Duration
15-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
15-Day Ethiopia Churches Volcanoes & Tribes
Overview
You'll embark on a 15-day Ethiopian adventure exploring the country's spiritual, natural, and cultural wonders. Discover the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the ancient castles of Gondar, and the monolithic temples of Tigray. Witness the fiery landscapes of the Danakil Depression, including Erta Ale's active lava lake, and immerse yourself in the tribal traditions of the Omo Valley. This journey reveals Ethiopia's timeless heritage, scenery, and diverse peoples in one unforgettable expedition.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Bahir Dar (City), Lake Tana, Gondar (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
5 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$4,785 USD
$4,235 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$4,785 USD
$4,235 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$4,785 USD
$4,235 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 5 years and older. Children under 6 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 1
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 2
Lake Tana
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4
Simien Mountains NP
Day 5
Axum (City)
Day 6
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 7
Mekele (City)
Day 8
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 9
Mekele (City)
Day 10
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 11-12
Lalibela (Town)
Day 13-14
Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 15)
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.
5
Minimum age of 5 years
The minimum age for this tour is 5 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks
Getting around: 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 1-2
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
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
Simien Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Planet Hotel
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Planet Hotel
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11-12
Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 13-14
Nasa Hotel Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 15
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
Fly Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
You'll take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, a peaceful city on the shores of Lake Tana. Upon arrival, you'll meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel. After a short rest, you'll enjoy a relaxed city tour exploring Bahir Dar’s vibrant market and the palm-lined lakeside streets. In the evening, you'll take a gentle walk along Lake Tana to watch the sunset and local fishermen in their traditional papyrus boats. Your overnight stay will be at the Jacaranda Hotel, 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: 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 2
Bahir Dar – Lake Tana Monasteries & Blue Nile Falls
After breakfast, you'll take a boat trip on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, to visit its ancient island monasteries such as Ura Kidane Mihret, renowned for colorful religious murals and historic manuscripts. In the afternoon, you'll drive to the famous Blue Nile Falls, locally known as “Tis Issat” or “the Smoking Water,” and enjoy a short hike for panoramic views of the roaring cascade. You'll return to Bahir Dar for a relaxing evening by the lakeside. Your overnight stay will be at the Jacaranda Hotel, Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lake Tana 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 – Gondar (Castles & Ancient Churches)
After breakfast, you'll drive through the scenic countryside to Gondar, the 17th-century imperial capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, you will explore the UNESCO-listed Royal Enclosure, home to several well-preserved medieval castles that reflect Ethiopia’s rich architectural heritage. You'll visit Fasilides’ Bath, where the colorful Timkat (Epiphany) festival is celebrated annually, and continue to the beautiful Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famed for its angel-painted ceiling. Your overnight stay will be at Goha Hotel. 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 – Simien Mountains National Park (Highland Adventure)
After breakfast, you'll depart from Gondar and drive to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, deep valleys, and rugged peaks. En route, you'll enjoy scenic stops for photography and short walks to admire the highland scenery. Upon arrival, you will explore the park with your guide, spotting endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons and Walia ibex. You'll take in the breathtaking views of the jagged cliffs and valleys that define this natural wonder. Your overnight stay will be at a lodge or guesthouse near the park. Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Simien Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Simien Mountains – Axum (Ancient City of Kings)
After an early breakfast, you'll depart the Simien Mountains and drive north to Axum, the legendary city of the ancient Aksumite Kingdom. Upon arrival, you will explore Axum’s remarkable archaeological and historical sites, including the towering obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s alleged palace ruins, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. You'll learn about the city’s pivotal role in Ethiopia’s Christian history and its rich cultural heritage. Your overnight stay will be at Sabean International Hotel. 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 – Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches (Hidden Heritage)
After breakfast, you'll drive into the Tigray region, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and centuries-old rock-hewn churches. You'll visit awe-inspiring cliffside churches such as Abuna Yemata Guh, famous for its frescoes and daring location, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Along the way, you'll encounter traditional villages and interact with locals to learn about their customs and daily life. This day is a deep dive into Ethiopia’s spiritual and architectural heritage. Your overnight stay will be at a lodge. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Tigray – Mekele (Gateway to Danakil Adventure)
After breakfast, you'll drive from the Tigray highlands to Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region and the gateway to the Danakil Depression. Along the route, you'll admire the stark landscapes, dramatic escarpments, and traditional rural villages. Upon arrival in Mekele, you'll check into your hotel and prepare for the upcoming desert and volcanic exploration. You'll take the evening to rest or explore the local markets and experience the city’s unique blend of culture and history. Your overnight stay will be at Planet Hotel. 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 8
Mekele – Danakil Depression (Erta Ale Volcano Trek)
After an early breakfast, you'll drive toward the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most otherworldly places on Earth. You'll stop at salt flats and traditional Afar villages along the way to witness the region’s unique lifestyle and landscapes. In the afternoon, you'll begin the trek to Erta Ale Volcano, an active lava lake offering a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle of molten rock. You'll experience the fiery glow as the sun sets over this extraordinary volcanic landscape. Your overnight stay will be in tents or a basic camp near Erta Ale. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Danakil Depression – Dallol & Return to Mekele
After an early breakfast at the camp, you'll explore the otherworldly landscapes of Dallol, famous for its colorful sulfur springs, acid pools, and salt formations. You'll visit the vast salt flats and observe local Afar salt miners at work, a tradition that has endured for centuries. Capture the surreal scenery with photographs before beginning the drive back to Mekele. You'll arrive in the evening, relax, and prepare for the next stage of your journey. Your overnight stay will be at Planet Hotel. 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 10
Mekele – Addis Ababa (Scenic Drive Back to the Capital)
After breakfast, you'll begin your drive or flight from Mekele back to Addis Ababa, passing through scenic Ethiopian highlands and rural villages along the route. You'll stop for short breaks to admire the landscapes and capture photographs of the countryside. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, we'll transfer you to your hotel and relax after the journey. In the evening, you'll enjoy a cultural dinner or explore the city’s vibrant markets. Your overnight stay will be at the Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Addis Ababa – Lalibela (Rock-Hewn Church Exploration Begins)
You'll take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual jewel, famous for its 12th-century rock-hewn churches. Upon arrival, you'll meet your guide and transfer to your hotel to settle in. In the afternoon, you'll begin exploring the town’s UNESCO-listed churches, marveling at the intricate carvings and historical significance of sites such as Bet Medhane Alem and Bet Maryam. You'll enjoy the serene atmosphere of this sacred town. 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 12
Lalibela – Asheton Maryam Monastery & Rural Highlands
After breakfast, you'll take a hike to the Asheton Maryam Monastery, perched on a high cliff with panoramic views of the surrounding Lalibela highlands. Along the way, you will enjoy the scenic landscapes and interact with locals in nearby villages to learn about their daily life and traditions. In the afternoon, you'll return to Lalibela town to explore more rock-hewn churches or relax at your hotel. 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 13
Lalibela – Jinka via Addis Ababa (Omo Valley Gateway)
After breakfast, you'll take a morning flight from Lalibela to Jinka, connecting via Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in Jinka, the gateway to the Omo Valley, you'll meet your guide and transfer to your lodge. Depending on your arrival time, you will enjoy a short orientation of the town or relax at your lodge, preparing for the next day’s cultural exploration of the Omo Valley tribes. Your overnight stay will be at the Nasa Hotel. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Jinka (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 14
Jinka – Konso (Terraced Landscapes & Cultural Heritage)
After breakfast in Jinka, you'll drive north to Konso, a UNESCO-listed region known for its unique terraced landscapes and stone-walled villages. Along the way, you'll admire the dramatic highland scenery and stop in rural villages to meet local communities. Upon arrival, you will explore the Konso Cultural Landscape, learning about the people’s ancient farming techniques, wooden totems (waka), and rich cultural traditions. 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: Jinka (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 15
Omo Valley – Addis Ababa (Return to the Capital)
After breakfast, you'll begin your journey back to Addis Ababa, either by road or via flight from Jinka, enjoying scenic landscapes and rural villages along the way. You'll stop for photos and short breaks to admire the countryside. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you'll transfer to your hotel to relax and freshen up. In the evening, you will enjoy a farewell dinner or explore the city’s markets, reflecting on the rich cultural and natural experiences of your Ethiopian adventure. 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
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
On the Go Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
33 reviews
At On The Go Ethiopia Tours, we specialize in immersive Addis Ababa city tours and unforgettable multi-day adventures across Ethiopia’s stunning historical, cultural, and natural landscapes. Whether you have just a few hours or several days, our tours are led by experienced, licensed local guides passionate about sharing the rich heritage of Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2015)
Member Of
ETOA, ETGPA & ATOA
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
5.0/5Very friendly and kind
It was my first visit to Ethiopia. Very impressive to see around the historical area in Ethiopia. Additionally, a guide and a driver were friendly and I really enjoyed entire tour with them.
Masa · United States
Kena is great tour guide.
We enjoyed a wonderful tour of the National Museum, Entoto, and a walking tour of Mercato. We also enjoyed the palace of Menelik II, very peaceful, and we had a delicious lunch on the way back to town. We also went to Shiromeda market for the best Ethiopian fabrics. Kena explained a lot of the culture and history as well. Great day seeing the sights.
Jim Friedericks · United States
Friendly
Reta is a tour guide that is going to help you in everything you want. He has an spectacular spirit and is goimg to.help you with any concern you have about your trip.
Ignacio Bielma · Mexico
Amazing
Great experience going to Merkato with Kenaw. He is very responsible and knows area and local merchants so can give you great advice where and what to buy for local prices.
Mislav · Croatia
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 5 years and older. Children under 6 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?
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 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
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by On the Go 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.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of On the Go Ethiopia Tours.
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