Duration
16-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
16-Day Ethiopia Historic & Tribal Adventure
Overview
Experience Ethiopia's ultimate adventure combining the Historic Route, Danakil Depression and Omo Valley. Visit Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Gondar, Lalibela, Gheralta, Erta Ale, Dallol and tribal southern regions. Includes domestic flights, 4WD transport, guides, camping in Danakil, and cultural experiences across diverse landscapes and communities.
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
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Activities
Getting around: boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Hotel Lobelia - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Meals
Breakfast & Dinner Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
May 1, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026
$5,280 USD
$3,960 USD
Dec 1, 2026 - Apr 30, 2027
$5,500 USD
$4,180 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 of all ages. Children under 12 receive a discount and children under 7 are free.
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
Simien Mountains NP
Day 5-6
Lalibela (Town)
Day 7-8
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 9
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 10
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 11
Semera (Town)
Day 12
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 13
Konso (Cultural Village)
Day 14
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 15)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range 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.
Suitable for all ages
This tour is suitable for children of all ages.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: boat, 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
Hotel Lobelia
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 2
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Gondar Plaza Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Tabor Hotel Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Ruftana Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Semera (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13-14
Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included +11 Photos +10 Photos
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 15
Hotel Lobelia
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16
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 & Addis Ababa City Exploration
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest. After a short break, begin a guided city tour of Addis Ababa, the vibrant capital of Ethiopia. Visit the National Museum to see the famous fossil “Lucy,” then continue to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an important religious and historical site. Explore Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, and experience the lively atmosphere of local trade. Later, drive up Mount Entoto for panoramic views over the city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with cultural music before returning to your hotel for overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Hotel Lobelia Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Lake Tana Monasteries & Blue Nile Falls
After breakfast, take a morning domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, a beautiful city on the shores of Lake Tana. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing boat trip on Lake Tana to explore ancient island monasteries known for their historic manuscripts, murals, and religious heritage. Continue with a scenic excursion to the Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most impressive natural attractions, surrounded by lush countryside and local villages. Enjoy time to walk and take photos before returning to Bahir Dar city. In the evening, relax at your hotel or explore the lakeside atmosphere. Overnight stay in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Gondar Historical City Tour
After breakfast, depart from Bahir Dar and drive to Gondar, a historic city once known as the royal capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, begin a guided exploration of the city’s major landmarks. Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring castles and palaces of Ethiopian emperors. Continue to King Fasil’s Bath, an important ceremonial site still used during the Timkat festival. Later, explore Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully painted ceiling of angels. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in Gondar before returning to your hotel for overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Gondar Plaza Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Simien Mountains Scenic Trekking
After an early breakfast, drive from Gondar to the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular natural landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a scenic day trip through dramatic highlands, deep valleys, and panoramic viewpoints. Take short guided treks along safe trails to explore the unique mountain scenery and spot endemic wildlife such as the famous Gelada baboons. Learn about the region’s geology and natural history from your guide while enjoying fresh mountain air and stunning photography opportunities. In the afternoon, return to Gondar for relaxation and overnight stay at your hotel. 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 5
Gondar to Lalibela Flight & Church Visit
After an early breakfast in Gondar, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage destinations. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in and short rest. In the afternoon, begin your first introduction to the famous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, carved directly from solid volcanic rock and still active places of worship. Explore the first group of churches while learning about their history, construction, and religious importance. Enjoy a relaxed evening with a traditional Ethiopian atmosphere before overnight stay in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day guided exploration of Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s most important UNESCO World Heritage and pilgrimage sites. Continue visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches carved entirely from solid volcanic rock, connected by tunnels, trenches, and narrow passageways. Discover both major church groups while learning about their deep religious significance and unique engineering. Your guide will explain the history, symbolism, and ongoing use of these sacred sites by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. In the afternoon, you may take an optional hike to Asheton Maryam Monastery for stunning panoramic views over Lalibela. Evening at leisure and overnight in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Lalibela to Gheralta Scenic Drive
After an early breakfast in Lalibela, begin a long but scenic overland journey towards the Tigray region. Drive through Ethiopia’s highland landscapes, passing rural villages, mountain ranges, and changing scenery along the way. Enjoy stops en route for photography and short breaks to experience local life and countryside views. Continue towards Mekelle and then on to the Gheralta Mountains area, known for its dramatic sandstone formations and ancient rock-hewn churches. Arrive in Hawzen/Gheralta in the evening and check in to your lodge. Dinner and overnight stay surrounded by the peaceful mountain environment. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Gheralta Rock Churches Exploration
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day exploration of the spectacular Gheralta Mountains, one of Ethiopia’s most impressive cultural and natural regions. The area is famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and ancient rock-hewn churches carved into high cliffs and caves. Visit some of the most iconic sites such as Abuna Yemata Guh, Maryam Korkor, and Abreha We Atsbeha, depending on accessibility and trekking conditions. Experience guided hikes through stunning landscapes with panoramic views and deep cultural insights from your local guide. This day combines adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery before returning to your lodge in the evening for overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Journey to Danakil Depression & Erta Ale Volcano
After breakfast in the Gheralta region, depart early and begin your journey into the Afar region, entering one of the most extreme and unique environments on Earth. Travel through dramatic desert landscapes, passing salt flats, volcanic terrain, and small Afar settlements along the way. Continue deeper into the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places in the world, while observing traditional salt extraction activities and local caravan routes. Arrive at Erta Ale base camp in the afternoon and prepare for an evening trek to the active volcano. Hike to the crater rim to witness the glowing lava under the night sky before camping overnight in basic desert conditions. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Erta Ale Volcano Sunrise & Dallol Exploration
Early morning begins with a sunrise experience at Erta Ale Volcano, where you may witness the glowing lava crater in the soft morning light. After trekking down from the volcano, continue your journey deeper into the Danakil Depression, one of the most geologically active regions on Earth. Visit the extraordinary Dallol hydrothermal area, famous for its colorful acid pools, salt formations, and surreal landscapes. Continue to Lake Assale salt flats where local Afar people still harvest salt in traditional ways using camel caravans. In the evening, arrive at Hamad Ela desert campsite for dinner and overnight stay under the stars in basic camping conditions. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Danakil Desert Drive to Semera
After breakfast in Hamad Ela, begin your return journey through the striking landscapes of the Danakil Depression. Drive across vast salt flats, volcanic terrain, and desert plains while observing traditional Afar life and camel caravans along the route. Stop along the way for photography and to experience the unique geological features of this extreme environment. Continue the drive toward Semera, the capital of the Afar region. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at your hotel for rest and relaxation after the demanding desert expedition. Enjoy a comfortable evening and overnight stay in Semera. Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Semera (Town) Stay: Ruftana Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Lake Tana Monasteries & Blue Nile Falls
After breakfast in Addis Ababa, take a morning domestic flight to Bahir Dar, a beautiful lakeside city on the shores of Lake Tana. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing boat trip on Lake Tana to visit ancient island monasteries known for their historical manuscripts, paintings, and religious heritage. Continue with an excursion to the Blue Nile Falls, one of Ethiopia’s most famous natural attractions, surrounded by scenic landscapes and local villages. Experience walking trails and photo opportunities around the falls before returning to Bahir Dar city. In the evening, relax at your hotel or enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere. Overnight stay in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Omo Valley Cultural Experience (Dorze & Konso)
After breakfast, continue your journey through southern Ethiopia into the culturally rich Omo Valley region. Visit the Dorze village, known for its unique beehive-shaped bamboo houses and traditional weaving culture. Learn about local craftsmanship and daily life in this highland community. Continue through the scenic Konso Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for terraced agriculture and traditional stone-walled villages. Experience the unique cultural heritage and landscapes of southern Ethiopia as you drive toward Turmi. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at your lodge for dinner and overnight stay in the Omo Valley. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Konso (Cultural Village) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Omo Valley Cultural Tour
Visit Hamer and Karo tribal villages in the heart of the Omo Valley. Experience authentic cultural interactions with local communities and learn about their traditional way of life, customs, and social structures. Enjoy guided village visits with opportunities for photography of daily activities and unique cultural expressions. Depending on local conditions, you may also witness traditional ceremonies or market gatherings. The day offers a deep cultural immersion into one of Ethiopia’s most diverse and fascinating regions. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Return to Addis Ababa & Leisure
After breakfast, drive from Turmi to Jinka for your flight back to Addis Ababa (via domestic connection). Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy free time for shopping, visiting local cafés, or exploring the city at your own pace. This is a relaxed day to experience modern Addis Ababa before the end of your journey. In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner with traditional Ethiopian cuisine and music. Overnight stay at Hotel Lobelia. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Hotel Lobelia Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 16
Departure from Ethiopia
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel depending on your international flight schedule. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your 16-day Ethiopian adventure covering the Historic Route, Danakil Depression, and Omo Valley. Safe travels and farewell from Ethiopia. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: No major destination visited 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
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
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
Hidden Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
17 reviews
Hidden Ethiopia Tours is a locally owned Ethiopian tour operator offering authentic, customized travel experiences across Ethiopia. We specialize in cultural, historical, trekking, and nature tours, ensuring travelers discover the true hidden beauty of Ethiopia through professional and personalized service.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2017)
Member Of
ETOA & ETTA
Tour Types
Customizable private tours and fixed group tours
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5A great guide in Lalibela!
I visited Lalibela for two days and Ayaliwu, my guide, was arranged by my travel agent in Addis. He was a true expert on the history of this stunning site as well as its broader cultural context. Ayaliwu was able to provide detailed information about the history of the Rock-cut churches. He payed attention to the details and was very well-prepared. He was also very solicitous of my physical capabilities and always found solutions for me. My visit to the churches of Lalibela was unforgettable thanks to him! I definitely recommend Ayaliwu to anyone visiting Lalibela.
Stergios · Greece
Super knowledgeable and super funny!
I did a small private tour with Ayalew ! He is an experienced guide with a wealth of knowledge and an amazing sense of humour. He is fully accredited and I feel I walked away from my three days with him with a better understanding of the history and landscape of not just the churches, but also of Lalibela and Ethiopia . Despite the travel advisory, the town of Lalibela was very friendly and secure . There was a strong military presence in the town but very few tourists. Thanks hidden Ethiopia for such a lovely adventure !
June · Canada
Best Guide Possible in Lalibela
Our tour with Ayaliwu was arranged by our travel agent in Addis, and we could not have been better pleased. This guide was able to provide detailed information the history of the Rock-cut churches, the symbolic significance of architectural features, and also to field questions about unrelated matters, like the crops being grown. He was also very solicitous of our physical capabilities and always found places for us to sit. Ayaliwu ‘s English, too, is easily understood.
Mary · United States
local & porfesional
I took a half&half day Lalibela tour with airport pickup / dropoff, and everything went very smoothly. The service was professional from start to finish — communication was clear, timing was perfect, and everything was well organized. I also appreciated their agile problem-solving when small issues came. Ayalew handled everything quickly and efficiently. Overall, it was a great experience, and I can definitely recommend Ayalew to anyone visiting Lalibela.
Maja · Poland
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 accepts children of all ages. Children under 12 receive a discount and children under 7 are free.
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?
Hotel Lobelia - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast & Dinner Included. Meals: Breakfast & 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 Hidden 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.
Keep comparing
Similar Tours
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 7-Day
Safaris & Nature
5.0
7-Day Historic Route & Simien Mountains Adventure
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 7-Day · Hidden Ethiopia Tours
Duration7-Day
From$2,090 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$2,090 pp (USD)
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 12-Day
Culture & Heritage
5.0
12-Day Historic North Circuit Ancient Kingdoms
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 12-Day · Hidden Ethiopia Tours
Duration12-Day
From$4,620 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$4,620 pp (USD)
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 14-Day
Culture & Heritage
5.0
14-Day Historic Route & Omo Valley Cultural Discovery
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 14-Day · Hidden Ethiopia Tours
Duration14-Day
From$5,390 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$5,390 pp (USD)