Duration
12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Begin your journey on the Northern Historic route, exploring Ethiopia's rich history. Visit iconic sites like the Blue Nile falls, Lake Tana Monastery, Gondar castles, Simien Mountains National Park, and Lalibela. Continue through the Omo Valley to connect with ancient lifestyles, unique cultures, markets, and ceremonies of southern Ethiopian ethnic groups.
Plan snapshot
Duration
12-Day
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
18 years
Activities
walking safaris (with an armed guide) & boat trip
Accommodation
Monarch Parkview Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Meals at Own Expense
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
EUR
Rates
EUR
Before booking
Quote flow
This mid-range tour uses lodges and hotels.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't 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
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Mid-range hotel 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Mid-range hotel in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Mid-range lodge in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9-10
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals at Own Expense
Day 12
(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
Welcome to Ethiopia! Upon your arrival at Bole International Airport, our dedicated team, consisting of a driver and guide, extends a warm welcome to the Horn of Africa. They will be waiting for you at the airport in Addis Ababa and will transfer you to your overnight accommodation within the city. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Depending on your arrival time, we can start your Ethiopian adventure with a city tour. Our journey may begin with a visit to the National Museum, home to some of the nation's most cherished historical artifacts. The museum's collection includes fossils and early hominid remains, notably the 3.5-million-year-old "Lucy," one of the oldest hominids ever discovered. Our tour will then take you to two of the city's major highlights: the Ethnographic Museum and the Church of the Holy Trinity. The latter is Ethiopia's principal cathedral and serves as the final resting place of the last emperor, Haile Selassie. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
In the morning, catch a flight to Bahir Dar. Your day begins with a city tour, commencing with a boat excursion on Lake Tana. You'll explore the monasteries situated on the Zege Peninsula, including Kibran Gebriel (please note that it may not be accessible to women), and visit the source of the Blue Nile River. In the afternoon, venture to the Blue Nile Falls for a brief hike in the surrounding area. Upon returning to Bahir Dar, make your way to Bezawit Hill, where Emperor Haile Selassie I had his palace constructed in 1967. From this vantage point, savor the breathtaking views overlooking Lake Tana and the city, especially as the sun sets. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, enjoying the beautiful sunset over the lake. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
In the morning, make your way to Gondar. This four-hour drive will lead you through rural villages, providing a captivating glimpse into the Amhara culture. Upon your arrival and a brief check-in at your hotel, embark on an exploration of Gondar's fascinating sites. Your journey will take you to the 17th Century Royal Enclosure, where you'll encounter six splendid castles and various other historic structures. Following this, pay a visit to Fasilides' pool, which continues to be used during the Timkat celebration, the Ethiopian Orthodox Epiphany held on the 19th of January. Lastly, explore the Debre Birhan Selassie church, renowned for its iconic ceiling adorned with countless gazing angels, making it one of Ethiopia's most famous religious sites. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
In the early morning, we journey to the Simien Mountains National Park, with a stop at Woleka, a site significant to the black Jewish people known as Felasha. Here, we explore their synagogue and a black pottery shop, reflecting Ethiopia's rich history with Jewish communities. Our adventure unfolds in the Simien Mountains National Park, a remote and rugged region with breathtaking scenery. This lesser-visited area often offers a serene experience. We'll hike well-worn paths, keeping an eye out for the endemic gelada monkeys, known for appearing suddenly in large numbers and being comfortable around humans. After a packed lunch, we embark on a more challenging afternoon hike, taking established trails with stops for rest and photos. As the day winds down, we return to Gondar, wrapping up a day of exploration and natural wonders. Mid-range hotel located 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
In the early morning, commence your journey to Lalibela. This scenic route spans approximately 350 kilometers and takes roughly 6 hours. En route, you'll have the opportunity to admire the picturesque landscape of the Amhara Region and observe the daily lives of the highland communities. Upon your arrival in Lalibela, indulge in a well-deserved dinner with breathtaking views overlooking the Lasta Mountains, treating yourself to what might be one of the world's most exquisite sunsets. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Spend a full day in Lalibela, exploring the extraordinary marvels of engineering and architecture that many consider to be the "8th wonder of the world." It's truly exceptional to find eleven rock-hewn churches of such masterful craftsmanship all in one place. In the morning, you'll begin your exploration with a visit to the first cluster of churches among the eleven remarkable rock-hewn structures. These churches were built by King Lalibela in the late 12th and 13th century A.D., and they symbolize the earthly Jerusalem. After a break for lunch, your journey continues with a visit to the second cluster of churches, representing the heavenly Jerusalem. Finally, you'll explore the most exquisite and captivating monolithic cruciform church of Saint George. As the late afternoon approaches, partake in an Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony and savor some honey wine, adding a delightful cultural touch to your day. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
In the early morning, you have the option to visit the Na'akuto La'ab Monastery, one of the ancient churches and monasteries nestled in the highlands surrounding Lalibela. This particular monastery is attributed to Na'akuto La'ab, the successor to King Lalibela, who is renowned for developing the rock-hewn churches in central Lalibela, including the famous Bete Giyorgis church at their epicenter. However, those who venture into the surrounding mountains can uncover monasteries hidden in remote crevices, far from civilization, and these churches predate those in the town center. Upon your return to Lalibela, your car will be ready to transport you to Awasa, one of the Great Rift Valley lakes. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing by the lakeside, enjoying the serene surroundings. Mid-range hotel located in Awasa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Following an early breakfast, embark on a journey to Arba Minch via Awasa. Along the way, consider stopping to observe the vibrant daily activities at the fish market. Continue your drive to Arba Minch, passing through the picturesque coffee-growing region. After a satisfying lunch in Arba Minch, explore the Dorze Village, celebrated for its expertise in working with cotton. Here, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in their way of life and visit the distinctive beehive-shaped huts that are characteristic of the Dorze culture. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, all while enjoying breathtaking views overlooking the lakes of Chamo and Abaya. Mid-range lodge located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
In the morning, explore Nechisar National Park with a boat trip on Lake Chamo, where you'll spot crocodiles, hippos, and various bird species. On the opposite shore, watch for Burchell's zebras, Grant's gazelles, and occasional Swayne's hartebeest. Head to Konso for lunch and visit the intriguing 55-kilometer stonewalled terraces and fortified settlements, often called the "natural New York Village" due to skyscraper-like sand formations. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the Konso highland tribe's intricate terraces. In the afternoon, drive to Turmi to encounter the vibrant Hamer tribe, known for their colorful beadwork, ochre-braided hair, and painted faces, offering a unique cultural immersion. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
In the morning, journey to Omorate and cross the river to visit the Dasanech tribe. Explore their unique culture and way of life. In the afternoon, continue to the Karo village of Korcho and meet the Karo tribe, renowned for their striking body decorations and traditions. Return to Turmi and witness the captivating bull-jumping ceremony, an event where men demonstrate their readiness for marriage. This ritual often takes place in the evening and is a significant cultural experience. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
In the morning, embark on a journey to Mago National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to meet one of Ethiopia's most renowned indigenous tribes: the Mursi people. This visit will provide a captivating glimpse into the unique traditions of the Mursi, including the practice of inserting large circular clay discs into the lower lips of their women. Afterwards, continue your drive to Jinka, and if timing aligns, you may have the chance to explore one of the local markets. In the evening, consider a visit to the Omo Valley Research Center, where you can delve deeper into the region's cultural and anthropological richness. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Day 12
In the morning, explore some attractions in Jinka before catching a flight to Addis Ababa, where you'll undergo your PCR test. This period provides an opportunity for souvenir shopping or additional sightseeing in the city. In the evening, Inside Ethiopia Tours offers a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, complete with live music and dancing performances. Depending on your departure schedule, you will either be transferred to the airport or accommodated in a hotel for an overnight stay. 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)
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)
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)
Offered by
Finot Tour Ethiopia is your option for a responsible and nature friendly tour in Ethiopia. We are always available to serve you the tour experience of your dreams. Our tour programs are flexible; you can feel free to make your own ideal tour package and then contact us for any information. If you are interested in History, Culture, Nature, Bird watching, Trekking, Adventure, Documentary Films, Rafting, Biking, Volcano and sightseeing, you will contact us for further information.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2011)
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Djibouti, Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Our tour preferences were very well combined, we received a very detailed tour description for the 4 weeks in advance, which then also took place as planned, with a fair value of money . The communication was perfect. Flights, hotels, visits to attractions, entrances, and transportation were very well organized and coordinated. Our tour guide Haile was very friendly, absolutely reliable, and trustworthy. On-site, he has a good network, the local guides, and drivers were also always very good. Our safety was Haile's top priority. We can wholeheartedly recommend Finot Tours Ethiopia.
Michaela · Germany
Great experience! My wife and me did a 13-day long tour of Harar, Bale mountain an Omo valley and considering the very high quality of both the guides and the tour itself we felt we got our money's worth. Hailemeskel of Finot Tour Ethiopia has specially for us developed great tour itinerary! We have a good 4WD car and accommodation in nice hotels and lodges. Our main guide and driver Lmuel, was fantastic. He's very knowledgeable and has a very nice attitude towards guests! We discussed various aspects of life and nature in Ethiopia and we began to feel him as a friend. Both gentlemen were very kind and nice and they made our experience so wonderful. So it really feels like we made friends and it made us feel as if we weren't just tourists. All in all this was an amazing experience. We highly recommend Finot Tour Ethiopia. Thank you very much Haile and Lmuel!
Stanislav Moynov · Bulgaria
Traveling with Finot is a great, real adventure. A great guide with good contacts in the places you visit. Thanks to this, we were able to see more interesting things than others. Trip to the tribes of the Omo Valley.
Piotr Banasik · Poland
My six day trip to the Lower Omo Valley was very interesting and well organized. A good guide (Danny), a comfortable car and nice lodges/hotels made the trip most enjoyable. Danny's knowledge about culture and nature was great. He also knew the names of all the birds we saw which I appreciated. Since I was a solo guest we also had a flexible schedule. From time to time we also met friendly Haile who travelled with another group. Since all costs were included I did not have to think about paying local guides etc. But they all appreciate a small tip. I can highly recommend Finot Tour.
Rolf · Sweden
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.
Monarch Parkview Hotel - Mid-range 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 Finot Tour Ethiopia, 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 Finot Tour Ethiopia.
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