Throne House/hall that the monarchs used to give audience to and confer with the nobility and foreign dignitaries, Emperor Menelik II Palace Complex, Regional states pavilions, Traditional/Indigenous garden which offer a brief look into local house-building techniques and numerous indigenous plants. The park also includes a spacious green area including a botanical garden, a zoo where primates and endemic black-mane lions among 300 individual animals of 46 species watching from an artistic tunnel with grass portions for viewing.

Then, you will depart Unity to Entoto Natural Park. On Mount Entoto’s view point, where you will admire the panoramic view over Addis Ababa, your guide will tell you about Entoto, the eucalyptus trees carpeting the mountain, and the remarkable story behind the foundation of Addis Ababa by Empress Taitu. Then start the guided walking tour in the designated route through which you enjoy the forests, the beautiful weather and see the best the park has to offer. And experience some of the many interesting activities at your own cost- Cycling, Horseback riding, Go-Karts, Zip-lining, Archery, and Paintball.  Finally, at around 5pm, we will drive back to Stadium where we will end the tour.

Group Size ………… Price per Person in US$

• 1 ……………………… 278
• 2 ……………………… 166
• 3 to 4 …………….…… 139
• 4 to 6 ………….……… 105
• 7 to 9 ………….……… 90
• 9 to 12 ………………… 95

• Transportation
• Professional Guiding Service
• Admission Ticket
• Food & Drinks

At 9 am, we will meet at Mesqel Square where we set off our walking tour. First we get in to Red Terror Museum which is a memorial to those who died during the Red Terror under the communist Derg government and then we continue walking to the east of Meskel Square to the old railway station and lion of Judah monument. Continue walking to piassa passing through Churchill Avenue. Along the way, we will stop by at Tomoca cafe to sip a cup of Espresso while experiencing the flavor and aroma of Ethiopian Arabica Coffee. Next, we will walk towards the nearby local restaurant to indulge you with Ethiopian Food and drinks.

After lunch, we walk to the National Museum of Ethiopia where Lucy-a 3. 5 million years old fossil hominid is found. Finally, we take a private taxi to Mercato. At mercato we will walk through the different sections of the market to get a closer look of the locals.

Group Size ………………. Price per Person in US$

• 1 …………………….. 250
• 2 ………………………125
• 3 to 4 ………………… 92
• 4 to 6 ………………… 64
• 7 to 9 …………………. 51
• 9 to 12 ……………….. 59

• Ground transportation service including all transfers
•  Entrance fees according to the tour program
• English speaking local guide
• Lunch and Non Alcoholic drinks
• Government Tax

In the morning drive to Lake Wonchi (160 km from Addis). Wonchi Crater Lake is the beautiful legacy of a once powerful volcano erupting in the Tertiary period of the Cenozoic era. This beautiful lake is exceptionally situated at an altitude of 2800m above sea level. Wonchi contains hot springs and waterfalls with breath-taking valleys and stunning scenery. Wonchi is the home of wonderful and indigenous forest reserves and it is truly regarded as a paradise for trekkers. Enjoy the spectacular scenic view of the lake positioned in the middle of the surrounding ringed hills covered by vegetation. You will trek on horseback to access the shore of the lake. Once you arrive at the Crater Lake, you are totally mesmerized by the beauty of the landscape and the freshness of the air. There are some aquatic bird species around the lake. There is a medieval period Qiorkos church on one of the islands. The church is accessible by local/wooden canoe/ boat. We will have short visit to the church. Transfer to the airport if you have international flight

Tour Duration– 10 Hours

• Ground transportation service including all transfers
• Entrance fees according to the tour program
• English speaking local guide
• Horse ride and riding canoe boat
• Food and Non-Alcoholic drinks
• Government Tax

We will pick you up from the Airport or your hotel and we will be driving to Menagesha suba forest which was originally protected by Zera Yacob (1399 – 26 August 1468) who was the Emperor of Ethiopia the total area of the park is around 2500 hectare and the forest have a natural big trees like juniper us and Eric arboreal and is one of the tourist destination for a day trip from Addis Ababa because of its remarkable natural indigenous tree species and some endemic birds with some species mammals like endemic antelopes of Minilk Bushbuck. After the visit, return to Addis Ababa and be transferred to the airport or to your hotel.

Group Size ……………….. Price per Person in US$

• 1 ……………………….. 180
• 2 ………………………..  90
• 3 to 4 …………………… 65
• 4 to 6  …………………… 45
• 7 to 9 …………………….. 32
• 9 to 12 …………………… 43

• Ground transportation service including all transfers
• Entrance fees according to the tour program
• English speaking local guide
• Horse ride and riding canoe boat
• Food and Non-Alcoholic drinks
• Government Tax

I will meet you and give you a quick orientation and explanation of our stops; and then we will take a taxi to our first destination – a popular local restaurant known for its shiro wot and Ethiopian vegan food. Our next stop will be a meat house where you will enjoy the most amazing beef served either raw or fried with some great sauces and wash it all down with ‘turbo’ before continuing on our way. Next up will be fish- you will be presented with a plate of fried fish, giving some background on where the main fishing areas of the country, and washed it all down with some more beers before moving next door to a local coffee house and finally we will visit a Tej Bets where you indulge yourself with a tasty, yet strong honey wine.  As we walk through the neighborhoods, I will share you information about Addis Ababa and the history and culture of the country

Duration: 4 hours

Group Size …………………………Price per Person in US$

• 1 ………………………………..193
• 2 ………………………………..110
• 3 to 4 …………………………. 81
• 4 to 6 …………………………. 58
• 7 to 9 …………………………..49
• 9 to 12 ……………………….. 45

• Guiding Services
• Food at three restaurants
• Fresh juice, unlimited beers and soft drinks
• A coffee ceremony
• Hotel/Airport pick up and drop off
•  

Day 1: Addis Ababa-Jimma

In the morning fly to Jimma. Then, you set off for your drive to Bonga through the Kaffa region of Ethiopia; Kaffa is generally regarded to be the region from where the Arabica strain of coffee originated and also where the plant was first cultivated. After checking in to the hotel in Bonga, you then drive to the marvelous Tatmara coffee plantation where you will be able to experience and observe the whole coffee production process concluding with a coffee ceremony in this perfect Home of Coffee location.
Accommodation: Jimma Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast

Day 2: Bonga-Mankira-Jimma

Rise early in the morning to the smell of locally grown and freshly roasted coffee and being served the taste as you also enjoy a great breakfast. After breakfast, take an excursion to Mankira, which is the actual place where Arabica coffee was discovered. En-route, you will visit the magnificent and ancient Adaracha Medhanealem Church and the Natural Bridge Gurguto/Egziher dildiy (meaning God’s bridge), which connects two distant villages. Then, drive back to Jimma.
Accommodation: Jimma Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast

Day 3: Jimma- Addis Ababa

Transfer to the airport and fly back to Addis. In the afternoon spend at leisure or go for shopping or optionally you will do partial city tour of Addis Transfer to the airport if you have international flight

$450- Prices are per person based on two people travelling together. Single supplement 64 USD per person. 

Includes

• Expert English speaking guide
• Airport transfers and road transport via air-conditioned vehicle.
• Accommodation at hotel. 
• Meal plan as mentioned in the program.
• Fees for entrances as per the itinerary
• All government taxes for the services included in the tour price.

• Domestic flights and visa fees.
• Activities not mentioned or stated as optional in the itinerary.
• Fees for photos and video.

Day 1: Addis Ababa

Arrival at Bole International Airport. City tour Addis Ababa. Welcome dinner in cultural restaurant.

Accommodation: Capital Hotel & Spa
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 2: Awash National Park

Drive (4 hrs) Addis Ababa to Awash National Park.

Accommodation: Awash Falls Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3: Awash National Park

Full day visit Awash National Park. 

Accommodation: Awash Falls Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 4: Langano

Drive (4 hrs) Awash National Park to Langano, en route visit Lake Ziway. 

Accommodation: Hara Langano Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5: Langano

Morning visit Abijatta-Shalla National Park. Afternoon at leisure.

Accommodation: Hara Langano Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6: Hawassa

Drive (1 hr) Langano to Hawassa, en route visit Rastafari community in Shashemene. Afternoon at leisure.

Accommodation: Haile Resort Hawassa
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7: Hawassa

Morning visit Senkele Game Sanctuary. Afternoon boat trip Lake Hawassa.
Accommodation: Haile Resort Hawassa
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8: Bale Mountains National Park

Drive (5.5 hrs) Hawassa to Bale Mountains, en route visit fish market Hawassa and hike at Bale Mountains NP

Accommodation: Bale Mountain Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9: Bale Mountains National Park

Full day visit Bale Mountains National Park.

Accommodation: Bale Mountain Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10: Return to Addis

Drive (1.5 hrs) Bale Mountains to Robe. Flight Robe to Addis Ababa. Minibus available for transport around Addis Ababa. Evening transfer to Bole International Airport for international flight.

USD 3082– Prices are per person based on 2 people travelling together. Prices guideline only, actual prices will depend on final itinerary, accommodation choices, and time of year. 

Includes

• • Airport transfers and road transport around Addis Ababa by private minibus.
  • Road transport by standard 4WD with English speaking driver/ guide, including fuel, driver allowances and accommodation.
  • Accommodation based on double/ twin room sharing.
  • Meal plan bed and breakfast. Full board at Bale Mountain Lodge.
  • Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts and boats for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
  • All government taxes for the services included in the tour price.

• International flights and visa fees.
• Domestic flights.
• Lunches and dinners, unless stated as included above.
• Activities not mentioned or stated as optional in the itinerary.
• Fees for photos and video.
• Other personal expenses, souvenirs, tips and gratuities, etc.

Day 1. Simien National Park

A connecting flight from Addis Ababa gets you in to Gondar, where your local guide will be waiting for you. You’ll then head towards Michibiny, situated near the entrance of the Simien Mountains National Park. The drive from Gondar to Michibiny is around 2.5 hours. You’ll stop briefly while your guides arrange all the necessary provisions and arrangements for your adventure. Flight Addis Ababa to Gondar. Drive (2.5 hrs) Gondar to Michibiny. Your journey into the mountains begins with a 3 hour hike to Sankaber, your first camp. The hike is gentle and allows you to acclimatize as you’re introduced the sensational views of the Simiens. 
Accommodation: Camping at Sankaber. 
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 2. Simien Mountains Park

Today’s hike takes you from Sankaber to Geech. En route, you’ll likely meet some of the Simien Mountains’ famed wildlife, including Gelada Baboons, Klipsringer and Walia Ibex. 
A highlight of today’s trek is Genbar Falls, a waterfall over a sobering 500m sheer drop, which you’ll see from the opposite side of the ridge. After a break for lunch, you’ll carry on towards Geech, a remote traditional village with thatched roofs. Geech camp is a great spot to watch the sun go down over the range and you’ll often see troops of Gelada baboons climbing down the precipitous slopes to their sleeping quarters in caves in cliffs below. 
Accommodation: Camping at Geech
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3. Simien Mountains Park

Today is a 7-8 hour trek from Geech to Chennek via the incredible Imet Gogo and Inataye. Imet Gogo, standing at nearly 4000m, affords unbelievable panoramic views of the entire Simien range.  If that isn’t enough, Iantaye stands at a sobering 4070m.If you can pull yourself away from the views, the remaining trek to Chennek is pleasant.
Accommodation: Camping at Chennek 
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4. Simien Mountains Park

Mount Buahit is Ethiopia’s third highest peak, standing at an impressive 4430 metre. Your route to Mount Buahit follows footpaths off the road alongside a stream that trickles down the hill. This is quite a steep walk, but you can take regular breaks at great view points en route. This is your best chance to see Walia Ibex. 
At the summit, you’re rewarded with phenomenal views across the entire Simiens range. Head back down the trail from Buahit which drops down out of the park and into farmland. Pass through the new settlement of Tiru Leba and stop here for a (well deserved) soft drink or beer. The trail continues down to a small stream at the bottom (which can become unsurpassable in the height of the rainy season), before heading up the rail on the eastern side of the village of Ambiko where a simple campsite awaits. (psst, the local committee sell beers for around $2 a pop, well worth a little splurge…)
Accommodation: Camping at Chennek. 
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5. Simien Mountains Park

Today is undoubtedly a highlight of the tour as you summit Ethiopia’s tallest mountain: Ras Dashen. Start early and take it slow (10-11 hours of hiking today), admiring the views along the way. By late morning, you’ll arrive at the moorland top where the dirt road disappears and gives way to remote villages as your trail turns north east and snakes up the final peak. In true explorer fashion, reaching the summit requires a couple of hand holds and maneuvers (nothing too challenging) as you scramble to the top. Now relax and enjoy the unbelievable view from 4533 meters up.
When you can finally tear yourself away from the view, head north east and make for the village of Menteber, where a camp awaits. 
Accommodation: Camping at Ambiko
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6. Simien Mountains Park

Today marks your last day in the Simien Mountains. A 7-8 hour trek takes you from Ambiko to Chennek, where you’ll spend your final night in the fantastic Simien Mountains. 
Accommodation: Camping at Chennek
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7. Addis Ababa

In the morning, your driver will take you from Chennek to Gondar (3.5 hours). Catch a flight from Gondar to Addis Ababa to continue your journey or travel home. Enquire about this module if you’d like to include it as part of a longer itinerary. 

USD 1638 – Prices are per person based on 2 people travelling together. Prices guideline only, actual prices will depend on final itinerary, accommodation choices, and time of year. 

Includes

• Airport transfers and road transport by private minibus.
• Full board, including mineral water.
• Full camping equipment including tents, mattresses and sleeping bags for camping and trekking. Recommended to bring own sleeping bag.
• Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
• All government taxes for the services included in the tour price.

• Additional food and drinks
• Personal expenses
• Souvenirs

Day 1: Addis Ababa

Welcome to Ethiopia! Begin with a welcome meeting at the hotel at 6pm. If you arrive early perhaps take a tour of this bustling city, dotted with Italian architecture, interesting churches and friendly inhabitants. Established by the Emperor Menelik II in 1887, Addis Ababa is a relatively young city full of contrasts – the Addis Sheraton, with its ‘singing fountain’, is one of the most luxurious in all of Africa, yet you only need to travel a few streets away to find yourself among busy markets, dirt roads and the odd goat or two wandering the street. The optional city tour will include the National Museum, where you’ll find the famous remains of ‘Lucy’ and the Ethnographic Museum set within the beautiful gardens of Haile Selassie’s former palace.
Accommodation: Monarch Hotel
Meal Plan:  Dinner

Day 2: Konso

After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Addis Ababa airport for a flight to Arba Minch. Then it’s onto Konso in a private vehicle, stopping on the way to visit some of the Dorze people, an ethnic group known particularly for their expert weaving and beehive-shaped houses. All roads into South Omo pass through Konso, and this small town serves as a great base for exploring the hillside villages in the surrounding countryside. Keep an eye out for the carved wooden grave markers in the area, a Konso tradition where the deceased warriors features are enhanced by using teeth made from animal bones. As the evening sets in spend time relaxing in the Lodge.
Accommodation: Kanta Lodge or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 3: Jinka

Visit a village within Konso and learn about the clan-based societal arrangement comprised of nine clans. Head onwards to Jinka to visit an ethnographic museum dedicated to the tribes speaking South Omotic languages. Jinka is a lively trading hub and known as a capital of sorts for the range of ethnic groups that call this region home.
Accommodation: Eco Omo Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 4: Turmi

Head into Jinka’s lush surroundings, home to the traditional Ari people. Spend some time in their villages, some of the most beautiful in the country, surrounded by banana, mango, avocado and enset (false banana) trees. Then it’s on to Turmi. Along the way we will stop at either the Thursday market day at Key Afar or the Tuesday cattle market at Alduba. Overnight in Turmi.
Accommodation: Buska Lodge OR Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 5: Turmi

Today there will be a chance to visit a local market, savouring the smells and tastes alongside the Karo, Hamer and Benna people while checking out plenty of interesting handicrafts on offer. In the afternoon visit one of the Hamar villages for an insight into their different way of life. There may be a chance to witness the highlight of the Hamar calendar – a bull-jumping ceremony. The culmination of a three-day rite of passage, this ceremony involves a young man having to jump on the backs of, and run down a line of 15 bulls before returning the same way. Back in town we meet some members of the Hamer tribe who will share with us their life experiences and learn of changes from traditional to modern lifestyles.
Accommodation: Buska Lodge OR Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner
Special Information
If you are lucky enough to witness a Bull Jumping Ceremony this will be at a cost of approximately US$25 per person.

Day 6: Arba Minch

Travel north to Arba Minch after breakfast. This is a region noted for its variety of peoples and cultures, many of which are nomadic or semi-nomadic and live very differently to what most would consider a modern existence. Arba Minch is bordered by Nechisar National Park and lies between two of Ethiopia’s largest lakes, Lake Chamo and Abaya Lake. Climb aboard a boat in the afternoon and travel across Chamo Lake on an excursion to hopefully see the resident hippos, Nile crocodiles, flourishing birdlife and the local fishermen working their trade on the water.
Accommodation: Emerald Lodge OR Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7: Addis Ababa

Drive back to Addis Ababa after breakfast. After a lengthy but scenic drive, you will arrive to your hotel in Addis Ababa. You’ll have dinner at a local restaurant in the evening and, because this is a combination trip, you may have members of your group departing and new travelers arriving for the second leg of this journey.
Accommodation: Emerald Lodge OR Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 8: Bahir Dar

Today we will take a spectacular flight to Bahir Dar. From the air we can gaze across the extraordinary nature of the Ethiopian Plateau, repeatedly cut by immensely deep gorges. Bahir Dar is a small but fast growing town on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. It has long attracted religious men and the area contains numerous churches and monasteries, many of them on the thirty or so islands of Lake Tana.
This afternoon, board a sightseeing boat for a cruise around the lake. Covering over 3,500 square kilometers, this is Ethiopia’s largest lake and is home to 37 islands, 20 of which house some of Ethiopia’s most venerated monasteries. Many of these monasteries are believed to date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, and feature superb ecclesiastical art. Legend has it that the Ark of Covenant was hidden here for protection during the times when Muslim forces invaded the ancient capital Axum. Your boat trip will take you to the monastery of Ura-Kidane Mehret, which dates from between the 16th and 18th centuries. It is renowned for its collection of crosses and crowns, and its incredible painted walls that offer up a virtual ‘who’s who’ of Ethiopian saints. The boat returns to your hotel via the source of the ‘Blue’ section of the Nile.
Accommodation: Soliyana Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 9: Bahir Dar

Head out to the Blue Nile Falls today. Located 1.5 hours south of Bahir Dar, the Blue Nile Falls measure over 400 metres wide and crash down 48 metres in full flood. These falls are known locally as Tis Isat (Smoking Water) and are a spectacular sight when the water’s high. New hydro-electrical plants and dams have somewhat impacted on their magnificence, but the sight is still a memorable one. You can take a longer scenic walk past the main viewpoint (1.5 kilometers) or a shorter walk to reach the foot of the falls. You will then cross the Nile River by boat to reach your vehicle. After a leisurely lunch back in Bahir Dar, perhaps visit the open air market or take a walk up to the town viewpoint.
Accommodation: Soliyana Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10: Gondar

Head for the regal city of Gondar by travelling north around the edge of Lake Tana this morning, a drive that’ll take approximately 4.5 hours including photo stops. Gondar was the capital of Ethiopia through the 17th and 18th centuries, and is famed for its medieval castles and churches. This afternoon or tomorrow, there’s the option to visit the city’s most significant churches and castles either as part of a tour or unaccompanied. The city’s unique Royal Enclosure is a World Heritage site and home to dramatic, Emperor-built castles unlike any other in Africa. Spend the afternoon visiting these medieval castles and stop by the famous church of Debre Berhan Selassie, one of the finest in Ethiopia with walls and ceilings covered in stunning murals of angels.
Accommodation: Inn of the Four Sisters or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 11: Gondar

Today you’ll have free time to explore the quiet streets of Gondar for yourself. Take a stroll to the markets or otherwise perch up at the hotel by the pool. You’ll be heading into the mountains tomorrow so there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a little bit of luxury while you have it. In the afternoon enjoy a cooking class in a private house in Gondar. Head to the market to gain fresh ingredients, then learn how to make traditional Ethiopian cuisine, such as wot, the national dish, and injera, the staple bread of Ethiopians.
Accommodation: Inn of the Four Sisters or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 12: Simien Mountains National Park / Debark

Depart Gondar early in the morning and head towards Debark and the Simien Mountain National Park (approximately 3 hours). The remainder of the day will be to explore the spectacular mountain scenery including viewing Ethiopia’s highest point – Ras Dejen (4550 metres). Once you pass the entrance to the park you’ll hike and drive along the escarpment up to Sankaber Camp.This area is home to much of Ethiopia’s wildlife, including the Gelada baboon, which are only found in Ethiopia and have a shaggy coat with a red patch on their chest, hence being known as the ‘bleeding heart baboon’. Return to Debark (approximately 1.5 hours) for the evening.
Special Information
There will be a support vehicle for the hike today. You can therefore hike as little or as much as you would like.
Accommodation: Simien Park hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 13: Aksum

Strap in for a long travel day up the winding smooth road to Aksum. Though the journey will take approximately nine hours, you’ll cross the lowlands of the Simien Mountains and the Tekeze River gorge and the views will be absolutely spectacular. Along the way, stop at one of the farming villages to visit a farming family and learn of their traditional farming techniques. Aksum was once the capital of the Kingdom of Aksum, Africa’s oldest empire, which existed from around AD100 to AD900. It was at the center of a trading route that stretched from Egypt all the way to India and grew to be one of the most powerful kingdoms in the ancient world.
Accommodation: Sabean Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 14: Aksum

Today is a free day with the option to tour the incredible historical sites of Aksum. Visit the stele fields, several tombs, the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace and an archaeological museum. The field is home to over 100 stele – the largest one measuring 33 meters and weighing an incredible 517 tones. Stele (or monoliths) are carved from a single piece of granite, and are often elaborately decorated to resemble a multi-story house complete with windows, doors, locks and structural beams. Their scale reflects how important Axum once was, and they were probably transported by elephants from a nearby quarry. The mausoleums in this area include the tomb of the false door and also the tombs of King Kaleb and Gebre Meskel, while the archaeological museum houses fascinating displays. An unimposing building with a green picket fence is the St Mary of Zion Church, the first built in sub-Saharan Africa. This holds the crowns of various former Ethiopian emperors and is even said to house the most fabled biblical relic in history – the Ark of the Covenant. The afternoon is free for you to keep exploring – you might like to see some of the handcraft shops or take a walk out of Aksum for an hour or so to see Gobodera, the quarry place for the stele and rock lioness relief. End the day with a traditional coffee ceremony in a family home. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is an important part of Ethiopian culture and considered to be the most important social occasion among Ethiopians. It is a sign of respect and friendship to be invited.
Accommodation: Sabean Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 15: Mekele

Leave Axum for Mekele, looking across to see the spectacular Adwa Mountains and the battlefield of Adwa, where the Ethiopians defeated the Italians in 1896. Stop to visit the Pre-Christian Pagan Temple of Yeha before breaking for lunch at Adigrat. Yeha is thought to have been Ethiopia’s first capital and the temple has been dated to around the 6th century BC. After lunch, drive to Mekele (approximately 7 hours total for the day) where you have free time to enjoy the evening.
Accommodation: Axum Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 16: Lalibela

Start the long journey to Lalibela early in the morning on a smooth paved road and, after a couple of hours, reach the spectacular mountain range of Amba Alaje. Continue through green valleys and flat plains before turning west towards Lalibela at Woldia (approximately 5 hours). The road after Woldia offers one of the most scenic routes in the country. It involves climbing on winding roads along steep hills and evergreen lush valleys up to the Delanta Plateau (3,500 metres), then contouring around the rough roads of the valley for a before arriving at Lalibela in the late afternoon (approximately 6 hours). Despite the town of Lalibela being isolated in the Lasta Mountains at 2,630 metres above sea level, it is still the home of Ethiopia’s top sight, and one of the world’s greatest historical and religious sites.
Accommodation: Tukul Village Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 17: Lalibela

Today you’ll use the morning and afternoon to visit Lalibela’s amazing churches, which look like they’ve been dropped down from the sky. Between 1137 and 1270, several astounding rock-hewn churches were constructed in Lalibela; astonishing because most are not built from carved freestanding rocks, but instead created from huge single blocks of stone unearthed by the digging of enormous pits. The Northern Group contains seven churches, a tomb, a chapel and a sunken chapel. At the centre of the group is Bet Medhane Alem, measuring 33.5 metres by 23.5 metres and said to be the largest rock-hewn church in the world. A tunnel connects three of the churches in a courtyard to the east, whilst another tunnel connects two other churches to the west of Bet Medhane Alem. However it is Bet Giyorgis (St George’s), carved in the form of a Greek cross and lying slightly apart from the main northern cluster, which is the most famous and frequently photographed. This church is exceptionally well-preserved and is probably the most visually perfect. The Eastern group of five churches includes the only hypogenous church, where only the roof remains attached to the overhead rock.
Accommodation: Tukul Village Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 18: Lalibela

This morning we trek to the rock church of Asheten Mariam, which sits on the 3,150-metre-high Abune Josef Mountain that overlooks Lalibela. You will climb for 2.5 hours to the summit, where the church is carved out of a cleft into the cliff face. The monastery houses ancient parchments and crosses, but the real treasure is the setting and the view. Descend the mountain and return to the hotel for lunch. This afternoon is free to relax or continue exploring this fascinating town. This evening you will enjoy a special dinner at Ben Ababa open air restaurant.
Accommodation: Tukul Village Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 19: Fly Back to Addis Ababa

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to hotel for a flight to Addis Ababa. Up on arrival you will meet you driver and guide explore the city. In the evening, your last night in Ethiopia will be a memorable farewell dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s wonderful cultural or international restaurants. Transfer to Bole International Airport to connect with your international flight home.

$4245 – Pricing is per person for a group of 2 travelers. Prices guideline only, actual price will depend on final itinerary, accommodation choices, and time of year. 

Includes

• Airport transfers and road transport via air-conditioned vehicle.
• Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing.
• Meal plan Breakfast and Dinner.
• Professional English speaking escort guide throughout the itinerary. 
• Fees for entrances, local guides and compulsory scouts for activities mentioned in the itinerary
• All government taxes for the services included in the tour price.

• International & Internal flights and visa fees.
• Activities not mentioned or stated as optional in the itinerary.
• Fees for photos and video.
• Other personal expenses, souvenirs, tips and gratuities, etc.

Day 1 – Arrive in Addis Ababa

Welcome to Ethiopia! Upon arrival in Addis, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The name of the city, in Amharic, means ‘new flower’. Founded in 1886 by Menelik II, it is located at 2,500 metres above sea level in one of the highest parts of the Entoto mountain chain (3,000 metres above sea level). Addis enjoys an excellent climate all year round, with an average temperature of 25°C. Addis Ababa is a pleasant city with wide avenues of jacaranda trees, interesting museums and one of the largest open air markets in Africa, known as the “Mercato”. This afternoon, you will have a city tour which includes a trip to the Archaeological Museum (where you can meet 3.25 million year old Lucy), the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Ethnological Museum (the former residence of His Majesty Emperor Haile Sellassie).
Accommodation: Jupiter International Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 2 – Arba Minch

An early start today, departing at around 07:30, heading down the western side of the Rift Valley passing through Butajira, Hossana and Sodo. It’s a long day’s drive, taking about 8 hours with lunch and coffee stops en route, but it is on a good asphalt road. The scenery is very attractive as you pass down the Rift Valley, on the western side. There are interesting places to be visited en route – the Neolithic site and museum at Melka Kunture, the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Tiya, and the rock hewn church at Adadi Mariam, contemporaneous with the churches of Lalibela.

After Sodo you skirt the western shores of Lakes Abaya and Chamo, the southernmost of Ethiopia’s Rift Valley Lakes, before arriving in Arba Minch, or “40 springs”, and check into Paradise Lodge. The Lodge is situated on a hill overlooking the narrow stretch of forested land, known locally as “the bridge of heaven”, which separates the two lakes.

Distance: 454 kms – approx. 8 hours
Accommodation: Paradise Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 3 – Konso & Jinka

Today, you drive south to Konso, whose people are known for their intricately terraced hillsides, fine woven materials and the carved totems with which they decorate their graves. Konso is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Market days in Konso are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Pass the Weyto River where you will see a great variety of pelicans and other aquatic birds. On Thursdays there is a very attractive market at Key Afer, frequented by the Bena and Ari people. After your visit, you turn towards Jinka, where the markets are held on Saturdays and Tuesdays. This afternoon oyou could visit the museum in Jinka (not included), which along with various artefacts has a lot of ethnographical information about the people of the Omo.

Located in southwestern Ethiopia, near the borders of Sudan and Kenya, Jinka is the largest town in the Debub Omo Zone. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area. This remote market town is home to the Mursi people, who are well known for their elaborate lip plates made of clay. At the South Omo Research Center and Museum, visitors can learn more about the Mursi, as well as other groups in the region, through a series of exhibits detailing the cultures and customs of local tribes. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby Mago National Park, where abundant wildlife finds shelter in the dense acacia woodland.
Distance: 275 kms – approx. 5 hours
Accommodation: Eco Omo Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 4 – Jinka

You leave Jinka and drive to the Mago National Park. The park has a variety of mammals and birds, but the animals tend to stay away from the roads and sightings cannot be guaranteed. In the park you may see the following animals: elephant, buffalo, Grant’s Gazelle, Topi and Burchill’s Zebra.

The main attraction in Mago are the Mursi people, so you head to Shembel, the nearest Mursi village and if you wish, you can go further, up the escarpment to the Mursi villages there! The Mursi are known for their body scarification and (among the women) the wearing of lip plates.
Accommodation: Eco Omo Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5 – Jinka – Turmi

After breakfast at the Eco Omo Lodge, you will depart and begin your visit to the Hamer villages around Turmi. The Hamer are a fine-looking people, both the men and women take great pride in their appearance, shaving and coloring their hair, oiling their bodies and decorating themselves with beads and bracelets worn around their arms and legs. If this visit falls on a Saturday or a Tuesday, you will also visit the market at Dimeke, which is one of the most colorful and interesting in the area. During the time you have in Turmi, if there is a bull jumping ceremony in the vicinity, you will head to see this rite of passage ceremony for young men, marking their transition to adulthood. It may also possible to see Evangadi, or Hamer dancing ceremonies.
Distance: 132kms – 3 hours
Accommodation: Buska Lodge OR Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 6 – Turmi

After breakfast you will drive to Murule, visiting the Korcho village of the Karo people. Among the people living along the Omo, the Karo excel in face and body painting. You will then head to your lodge in Turmi, the Buska Lodge for lunch.

After lunch you will head towards the Omo River to Omo Rate, passing Kangate and the villages of the Bume people, going on to visit the Galeb villages. Here you will cross the river in a local boat and visit the villages on the other side.

Accommodation: Buska Lodge OR Similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast& Dinner

Day 7 – Kibish

After breakfast you will be transferred to Kibish, which is approximately 140 km, where you will visit the Demeka Market on the way (if the day is Saturday).
Distance: 140 kms – 3 hours
Accommodation: Camping, Kibish
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch& Dinner

Day 8 – Kibish

Following breakfast, you will head around the old Kibish village (14kms round trip) for the visit of more of the Surma villages – to visit and appreciate the very attractive culture of Surma people, they are renowned for the strange custom followed by their women who, on reaching maturity, have their lower lips slit and circular or rectangular clay discs inserted. The Surma men are well known for their stick fighting, which is called Donga. It is extremely rare to witness a Donga.
Accommodation: Camping, Kibish
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch& Dinner

Day 9: Kibish

Today you will have the chance to explore more Surma Tribe Villages, hopefully witnessing some of their ceremonies & cultural-events. According to the Suri, they came to their present territory near Mount Naita about 200 years ago from the banks of the Nile River. The Surma have a sky god named Tuma. The Suri also believe in spirits and use medicine and undertake sacrifices or prayers and directly send them to Tuma. Another belief of the Suri is the rain maker.

Piercing and lip plates are a strong part of the Suri culture. At the point of puberty most women have their bottom teeth removed in order to get their lower lip pierced. Once the lip is pierced, it’s then stretched and a lip plate is then placed in the hole of the piercing.
Accommodation: Camping, Kibish
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 – Bonga

Today you will depart from Kibish and the Surma Villages, leaving with fond memories of a truly unique way life that is unparalleled to anything you will find in the Western world. You will be driven to Bonga. On the way, we will shortly stop at the Bebeka coffee plantation, where coffee, tea, spices and rubber trees are cultivated and we may learn about the local coffee production.
Distance: 280kms – 7hrs
Accommodation: Local Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11: Full Day in Kaffa Region (The Origins of Coffee)

Today we start with an excursion to the Alem Gonna wetlands. An early morning visit not only pays off because of the many bird species and De Brazza monkeys, but also because of the mystical atmosphere created by the landscape shrouded in mist. We walk through the wetland during sunrise and enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast picnic. After a short stop in Bonga, we will go on a short trek to the Barta waterfall (approx. 1h). The waterfall is over 70m high surrounded by basalt walls in the middle of the rain forest. On our way back, we will stop at the house of Mirutse, a local bee-keeper producing here organic forest honey. He will give us some interesting information on bee-keeping and local plants. For those with plenty of energy left after lunch; we have an option of another interesting walk to some hot springs located in the middle of the rain forest (10 km walks back and forth). However, there are also less strenuous options in this incredibly diverse area.
Distance: 361kms- 7hrs
Accommodation: Local Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12: Welsio

After breakfast, we continue to Welsio via Jimma. On the way, we will visit the palace of the former Kafa king Ras Abba Jifar II overlooking the town and the adjacent coffee forests. The palace is a relic of a glorious past when coffee trade gave the king wealth and power. The then economically strong region remained independent from the Ethiopian empire until 1930.
Distance: 361kms- 7hrs
Accommodation: Negash Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13: Addis Ababa- 160 kms- 2:30 hrs drive

Following breakfast we’ll depart Weliso for Wenchi. Wenchi is a highland area, situated 30km west of Woliso. The area is famed for its beautiful mountainous landscape and stunning crater lake. Upon arriving at the lake, you can hike (or take a horse) down to the base of the lake. At the lakeside, we will have lunch and then take a short boat ride out to an old monastery with a church which is situated on one of the lakes islands. After lunch, you will have the option to hike back or else take a horse if you feel like it. Then after, we will head to Addis Ababa. Arrival time back in Addis Ababa will be around 4.00 pm and in the evening you will have a fare well dinner party and then be transferred to airport for your departure.
Distance: 160kms- 7hrs
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

USD 3,298 – Prices are per person based on 2 people travelling together. Prices guideline only, actual price will depend on final itinerary, accommodation choices, and time of year. 

Includes

• Airport transfers and road transport around Addis Ababa by private minibus.
• Road transport by standard 4WD with English speaking driver/ guide, including fuel, driver allowances and accommodation.
• Accommodation based on double/ twin room sharing.
• Meal plan Breakfast and Dinner. Full board during camping days
• Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts and boats for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
• Camping equipment except sleeping bags, cook etc
• All government taxes for the services included in the tour price.