Duration
16-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
16-Day Northern Ethiopia Historical & Scenic Adventure
Overview
Discover Ethiopia's rich history, culture, and landscapes on this 15-day adventure. Explore imperial cities, trek the Simien Mountains, visit ancient rock-hewn churches, cruise Lake Tana, and experience the otherworldly Danakil Depression and Erta Ale volcano. Immerse yourself in local traditions and stunning scenery throughout your journey.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Bahir Dar (City), Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
6 years
Activities
game drives, nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$4,620 USD
$3,960 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$4,620 USD
$3,960 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 6 years and older. Children under 14 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 2-3
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 4
Gondar (City)
Day 5-6
Simien Mountains NP
Day 7-8
Axum (City)
Day 9
Hawzen (Town)
Day 10
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 11
Hamad Ela (Village)
Day 12
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 13
Semera (Town)
Day 14-16
Lalibela (Town)
End
Addis Ababa (Day 16)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
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.
6
Minimum age of 6 years
The minimum age for this tour is 6 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives, nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Game drives: normal 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: boat, normal 4x4 vehicle, hiking/walking & 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
Jano Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2-3
Sky Resort
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9-10
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Budget camping Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Ruftana Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Semera (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14-15
Sora Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16
End of tour
(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.
Day 1
Arrival and Addis Ababa City Highlights
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you will be welcomed at Bole International Airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy sightseeing in Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. Highlights include the National Museum, home to the famous fossil “Lucy,” and Holy Trinity Cathedral, the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. End the day with a panoramic drive up Entoto Hill, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding highlands. This first day eases you into Ethiopian culture while allowing some rest after your journey. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Jano Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Flight to Bahir Dar and Lake Tana Cruise
After breakfast, take a domestic flight to Bahir Dar, a picturesque city on the shores of Lake Tana. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside hotel before enjoying a scenic boat cruise on Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. Visit Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery, known for its colorful murals and rich history. Spend the evening relaxing by the lake, soaking in the serene surroundings and watching the sunset over the tranquil waters. Optional: stroll through the local market to experience Bahir Dar’s vibrant culture. 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
Blue Nile Falls and Bahir Dar City Exploration
Start the day with a visit to the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, known locally as “Tis Issat” or “The Smoking Water.” Enjoy a scenic walk to the falls, taking in the lush surroundings and dramatic views. Afterward, explore Bahir Dar city, including its colorful local market and cultural sites. Optional: hike to a nearby hill for panoramic views of the Nile and Lake Tana. Return to your lakeside hotel in the evening for dinner and relaxation, soaking in the serene lakeside atmosphere. 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 4
Drive to Gondar and Explore Imperial Castles
After breakfast, drive to Gondar, passing through scenic highlands and small villages. Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fasil Ghebbi, the royal enclosure of castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilides. Visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted ceilings, and see Fasilides’ Bath, where the annual Timkat festival takes place. In the evening, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner, reflecting on Gondar’s rich imperial history. 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
Day 5
Start Simien Mountains Trek
After breakfast, depart for the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic escarpments and unique wildlife. Begin guided trekking through scenic valleys and highlands, spotting Gelada baboons and, if lucky, the rare Ethiopian wolf. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst breathtaking scenery. In the evening, relax and watch the sunset over the rugged mountains. Optional: take a short evening walk to admire the landscape. 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 6
Simien Mountains Trek
Continue your adventure in the Simien Mountains National Park with a full day of guided trekking. Explore dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and highland plateaus while spotting wildlife such as Gelada baboons and the elusive Ethiopian wolf. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery. Return to your park in the late afternoon to relax and enjoy dinner with panoramic mountain views. Optional: short evening walk to take in the sunset over the rugged landscape. 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 7
Drive to Axum through Scenic Highlands
After breakfast, depart for Axum via the scenic route through the Tekeze River Gorge and Ethiopian highlands. Arrive in Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Empire, and check into your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing or taking an optional walk around the historic city center, preparing for the next day’s exploration of its legendary monuments and churches. Dinner is served at your hotel. 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
Day 8
Axum exploration
Spend a full day exploring Axum’s historical and cultural treasures. Visit the towering obelisks, St. Mary of Zion Church, and the ancient ruins associated with the legendary Queen of Sheba. Enjoy some free time to explore the town and its surroundings, taking in the rich history and unique atmosphere of this ancient city. 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
Day 9
Drive from Axum to Hawzen – Gheralta Rock Churches
After breakfast, depart Axum and drive to Hawzen, passing through the scenic Tigray highlands and traditional villages. Upon arrival, explore the Gheralta region, renowned for its cliff-top rock-hewn churches. Spend the day visiting these remarkable sites, enjoying short hikes through sandstone valleys and dramatic landscapes. Learn about local religious traditions and admire ancient murals and carvings. Optional: take a short evening walk to capture the sunset over the rugged mountains. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Gheralta Rock Churches – Trek
Spend a full day exploring additional rock-hewn churches in the Gheralta region. Trek through scenic sandstone valleys and cliffs, visiting remote monasteries perched atop dramatic escarpments. Learn about centuries-old religious traditions, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Tigray landscape. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation. Optional: enjoy a sunset viewpoint for photography. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Drive from Hawzen to Dallol – Danakil Depression
Depart Hawzen and drive deep into the otherworldly Danakil Depression, reaching the colorful and surreal landscapes of Dallol. Explore the vivid hydrothermal fields, acidic springs, and salt formations, witnessing this extreme environment up close. Learn about the geological features and take stunning photographs of the vibrant terrain. This unique journey offers an unforgettable experience in one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Hamad Ela (Village) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
Drive from Hamed Ela to Erta Ale Volcano
Depart from Hamed Ela and drive through the volcanic desert towards Erta Ale Volcano, famous for its active lava lake. Upon arrival, embark on a guided trek across the rugged terrain, witnessing the glowing lava and other volcanic activity from a safe viewpoint. Enjoy a packed dinner while taking in the surreal landscapes. This unforgettable experience allows you to marvel at one of the world’s most active volcanoes and spend the night under the stars near Erta Ale. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
Drive through Lake Afdera to Semera
Depart early and drive across the striking landscapes of the Afar region, passing near Lake Afdera, known for its vivid saltwater and mineral-rich surroundings. Experience the remote desert scenery, volcanic formations, and traditional Afar villages along the way. Continue to Semera, the regional capital, arriving in the evening to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure. Optional stops along the route provide opportunities for photography and cultural encounters with local communities. Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Semera (Town) Stay: Ruftana Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
Drive from Semera to Lalibela – Traditional Coffee Ceremony
Drive from Semera to Lalibela, crossing the scenic Afar and Amhara highlands, enjoying stunning landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony hosted in a local home-style setting. Experience the warm hospitality of your hosts as freshly roasted coffee beans are ground by hand, then brewed in a traditional jebena (clay coffee pot) over an open flame. Participate in the ritual, savoring the rich aroma and flavor of the coffee while learning about its cultural significance in Ethiopian daily life. The ceremony is accompanied by local snacks and provides a genuine glimpse into the community’s traditions. Afterward, return to your accommodation for dinner and rest. 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 15
Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches – Guided Tour
Spend the day exploring Lalibela’s world-famous rock-hewn churches, marveling at their unique architecture and spiritual significance. A knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Ethiopia’s Christian history and the construction of these remarkable monolithic churches. Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and relaxation, reflecting on this culturally rich experience. 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 16
Lalibela Departure – Addis Ababa City Tour & Farewell
After your morning in Lalibela, transfer to the airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, explore Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, where you can experience the vibrant hustle and bustle, browse a wide variety of local goods, spices, handicrafts, and traditional textiles, and interact with local vendors. Later, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, sampling authentic cuisine and celebrating the conclusion of your 16-day Northern Ethiopia adventure. After dinner, transfer to Bole International Airport for your onward flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of Ethiopia’s rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) 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
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
Zagol Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
23 reviews
Zagol Ethiopia Tours is aLocally owned and operated, Zagol Ethiopia Tours specializes in providing once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences around Ethiopia. From cultural trips of historic ancient monuments to stunning nature expeditions and tribal safaris within the Omo Valley, we provide personalized, professional, and genuine tours. With expert local guides and extensive knowledge of Ethiopia's heritage, Zagol Ethiopia Tours provides secure, enriching, and memorable experiences for all travelers
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2013)
Member Of
ETOA & ETGPA
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
5.0/5Our tour operator organized everything perfectly and was so friendly.
We were paired with two guides, Melaku and "Geech". Both of whom were amazing. Very friendly and knowledgeable about the areas we visited and the local flora and fauna. "Geech" is the best driver in the business and Melaku took us to his childhood home to have a coffee ceremony with his mom and his sister. Unforgettable additions to the trip. If Ethiopia is not on your list it should be. Timket is absolutely a must. But there is too much to see in one trip. Will definitely be going back for the Omo Valley.
Cory · United States
Weekend trip to Lalibela.
An amazing spiritual journey deep in the heart of Ethiopia. Lalibela was an absolute amazing trip so rich with culture and history thanks to our fabulous tour guide Muluye. He gave us a lot of intriguing information and he knew all the best spots for pictures. He also invited us to his humble home for a coffee cermony. Ansolutely amazing weekend trip and a must visit in Ethiopia
Hala Khaled · United Arab Emirates
Wonderful visit to Lalibela
Omg it was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life . Lalibela was an amazing spiritual trip. Our tour guide Muluye was absolutely fantastic. He gave us the best information and tour ever . Highly recommend it . The coffee ceremony was also wonderful
Lama Khaled · United Arab Emirates
[email protected]
The accommodation, the food, the sites visited in Lalibela, all ok The guide very frindly and hepful
Jose · 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 6 years and older. Children under 14 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?
Jano 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 Zagol 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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