Duration
12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
12-Day South and Norther Ethiopian Tour Beyond
Overview
This tour combines the Northern Historic Route with the Omo Valley tribes experience. You'll begin your journey along the Northern Historic Route to explore Ethiopia's rich heritage. You'll visit iconic landmarks such as the Blue Nile Falls, the castles of Gondar, and the Simien Mountains National Park. The first leg of the journey concludes at one of Ethiopia's most sacred sites: Lalibela, home to its awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Bahir Dar (City), 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
Minimum age
7 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks & beach time
Accommodation
Capital Hotel & Spa - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; Breakfast & Lunch Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2,860 USD
$2,420 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,860 USD
$2,420 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$2,860 USD
$2,420 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
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 who are 7 years and older. Children under 8 receive a discount.
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
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 2
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4
Simien Mountains NP
Day 5-6
Lalibela (Town)
Day 7
Lake Langano
Day 8
Arba Minch (City)
Day 9
Konso (Cultural Village)
Day 10
Omorate (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 11
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 12)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and resorts.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Suitable for solo travelers
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
7
Minimum age of 7 years
The minimum age for this tour is 7 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & beach time
Getting around: boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
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
Capital Hotel & Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 3
AG Hotel Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
AG Hotel Mid-range hotel 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast & Lunch Included
Mid-range hotel 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast & Lunch Included
Breakfast & Lunch Included
Day 5-6
Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Hawassa Lake View Hotel Mid-range hotel in Awasa (City) – Breakfast Included +4 Photos +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Awasa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Emerald Resort Arbaminch
Mid-range resort in Arba Minch (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9-10
Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included +11 Photos +10 Photos
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11
Nasa Hotel Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Lunch 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
Addis Ababa City Tour
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, a representative from our team will greet you and escort you to your hotel. You'll begin your exploration of Addis Ababa with a visit to the Ethnological Museum, where you’ll gain insight into Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and traditions. You'll continue to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an important religious and historical landmark, before heading to Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. Your overnight stay will be in the Addis Ababa Capital Hotel and Spa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Capital Hotel & Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
You'll catch a morning flight to Bahir Dar. You'll start your day with a boat trip on Lake Tana to explore the ancient monasteries of the Zege Peninsula and Kibran Gebriel (accessible only to men). Then, you'll visit the source of the Blue Nile River. In the afternoon, you'll embark on a short hike around the Blue Nile Falls, admiring the breathtaking scenery. Later, you'll head to Bezawit Hill, home to Emperor Haile Selassie’s former palace, and enjoy a magnificent sunset over Lake Tana. You'll conclude the day with a delightful dinner by the lakeshore. Your overnight stay will be in the Bahir Dar Jacaranda Hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Bahir Dar to Gondar
You'll depart for Gondar in the morning, a four-hour journey through picturesque countryside and traditional Amhara villages. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and set out to explore the historic sites of Gondar. You'll visit the 17th-century Royal Enclosure, which houses six castles and numerous other historical structures. Next, you'll see Fasilides' Bath, a site still used for the Timkat (Epiphany) festival. Finally, you'll visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church, renowned for its mesmerizing ceiling adorned with angelic faces. Overnight stay in Gondar – AG Hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Simein Mountain National Park Excursion
You'll set off for the Simien Mountains National Park, passing through Debark to obtain the necessary trekking permits and a scout. You'll enjoy a scenic hike around Sankabar, where you have a good chance of spotting groups of the endemic Gelada baboons. After a day of exploration, you'll return to Gondar in the late afternoon. Overnight stay will be in Gondar –Ag Hotel. Mid-range hotel located 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Gondar to Lalibela
Arrival in Lalibela. You'll visit the First Group of Churches: Start with a visit to the most famous rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, such as Bete Medhane Alem (the largest of the churches), Bete Maryam (dedicated to the Virgin Mary), and Bete Golgotha (home to the tomb of King Lalibela). Later, you'll transfer to your hotel for your overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Visit Yemerhane Kirestoes Cave Church
You'll drive to Yemrehanna Kirstos Church: Located about 42 kilometers from Lalibela, this church is nestled in a beautiful cave. The journey takes around 1.5-2 hours by car. You'll explore Yemrehanna Kirstos Church: A lesser-known gem, this 11th-century church is famous for its unique architecture, constructed from wood and stone, and its stunning location surrounded by a forested landscape. The church is a blend of both Axumite and Lalibela-style rock-hewn architecture. Afternoon: You'll visit the Second Group of Churches: These include Bete Giyorgis, one of the most renowned churches, shaped like a Greek cross, and Bete Meskal. Stroll around the Lalibela Monastery: Discover the beautiful landscapes and surrounding areas. Your overnight stay will be at Top Twelve Hotel. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Lalibela Addis to Langano Awassa
Early morning, you will have breakfast and enjoy the sunrise from Lalibela town. Later, you'll have a flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, a vehicle will be waiting to take you to Awassa Langano, one of the Great Rift Valley lakes. You'll spend a relaxing afternoon unwinding by the lakeshore. Your overnight stay will be at Lake Views Hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Awasa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lake Langano Stay: Hawassa Lake View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Awasa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Langano to Arbaminch via Awassa
After breakfast, you'll drive towards Arba Minch, stopping in Awassa along the way. You'll visit the lively fish market to observe the local fishing culture. You'll continue through Ethiopia’s coffee-growing region before arriving in Arba Minch. After lunch, you'll visit a Dorze village, where you’ll experience the unique beehive-shaped huts and the community’s rich weaving traditions. You'll end the evening with dinner overlooking the scenic lakes Abaya and Chamo. Overnight stay will be in Arba Minch Emerald Lodge and Resort. Mid-range resort located in Arba Minch (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Arba Minch (City) Stay: Emerald Resort Arbaminch Mid-range resort located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Arbaminch Necheisar Park, Konso to Tumri
Arba Minch, Nechisar National Park, Konso, and Turmi You'll start the day with a boat excursion on Lake Chamo, where you may encounter large crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species. On the opposite shore, you might also spot Burchell’s zebras, Grant’s gazelles, and the endemic Swayne’s hartebeest. Afterward, you'll drive to Konso and enjoy lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Konso cultural landscape, known for its terraced farming and fortified villages. In the afternoon, you'll continue to Turmi to meet the Hamer people, known for their intricate hairstyles, body adornments, and cultural traditions. Your overnight stay will be in Turmi Emerald Lodge and Resort. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Konso (Cultural Village) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Visit Omorate Dessanech People
In the morning, you'll travel to Omorate, where you’ll cross the Omo River to visit the Dassanech people, known for their pastoral lifestyle. In the afternoon, you'll go back to Turmi and witness the traditional Hamer bull-jumping ceremony, a rite of passage for young men preparing for marriage. -Your overnight stay will be in Turmi Emerald Lodge and Resort. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Omorate (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Karo Village and Visit Mursi Indigenous People
After breakfast, you'll drive to visit the Karo people in the Omo Valley. Known for their elaborate body paintings, beadwork, and lip plates, the Karo practice subsistence farming and have unique cultural traditions, including bull-jumping. In the afternoon, you'll return to Turmi to meet the Mursi people, famous for their large lip plates and warrior traditions. The Mursi are pastoralists and are known for their annual bull-jumping and stick fighting rituals. Your overnight stay will be at Jinka Nasa Hotel. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Nasa Hotel Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Jinka Fly Addis Ababa
After breakfast, you'll fly to Addis Ababa and enjoy some time to refresh. Later, you'll explore local shops and markets. In the evening, you'll enjoy a farewell dinner at Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant, experiencing traditional Ethiopian music and dance, before preparing for your departure. 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)
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)
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
Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel
4.8 operator rating
27 reviews
Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel, established in 2019 by Abrham Fentaw, is more than just a travel company—it is a gateway to discovering the heart and soul of Ethiopia. Recognized as one of the nation’s most trusted tour operators, Vowland specializes in creating unforgettable experiences for travelers from across the globe.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)
Member Of
ABATA & ETPA
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
5.0/5Fabulous and enthusiastic
Abraham has great knowledge about his country and imparts it with great insight. Thoroughly enjoyed two tours with him.
Lisa · Australia
Abraham is an excellent guide
Abraham has great knowledge and is enthusiastic about his country. He is an excellent guide who loves telling you about the history and events in Ethiopia. I would highly recommend him to anyone going to Ethiopia
Lisa · Australia
21 days tour, Vowland Ethiopia tour are incredible and felts in memory!
Our journey began Simien Mountains in northern part of Ethiopia provided breathtaking hiking opportunities, with stunning vistas and encounters with endemic wildlife like the Gelada baboons. Our knowledgeable guide Abrham led us through the rugged terrain, making every step worthwhile. Next we travel to visit Lalibela Rock hewn churches , where the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches left us speechless. The spiritual ambiance and the stories shared by our guide Abrham deepened our appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site. Finally we ventured into the Danakil Depression a true adventure! The otherworldly landscapes, vibrant colors, and the thrill of witnessing bubbling lava at Erta Ale were unforgettable. Camping under the stars in such a remote area was a highlight of our trip. We returned from an incredible tour of the Omo Valley in southern part of Ethiopia , and we can't recommend it enough! Our guide Abrham was knowledgeable and passionate about the diverse cultures of the various tribes we visited, including the , Chamo lakes ,Kara Villages Hamar , Mursi , Dassanech Tribeand others. The landscapes were breathtaking, from lush valleys to stunning river views. The highlight was definitely the traditional ceremonies we were fortunate enough to witness. The warmth and hospitality of the local people made this trip unforgettable. If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, Southern Ethiopia is a must-visit! Finally, we explored the Bale Mountains, where tranquility reigns supreme. The chance to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf amidst pristine nature was a dream come true. The combination of comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine made for a perfect end to our adventure. And we highly recommend Vowland Ethiopia Tour!!
Flipess · Belgium
Very nice and interesting tour.
It was a very nice trip. Wonderful landscape, an interesting monastery and very delicious food. Thank you for everything!
Florian · Germany
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 7 years and older. Children under 8 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?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Capital Hotel & Spa - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – 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 Vowland 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 Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel.
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