Duration
20-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
20-Day Journey Through the Heart of Ethiopia
Overview
The adventure continues through Northern Ethiopia, the cradle of the country's ancient civilization. In Axum, you will discover towering obelisks and sacred sites linked to the Ark of the Covenant. The route then leads to Gondar, home to impressive medieval castles, and onward to the spectacular Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting the Rift Valley region, Lake Chamo, and tradition life such as the Dorze, offering a cultural contrast.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City) (Day 19-20)
Via Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression), Hamad Ela (Village), Mekele (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
7 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Lunch & Dinner Included
Meals
Lunch & Dinner Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
EUR
Rates
Rates Per Person
EUR
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
€7.150 EUR
€5.500 EUR
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
€7.150 EUR
€5.500 EUR
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
€7.150 EUR
€5.500 EUR
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in Euros (EUR).
This tour accepts children who are 7 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 2
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 3
Hamad Ela (Village)
Day 4
Mekele (City)
Day 5-6
Axum (City)
Day 7
Debark (Town)
Day 8-10
Simien Mountains NP
Day 11
Gondar (City)
Day 12-13
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 14-16
Lalibela (Town)
Day 17-18
Arba Minch (City)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 19-20)
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.
7
Minimum age of 7 years
The minimum age for this tour is 7 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & boat trip
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
Jano Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Lunch & Dinner Included
Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – Lunch & Dinner Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – Lunch & Dinner Included
Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3
Budget camping Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Axum Hotel Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Yeha Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Ras Dejen Hotel Budget hotel in Debark (Town) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Debark (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8-10
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11-12
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Blue Nile Resort Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14-15
Hill Top Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16
Jano Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 17-18
Haile Resort Arba Minch
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 19
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 20
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
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. Begin your Ethiopian journey with visits to the National Museum, home of the famous hominid “Lucy,” and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. End the day with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, offering insight into local culture and hospitality. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Jano Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Addis Ababa - Semera - Erta Ale Volcano
After an early morning flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, meet your Afar guide and security escort. Travel by 4×4 through the arid Afar landscape toward Erta Ale, one of the world’s few permanently active lava lakes. Arrive at base camp in the late afternoon. After dinner, hike to the summit of Erta Ale volcano to observe glowing lava bubbling inside the crater under the night sky. Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Erta Ale Volcano Exploration
Erta Ale Volcano Exploration Early in the morning, hike up Erta Ale Volcano, one of the few active lava lakes on Earth. Witness glowing molten lava bubbling inside the crater, a truly unforgettable natural spectacle. Spend the afternoon resting and enjoying the silence of the desert. Overnight camping near Hamedela or Haba valley will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Hamad Ela (Village) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Dallol - Mekele
Travel to the otherworldly Dalol Depression, one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth. Explore colorful sulfur fields, salt formations, and the surreal landscapes of Lake Assale. After this extraordinary visit, continue driving to Mekele, the capital of Tigray, where you can relax after an intense adventure day. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Axum Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Mekele - Axum
Mekele - Axum ( Flight / drive) after arrive in Axum we will transfer to Axum either by scenic drive or domestic flight. Axum is one of Ethiopia’s most important ancient cities and a former capital of the Axumite Empire. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening preparing for historical exploration in this sacred and legendary town. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Yeha Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Axum City sightseesing
Explore the rich heritage of Axum, including the UNESCO-listed Stelae Park with its towering obelisks. Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, and discover the ruins of Queen of Sheba’s palace. This day reveals Ethiopia’s deep ancient and religious history. 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 7
Axum - Debark
Depart Axum in the morning and travel to Gondar, either by domestic flight or overland drive through the dramatic highlands of northern Ethiopia. Upon arrival in Gondar, continue by road to Debark, the gateway town to Simien Mountains National Park. The drive offers scenic views of farmland, plateaus, and rural villages. Arrive in Debark in the afternoon, complete park formalities, meet local guides and scouts, and relax at your lodge. Overnight in Debark, preparing for the mountain adventure ahead. Overnight: Debark. Budget hotel located in Debark (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Debark (Town) Stay: Ras Dejen Hotel Budget hotel located in Debark (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Debark - Simien Mountains sancaber campsite
After breakfast, drive from Debark into Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enter the park and begin a gentle introductory hike around the Sankaber area. Walk along breathtaking escarpments with wide views across deep valleys and jagged cliffs. This first hike is ideal for acclimatization and offers excellent opportunities to see Gelada baboons, soaring birds of prey, and endemic flora. Enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere as the sun sets over the escarpments. Overnight: Simien Mountains Sankaber campsite. 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 9
Sancaber - Geech / chennek
Spend a full day trekking deeper into the Simien Mountains. Hike through Afro-alpine landscapes, passing open grasslands, dramatic ridges, and sheer drops into vast gorges. Along the way, encounter Gelada baboons, rock hyraxes, and possibly Walia ibex. The trail offers some of the most iconic views in Ethiopia, with endless horizons and raw mountain beauty. Arrive at your camp or lodge in the afternoon and enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by nature. Overnight: Simien Mountains (Geech or Chenek ). 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 10
Simien Mountain Trekking
Today is dedicated to exploring the high-altitude heart of the Simien Mountains. Trek in the Chenek area, known for wildlife sightings and dramatic scenery. With luck, spot the rare Ethiopian wolf and close-up views of Walia ibex on steep cliffs. Enjoy panoramic viewpoints overlooking deep valleys and sharp escarpments, considered among Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. This day is the highlight for trekking lovers and photographers alike. Overnight: Simien Mountains (Chenek). Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Simien Mountain - Gondar
Enjoy a final morning walk in the Simien Mountains, soaking in the crisp mountain air and last views of the dramatic highlands. After breakfast, drive back through Debark and continue to Gondar. Arrive in Gondar in the afternoon, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxed evening at leisure—perfect for resting after several rewarding days of trekking. Overnight: Gondar. 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 12
Gondar - Bahirdar
Drive to Bahir Dar, a pleasant lakeside city on the shores of Lake Tana. The journey takes approximately four hours through scenic countryside. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing sunset walk along Lake Tana, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful reflections. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
Lake Tana & Blue Nile Falls
Take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit ancient island monasteries, known for their religious art and history. Later, drive to the Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat), one of Ethiopia’s most impressive waterfalls, especially powerful during the rainy season. Return to Bahir Dar for overnight. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Blue Nile Resort Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
Bahirdar - Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual heart. In the afternoon, begin exploring the first group of the famous rock-hewn churches, carved entirely from solid rock in the 12th century. These UNESCO-listed churches are among the world’s most extraordinary religious monuments. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 15
Lalibela Churches & Village Walk
Continue exploring the second group of Lalibela churches, including the iconic Bete Giyorgis, shaped like a perfect cross. Enjoy a guided village walk to experience daily life, traditional houses, and local interactions, providing cultural depth beyond the historical monuments. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 16
Lalibela - Addis Ababa
Lalibela → Addis Ababa (Flight) Fly back to Addis Ababa in the morning. Spend the afternoon at leisure for shopping, relaxation, or optional sightseeing. This is also a good time to prepare for the southern Ethiopia portion of the journey. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Jano Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 17
Addis Ababa - Arbaminch
– Addis Ababa → Arba Minch (Flight) Take a flight to Arba Minch, located in southern Ethiopia near the Great Rift Valley lakes. After arrival, enjoy a relaxed afternoon to rest or explore the town. The warm climate and lush surroundings offer a contrast to northern Ethiopia’s highlands. 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 18
Lake chamo - Dorze Village
Lake Chamo & Dorze Village Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Chamo, famous for its large crocodiles, hippos, and diverse birdlife. Later, visit the Dorze people, known for their unique beehive-shaped houses and traditional weaving techniques. This day highlights southern Ethiopia’s cultural and natural diversity. 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 19
Arbaminch - Addis Ababa
Arba Minch → Addis Ababa Return to Addis Ababa by flight or overland drive, enjoying views of the Rift Valley along the way. In the evening, celebrate the end of your journey with a farewell cultural dinner featuring Ethiopian cuisine, music, and dance. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 20
Departure
After breakfast, or dinner farewell party we will transfer you to Bole International Airport for your international departure. Say goodbye to Ethiopia with unforgettable memories of ancient history, dramatic landscapes, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality. End of tour. 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)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Sleeping bag
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
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
Ethiopia Best Tours
4.8 operator rating
Ethiopia Best Tours is a locally owned and operated tour company based in Ethiopia, specializing in tailor-made and small-group travel experiences across the country. We are passionate about showcasing Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and ancient history in a responsible and authentic way. Our experienced local guides and drivers are deeply knowledgeable about Ethiopia’s cultures, traditions, and geography. We design flexible itineraries to suit each
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2014)
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
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 Euros (EUR).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children who are 7 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?
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Lunch & Dinner Included. Meals: Lunch & Dinner 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 Ethiopia Best 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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