10 Days Tour to Simien Mountains Trekking with Axum and Lalibela

Our journey begins with an exploration of Ethiopia’s fascinating historic route through the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains Trek, where you’ll encounter troops of Gelada Baboons—an endemic species of Ethiopia. After a three-day trek through the stunning mountain scenery, we will return to Gondar. From there, we’ll continue to the ancient kingdom of Axum, home to the mysterious stelae parks and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace. The adventure continues to Lalibela, where the magnificent rock-hewn churches—regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world—await. You will have ample time to explore and learn about these extraordinary monuments on a guided tour.

Day 01: Arrival and Sightseeing in Addis Ababa

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After a short rest, begin exploring Ethiopia’s capital. Drive up to Mount Entoto for sweeping views over the city, then descend to visit the National Museum, home to the 3.2-million-year-old fossil “Lucy.” Continue to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a site of historical and religious significance, followed by a visit to the Ethnographic Museum, once Emperor Haile Selassie’s palace. End your day at the bustling Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market.
Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 02: Flight to Gondar – Exploring the Imperial City

After breakfast, take a flight to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gondar is famed for its 17th-century castles, with the largest and best-preserved being King Fasilidas’ Castle. The King also built the fascinating Fasilides’ Bath, known as the ‘Pavilion of Delight,’ where thousands gather for the annual Timkat festival. In the afternoon, visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church, renowned for its angelic ceiling and beautiful murals.
Overnight: Roseau Hotel, Gondar (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 03: Drive to Simien Mountains National Park

After breakfast, drive from Gondar to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the escarpment, with breathtaking views of one of Africa’s highest mountain ranges. Watch for Lammergeyer vultures, Gelada Baboons, and bushbucks. After lunch, begin a short trek to Sankaber Campsite, passing through the scenic Buyit Ras area.
Overnight: Camping at Sankaber (Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 04: Trek from Sankaber to Geech

After breakfast, meet your muleteers and begin the trek to Geech. The trail crosses the Jinnbar River and passes by the impressive Jinnbar Falls, especially stunning after the rainy season. Continue along the escarpment, descending into the Geech Abyss, with opportunities to observe herds of Gelada Baboons.
Overnight: Camping at Geech Campsite (Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 05: Trek to Imet Gogo and Return to Gondar

Today’s trek takes you to Imet Gogo promontory, one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Simien Mountains. From this vantage point, the dramatic cliffs and gorges unfold beneath you. Watch for Lammergeier vultures soaring overhead. After taking in the views, trek back to Ambaras village and meet the vehicle for the return drive to Gondar.
Overnight: Roseau Hotel, Gondar (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 06: Flight to Axum – Exploring Ancient Civilization

Fly to Axum, once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world. Located at the crossroads of trade routes between the Mediterranean and India, Axum was a thriving center of commerce, politics, and technology. It is also the birthplace of Christianity in Ethiopia and believed to be the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. Visit the monolithic stelae, including the tallest—standing over 21 meters—and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace, said to be the birthplace of Menelik I.
Overnight: Sabean Hotel, Axum (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 07: Full Day Exploration of Axum

In the morning, if it’s Saturday, visit the colorful Basket Market held under the largest sycamore tree—Axum’s only basket market. Continue to the main market, where locals from surrounding villages gather to trade goods. After lunch, take a short trek to the Gobo Dura Lioness Statue, about 7 km from town, believed to be the quarry from which the famous Axum obelisks were sourced.
Overnight: Sabean Hotel, Axum (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 08: Flight to Lalibela – Visit the First Cluster of Rock-Hewn Churches

Take a short flight to Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches carved from solid volcanic rock around 800 years ago by King Lalibela. Explore the first cluster of these remarkable structures, including the most iconic—Bet Giorgis—shaped like a Greek cross and exceptionally well-preserved.
Overnight: Maribela Hotel, Lalibela (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 09: Full Day in Lalibela – Visit Yimrehane Kristos and Second Cluster of Churches

In the morning, visit the Church of Yimrehane Kristos, an exquisite example of Axumite wood-and-stone architecture, admired for its intricate wooden ceiling and artistic decorations. In the afternoon, explore Lalibela’s second cluster of rock-hewn churches, including Bete Gabriel, Bete Rafael, Bete Merkorios, Bete Emanuel, and Abba Libanos. Among them, Bete Emanuel stands out for its intricate carvings and Axumite architectural design.
Overnight: Maribela Hotel, Lalibela (Bed and Breakfast)

Day 10: Return Flight to Addis Ababa and Departure

Fly back to Addis Ababa, where you’ll have free time in the afternoon for relaxation or shopping. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional cultural restaurant with live Ethiopian music and dances. Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international departure.

Pirice Includes

⮚ Double room hotel accommodation
⮚ Bed and Breakfast Basis
⮚ Daily 2 x 500ml Water Bottles
⮚ Car with professional driver
⮚ English speaking professional guide services
⮚ All Entrance and scout fees
⮚ Tent and tenting equipment
⮚ Cook and cooking equipment
⮚ Policemen and militia fees
⮚ Meals during camping

Pirice Excludes

⮚ Alcohol drinks
⮚ Video and photographing fees
⮚ Gratitude and personal expenses
⮚ International and Domestic air tickets