Duration
14-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
14-Day Northern Ethiopia & Awash National Park Tour
Overview
Explore Ethiopia's most iconic destinations on this 14-day journey from Addis Ababa through Bahir Dar, Gondar, Simien Mountains, Axum, Lalibela, and Awash National Park. Discover ancient churches, dramatic highlands, UNESCO sites, and wildlife-rich landscapes while traveling through historic routes, cultural villages, and breathtaking natural scenery for a complete Ethiopian adventure.
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
17 years
Activities
Getting around: pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle, minivan & air transfer
Accommodation
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +6 Photos +5 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; 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
$4,730 USD
$3,520 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$4,730 USD
$3,520 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$4,730 USD
$3,520 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 17 years and older.
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 1-2
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4
Simien Mountains NP
Day 5-6
Axum (City)
Day 7
Hawzen (Town)
Day 8
Mekele (City)
Day 9-11
Lalibela (Town)
Day 12
Kombolcha (City)
Day 13
Awash NP
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 14)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour includes camping and lodges. Guests must assist with camp chores.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't 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.
17
Minimum age of 17 years
The minimum age for this tour is 17 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle, minivan & air transfer
Book your own international flights when using this operator
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1-2
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +6 Photos +5 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 3
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
Mid-range camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Shimbrety Community Guesthouse Budget guest house less than 1hr drive from Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget guest house less than 1hr drive from Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Planet Hotel
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9-11
Hill Top Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
Golden Gate Hotel - Dessie Mid-range hotel in Dessie (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Dessie (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 13
Awash Falls Lodge Mid-range lodge just outside Awash NP – Breakfast Included
Mid-range lodge just outside Awash NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 14
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
Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
Depart from Addis Ababa and travel north via Debre Markos with scenic stops along the historic route. Cross the dramatic Blue Nile Gorge and enjoy breathtaking landscapes along the way. Arrive in Bahir Dar and check into your hotel. Relax in the evening and prepare for Lake Tana exploration. Overnight stay in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Lake Tana Monasteries & Blue Nile Falls
Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting ancient monasteries such as Ura Kidane Mehret and Azuwa Maryam, rich in religious paintings and history. In the afternoon, hike to the powerful Blue Nile Falls, known for its misty views and rainbow scenery. Capture sunset photography over Lake Tana before returning to your hotel in Bahir Dar for overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel 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 – Imperial Heritage
Travel to Gondar through rural villages and highland scenery. Visit the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi, including castles, royal baths, and ancient palaces. Continue to Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its famous angel-painted ceiling. Overnight stay in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park
Drive from Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park via Debark for registration and permits. Continue to Sankaber Camp, enjoying spectacular cliff views and wildlife sightings, including Gelada baboons and endemic birds. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike along the escarpments with breathtaking mountain landscapes. A game drive can also be arranged in selected areas of the park for additional wildlife viewing opportunities. Overnight at a mid-range campsite inside the park. Guests will stay in spacious tents larger than 3x3 meters, equipped with normal beds, private verandas, and private bathrooms with a toilet, shower, and sink. Our camping staff will take care of all camp chores, including meal preparation, camp setup, and guest assistance, ensuring a comfortable camping experience in the Simien Mountains. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Mid-range camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Simien Mountains to Axum
Depart the Simien Mountains and travel north through breathtaking highlands and the Tekeze Valley. Stop for photography in rural landscapes and lunch en route. Arrive in Axum and check into your hotel. Evening at leisure for relaxation and preparation. Overnight in Axum. 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 6
Axum Historical Exploration
Explore the ancient city of Axum, the heart of the Axumite Empire. Visit the famous obelisks, archaeological museum, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Discover ancient ruins and royal tombs while learning Ethiopia’s deep historical roots. Overnight stay in Axum. 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 7
Axum to Yeha – Hawzen Region
Visit the ancient temple of Yeha, one of Ethiopia’s oldest archaeological sites. Continue to rock-hewn churches such as Medhane Alem Adi Kesho and the dramatic landscapes of Tigray. Optionally explore Debre Damo Monastery (male access only). Arrive in Hawzen region for overnight stay in hotel. Budget guest house located less than 1hr drive from Hawzen (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Shimbrety Community Guesthouse Budget guest house located less than 1hr drive from Hawzen (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Tigray Rock Churches to Mekele
After breakfast, continue exploring the remarkable rock-hewn churches of the Tigray region, starting with a hike to the iconic Abuna Yemata Guh or Maryam Korkor, both dramatically perched on cliffs with breathtaking views and extraordinary spiritual architecture. These sacred sites offer a unique blend of adventure, culture, and photography opportunities. Later, visit the accessible and historic Abreha we Atsbeha Church, known for its ancient design and religious significance. In the afternoon, drive through scenic landscapes to Mekele for hotel check-in, dinner, and overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Planet Hotel Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Mekele to Lalibela
After breakfast, depart from Mekele for a scenic drive to Lalibela. Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and traditional villages along the route, with photo stops for landscapes and rural life. Arrive in Lalibela in the evening, check into your hotel, and relax in preparation for visiting the famous rock-hewn churches. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
Spend the day exploring the remarkable rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit both the Northern and Southern church clusters, connected by tunnels and carved passages still used for worship today. Continue to the iconic Bete Giyorgis, famous for its cross-shaped design carved from solid rock. Learn about the ancient engineering techniques, religious traditions, and living heritage of this sacred site. Enjoy photography opportunities of pilgrims, architecture, and rituals before returning to your hotel for overnight stay in Lalibela. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Lalibela Monasteries & Surroundings
Start the day with a scenic trek to Asheton Maryam Monastery, located high in the mountains offering panoramic views of the surrounding highlands and villages. Experience local culture and spiritual heritage along the way. In the afternoon, visit the remarkable cave church of Yimrehanne Kristos, known for its ancient wooden paneling and unique architectural style. Return to Lalibela for relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Lalibela to Kombolcha
After breakfast, visit Na’akuto La’ab Monastery before departing for a scenic drive toward Kombolcha via Woldia. Enjoy beautiful highland landscapes and stop at Lake Hayk for photography and relaxation. Continue through rural scenery and arrive in Kombolcha for hotel check-in, dinner, and overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Dessie (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Kombolcha (City) Stay: Golden Gate Hotel - Dessie Mid-range hotel located in Dessie (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Kombolcha to Awash National Park
Travel south through Bati, with an optional visit to the famous camel market if the schedule allows. Continue toward Awash National Park, arriving in time for an evening game drive. Spot wildlife such as antelopes, baboons, and diverse bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy sunset views over the savannah landscapes. Overnight stay in lodge or camping. Mid-range lodge located just outside Awash NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Awash National Park Stay: Awash Falls Lodge Mid-range lodge located just outside Awash NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Awash National Park & Return to Addis Ababa
Explore deeper into Awash National Park, visiting Filwoha hot springs and the volcanic crater of Mount Fantale. Enjoy wildlife viewing and unique geological scenery. After lunch, drive back to Addis Ababa via Sodere hot springs for optional relaxation. Arrive in the city for airport transfer or hotel drop-off, marking the end of your unforgettable Ethiopia journey. 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 flights during the tour
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
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
Royal Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
6 reviews
Step into a world where ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures converge with the best Tour Company in Ethiopia. At Royal Ethiopia Tours, we don’t just organize trips
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2005)
Tour Types
Budget camping tours that can start every day (clients assist with camp chores)
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Highly Professional and Knowledgeable
Our one-day layover tour in Addis Ababa turned into one of the most memorable parts of our trip, all thanks to Mulie from Royal Ethiopia Tours. Our flight was delayed, so we went in expecting to miss out on seeing much of the city. But the moment we walked out of the airport, Mulie was right there waiting for us, ready to go. That immediately set the tone. From there, everything was smooth and well thought out. Transportation was comfortable, and he made the most of our limited time. He took us to key museums and local spots, but what really stood out was how he brought everything to life. As we moved through the city, he broke down the history and culture of Ethiopia in a way that made it easy to understand and appreciate. He also made sure we didn’t miss the real experience introducing us to authentic Ethiopian coffee and a traditional meal at a local restaurant. If you’re thinking about visiting Addis Ababa even on a tight schedule this is the way to do it. Mulie went above and beyond, and we would absolutely recommend Royal Ethiopia Tours.
Lamar · United States
Great, insightful tour - perfect tour with amazing places paired with expertise and flexibility!
Amazing 1-day trip in Ethiopia, unforgettable! Would do it again any time!
Marie · Germany
Knowledge, attentive and very respectful your operator that I highly recommend to do a great job!
At no time during my tour in Ethiopia did I feel unsafe and although it was my first time there never did I feel isolated or lost with my new environment as a visitor. Everything was prepared in advance for my group with the guide and company . The locations, meals, hotels, shopping areas were nicely planned and I was extremely impressed with how well it worked out. I would recommend this company with Mulia my guide as top of the line for people like me who are foreign to the environment and Ethiopia. I left feeling like I was in my vacation home with nothing missing from my life. I made new friends. I was able to see and experience new foods and the warm and welcoming people with a beautiful culture! Thank you so much!
Shunda · United States
A very good tour guide.
The tour was the best time of my life. And the tour guides were very knowledgeable.
Kenaz · United States
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 17 years and older.
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?
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +6 Photos +5 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (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
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations are only effective on receipt of written notification. The following per person fees are applicable on this safari: • Up to 75 days prior to departure, less 20% (30% some suppliers) of tour cost. • Less than 75 days prior to departure, refund is dependent on amount recoverable from overseas suppliers. These cancellation fees are also in addition to any imposed by airlines. Please note that cancellation includes reduction of services or decrease in number of participants in a group. In case of change of date, every effort will be made to avoid cancellation penalties, but penalties are dependent on policies of our suppliers.
Payment Options:
A deposit of 25% of tour cost must be submitted to confirm you reservation. Deposits may be paid by check, transfer or charged to American Express, Mastercard, Visa or Discover. Final payment is payable by check or money order ONLY and is due no later than 75 days prior to departure.
Payment Terms:
25% to confirm reservation and final payments no later than 75 days prior to departure.
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Royal 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.
Keep comparing
Similar Tours
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 15-Day
Culture & Heritage
5.0
15-Day Private Helicopter Expedition Across Ethiopia
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 15-Day · Royal Ethiopia Tours
Duration15-Day
From$7,480 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$7,480 pp (USD)
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 7-Day
Culture & Heritage
5.0
7-Day Addis Ababa & Northern Ethiopia Tour
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 7-Day · Royal Ethiopia Tours
Duration7-Day
From$2,200 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$2,200 pp (USD)
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 16-Day
Culture & Heritage
5.0
16-Day Ethiopia Tour, Danakil & North Highlights
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 16-Day · Royal Ethiopia Tours
Duration16-Day
From$3,850 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$3,850 pp (USD)