Duration
18-Day
Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Discover Ethiopia, the Land of Origins, where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures converge. Explore Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, Axum's ancient stelae, Tigray's cliff chapels, and the otherworldly Danakil Depression. Experience colorful markets, scenic highlands, and UNESCO heritage sites on a journey that blends culture, archaeology, and nature into an unforgettable adventure.
Plan snapshot
Duration
18-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Turmi (Lower Omo Valley), Omorate (Lower Omo Valley), Konso (Cultural Village)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Bale Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
walking safaris (with an armed guide), nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
EUR
Rates
EUR
Before booking
Quote flow
This budget tour includes camping and tented camps.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Day 1
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2-3
Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Mid-range resort at Lake Langano – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12-13
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 15
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16
Mid-range resort in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 17
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 18
(No accommodation)
All Meals Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, and settle into your comfortable hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a curated introduction to the city’s rich history and culture. Visit the National Museum, home to the famous Lucy fossil and exceptional archaeological collections. Explore the Ethnographic Museum in the former palace for a glimpse of Ethiopia’s diverse peoples and traditions. End the day at Entoto Park & Church, taking in panoramic views of the highlands and the city below — a perfect introduction to Ethiopia’s heritage and landscapes. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Take a morning domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Jinka, gateway to the culturally rich Omo Valley. After arrival, drive to Turmi and, depending on the weekday, visit one of the local markets such as Key Afer, Alduba, or Demeka, offering lively cultural experiences and excellent photography opportunities. In the late afternoon, explore Hamer village life, learning about unique hairstyle traditions and local crafts. This day provides an immersive introduction to the fascinating cultures of southern Ethiopia. Overnight at Turmi Paradise Lodge. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Spend a full day exploring the rich cultures of the Omo Valley region. Visit Karo river-bank villages to witness traditional body painting and scarification practices and experience daily river life. Continue to Omorate to see pastoralist communities along the Omo River and enjoy vibrant market scenes. Return to Hamer village, and if your timing aligns, attend a traditional bull-jumping ceremony, a unique cultural celebration. All visits are conducted respectfully with local guides to ensure meaningful and authentic interactions. Overnight at Turmi Paradise Lodge. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Drive north from Turmi through the stunning southern landscapes toward Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape. Explore the stone terraces, carved memorial steles, and fortified settlements that showcase centuries of remarkable agricultural engineering and social traditions. Take a short village walk with local guides to understand daily life and cultural practices. Continue your scenic journey to Arba Minch, passing lush highlands and breathtaking vistas, and settle in for the night at Haile Resort. This day blends extraordinary cultural insights with Ethiopia’s natural beauty. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Start the day with a boat trip on Lake Chamo, spotting hippos, Nile crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds along the shores. If time allows, enjoy a short walk in the Nechisar area and visit the Forty Springs, taking in the serene landscapes of southern Ethiopia. In the afternoon, explore Dorze village, famous for its tall beehive houses, traditional weaving, and enset-based agriculture. End the day with a scenic drive to Hawassa, where you will overnight at Haile Resort, surrounded by the beauty of the Rift Valley lakes. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Depart Hawassa and enjoy a scenic drive across the Rift Valley lakes region, stopping along the way to admire the stunning landscapes and observe local agriculture. Arrive near the Bale Mountains in the evening, where rolling highland scenery and fresh mountain air set the stage for your nature adventure. Take a gentle introductory walk around your lodge or campsite to soak in the surroundings and prepare for the next day’s exploration of Ethiopia’s highland wonders. Overnight at Goba Wabe Shebelle Hotel offering comfort amid spectacular nature. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Explore the breathtaking Bale Mountains National Park, starting with an early walk on the Sanetti Plateau to enjoy sweeping alpine scenery and, with luck, spot the rare Ethiopian wolf. In the afternoon, venture into the Harenna Forest, a lush afro-montane ecosystem filled with endemic plants and diverse wildlife. This day combines dramatic highland landscapes with unique wildlife experiences, offering unforgettable views and photographic opportunities. Overnight at Goba Wabe Shebelle Hotel, surrounded by the serene beauty of Ethiopia’s highlands. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Begin the day with a visit to the Sof Omer caves and archaeological sites, exploring ancient rock shelters and learning about local historical significance. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive toward Lake Langano, passing through lush highlands and picturesque landscapes. Arrive at Lake Langano for a relaxing evening by the water, where you can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rift Valley lakes. Overnight at a resort at Lake Langano, offering comfort and a peaceful setting after a day of exploration. Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Travel back toward Addis Ababa with fascinating stops at Melka Kunture, a major prehistoric site showcasing ancient stone tools and human settlement layers. Continue to Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its carved standing stones linked to medieval funerary traditions. Learn about Ethiopia’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage while enjoying scenic drives through the highlands. Arrive in Addis Ababa in the evening and settle into your hotel for overnight, reflecting on a day filled with history and discovery. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Take a morning domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, the gateway to the otherworldly Danakil Depression. Begin your overland journey toward Lake Afdera, passing vast salt flats and volcanic landscapes. Continue toward the Erta Ale volcanic zone and set up camp for an unforgettable night under the stars. This day introduces you to one of the hottest and most remote regions on Earth, offering dramatic scenery and a true sense of adventure. Overnight camping with full support and logistics for comfort and safety. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Spend a full day exploring the dramatic Erta Ale volcano, witnessing its flowing lava lake and otherworldly landscapes under the guidance of experienced local Afar guides. Capture stunning photographs of the volcanic terrain and enjoy sunset views over the crater, an unforgettable spectacle of Ethiopia’s raw natural power. In the evening, travel to Hamed Ela (Saba camp) and settle into comfortable camping, experiencing the remote beauty of the Danakil Depression under a sky full of stars. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
Start the day with a visit to the Dalol geothermal area, exploring colorful sulfur springs, acid ponds, and surreal mineral formations that create one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. After sunrise views and photography, travel overland toward northern Tigray, arriving near Hawzen and the Gheralta region in the evening. Take a short orientation walk to get acquainted with the surroundings and settle into your lodge, preparing for the next day’s exploration of Tigray’s iconic rock-hewn churches. Overnight at a comfortable lodge in Hawzen. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
Spend the day discovering the stunning rock-hewn churches of Gheralta, many carved into cliffs with medieval frescoes and breathtaking architecture. Enjoy short hikes to reach some of the cliffside chapels, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Learn about the rich religious and cultural history of the region from your knowledgeable local guides. The pace is flexible to match your preferences, ensuring a meaningful and memorable experience. Overnight at the same comfortable lodge in Hawzen. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
Drive from Hawzen and Gheralta to Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Kingdom. In the afternoon, explore Axum’s stunning archaeological sites, including the iconic stelae field and obelisks, ancient royal tombs, and palace ruins. Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, a site central to Ethiopia’s Christian heritage. Enjoy a detailed archaeological briefing on the origins of the Axumite civilization and its historic trade networks. Overnight at a comfortable hotel in Axum, reflecting on a day filled with history and cultural discoveries. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 15
Travel from Axum toward either the Simien Mountains or directly to Gondar, depending on your preference. Option A – Simien Mountains: enjoy dramatic escarpment views, visit the Tekeze River gorge, and take a short hike to observe gelada baboons against the spectacular highland scenery. Option B – Direct to Gondar: journey toward the historic city, enjoying scenic landscapes along the way. Choose the option that best balances adventure, scenery, and comfort. Overnight at sankaber camp. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 16
If you chose the Simien Mountains route, descend from the highlands with stops at dramatic viewpoints, including the Jinbar waterfall and Chenek landscapes. Arrive in Gondar in the afternoon and explore its historical highlights: the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi) with its castles, Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its iconic ceiling frescoes, and Fasilides’ Bath, used in the Timkat festival. Enjoy the blend of historic architecture and stunning scenery before overnight at Gondar Hills Resort. Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 17
Take a morning flight from Gondar to Lalibela and begin exploring the world-famous rock-hewn churches, including Bete Giyorgis (St. George), carved directly into solid rock. Experience the spiritual and architectural marvels of these 12th–13th century monolithic structures, still active places of worship. Attend an optional religious ceremony if available and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Overnight at Sora Lodge or a similar comfortable hotel, surrounded by the unique historical and spiritual landscape of Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 18
Spend the morning in Lalibela visiting the second group of rock-hewn churches or attending an optional religious ceremony if available. In the afternoon, take a domestic flight back to Addis Ababa for last-minute shopping, sightseeing, or enjoying a traditional Ethiopian meal. Conclude your unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s culture, history, and natural wonders as you are transferred to the international airport for your departure. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Tour step
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
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
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
Offered by
Discover Ethiopia's wonders with us! Ethio Wildlife Tours: is a private Tour & Travel company, Established in Ethiopia,we offer unforgettable wildlife,cultural & historical tours. Our experienced teams specializes in creating unique experiences,showcasing the breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of Ethiopia.We are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism,ensuring minimal impact on the environment and local communities. Let us show you the true essence of Ethiopia 🇪🇹
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5I don’t usually like booking tours because of many bad experiences, however, at the time Ethiopia demanded it. I was so lucky to find Melashu’s company. It’s the most transparent, respectful, informative and well managed tour. I did the northern Ethiopian route (volcano, Danakil depression etc) and they managed to make me feel comfortable in a difficult weather environment and very safe in an area of conflict. It’s incredible to have such yummy food in the middle of nowhere! Thank you,
Yirka · Sweden
Great tour through an amazing landscape. Tour was perfectly organized, no complaints. Somewhere my shoes got lost but when I came back in Addes they were waiting for me in the hotel. Their service goes beyond. Thanks for that
Martijn · Netherlands
Just got back from a 4-day tour with Ethio Wildlife and it honestly blew me away. We visited several different tribes in Omo valley and each day was completely unique and eye-opening. The whole trip felt very genuine and respectful, not staged or touristy at all. Accommodations were simple but clean and comfortable, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. If you’re looking for something meaningful and way off the beaten path, I’d 100% recommend this experience. I came back with a full heart and a totally new perspective.
Elena Neal · United Kingdom
I contacted several tour operators in May 2025 hoping to join a group tour of the Simien mountains but since it is a slow tourist season there were none available. Ethio Wildlife were able to organize a private tour for me at a reasonable cost. They handled everything. The guide/driver/chef/scout were incredibly nice people and it was a pleasure to spend 3 days with them in the park. The guide in particular was very knowledgeable and accommodating.
Nick · United States
Practical answers
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in Euros (EUR).
This tour is unavailable for children.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals Included
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
This tour is offered by Ethio Wildlife 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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