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Abayaniriza n’abakola entambula abakakasiddwa Ebifo n’obumanyirivu bwa Afrika obw’omutindo Bookinga kati oba saba entambula ekuteredde
12-Day Historical Ethiopia Tour

Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

12-Day Historical Ethiopia Tour

5.0 / 5 · 24 reviews Offered by Enat Ethiopia tours 12-Day

Overview

Explore Ethiopia's rich heritage and landscapes--from Addis Ababa's vibrant culture to Bahir Dar's Lake Tana and Blue Nile Falls, Gondar's royal castles, the dramatic Simien Mountains, and the ancient city of Axum, once capital of the Aksumite Empire. Discover centuries-old monasteries, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking natural wonders on this unforgettable journey through Ethiopia's historical north.

Plan snapshot

Quick Facts

Tour details

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

10 years

Activities

Getting around: minivan, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer

Accommodation

Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Meals at Own Expense

Meals

Meals at Own Expense; Breakfast Included

Pickup

Airport transfer included

Booking

Request quote

Currency

USD

12-Day Historical Ethiopia Tour
Simien Mountains National Park visual context for this itinerary.

Rates

Rates Per Person

USD

Start datesSingle2+ people
May 22, 2025 - Dec 31, 2027 $2,860 USD $2,640 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 10 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
Request a Quote

Route

Tour route map
country Ethiopia
Start Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 2 Bahir Dar (City)
Day 3 Gondar (City)
Day 4-5 Simien Mountains NP
Day 6 Axum (City)
Day 7 Hawzen (Town)
Day 8 Mekele (City)
Day 9-11 Lalibela (Town)
End Addis Ababa (City) (Day 12)

Tour Features

Mid-range tour

This mid-range tour includes camping and hotels.

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.

10
Minimum age of 10 years

The minimum age for this tour is 10 years.

Activities & Transportation

Getting around: minivan, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
This operator can book your international flights
A transfer from and back to the airport is included

Accommodation & Meals

Best Western Plus Pearl Addis

Day 1

Best Western Plus Pearl Addis

Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Meals at Own Expense

Meals at Own Expense

Best Western Plus Pearl AddisBest Western Plus Pearl AddisBest Western Plus Pearl Addis
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos

Day 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

Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 PhotosJacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 PhotosJacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Haile Resort Gondar

Day 3

Haile Resort Gondar

Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Haile Resort GondarHaile Resort GondarHaile Resort Gondar
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

Day 4

Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Yared Zema International Hotel

Day 5-6

Yared Zema International Hotel

Mid-range hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Yared Zema International HotelYared Zema International Hotel
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included

Day 7

Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included

Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Homeland Hotel Mekelle

Day 8

Homeland Hotel Mekelle

Mid-range hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Homeland Hotel MekelleHomeland Hotel MekelleHomeland Hotel Mekelle
Tabor Hotel Lalibela

Day 9-11

Tabor Hotel Lalibela

Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Tabor Hotel LalibelaTabor Hotel LalibelaTabor Hotel Lalibela

Day 12

End of tour

No accommodation

(No accommodation)

Breakfast & Dinner 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.

Arrival & Addis Ababa City Tour

Day 1

Arrival & Addis Ababa City Tour

Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be met by Enat Ethiopia Tours and transferred to your hotel. Founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II, the city sits at 2,438 meters, making it the third-highest capital in the world, with a pleasant year-round climate averaging 25°C. Begin exploring with a visit to the National Museum, home to the famous 3.5-million-year-old fossil "Lucy." Continue to the Ethnographic Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral, the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals at own expense Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Best Western Plus Pearl Addis Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Meals at own expense Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Bahir Dar & Explore Lake Tana and Blue Nile Falls

Day 2

Bahir Dar & Explore Lake Tana and Blue Nile Falls

Air Transfer to the north to Bahir Dar, the scenic capital of the Amhara region, located on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. In the morning, enjoy a boat trip to the Zeghie Peninsula to visit Ura Kidane Mihret Church, known for its vivid religious murals and ancient Ge’ez manuscripts. In the afternoon, travel to the Tississat Falls ("Water that Smokes"), a dramatic cascade on the Blue Nile River. Overnight: 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)
Drive Gondar and City Tour

Day 3

Drive Gondar and City Tour

This morning we drive for the 3-31/2 hour (185km) north to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia. Gondar has now become one of Ethiopia’s largest and most impressive cities, with its walled Royal Enclosure. Gondar’s most famous monuments are its exceptionally well preserved 17th century castles. The largest and best is that of King Fasiledas. It is a stone-built construction with round turrets and wooden balconies. The king also built a remarkable bath a mile or so outside of town known as the ‘Pavilion of Delight’. The Bathhouse of Fasil at which thousands of Ethiopians celebrate Timkat festival every January. This whole complex of buildings is unique in Ethiopia and unlike anything found elsewhere in Africa. This afternoon we’ll also make a visit to the Debre Birhan Selassie church (Light of Trinity) with its sensational angelic ceiling and mural. Overnight: Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to simine mountain National Park

Day 4

Drive to simine mountain National Park

After breakfast, drive to Debark, gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park. Ascend into the highlands for stunning views of dramatic escarpments and deep valleys. Enjoy an optional 1.5-hour walk in the Sankaber area, with opportunities to spot Gelada baboons, Lammergeyer vultures, klipspringers, and bushbuck. The breathtaking scenery reaches elevations up to 3,250m. Overnight: Simien Camping/Lodge. 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)
Simien Mountains to Axum

Day 5

Simien Mountains to Axum

After breakfast, embark on a full-day drive to Axum, passing through the dramatic Simien lowlands and the Tekeze River gorge. Though long, the journey offers breathtaking scenery and excellent photo opportunities along rugged mountain roads. Arrive in Axum, the ancient capital of a once-powerful empire, and enjoy time to relax after hotel check-in. Overnight: Axum. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Yared Zema International Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Axum Tour

Day 6

Axum Tour

Explore Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire—once a dominant power in global trade and the cradle of Ethiopian Christianity. Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, and see the ruins of the original 4th-century church. Discover the monolithic stelae, including the tallest still standing at over 21 meters, and the tombs, inscriptions, and archaeological museum that reveal Axum’s royal past. Also visit the legendary Palace of the Queen of Sheba. Overnight: Axum. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Yared Zema International Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to Gheralta via Yeha and Adwa

Day 7

Drive to Gheralta via Yeha and Adwa

Depart Axum and drive east to Yeha, Ethiopia’s oldest settlement, home to a 3,000-year-old temple of the moon god Ilmuqah, later converted into a church. Admire its ancient stonework and ibex carvings. Continue to Adwa, a historic town where Ethiopia famously defeated Italian forces in 1896, symbolizing African independence. In the afternoon, travel onward to Adigrat and the Gheralta region. Overnight: Hawzien. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Hawizen-Mekelle

Day 8

Hawizen-Mekelle

Explore the remote Tigray region to visit remarkable rock-cut churches, including Abuna Yemata Guh, perched atop a cliff and dating back before the 4th century. Discover the sandstone Church of Chirkos in Wukro, known for its cruciform pillars and vaulted ceiling. In the afternoon, soak in the serene Tigray landscapes before driving to the town of Mekele. Overnight: Mekele. Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Homeland Hotel Mekelle Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to Lalibela Through Stunning Countryside

Day 9

Drive to Lalibela Through Stunning Countryside

Enjoy a full-day drive south through breathtaking landscapes, traveling between western mountains and the open plains near Woldiya. Arrive at the remarkable archaeological and religious site of Lalibela, famed for its rock-hewn churches. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Visiting Lalibela (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Day 10

Visiting Lalibela (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Explore the renowned rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, often called Ethiopia’s ‘New Jerusalem,’ built around 800 years ago by King Lalibela. These 11 remarkable monolithic churches are carved from granite, each showcasing unique architectural styles and exquisite craftsmanship. The most iconic, Bet Giorgis, is shaped like a Greek cross and is exceptionally well preserved—widely regarded as one of the wonders of the world. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Drive to Yimrhane kristose

Day 11

Drive to Yimrhane kristose

Visit the exquisite Yimrhane Kristos Church, a masterpiece of Axumite wood and stone craftsmanship, famed for its beautifully decorated wooden coffered ceiling featuring hexagons and medallions with figurative and geometric motifs. Afterward, return to Lalibela town and explore more rock-hewn churches including Bete Gabriel & Rafael, Merkorous, Emanuel, and Abba Libanos. Notably, Bete Emanuel stands out for its intricate Axumite architectural details like wall indentations, monkey heads, and false windows. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Fly Back to Addis Ababa – Sightseeing – Departure

Day 12

Fly Back to Addis Ababa – Sightseeing – Departure

Fly back to Addis Ababa this morning. Begin your city tour with panoramic views from Entoto Mountain, the original capital, surrounded by eucalyptus forests. Descend to the city via Shiro Meda, the largest market for traditional clothing. In the evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner featuring cultural songs, dances, and traditional cuisine. Afterwards, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure. End of Tour. Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch 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 book your international flights
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
Enat Ethiopia tours
Enat Ethiopia tours logo

Offered by

Enat Ethiopia tours

5.0 operator rating 24 reviews

Enat Ethiopia Tours and Travel Agency is a privately-owned Ethiopian company dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and historical treasures of Ethiopia. Founded in 2018, our agency may be relatively young, but it is built on decades of experience in the local tourism industry. Our deep-rooted knowledge, personal connections across the country, and passion for authentic travel make us one of the most trusted and insightful tour operators in Ethiopia.

Office In

Ethiopia

Size

1-5 employees (Founded in 2018)

Tour Types

Custom luxury tours that can start every day

Destinations

Ethiopia

Traveler feedback

Reviews

5.00 average

Overall

5.0/5

Communication

5.0/5

Accuracy

5.0/5

Value

5.0/5

Safety clarity

5.0/5

Cultural value

5.0/5
Verified

Absolute Best Tour Guide

Our family of 10 traveling from both the U.S. and the U.K. booked a 10-day tour with Enat Tours, and we honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From the moment Ashu greeted us at the airport with his warm smile, we felt completely at ease. He was so friendly, easy to talk to, and right away we knew we were in good hands. Ashu is an absolutely incredible tour guide, professional, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about what he does. The way he explained the history and culture of Ethiopia was fascinating; sometimes it felt like we were watching a live documentary. His storytelling was so brilliant, especially when we got to Lalibela. I personally felt transported, completely immersed in the beauty and history of those rock-hewn churches. We explored so many amazing places: Addis Ababa, Blue Nile Falls, Lake Tana, Gondar, the Simien Mountains, and of course, Lalibela. Each destination was special in its own way, and Ashu made every moment unforgettable. He took care of every little detail, made sure we were always comfortable, and kept a smile on his face the entire time. What made this trip even more meaningful is that this was the first time our entire family had traveled together. That could’ve easily been overwhelming, but Ashu handled it all with so much grace and patience. He truly understood us, and it felt like he was part of the family by the end of the trip. Ethiopia is a beautiful country, and this tour opened our eyes and hearts in ways we’ll never forget. But what made it truly special was Ashu, his kindness, his knowledge, his energy, and that constant, genuine smile. Thank you, Ashu, for making our time in Ethiopia so memorable. You’re one of a kind, and we’re so grateful for everything you did for us!

Emily · United States

Verified

knowledgeable warm and friendly.

I have had a great experience with Enat Ethiopia Tours. The company was easy to get in communication with and let me know everything I needed to bring as well helped me book additional flights while in Ethiopia. With spectacular scenic views on my tours to The Churches of labella, Danakil Depression incorporated with knowledgeable warm and friendly tour guides my tours were a great experience. I will definitely use this Enat Ethiopia Tours when planning tour in Ethiopia and I would recommend to anyone doing so.

Photo by Jay Lyons
Photo by Jay Lyons
Photo by Jay Lyons
Photo by Jay Lyons

Jay Lyons · Canada

Verified

Awesome hospitality

You can see why Enat is the best on trip adviser. He is such a great personality, and his explanations are easy to understand, and entertaining. TBH, I thought the tours were a bit expensive before going, but afterwards I thought the tours are underpriced. Would love to go again.

Jeremy · Japan

Verified

Great tour of the city ! Guide was very knowledgeable

We had a tour with Ashu. He was educated, knowledgeable, with great English. He was able to navigate us through the city keeping us safe. He just loves his county. His passion, positivity and just pure kindness was beautiful. Highly recommend this tour guide if you ever get the chance.

Michelle · Canada

Practical answers

Tour FAQs

8 answers

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 10 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?

Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Meals at Own Expense. Meals: Meals at Own Expense

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

Booking terms

Disclaimer

This tour is offered by Enat 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 Enat Ethiopia tours.

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