11 Days of Historic Route & Simien Trekking Adventure

If you’re eager to explore one of Africa’s most glorious ancient civilizations intertwined with nature’s beauty, this tour is tailor-made just for you. As you journey through Ethiopia, you might find yourself questioning how such incredible civilizations failed to be preserved across generations. Could there be a supernatural force at play, influencing the rise and fall of these ancient cultures?

Join us on this immersive adventure and form your own theories as we uncover the mysteries of Ethiopia’s remarkable past. With the guidance of knowledgeable experts, you’ll have ample time to delve deeper into the history and significance of these incredible sites.

Day 01: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Welcome to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. If time permits, enjoy a city tour featuring the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil “Lucy,” the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Mount Entoto, offering spectacular views over the city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner accompanied by cultural music and dance. Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 02: Fly to Bahir Dar – Lake Tana & Blue Nile Falls

After breakfast, fly to Bahir Dar, a picturesque city on the shores of Lake Tana. Enjoy a boat cruise to visit the ancient island monasteries, renowned for their centuries-old religious manuscripts and colorful murals. In the afternoon, drive to the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat), one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular natural attractions. Overnight in Bahir Dar.

Day 03: Drive to Gondar

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia. Visit the magnificent Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval castles and royal palaces. Continue to the beautiful Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its ceiling adorned with angelic faces, and visit the historic Fasilides Bath. Overnight in Gondar.

Day 04: Drive to Simien Mountains National Park – Sankaber Camp

After breakfast, drive to the spectacular Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic escarpments and unique wildlife. Begin your first trek from the park headquarters at Debark to Sankaber Camp, enjoying panoramic mountain scenery and opportunities to spot Gelada Baboons, Klipspringers, and a variety of endemic birds. Overnight camping at Sankaber Camp.

Day 05: Trek Sankaber – Geech Camp

After breakfast, continue trekking from Sankaber to Geech Camp, passing the spectacular Jinbar Waterfall and enjoying breathtaking views over deep gorges and rugged mountain landscapes. Along the trail, look out for Walia Ibex, endemic bird species, and the unique Afro-alpine vegetation. Overnight camping at Geech Camp.

Day 06: Trek Geech – Imet Gogo – Geech Camp

Today, enjoy one of the park’s most scenic hikes to Imet Gogo, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Simien Mountains. The dramatic cliffs offer unforgettable panoramic views stretching across deep valleys and rugged peaks. Return to Geech Camp in the afternoon for relaxation and another overnight camping experience.

Day 07: Return to Gondar – Fly to Lalibela

After breakfast, trek back to the park exit before driving to Gondar Airport for your afternoon flight to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual capital. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax. Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 08: Explore Lalibela

Spend the day exploring the extraordinary Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved directly from solid volcanic rock during the 12th and 13th centuries. Visit remarkable churches including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, Bete Golgotha, and the iconic Bete Giyorgis (St. George Church). Overnight in Lalibela.

Day 09: Fly to Axum

After breakfast, fly to Axum, the cradle of ancient Ethiopian civilization. Visit the famous Axum Obelisks (Stelae Park), the Archaeological Museum, the legendary Church of St. Mary of Zion, and the ancient royal tombs believed to belong to the Axumite kings. Overnight in Axum.

Day 10: Fly to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, transfer to Axum Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy free time for shopping at Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market, or browse local craft shops for traditional Ethiopian souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner with traditional Ethiopian music and dance. Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 11: Departure

After breakfast, enjoy free time until your scheduled transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure. Leave Ethiopia with unforgettable memories of its imperial history, breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient churches, and remarkable cultural heritage.