Duration
10-Day
Accra, Ethiopia
10-Day Historic North & Danakil Volcano Journey
Overview
Discover Ethiopia's northern treasures on this 10-day journey. Explore Addis Ababa's museums, Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, and Tigray's cliff-top monasteries. Experience the Danakil Depression with Erta Ale volcano, Dallol's colorful landscapes, and camel caravans. Conclude in Axum, home to ancient obelisks and legends of the Ark. This journey can be tailored for solo travelers, families, friends, or group joiners.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lalibela (Town), Semera (Town), Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Country & park
Ethiopia
Style
Mid-range 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
Accommodation
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Breakfast & Lunch Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$3,850 USD
$2,750 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$3,850 USD
$2,750 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 is unavailable for children.
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
Lalibela (Town)
Day 4
Semera (Town)
Day 5
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 6
Hamad Ela (Village)
Day 7
Mekele (City)
Day 8
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 9
Axum (City)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 10)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour includes camping and hotels.
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.
18
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & 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
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2-3
Mountain View Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Kuriftu Afar Semera Resort
Mid-range hotel in Semera (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Budget camping Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Homeland Hotel Mekelle
Mid-range hotel in Mekele (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Yared Zema International Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
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
Addis Ababa Heritage & City Tour
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, our team will warmly welcome you to Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. Once you’re ready, your expert multilingual guide will lead you on a cultural and historical journey through the city’s highlights. Begin at the National Museum, home to ancient treasures and the famous Lucy fossil. Continue to the Ethnographic Museum, offering deep insight into Ethiopia’s diverse cultures. Visit the Menelik Palace, a symbol of Ethiopia’s imperial past, and the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral, renowned for its striking architecture and spiritual importance. Stroll through Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, alive with color, scents, and bustling activity. Conclude at Unity Park, where history, culture, and nature come together in a beautiful modern setting. To complete your day, enjoy authentic Ethiopian cuisine (or your preferred choice) at one of the city’s finest restaurants before returning to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Addis Ababa – Fly to Lalibela & Explore the First Churches
In the morning, take a flight to Lalibela, the crown jewel of Ethiopia’s Christian heritage. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in. In the afternoon, begin your exploration of the 12th–13th century rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the first group, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Danaghel, Bete Mikael, and Bete Golgotha—many linked by underground tunnels and adorned with intricate bas-reliefs and colorful frescoes. Overnight at hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mountain View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Lalibela – Yimrhane Kristos & Asheton Maryam Monastery
This morning, visit the remarkable Yimrhane Kristos Church, a masterpiece of Axumite wood-and-stone construction. Famous for its intricate interior, the church features a beautifully decorated wooden ceiling with hexagons, medallions, and detailed geometric and figurative motifs. After returning to Lalibela for lunch, continue to the Asheton Maryam Monastery, perched dramatically at nearly 3,700 meters. Carved into a cliff face, the monastery is believed to have been founded by King Lalibela himself. While the church is simple, it holds treasured crosses, illuminated manuscripts, and relics. The highlight, however, is the breathtaking setting, with panoramic views across the highlands as you ascend. Overnight at hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mountain View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Drive from Lalibela to Semera- Gateway to the Danakil Depression
After breakfast, drive to Semera via Weldia. Today’s journey takes you through two distinct regions: Amhara and Afar. Along the way, you will witness a variety of landscapes and vegetation zones, passing through the fertile farmlands of Wolo and Ari before gradually entering the hotter, more arid Afar region. The contrast in scenery offers a fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia’s diverse natural beauty. Upon arrival in Semera, the capital of the Afar region, check in to a comfortable hotel with air conditioning to relax and refresh after the long drive. Take some time to unwind and prepare for the exciting desert adventure ahead. Overnight: Hotel in Semera. Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Semera (Town) Stay: Kuriftu Afar Semera Resort Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Semera – Lake Afdera – Hike to Erta Ale
After breakfast, depart around 9:00 AM for a scenic drive north toward Lake Afdera and the volcanic landscapes leading to Erta Ale, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The journey (approx. 200 km) takes you through striking desert scenery, arriving at the base camp by late afternoon. After a short rest, begin the evening hike (around 6:00 PM) up to the crater rim, where the glowing lava lake creates an unforgettable natural spectacle. Overnight camping 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 6
Erta Ale – Hamedela – Dallol
After sunrise at the Erta Ale crater, descend back to the base camp for breakfast. From here, continue your journey across the dramatic Dodom Desert towards Hamedela, arriving in the afternoon. Later, visit Lake Asale, famous for its vast salt flats, breathtaking sunsets, and the long camel caravans transporting blocks of salt across the desert—a timeless tradition of the Afar people. End the day at your desert campsite under a canopy of stars. Overnight camping in Hamedela. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Hamad Ela (Village) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Dallol Expedition – Journey to Mekele
Today’s adventure takes you deep into the surreal landscapes of Dallol, one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth. Explore its otherworldly scenery of colorful sulfur ponds, mineral formations, salt canyons, and acid springs—an unforgettable natural spectacle. Witness traditional salt excavation methods and see the endless camel caravans carrying salt across the shimmering Lake Asale flats. After the visit, drive back to Mekele for rest and relaxation. Overnight at hotel in Mekele. Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Homeland Hotel Mekelle Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Drive to Gheralta – Visit Abune Yemata Guh
After breakfast, drive to the stunning Gheralta region near Hawzen. Here, you’ll experience the unforgettable climb to Abune Yemata Guh, one of Ethiopia’s most remarkable rock-hewn churches. Perched high on a cliff, it is often called the “church in the sky.” The adventurous ascent, combined with centuries-old frescoes and breathtaking mountain views, makes this a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Overnight at a hotel in Hawzen. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Gheralta – Yeha – Axum
Begin the day with breathtaking views of the Gheralta Mountains before trekking to St. Maryam Korkor, a 6th-century rock-hewn church known for its remarkable history and setting. After breakfast, drive to Axum, stopping en route at the Temple of Yeha (5th century BC), the oldest standing structure in Ethiopia, showcasing extraordinary ancient stonework. In Axum, the cradle of Ethiopian civilization, explore its most iconic sites: St. Mary’s Church and the Sanctuary Chapel (believed to house the Ark of the Covenant), the coronation yard, the towering Stelae Park, the tombs of King Kaleb, Ezana’s inscriptions, the Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins and swimming pool, and the Axum Museum. In the evening, drive to Shire town to connect with your flight to Addis Ababa. Overnight at Yared Zema Hotel, Axum. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Yared Zema International Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Axum – Addis Ababa – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Axum Airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy a short city tour with time for last-minute shopping at local markets and artisan shops. Later, you’ll be escorted to a cultural restaurant for a farewell dinner, where you can experience traditional Ethiopian cuisine and dance performances. Finally, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure flight. End of the 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)
Sleeping bag
Excluded
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
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
Ethio Wildlife Tours
5.0 operator rating
7 reviews
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
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5The nicest tour experience
I 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
Organized and personalized
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
Our guide was fantastic — super knowledgeable, easygoing, and clearly respected by the communities.
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
Organized and responsive
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
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 is unavailable for children.
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?
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury 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 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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