Duration
12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
12-Day Discover Ethiopia Historic, Culture & Nature Tour
Overview
Best Ethiopian Safari Tour and Highly rated Tour Company, Explore the wonders of Northern Ethiopia on this unforgettable 12-day journey through ancient cities, sacred rock-hewn churches, majestic highlands, and the otherworldly Danakil Depression. From the spiritual marvels of Lalibela and Axum to the castles of Gondar, the dramatic cliffs of the Simien Mountains, and the colorful volcanic landscapes of Dallol, this adventure blends history, culture, and raw natural beauty like no other.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lalibela (Town), 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
5 years
Activities
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle
Accommodation
Mountain View Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2,365 USD
$2,354 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,365 USD
$2,354 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$2,365 USD
$2,354 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 5 years and older. Children under 6 receive a discount.
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
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 1-2
Lalibela (Town)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4-5
Simien Mountains NP
Day 6
Gondar (City)
Day 7
Axum (City)
Day 8-9
Hawzen (Town)
Day 10
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 11
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 12)
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 3 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.
5
Minimum age of 5 years
The minimum age for this tour is 5 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1-2
Mountain View Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 3
Haile Resort Gondar
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4-5
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Haile Resort Gondar
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8-9
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast 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.
Day 1
Drive from Addis Ababa to Lalibela
After breakfast in Addis Ababa, you'll drive to Lalibela, the spiritual heart of Ethiopia and home to one of the world's most astounding religious sites. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and take in the highland views that surround this mountain town. In the afternoon, you'll begin your exploration of Lalibela’s famed rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These monolithic structures were carved directly from solid volcanic rock in the 12th century. Visit the Northern Cluster, which includes Bete Medhane Alem (the largest rock-hewn church), Bete Maryam, and Bete Golgotha, believed to house the tomb of King Lalibela himself. You will gain your first insight into Ethiopia's deep Orthodox Christian heritage. Overnight: Mountain View Hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mountain View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Explore Bete Giyorgis and Surrounding Monastery
You'll spend a full day exploring the remaining churches of Lalibela, starting with the Southern Cluster, where you’ll find churches such as Bete Emmanuel, Bete Mercurios, and Bete Abba Libanos. These showcase more complex architectural techniques and hidden passageways. In the afternoon, you'll visit the iconic Bete Giyorgis (St. George's Church), the most famous and photogenic of all Lalibela’s churches, carved in the shape of a perfect cross and set deep into the earth. Overnight stay: Mountain View Hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mountain View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Drive Lalibela to Gondar – Castles and Churches of the Royal City
This morning, you'll drive from Lalibela to Gondar, the 17th-century imperial capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, you'll explore the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with fairy-tale castles, once home to Emperor Fasilides and his successors. You'll visit the Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its stunning ceiling of painted cherubs and walls adorned with biblical scenes. Gondar offers a blend of Ethiopian and European architectural styles that reflects its position as a crossroads of cultures and religions. In the evening, you'll stroll through the city or enjoy views from your lodge. Overnight stay: Haile Resort in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Drive from Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park – Into the Ethiopian Highlands
After breakfast, you'll depart Gondar and drive north to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO-listed site known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and endemic wildlife. Upon reaching Debark, the park headquarters, you’ll meet your guide and scout and continue into the park towards Sankaber. This area offers relatively easy hiking trails along the escarpment, providing jaw-dropping views of the Simien range. Keep your eyes open for troops of Gelada baboons, grazing peacefully along the cliffs, and possibly even Walia ibex or Ethiopian wolves. Overnight stay: Sankaber campsite. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Simien Mountains –Trekking and Nature Exploration
Today is dedicated to exploring more of the Simien Mountains. Depending on your preference and fitness level, you can hike from Sankaber to Geech or explore shorter trails offering equally rewarding scenery. You'll trek through afro-alpine meadows, juniper forests, and rugged cliffs. Along the way, you’ll experience close encounters with Geladas, and may witness birds of prey like lammergeiers soaring overhead. This day is a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike, with landscapes rivaling any in East Africa. Overnight stay: Sankaber campsite. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Drive from Sankaber to Gondar – Return from the Highlands
After a morning walk or relaxed breakfast in the mountains, you'll begin your drive back to Gondar, arriving in the late afternoon. Use the rest of the day to relax, refresh, and enjoy the town’s hospitality. If time allows, consider visiting Fasilides’ Bath, a sunken bathing pool where the Timket festival is celebrated annually. Overnight stay: Hotel resort in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Drive Gondar to Axum – The Cradle of Ethiopian Civilization
You'll catch an early morning drive from Gondar to Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Empire, one of the great civilizations of the ancient world. Upon arrival, begin your historical tour of Axum. You'll visit the Stelae Park, home to towering obelisks carved from single blocks of granite, including the 24-meter Obelisk of Axum. You will explore the ruins of the Queen of Sheba's palace, the Ezana stone, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, which Ethiopian tradition claims holds the Ark of the Covenant. Axum is a spiritual and archaeological treasure trove. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Excursion to Abune Yemata Guh – The Church in the Sky
Today, you'll embark on a thrilling day trip to Abune Yemata Guh, one of the world’s most remote and dramatic churches. Located in the Tigray region, this rock-hewn church is perched on a sheer cliff face and is only accessible via a steep ascent that includes narrow ledges and hand-and-foot climbing. Though the climb is not for the faint-hearted, those who reach the top are rewarded with ancient frescoes, a serene sanctuary, and breathtaking views over the Gheralta mountains. This church, dating back to the 5th or 6th century, is one of Ethiopia’s most sacred and unforgettable sights. Overnight stay: Vision Hotel. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Explore More of Axum or Tigray Region
Use this day to continue exploring the Axumite ruins, additional stelae fields, or nearby archaeological sites. Alternatively, you'll explore more of the Tigray rock-hewn churches like Debre Damo Monastery (accessible by rope climb) or Medhane Alem Adi Kasho, depending on your interest and stamina. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the mix of spirituality, artistry, and resilience that defines Ethiopia's ancient Christian culture. Overnight stay: Vision Hotel. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Drive to Danakil Depression – Into the Afar Desert
After an early breakfast, you'll begin your adventurous drive toward the Danakil Depression, one of the most extreme and geologically active environments on Earth. The drive will take you through the harsh but mesmerizing landscapes of the Afar region. After reaching the town of Berhale or Hamed Ela, you’ll meet your support crew (including local guides, a scout, and a 4x4 vehicle). Depending on arrival time, you may begin exploring salt flats or witness camel caravans carrying salt blocks extracted from the desert. Overnight stay: Basic camp in Hamed Ela or near Dallol. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Danakil Depression – Dallol, Salt Lakes, and Sulfur Fields
You'll wake up early to visit Dallol, a surreal and colorful geothermal landscape filled with acidic springs, sulfur mounds, and salt formations. The area, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, feels like another planet. Explore Lake Asale, shimmering with salt crusts, and witness Afar people harvesting salt using ancient methods. You’ll also see active volcanoes, lava fields, and possibly visit Erta Ale (if logistically feasible). This day is a stark and stunning contrast to Ethiopia’s highlands and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Overnight stay: Camping sites. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Drive back to Semera
You will drive back to Semera and later drive back to Addis Ababa. Early in the morning, you'll have another chance to see the stunning sunrise at the volcano. After the visit, you will return to the base camp for breakfast. After breakfast, you'll start your journey back to Semera. You'll arrive in Semera for a late lunch, followed by a drop off at the airport back to Addis Ababa. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
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 Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
Sleeping bag
Bath towels
Excluded
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)
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to/from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD - 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
Offered by
Ethio Top Land Tours
5.0 operator rating
111 reviews
Best Ethiopian Safari Tour and Highly rated Tour Company in Ethiopia. we believe that travel is not just about reaching a destination; it's about creating memories that last a lifetime. as a Ethio top land tour and travel agency, we specialize in crafting unique and personalized travel experiences tailored to your individual preferences and interests. With our extensive network of local partners and in-depth knowledge of destinations around the country, we ensure that every aspect of your tr
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
10-20 employees (Founded in 2017)
Member Of
ETOA, ETGPA & ATOA
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Excellent
The tour was friendly and professional. It was very educational and engaging.
Sithembiso · South Africa
Great tour guide, safe and very knowledgeable
Loved the experience especially the market. We had an amazing tour guide
Zoe · South Africa
Really good presence to show Addis Ababa around.
I'd like to start with a big thank you for the recepction and walking around time. Special thanks for Gebiru, his explanation is precious and unique. Very friendly, gentle and always giving special attention to our questions and requests. The palace, St Mary Church and the museum so well explaning. Also I must thank our driver Mr Shetou for safe driving and very gentle too.
Gregorio Pedro · Brazil
I highly recommend it! It was a wonderful experience!
I highly recommend it! It was a wonderful experience! Our guide was very friendly and always attentive; I learned a lot about Ethiopian culture and history! I highly recommend this tour!
Lud · Brazil
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
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 5 years and older. Children under 6 receive a discount.
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?
Mountain View Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Ethio Top Land Tours, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
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.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Ethio Top Land Tours.
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