Duration
15-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
15-Day North, Simien Mountains & Danakil Depression Tour
Overview
This 15-day journey explores Ethiopia's most iconic landscapes and heritage. Fly across the Historic North to Bahir Dar and Gondar, trek through the dramatic Simien Mountains, and travel by road into the extreme Danakil Depression to visit Dallol, salt flats, and the active Erta Ale volcano. Continue to Axum, Gheralta, and Lalibela to discover ancient civilizations, rock-hewn churches, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Bahir Dar (City), Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (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
$3,960 USD
$3,190 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$3,960 USD
$3,190 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
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4-5
Simien Mountains NP
Day 6-7
Axum (City)
Day 8
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 9
Mekele (City)
Day 10
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 11
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 12
Semera (Town)
Day 13-14
Lalibela (Town)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 15)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges. Guests must assist with camp chores.
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
Getting around: minivan, 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
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
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
Day 3
Gondar Hills Resort
Mid-range resort in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
Simien Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6-7
Consolar Hotel Aksum
Mid-range hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Planet Hotel
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Ahmed Ela Camp Budget bush camp in Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Budget bush camp in Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – Breakfast Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
Ardi Hotel Budget hotel in Semera (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Semera (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 13-14
Mezena Resort & Spa
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – 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
Arrival in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia and diplomatic hub of Africa, offers a pleasant climate and cultural diversity. Depending on arrival time, relax at the hotel or enjoy a short orientation drive. Overnight at hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) 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: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Fly to Bahir Dar – Blue Nile Falls & Lake Tana
Take a morning flight to Bahir Dar, a pleasant lakeside town on the shores of Lake Tana. Upon arrival, drive to visit the spectacular Tississat (Blue Nile) Falls, locally known as “Smoking Water,” where the mighty Blue Nile plunges into a deep gorge surrounded by lush vegetation. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat excursion on Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, visiting historic island monasteries famous for their ancient manuscripts, religious art, and tranquil setting. Return to Bahir Dar for an overnight stay at the hotel. 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 3
Drive to Gondar – Castles & Churches
Drive through scenic countryside to Gondar, the former imperial capital. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the famous Debre Birhan Selassie Church, known for its angel-painted ceiling. Overnight at hotel. Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Gondar Hills Resort Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Drive to Simien Mountains – Sankaber
After breakfast, drive to Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Sankaber, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of deep valleys and dramatic escarpments. Spot endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons. Overnight at lodge. 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 Trek – Sankaber to Chenek
Enjoy a full day trekking in the spectacular Simien Mountains National Park, hiking from Sankaber toward Chenek. The route offers dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and wide plateaus covered with Afro-alpine vegetation. Along the way, you are likely to see large troops of Gelada baboons, bushbucks, and endemic bird species. The trek provides outstanding panoramic views and close encounters with Ethiopia’s unique highland wildlife. After the hike, return to Sankaber for rest. Overnight at a lodge or camping. Inside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Drive from Sankaber to Axum
After breakfast, leave the Simien Mountains and drive north toward Axum. The journey descends through the dramatic Tekeze Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Africa, offering breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities. Continue through changing landscapes and traditional villages as you approach the historic city of Axum. Arrive in the late afternoon or evening and check into your hotel. Overnight at hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Consolar Hotel Aksum Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Axum – Full-Day Historical Tour
Spend the day exploring Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Kingdom and one of Ethiopia’s most important historical sites. Visit the UNESCO-listed Stelae Park, royal tombs, palace ruins, and the Axum Museum. You will also see the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed by Ethiopians to house the Ark of the Covenant. The tour provides deep insight into Ethiopia’s early civilization and religious history. Overnight at hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Consolar Hotel Aksum Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Drive to Hawzien / Gheralta
After breakfast, drive east toward Hawzien in the Gheralta Mountains region. Enjoy dramatic sandstone cliffs, isolated rock formations, and remote rural villages along the way. This area is famous for its ancient rock-hewn churches built into towering cliffs. The drive itself is scenic and culturally enriching. Arrive in Hawzien or the Gheralta area in the afternoon and relax at your hotel. Overnight at hotel. 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 9
Gheralta Rock Churches – Drive to Mekelle
In the morning, visit some of the spectacular Gheralta rock-hewn churches, including the famous Abune Yemata, accessed by a short but rewarding climb. Admire ancient wall paintings and stunning views from the mountaintop. In the afternoon, drive to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray Region. Upon arrival, check in and relax in preparation for the Danakil adventure. Overnight in Mekelle. 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
Mekelle – Danakil Depression – Hamed Ela
After breakfast, depart Mekelle in a 4WD vehicle and drive into the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. Visit Lake Assale, float in its extremely salty waters, and observe traditional Afar salt mining. Continue to the surreal landscapes of Dallol, known for colorful sulfur springs and salt formations. Arrive at Hamed Ela base camp in the evening. Overnight camping. Budget bush camp located in Danakil Depression (Highlight) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Ahmed Ela Camp Budget bush camp located in Danakil Depression (Highlight) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Hamed Ela – Erta Ale Volcano
Leave Hamed Ela in the morning and drive to Dodome village before continuing to the base of Erta Ale Volcano. In the late afternoon, begin the trek to the crater. As night falls, witness the dramatic glowing lava lake, one of the few permanent lava lakes in the world. The experience of watching volcanic activity under the stars is unforgettable. Overnight open-air camping near the crater. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Erta Ale – Lake Afdera – Semera
Wake early to explore the Erta Ale craters at sunrise and observe the active volcano in daylight. After breakfast, descend and drive to Lake Afdera, where you can swim and walk around the surrounding salt pans. In the afternoon, continue driving to Semera, the capital of the Afar Region. Arrive in the evening and check into your hotel for a well-earned rest. Overnight at hotel. Budget hotel located in Semera (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Semera (Town) Stay: Ardi Hotel Budget hotel located in Semera (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Drive to Lalibela
After breakfast, begin the journey from the Afar lowlands back into the Ethiopian highlands toward Lalibela. The drive offers striking contrasts in landscape, climate, and culture, passing through rural villages and mountainous scenery. Arrive in Lalibela in the late afternoon or evening and check into your hotel. Prepare for visits to Ethiopia’s most sacred historical sites. Overnight at hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mezena Resort & Spa Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Lalibela – First Group of Churches & Excursion
Visit the first group of Lalibela’s remarkable rock-hewn churches, carved entirely from solid rock in the 12th century and still used for worship today. Learn about their spiritual symbolism and architectural mastery. In the afternoon, take a half-day excursion to Yemrehanna Kristos or Na’akuto La’ab Church, located in a scenic mountain setting. Return to Lalibela town. Overnight at hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mezena Resort & Spa Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Lalibela – Second & Third Groups – Fly to Addis Ababa
In the morning, explore the second and third groups of Lalibela churches, including the iconic Church of St. George, carved in the shape of a perfect cross. After completing the visits, transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, connect with your international flight or evening departure from Bole International Airport, marking the end of the tour. 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
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
Desta Tour and Travel
5.0 operator rating
7 reviews
Desta Lalibela Tours is a private tourism company based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with an office in Lalibela. The company’s goal is to provide excellent tourism services (package as well as tailor made tours) and unforgettable memories for each and every client.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2015)
Tour Types
Budget camping tours where clients assist with camp chores
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 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?
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (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 Desta Tour and Travel, 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 Desta Tour and Travel.
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