Duration
15-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
This 15-day journey explores Ethiopia's historic north and the tribal cultures of the Omo Valley. Discover Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, Gondar's castles, the Simien Mountains, and Lake Tana, then travel south through the Rift Valley to meet diverse communities. A well-balanced itinerary combining history, landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.
Plan snapshot
Duration
15-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lalibela (Town), Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Activities
boat trip
Accommodation
Triple-E Hotel and Spa - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; Breakfast & Dinner Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This mid-range tour uses lodges and resorts.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
This tour is suitable for children of all ages.
Day 1
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2
Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 3
Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4-5
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
Mid-range lodge in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 13
Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 14
Mid-range lodge in Yirga Alem (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 15
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and a short rest, your introduction to Ethiopia begins with a guided exploration of the capital city, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and modern life. Your first stop is the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the world-famous fossil “Lucy,” offering a fascinating insight into the origins of humanity. Continue to St. George Cathedral, a significant religious and historical landmark known for its unique octagonal design and important role in Ethiopia’s history. The tour then proceeds to Entoto Hills, located on the northern edge of the city, where you will enjoy panoramic views over Addis Ababa. This area also provides a glimpse into the early history of the capital and the lifestyle of local communities. Depending on time, a visit to Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, offers an authentic experience. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
In the morning, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred and historically significant destinations. Often referred to as the New Jerusalem Lalibela is renowned for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the earth from solid volcanic rock in the 12th century. Upon arrival, you will proceed directly to explore the first cluster of churches, which includes some of the most impressive architectural achievements of medieval Africa. These monolithic structures are interconnected by a network of tunnels, trenches, and passageways, creating a unique underground complex that continues to serve as an active place of worship. Your guide will provide detailed historical and cultural context, explaining the religious symbolism, construction techniques, and significance of each church. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Today is dedicated to a deeper exploration of Lalibela’s remarkable religious heritage. You will visit the second group of churches, including the iconic Bet Giyorgis (St. George), widely regarded as the finest example of rock-hewn architecture in Ethiopia. Carved in the shape of a perfect cross, this church is both architecturally impressive and spiritually significant. Throughout the day, you will navigate a network of narrow tunnels and hidden passageways that connect the churches, enhancing the sense of discovery and immersion. Your guide will continue to share insights into the historical, architectural, and spiritual importance of each site, allowing you to fully appreciate the complexity and ingenuity of these structures. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Fly to Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia. Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring castles and palaces built by Ethiopian emperors. Continue to Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted ceiling of angels. The city reflects Ethiopia’s royal history and architectural heritage. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Drive to Simien Mountains National Park for a full-day excursion. This UNESCO-listed park is known for its dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and stunning views. Enjoy short walks and observe wildlife such as Gelada baboons, endemic to Ethiopia. The park offers excellent opportunities for photography and nature appreciation before returning to Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Drive to Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to visit historic island monasteries, including Ura Kidane Mehret, known for its ancient murals and religious artifacts. The peaceful lake setting provides a relaxing contrast to previous days of travel. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Today, you will enjoy a half-day excursion to the Blue Nile Falls in Bahir Dar, locally known as Tis Issat (“Smoking Water”). The falls are located approximately 30 km from Bahir Dar, and the drive takes around 45 minutes through scenic countryside. Upon arrival, you will take a short walk to reach the viewpoint, where you can admire the impressive waterfalls, especially during the rainy season when the flow is at its strongest. After the visit, you will return to Bahir Dar. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Drive south through the Great Rift Valley, passing scenic landscapes and local villages. Stop at Abijata-Shalla National Park, known for flamingos and volcanic scenery. Continue to Hawassa, a lakeside city offering a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of Lake Hawassa. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
After breakfast, depart from Hawassa and continue your journey south toward Arba Minch, one of the most scenic regions in southern Ethiopia. The drive offers beautiful views of the Great Rift Valley, passing local villages, farmland, and changing landscapes as you descend toward lower altitudes. Upon arrival in Arba Minch, known as the “Forty Springs” due to its underground water sources, you will enjoy views of the twin lakes—Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo—separated by the lush Nech Sar National Park. In the afternoon, drive up to the Dorze Highlands (approximately 45 minutes), where the climate is cooler and the scenery is mountainous and green. Visit a traditional Dorze village, famous for its unique elephant-shaped bamboo houses, some of which can last for decades. During your visit, you will learn about the Dorze people’s way of life, including their renowned weaving traditions, production of enset (false banana), and local food preparation. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
After breakfast, begin the day with a boat excursion on Lake Chamo, one of the Rift Valley lakes known for its rich wildlife. The boat trip offers excellent opportunities to see large Nile crocodiles—some of the biggest in Africa—along with pods of hippos and a variety of water birds. After the boat trip, start your drive toward Jinka, the gateway to the Omo Valley. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes and tribal regions, offering glimpses of rural life. En route, stop at Key Afer (on market days – typically Thursday), one of the most vibrant and colorful markets in southern Ethiopia. Here, different ethnic groups such as the Hamer, Benna, and Tsemay gather to trade goods, livestock, and handmade items. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Early in the morning, drive to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, one of the most well-known ethnic groups in Ethiopia. The Mursi are famous for the lip plates worn by women and their distinctive cultural identity. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to observe their lifestyle, traditions, and body decorations, while your guide provides cultural context and ensures respectful interaction. After the visit, return to Jinka and continue the drive to Turmi, the cultural center of the Hamer people. The journey passes through remote and scenic landscapes of the Omo Valley. In the afternoon, visit a Hamer village to learn about their traditions, including their hairstyles, beadwork, and social customs. If available, you may also have the chance to witness a traditional ceremony or local gathering. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
After breakfast, take an excursion to the Omo River to visit the Karo tribe, one of the smallest but most visually distinctive ethnic groups in Ethiopia. The Karo are especially known for their intricate body painting using natural pigments, often applied for ceremonies and social expression. The setting along the Omo River provides a stunning backdrop for photography and cultural observation. You will learn about their way of life, traditions, and connection to the river. In the afternoon, return to Turmi and visit a local market (depending on the day), where nearby communities gather. If your visit coincides with a bull-jumping ceremony—a significant rite of passage for young Hamer men—you may have the opportunity to witness this unique cultural event. Mid-range lodge located in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
After breakfast, depart Turmi and drive toward Konso, a region recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique cultural landscape. The Konso people are known for their terraced farming system, which has been used for generations to manage the mountainous terrain. These terraces, along with fortified villages and wooden statues known as “waka,” reflect a highly organized and sustainable way of life. Upon arrival, visit a traditional Konso village and learn about their social structure, agricultural practices, and cultural beliefs. The visit provides a deeper understanding of how the community has adapted to its environment over centuries. Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
After breakfast, depart from Konso and drive north toward Yirgalem, one of Ethiopia’s most renowned coffee-growing regions. The journey passes through the fertile landscapes of southern Ethiopia, with views of plantations, small villages, and lush greenery. Upon arrival, check in at Aregash Lodge, a charming eco-lodge set within a forest environment known for its birdlife and peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit a nearby coffee farm. Depending on the season, you may observe different stages of coffee production, including harvesting, drying, or processing. Your guide will explain the traditional and modern methods of coffee cultivation, as well as the importance of coffee in Ethiopian culture. Mid-range lodge located in Yirga Alem (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
After breakfast, enjoy a short walk within the lodge area and visit the coffee farm on-site, where you will gain further insight into Ethiopia’s coffee heritage. Later, begin the drive back to Addis Ababa, passing through scenic Rift Valley landscapes and local towns. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. In the evening, enjoy an optional farewell cultural dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, music, and dance. Finally, transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure. Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All flights during the tour
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Offered by
Liyu is an Amharic word which means “unique” in English. Liyu Ethiopia Tours is established to promote and market Ethiopia as a major tourist destination in the world. Liyu Ethiopia in the tourism sector carries the objective of maximizing the satisfaction of its customers through its professional and experienced staff, who are always ready to render courtesy and personalized service in all areas of its operations. If you are planning a tour to Ethiopia, contact us for expert recommendation and
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
10-20 employees (Founded in 2017)
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Etiopia is my 86th visited country. Our group of ten girls and one men has chosen Liyu Ethiopian Tours as one of my friends recommended me Yhun Ejigu. I am usually sceptic reading reviews this and that one is the best but I can guarantee Yhun is the best with abilities you can not learn in schools. Although he can not understand Hungarian he could read sighns on our face and our bodylanguage and reacted immediately. Ethiopia is safe, wonderful, heart touching, a must to see. We will never forget our memories and Liyu Ethiopian Tours, without them the ten spent days wouldn’t be so fantastic that it was. We are very thankful.
Tunde Toth · Hungary
Liyu Ethiopia Tours & Travel has the perfect team to make you fall in love with Africa — especially with Ethiopia’s ancient culture, breathtaking nature, and fascinating tribes. Our 10-day tour was not only perfectly organized but also thoughtfully tailored to our needs. The guides were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and had a great sense of humor. The drivers were kind and professional, and we felt safe throughout the entire journey. Traveling with Liyu Ethiopia Tours was pure joy — full of adventure, unforgettable experiences. We came home with thousands of photos — but even more, with beautiful memories and new friends. It was the trip of a lifetime!
Anita Darida-Sarkozi · Hungary
Having been let down at 7am on the day of a tour by another provider, I signed up to do a cooking class. This was so worthwhile. It is not simply about just the food, you get a glimpse into the life and living of the inhabitants of Addis. Liyu Ethiopia Tours were excellent hosts. I was collected from my hotel at 10am, communication was excellent. A young gentleman called Oli collected me from my hotel with a driver. For young man his knowledge of food, ingredients and Ethiopian food was extraordinary, and really added to my experience. In summary a tour round Sola market to walk through the food quarter, which is really insightful and then to his family home for a simply brilliant time learning how to cook with the ingredients we had just purchased. The watchful of Gran was a real bonus too. I cannot speak too highly of this. Book this tour for a real experience above and beyond cooking.
Ade · United Kingdom
This is my second time traveling with Yhun from Liyu agency. After booking an extremely successful trip to the north of Ethiopia, this time we toured Addis. Yhun knows all the less-visited spots, and can accommodate a visit in both rain and sunshine. He is very pleasant, extremely reliable and I wholeheartedly recommend him. But I won't tell you all the sector places he took me- you have to come and find out for yourselves....
Dr. Raya Leibowitz · Israel
Practical answers
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children of all ages. Children under 3 are free.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Triple-E Hotel and Spa - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
This tour is offered by Liyu Ethiopia Tour and Travel, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Liyu Ethiopia Tour and Travel.
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