11-Day Ethiopia Highlights Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

• Activities: Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

  • Transfer to your hotel and check-in.

  • Rest and acclimatize to the local time zone.

• Accommodation: Overnight at a hotel in Addis Ababa.

Day 2: Addis Ababa City Tour

• Morning: Visit the National Museum to see the famous fossil of “Lucy” and other archaeological exhibits.

• Afternoon: Explore the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the bustling Merkato market.

• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with cultural music.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 3: Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar

• Morning: Fly to Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana.

• Afternoon: Visit the Blue Nile Falls, known as “Tis Issat” (Waterfall of Smoke).

• Evening: Relax by the lake and enjoy the serene environment.

• Accommodation: Overnight at a lakeside hotel in Bahir Dar.

Day 4: Bahir Dar to Gondar

• Morning: Drive to Gondar, a city known for its medieval castles.

• Afternoon: Explore the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its famous ceiling murals.

• Evening: Stroll through the city’s historic streets.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Gondar.

Day 5: Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park

• Morning: Drive to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Afternoon: Embark on a short hike to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife, including the Gelada monkeys and Walia ibex.

• Evening: Enjoy the panoramic views of the highlands.

• Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near the park.

Day 6: Simien Mountains to Lalibela

• Morning: Drive back to Gondar and then fly to Lalibela, known for its rock-hewn churches.

• Afternoon: Begin your visit to the 11 medieval monolithic churches, including the famous Church of St. George.

• Evening: Attend a local cultural performance.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 7: Lalibela Full-Day Tour

• Morning: Continue exploring the rock-hewn churches, including Bete Medhane Alem and Bete Maryam.

• Afternoon: Visit the nearby cave churches and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

• Evening: Relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 8: Lalibela to Arba Minch

• Morning: Fly to Arba Minch, located in the southern part of Ethiopia.

• Afternoon: Visit the Dorze village to see traditional bamboo houses and learn about their weaving techniques.

• Evening: Enjoy the views of Lake Chamo.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Arba Minch.

Day 9: Arba Minch – Boat Trip on Lake Chamo

• Morning: Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to see crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

• Afternoon: Visit the Nechisar National Park and enjoy a nature walk.

• Evening: Relax by the lake and enjoy the sunset.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Arba Minch.

Day 10: Arba Minch to Addis Ababa

• Morning: Drive back to Addis Ababa.

• Afternoon: Visit the Ethnological Museum and the Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum.

• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 11: Departure

• Activities: Transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your departure flight.

💰 Estimated Cost

• Price per Person: Approximately $3,000–$3,500 USD (based on double occupancy)

• Group Size: Minimum of 4 people

• Includes:

  • All domestic flights and ground transportation

  • Accommodation in mid-range hotels and lodges

  • English-speaking guide

  • Entrance fees to all sites

  • Meals as specified in the itinerary

• Excludes:

  • International flights

  • Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, tips)

  • Travel insurance