Duration
14-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
14-Day Historic Route & Omo Valley Cultural Discovery
Overview
Experience the ultimate Ethiopian adventure combining the country's rich history and vibrant cultures. Discover the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the castles of Gondar, and the stunning Simien Mountains. Then journey south to explore the Omo Valley tribes, including the Hamer, Mursi, Karo, and Konso. This immersive journey offers the best of Ethiopia's ancient heritage, landscapes, and living traditions.
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
2 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Caravan Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals 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
$6,160 USD
$5,390 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$6,160 USD
$5,390 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 2 years and older. Children under 14 receive a discount and children under 7 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
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 2
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4
Simien Mountains NP
Day 5
Gondar (City)
Day 6-7
Lalibela (Town)
Day 8
Lake Langano
Day 9
Arba Minch (City)
Day 10
Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 11-12
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 13
Arba Minch (City)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 14)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour includes camping and tented camps.
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.
2
Minimum age of 2 years
The minimum age for this tour is 2 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Getting around: boat, 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
Day 1
Caravan Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Sky Resort
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Haile Resort Gondar
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Haile Resort Gondar
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Tabor Hotel Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Sabana Beach Resort
Mid-range resort at Lake Langano – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Haile Resort Arba Minch
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
Jinka Resort Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11-12
Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included +4 Photos +3 Photos
Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Haile Resort Arba Minch
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14
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
Arrival in Addis Ababa & City Tour
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a guided city tour of Ethiopia’s capital, founded by Emperor Menelik II in 1886 and set at an altitude of 2,400m. Visit the National Museum, home to the fossilized remains of “Lucy,” one of humanity’s oldest ancestors. Continue to the Ethnographic Museum to explore Ethiopia’s diverse cultures, and then visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Depending on time, explore Mount Entoto for panoramic city views or shop for handicrafts before returning to your hotel for dinner and rest. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Caravan Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Fly to Bahir Dar – Lake Tana Monasteries & Blue Nile Falls
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bahir Dar, a picturesque city on the southern shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. Upon arrival, embark on a relaxing boat trip across the lake to explore its historic island monasteries, including Ura Kidane Mihret on Zeghie Peninsula—famed for its vibrant frescoes and ancient manuscripts written in Ge’ez. In the afternoon, drive to the Blue Nile Falls, locally known as Tissisat or “the water that smokes,” located about 32km south of town. Depending on the season, you may witness the falls in full force, especially from September to November. Return to Bahir Dar for a lakeside dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by serene natural beauty. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Sky Resort Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Drive to Gondar – Exploring Castles and Ancient Churches
After breakfast, drive through scenic landscapes to Gondar, the 17th-century royal city founded by Emperor Fasilides. Often called the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar is known for its magnificent medieval castles and stone churches. Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring several castles built by successive emperors. Continue to the beautifully decorated Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its angel-filled ceiling frescoes, considered among the finest examples of Ethiopian art. You’ll also explore the ancient bathing pool of Emperor Fasilides, still used for the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebration. End the day enjoying sunset views from your hotel terrace overlooking the city. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Drive to Simien Mountains National Park
After breakfast, depart Gondar for a scenic drive to the Simien Mountains National Park, often called the “Roof of Africa.” The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its dramatic highland scenery, jagged peaks, and deep valleys. Upon arrival, you’ll meet a local guide and scout before entering the park. Spend the afternoon exploring the viewpoints around Sankaber, where breathtaking vistas open over the escarpments. You’ll also encounter unique wildlife such as the endemic Gelada baboons, Walia ibex, and various bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst stunning views before continuing to Simien Lodge, Africa’s highest hotel. Relax in the evening with dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by mountain tranquility. 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
Day 5
Return to Gondar – Scenic Drive through the Highlands
After breakfast, begin the journey back to Gondar, retracing the scenic mountain roads from the Simien highlands. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of deep valleys, rugged cliffs, and rural villages that showcase Ethiopia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Stop for lunch end route and take short photo breaks at panoramic viewpoints. Upon arrival in Gondar, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. You may choose to revisit local sites, explore small craft shops, or simply unwind at the hotel terrace while watching the sunset over the historic city. Dinner and overnight stay in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Fly to Lalibela – Discover the Rock-Hewn Churches
After breakfast, transfer to Gondar Airport for your short flight to Lalibela, home to the world-famous rock-hewn churches carved from solid volcanic rock. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and lunch. In the afternoon, begin your exploration of the northern cluster of Lalibela churches, including Bet Medhane Alem (the largest monolithic church in the world), Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, and Bet Danaghel. These incredible structures, connected by a network of tunnels and trenches, were built in the 12th century under King Lalibela’s reign and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay with spectacular sunset views. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Lalibela – Second Cluster of Churches & Local Experience
After breakfast, continue exploring Lalibela with a visit to the southern cluster of churches, which includes Bet Gabriel-Rufael, Bet Merkorios, Bet Amanuel, and Bet Abba Libanos—each with unique architectural styles and symbolic significance. The highlight of the day is Bet Giyorgis (St. George’s Church), a masterpiece carved in the shape of a perfect cross and the most iconic of all Lalibela churches. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural experience by visiting a local family home for a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and to learn about daily life in the highlands. You may also explore local markets or art shops before returning to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Fly to Addis Ababa and Drive to Lake Langano
After breakfast, transfer to Lalibela Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, meet your driver and continue south along the Great Rift Valley, enjoying the scenic landscape dotted with beautiful lakes, farmlands, and acacia trees. En route, you will have the opportunity to stop at Lake Ziway to observe a variety of aquatic birds, including pelicans, herons, and African fish eagles. Continue driving to Lake Langano, known for its brown-colored but clean waters, safe for swimming. The lake is surrounded by stunning views and offers a peaceful retreat after your northern adventure. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed time by the lakeshore or visit the Abijatta-Shalla National Park, where you can spot ostriches, gazelles, and numerous bird species. Overnight: Sabana Beach Resort or similar, Lake Langano. Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lake Langano Stay: Sabana Beach Resort Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Drive to Arba Minch & Visit Dorze Village
After breakfast, drive to Arba Minch through Sodo and the fertile southern highlands. In the afternoon, head to the Guge Mountains to visit the Dorze and Chencha villages. Once known as warriors, the Dorze are now skilled weavers, producing some of Ethiopia’s finest cotton textiles. Their distinctive beehive-shaped huts, built entirely from organic materials, can last for decades. Enjoy meeting the villagers, watching traditional weaving demonstrations, and learning about their daily life and farming practices. Return to Arba Minch in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay overlooking the twin lakes of Abaya and Chamo. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Arba Minch (City) Stay: Haile Resort Arba Minch Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Drive to Jinka via Konso (UNESCO) and Key Afer Market
After breakfast, drive south to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique terraced agriculture, fortified villages, and carved wooden grave markers called waga. Meet the Konso people, skilled farmers who have adapted ingeniously to the dry, hilly terrain. Continue toward Key Afer, where you can visit the vibrant weekly market (if it’s Thursday) that attracts several tribes, including the Ari, Bena, and Hamer. Experience the colorful attire, hairstyles, and beadwork that define their identities. Later, continue to Jinka, the gateway to Mago National Park, for dinner and overnight stay in a peaceful natural setting. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Jinka Resort Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Visit the Mursi Tribe in Mago National Park & Drive to Turmi
Early in the morning, drive into Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, famous for their striking lip plates worn by women and elaborate body decorations. Learn about their customs, social structures, and symbolic traditions while observing daily life in their highland villages. After lunch in Jinka, continue your journey through the Omo Valley to Turmi, home of the Hamer people. The Hamer are known for their intricate hairstyles, ochre-colored braids, and traditional “bull-jumping” ceremony, which marks a young man’s transition to adulthood. Arrive in Turmi by evening and check in at your lodge for dinner and rest. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
Excursion to Murulle – Visit the Karo Tribe
Today you’ll drive to the Murulle area along the banks of the Omo River to visit the Karo tribe, renowned for their elaborate body and face paintings. Using natural pigments, the Karo create intricate designs as expressions of beauty and identity. Men often sculpt their hair into dramatic styles adorned with ostrich feathers, while women decorate themselves with colorful beads and cowrie shells. Enjoy panoramic views of the Omo River and observe village life along its banks. Return to Turmi in the afternoon, where you may encounter the vibrant Dimeka market or a local Hamer cultural performance, depending on the schedule. Dinner and overnight at Buska Lodge. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
Drive Back to Arba Minch – Boat Trip on Lake Chamo
After breakfast, drive north through Konso and return to Arba Minch. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Chamo, one of Ethiopia’s most scenic Rift Valley lakes. The lake is home to huge Nile crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of aquatic birds, including pelicans and kingfishers. The northern shores, known as “Crocodile Market,” offer close-up encounters with these impressive creatures basking in the sun. Enjoy the cool lake breeze and the backdrop of the forested mountains before returning to your lodge for a relaxing evening and overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Arba Minch (City) Stay: Haile Resort Arba Minch Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
Drive Back to Addis Ababa – Farewell Dinner & Departure
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Addis Ababa, passing through the Great Rift Valley lakes and scenic farmlands. Stop en route at the UNESCO-listed Tiya Stele field to view mysterious ancient stone carvings dating back to the 12th century. Arrive in Addis Ababa in the afternoon for some final souvenir shopping at local markets. In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of the city’s traditional restaurants, featuring cultural dances and Ethiopian cuisine. Later, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 14-day adventure through Ethiopia’s historic and cultural heartlands. Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not 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
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
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Book your own international flights when using this operator
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
Hidden Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
17 reviews
Hidden Ethiopia Tours is a locally owned Ethiopian tour operator offering authentic, customized travel experiences across Ethiopia. We specialize in cultural, historical, trekking, and nature tours, ensuring travelers discover the true hidden beauty of Ethiopia through professional and personalized service.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2017)
Member Of
ETOA & ETTA
Tour Types
Customizable private tours and fixed group tours
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5A great guide in Lalibela!
I visited Lalibela for two days and Ayaliwu, my guide, was arranged by my travel agent in Addis. He was a true expert on the history of this stunning site as well as its broader cultural context. Ayaliwu was able to provide detailed information about the history of the Rock-cut churches. He payed attention to the details and was very well-prepared. He was also very solicitous of my physical capabilities and always found solutions for me. My visit to the churches of Lalibela was unforgettable thanks to him! I definitely recommend Ayaliwu to anyone visiting Lalibela.
Stergios · Greece
Super knowledgeable and super funny!
I did a small private tour with Ayalew ! He is an experienced guide with a wealth of knowledge and an amazing sense of humour. He is fully accredited and I feel I walked away from my three days with him with a better understanding of the history and landscape of not just the churches, but also of Lalibela and Ethiopia . Despite the travel advisory, the town of Lalibela was very friendly and secure . There was a strong military presence in the town but very few tourists. Thanks hidden Ethiopia for such a lovely adventure !
June · Canada
Best Guide Possible in Lalibela
Our tour with Ayaliwu was arranged by our travel agent in Addis, and we could not have been better pleased. This guide was able to provide detailed information the history of the Rock-cut churches, the symbolic significance of architectural features, and also to field questions about unrelated matters, like the crops being grown. He was also very solicitous of our physical capabilities and always found places for us to sit. Ayaliwu ‘s English, too, is easily understood.
Mary · United States
local & porfesional
I took a half&half day Lalibela tour with airport pickup / dropoff, and everything went very smoothly. The service was professional from start to finish — communication was clear, timing was perfect, and everything was well organized. I also appreciated their agile problem-solving when small issues came. Ayalew handled everything quickly and efficiently. Overall, it was a great experience, and I can definitely recommend Ayalew to anyone visiting Lalibela.
Maja · Poland
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 2 years and older. Children under 14 receive a discount and children under 7 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?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Caravan Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals 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 Hidden Ethiopia Tours, 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.
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