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11-Day Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia: 11-Day

Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

11-Day Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia: 11-Day

5.0 / 5 · 24 reviews Offered by Discover Simien Tour 11-Day

Overview

Join us for an 11-day trip through Northern Ethiopia. Discover ancient rock-hewn churches, beautiful landscapes, and lively cultures. Visit the historic sites of Lalibela, enjoy the stunning views of the Simien Mountains, and learn about the rich history of Axum and Gondar. This adventure combines history, nature, and real local experiences for an unforgettable journey.

Plan snapshot

Quick Facts

Tour details

Duration

11-Day

Route

Addis Ababa to Lalibela (Town) (Day 9-10)

Via Blue Nile Falls, Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP

Country & park

Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park

Style

Shared safari

Group size

1-12 travelers

Starts

Any day if available

Minimum age

2 years

Activities

nature hikes/walks

Accommodation

Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included

Meals

All Meals Included

Pickup

Airport transfer included

Booking

Request quote

Currency

USD

Solo travelers

Can join this group tour

11-Day Discover the Wonders of Northern Ethiopia: 11-Day
Simien Mountains National Park visual context for this itinerary.

Rates

Rates Per Person

USD

Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026 $2,860 USD $2,200 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027 $2,860 USD $2,200 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028 $2,860 USD $2,200 USD

Before booking

Important To Know

Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 2 years and older. Children under 3 are free.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. Flights may cost more, depending on travel dates. If so, your quote will reflect this.

Quote flow

Request Guidance

We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Request a Quote

Route

Tour route map
country Ethiopia
Start Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 1 Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)
Day 2 Gondar (City)
Day 3-5 Simien Mountains NP
Day 6-7 Axum (City)
Day 8 Gheralta (Mountain Range)
End Lalibela (Town) (Day 9-10)

Tour Features

Budget tour

This budget tour includes camping and hotels.

Shared tour

On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 30 people per vehicle.

Can start any day

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Cannot be customized

The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.

Suitable for single travelers

Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.

2
Minimum age of 2 years

The minimum age for this tour is 2 years.

Activities & Transportation

Activities: nature hikes/walks
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Book your own international flights when using this operator
A transfer from and back to the airport is included

Accommodation & Meals

Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos

Day 1

Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos

Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 PhotosLake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 PhotosLake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos
Goha Hotel

Day 2

Goha Hotel

Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Goha Hotel
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

Day 3-4

Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included

Day 5-6

Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included

Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals IncludedSabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included

Day 7

Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included

Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Planet Hotel

Day 8

Planet Hotel

Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Planet HotelPlanet HotelPlanet Hotel
Sora Lodge Lalibela

Day 9-10

Sora Lodge Lalibela

Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Sora Lodge LalibelaSora Lodge LalibelaSora Lodge Lalibela

Day 11

End of tour

No accommodation

(No accommodation)

All Meals Included

Day By Day

Tour step

Arrival

You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Fly addis abeba to bahirdar

Day 1

Fly addis abeba to bahirdar

Fly from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar in the morning. Embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, exploring the historic monasteries located on its shores and islands, such as Urakidanemirt, Azwa Mariam, and Entos. You can also see hippos and many bird species, as well as the stunning Blue Nile Falls. Overnight in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Blue Nile Falls (Highlight) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Drive from bahirdar to Gondar

Day 2

Drive from bahirdar to Gondar

Drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, taking in the rural villages along the way, which provide insight into the Amhara culture and traditional agricultural practices. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Enclosure and other historical sites. Overnight in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Drive from Gondar to the simien mountains National park

Day 3

Drive from Gondar to the simien mountains National park

Travel from Gondar to Sankaber, approximately 136 km away. You will stop in Debark town to get the permit, scout, cook, and other supplies. Stop at the park head office in Debark to register and meet your trekking team. Enjoy a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, situated at 3,250 meters. Overnight camping at Sankaber. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Sankaber campsite to Chennek campsite

Day 4

Sankaber campsite to Chennek campsite

Today is an early morning (8 AM) departure to the Jinbar waterfall. From here, you will go for an easy trek to the Geech Abyss, where you will see a large waterfall where the Jinbar River plunges into the abyss. This area is also a great place for viewing the endemic Gelada baboon, also known as the bleeding heart baboon due to the red patch of skin. Afterward, drive to Aynamed and walk for 2 hours to Chennek campsite. Stay overnight at Chennek camp. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Drive Simien Mountains to axum

Day 5

Drive Simien Mountains to axum

Chennek to Axum: After breakfast, walk around Chennek along the edge of the scarpments. You might see Walia ibex, Ethiopian wolves, and Gelada baboons. Then, drive back to Debark and start your journey. After lunch in Adarky, continue your drive through the Tekeze Valley to Axum, the heart of the ancient Axumite Empire. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Sightseeing of axum

Day 6

Sightseeing of axum

Dedicate this day to exploring Axum’s historical sites, including the famous obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Bath, King Bazen’s tomb, and the Queen of Sheba’s Palace. Also, visit St. Mary of Zion Church, a significant site in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Axum to Yeha and Debre Damo

Day 7

Axum to Yeha and Debre Damo

After breakfast, drive to the ruins of Yeha, believed to be the capital of ancient Ethiopian civilization and home to some of the oldest structures in the country. Explore the impressive temple complex and learn about its historical significance. Next, visit Debre Damo Monastery, a remarkable site perched on a cliff, accessible only to men who must climb a 15-meter rope to enter. This ancient monastery, known for its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere, offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich religious heritage. After a day of exploration, unwind and enjoy the stunning views at Gheralta Lodge in Hawzien, where you’ll spend the night. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Gheralta and Tigray Rock-Hewn Churche

Day 8

Gheralta and Tigray Rock-Hewn Churche

Explore the less-visited rock-hewn churches of Tigray, known for their stunning architecture and unique locations carved into cliffs. These ancient churches, such as Abreha we Atsbeha and Maryam Korkor, offer a peaceful atmosphere and fascinating history, often surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. After your exploration, drive to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray, where you can enjoy local cuisine and experience the city’s vibrant culture. From Mekelle, Spend the night in Mekelle, reflecting on your incredible journey through Ethiopia’s rich history and stunning scenery. Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Planet Hotel Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Mekelle-addis abeba and lalibela connection flight

Day 9

Mekelle-addis abeba and lalibela connection flight

Take a morning flight to Lalibela. Spend the day visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches, starting with the Northwestern Cluster (including Bet Medhane Alem and Bet Maryam). After lunch, continue to the Southeastern Cluster (including Bet Gabriel-Rufael). Overnight in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Asheton Mariam and Yimrehane Kirstos

Day 10

Asheton Mariam and Yimrehane Kirstos

Hike up to the Asheton Mariam Monastery, located on a scenic hill that offers breathtaking views of Lalibela and the surrounding landscape. This monastery, dating back to the 13th century, is a peaceful place where you can admire ancient manuscripts and beautiful frescoes. Afterward, visit Yimrehane Kirstos Church, known for its unique architectural style that blends local traditions with rock-hewn techniques. This church, built into a cave, features stunning stonework and intricate carvings. As you explore, learn about its historical significance and the legends associated with it. Both sites provide a deep insight into Ethiopia’s rich Christian heritage and the remarkable artistry of its ancient churches. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 11

Lalibela to addis abeba

Lalibela to Addis Ababa Depending on the day, attend early morning church services if it coincides with a Saints Day. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: No major destination visited Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Tour step

End of tour

Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.

Included

Park fees (For non-residents)

All activities (Unless labeled as optional)

All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)

Camping equipment

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)

Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Sleeping bag

Excluded

International flights (From/to home)

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Bath towels

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

Getting There

This tour starts in Addis Ababa and ends in Lalibela, Ethiopia
Book your own international flights when using this operator
Fly to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD - Check price)
Fly back from Lalibela Airport (LLI - Check price)
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Discover Simien Tour
Discover Simien Tour logo

Offered by

Discover Simien Tour

5.0 operator rating 24 reviews

Discover Simien Tour is one of the premier tour companies in Ethiopia, founded by a dynamic team of young and energetic tourism professionals. Led by Sahlie Beza, a seasoned tour guide with years of experience, our company is dedicated to providing exceptional travel experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Ethiopia.

Office In

Ethiopia

Size

5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)

Tour Types

Luxury tours that, when possible, use accommodations owned and operated by them

Destinations

Djibouti, Ethiopia

Traveler feedback

Reviews

5.00 average

Overall

5.0/5

Communication

5.0/5

Accuracy

5.0/5

Value

5.0/5

Safety clarity

5.0/5

Cultural value

5.0/5
Verified

Breathtaking views

Sensational. Breathtaking views. The staff is one of the highlights of the tour.

Raphael · Brazil

Verified

Absolutely knowledgeable

Fantastic day with an absolutely knowledgeable guide - Gondar is full of magic!

Janoa · Hungary

Verified

Excellent & Unforgettable

We just completed a 12 day Ultimative Ethiopian Wildlife Adventure with Discover Simien Tour and it was truly unforgettable from start to finish. From the very first day, our guide Sahile impressed us with his broad and deep knowledge, calm professionalism and genuine passion for Ethiopia. He made everything feel safe, easygoing, and yet so enriching – whether explaining the geology of the Simien mountains, pointing out gelada monkeys, or helping us understand local customs. Our driver Daniel, was equally fantastic; punctual, skilled, and navigating challenging terrain with ease, which even made long drives feel part of the adventure. The scenery across the trip was breath taking, whereas Simien mountains was the absolute highlight with its dramatic cliffs and astonishing flora and fauna. We stayed in a mix of comfortable lodges and hotels and the logistics were handled smoothly; transport, park fees, food and guides – everything as promised. Culturally, we visited traditional communities, explored the spiritual side of Ethiopian heritage, and felt welcomed everywhere. Sahile skilfully bridged us into these moments, making them feel authentic. In short; 5 stars for the excellent guides, the authentic cultural immersion, the stunning landscapes and the very professional and warm service. We felt like we did not just visited Ethiopia but also experienced it.

Photo by Daniela and Sina
Photo by Daniela and Sina
Photo by Daniela and Sina
Photo by Daniela and Sina

Daniela and Sina · Switzerland

Verified

Passionate, kind, well-organized team that made our Danakil Tour safe & absolutely unforgettable!

I don’t even know where to start… Our 3-day trip to the Danakil Depression with Discover Simien Mountains was an absolutely unforgettable experience – not only because of the surreal landscapes but also thanks to the incredible people we got to meet and travel with. We chose a private tour, and during our journey, we were joined by Bahran (guide), Addis (driver), and Habtu (cook) – each of them was such a kind, warm, and genuine person. If you’re planning a trip to Danakil or any other part of Ethiopia with Discover Simien Mountains, I truly recommend asking for Addis – he’s an amazing person and an excellent driver. Our guide (Bahran) explained everything clearly and with great passion. We learned so much about Dallol, the salt lakes, and the volcanoes. The food was another highlight! Habtu somehow managed to cook fresh, tasty meals right in the middle of the desert. We always had enough water and soft drinks, and even got to enjoy some Ethiopian beer or wine while watching the sunset on the salt lake an unforgettable experience. We also really appreciated the small but thoughtful details, like the portable shower provided during the tour – in such hot conditions, it was a true blessing! What made this trip even more special was the planning: while most operators follow a similar route, the Discover Simien Mountains team made sure we could arrive early to the main sights and enjoy them in peace before other groups arrived. That sense of privacy and exclusivity was priceless. We cannot recommend Discover Simien Mountains highly enough – if you’re planning a trip to Danakil or any other region in Ethiopia, this is the team you want to travel with. We felt safe, well taken care of, and genuinely welcomed throughout the journey. We left with the most beautiful memories the kind that stay with you long after the trip ends. It’s hard to put it all into words… you simply have to experience it yourself!

Monika · Poland

Practical answers

Tour FAQs

8 answers

Are rates charged per person?

Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.

Which currency is this tour priced in?

This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).

Can children join this tour?

This tour accepts children who are 2 years and older. Children under 3 are free.

Can this tour start on my preferred date?

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Can the itinerary be customized?

The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.

Where do travelers stay during this tour?

Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals Included

Are airport transfers included?

A transfer from and back to the airport is included

How does the quote request work?

We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators () Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly

Operator policy

Terms and Conditions

Booking terms

Disclaimer

This tour is offered by Discover Simien Tour, not SafariBookings.

This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.

Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.

This group tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run.

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.

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