Duration
14-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
14-Day Northern Ethiopia Route & Danakil Expedition
Overview
Discover the rich cultural heritage and dramatic landscapes of Northern Ethiopia on this 14-day journey through ancient historical sites, UNESCO rock-hewn churches, the Simien Mountains, and the extraordinary Danakil Depression. Experience traditional Ethiopian culture, breathtaking scenery, active volcanoes, colorful salt flats, and authentic local encounters while traveling across Ethiopia's most iconic destinations.
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
12 years
Activities
game drives, nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Lunch & Dinner Included
Meals
Lunch & 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
$5,445 USD
$4,015 USD
Dec 1, 2026 - Apr 30, 2027
$5,445 USD
$4,015 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 12 years and older. Children under 15 receive a discount.
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
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 4
Gondar (City)
Day 5
Simien Mountains NP
Day 6
Gondar (City)
Day 7-8
Lalibela (Town)
Day 9-10
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 11
Mekele (City)
Day 12
Hawzen (Town)
Day 13
Axum (City)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 14)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget 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.
12
Minimum age of 12 years
The minimum age for this tour is 12 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives, nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Game drives: normal 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: boat, normal 4x4 vehicle, hiking/walking & 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
Jano Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Lunch & Dinner Included
Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2-3
Sky Resort
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Sora Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9-10
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Libanos Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Mekele (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14
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 & City Tour
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Later, begin exploring Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city with visits to the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Ethnological Museum, and the panoramic viewpoints of Entoto Hills. Learn about Ethiopia’s rich history, culture, and traditions while enjoying scenic city views. In the afternoon, experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and local cultural atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a cultural dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, music, and dance performances before returning to your hotel for overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Jano Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Lake Tana Boat Excursion & Bahir Dar
After breakfast, take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake and the source of the Blue Nile. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic boat excursion across the lake, visiting ancient island monasteries known for their unique religious art and historical manuscripts. Experience local fishing communities and observe traditional lake life. The afternoon is free for relaxation at your lakeside hotel or optional cultural exploration in Bahir Dar town. Overnight stay at your hotel or resort near Lake Tana. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Sky Resort Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Blue Nile Falls Excursion
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic excursion to the famous Blue Nile Falls, locally known as “Tis Issat” meaning “Water That Smokes.” Travel through beautiful countryside landscapes and small villages before reaching the viewpoint. Take a short guided walk to admire the powerful waterfall and capture stunning photography of one of Ethiopia’s most iconic natural attractions. Learn about the local environment and the importance of the Blue Nile River. In the afternoon, return to Bahir Dar with time to relax by the lake or explore the town at your own pace. Overnight stay at your hotel 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: Sky Resort Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Gondar Historical City Tour
After breakfast, depart for Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia, known as the “Camelot of Africa.” Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi Royal Enclosure, including the castles of Emperor Fasilides and his successors. Continue to the beautifully decorated Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its ceiling of angelic faces and rich religious paintings. Visit the Royal Bath complex, an important site for the Timket festival, and learn about the history of the Ethiopian empire. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure and overnight stay in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Simien Mountains National Park Trek
After breakfast in Gondar, drive towards Simien Mountains National Park, one of Africa’s most spectacular highland landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin trekking through dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and scenic viewpoints while observing endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons. Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, fresh high-altitude air, and excellent photography opportunities throughout the day. In the evening, arrive at your campsite and enjoy dinner under the stars surrounded by the Simien Mountains’ dramatic natural beauty. Overnight camping inside the park. 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 6
Simien Trekking & Return to Gondar
Wake up to sunrise views over the dramatic landscapes of Simien Mountains National Park and enjoy a morning trek through scenic trails and highland scenery. Continue exploring the park’s unique ecosystem, with opportunities to observe endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons and admire breathtaking mountain escarpments. After lunch, descend from the mountains and drive back to Gondar. Arrive in the afternoon with time to relax or explore the town at leisure before overnight stay at your hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
After a morning flight from Gondar to Lalibela, begin exploring one of the most sacred and remarkable pilgrimage sites in the world. Visit the first group of UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, and Bete Golgotha. Learn about their extraordinary underground construction, deep spiritual significance, and centuries-old history. In the afternoon, continue discovering more churches and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding highlands. Overnight stay in Lalibela at a traditional lodge. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Lalibela Cultural Experience & Village Visit
Continue exploring the spiritual and cultural treasures of Lalibela with a deeper visit to its remarkable rock-hewn churches, including Bete Giyorgis, Bete Gabriel-Rufael, and Bete Emanuel. Learn more about the religious traditions and daily life of local communities. In the afternoon, visit a nearby traditional village to experience authentic rural life, participate in a hands-on Ethiopian cooking class, and enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony with local families. This day offers a meaningful cultural immersion into the heritage and hospitality of Ethiopia. Overnight stay in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Flight to Semera & Danakil Expedition Start
After breakfast in Lalibela, take a morning flight via Addis Ababa to Semera, the gateway to the Danakil Depression. Upon arrival, meet your expedition crew and begin the journey into one of the most extreme and unique landscapes on Earth. Drive through the Afar region toward Erta Ale, witnessing volcanic landscapes, desert plains, and traditional Afar settlements along the way. In the evening, continue trekking to the Erta Ale volcano to observe the active lava lake, one of the world’s rare natural phenomena. Overnight camping near the volcano under the desert sky. 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 – Danakil Expedition
Wake up early in the Danakil Depression and begin the descent from Erta Ale Volcano after witnessing the sunrise over the active lava landscape. Continue your journey through one of the hottest and most geologically active regions on Earth, crossing vast lava fields and desert terrain. Drive toward the surreal landscapes of Dallol, known for its colorful sulfur formations, salt flats, and acidic geothermal pools. Explore this otherworldly environment and learn about traditional salt extraction and Afar desert life. Later continue toward Ahmedela, following ancient salt caravan routes. Overnight camping in the desert under the stars. 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 11
Danakil to Mekelle via Afdera Salt Lake
After breakfast in the Danakil Depression, begin your journey northward through one of the most extreme landscapes on Earth. Drive across vast desert plains, passing traditional Afar settlements and observing camel caravans transporting salt along ancient trade routes. Stop at Afdera Salt Lake, an important site for local salt extraction and geothermal activity. Continue the scenic drive toward Mekelle, passing volcanic landscapes and rugged terrain. Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy a relaxing evening in the city before overnight stay at your hotel. Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Libanos Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
After breakfast in Mekelle, set out for a full-day exploration of the extraordinary rock-hewn churches of the Tigray Region. Visit some of the most impressive cliffside churches, including Wukro Cherkos, Abuna Yemata Guh, and Maryam Korkor. These ancient sanctuaries are renowned for their dramatic mountain settings, well-preserved frescoes, and deep spiritual heritage. Enjoy scenic drives through rugged highland landscapes and short hikes to reach certain churches perched on cliffs. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for overnight stay in Mekelle or surrounding area. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Axum Ancient Kingdom & Flight to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, drive from Mekelle through the dramatic landscapes of the Tigray Region en route to Axum, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the heart of the ancient Axumite Kingdom. Upon arrival, explore key historical sites including the famous Axum Obelisks, Stelae Park, the archaeological ruins, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. In the afternoon, take a domestic flight from Axum to Addis Ababa. In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, music, and dance before overnight stay in Addis Ababa. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Departure from Addis Ababa
After breakfast in Addis Ababa, enjoy some free time depending on your international flight schedule. You may relax at the hotel or do last-minute souvenir shopping in the city. Later, you will be transferred to Bole International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through northern Ethiopia, including historic sites, cultural experiences, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the unique Danakil Depression expedition. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) 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)
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
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
Zagol Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
23 reviews
Zagol Ethiopia Tours is aLocally owned and operated, Zagol Ethiopia Tours specializes in providing once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences around Ethiopia. From cultural trips of historic ancient monuments to stunning nature expeditions and tribal safaris within the Omo Valley, we provide personalized, professional, and genuine tours. With expert local guides and extensive knowledge of Ethiopia's heritage, Zagol Ethiopia Tours provides secure, enriching, and memorable experiences for all travelers
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2013)
Member Of
ETOA & ETGPA
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
5.0/5Our tour operator organized everything perfectly and was so friendly.
We were paired with two guides, Melaku and "Geech". Both of whom were amazing. Very friendly and knowledgeable about the areas we visited and the local flora and fauna. "Geech" is the best driver in the business and Melaku took us to his childhood home to have a coffee ceremony with his mom and his sister. Unforgettable additions to the trip. If Ethiopia is not on your list it should be. Timket is absolutely a must. But there is too much to see in one trip. Will definitely be going back for the Omo Valley.
Cory · United States
Weekend trip to Lalibela.
An amazing spiritual journey deep in the heart of Ethiopia. Lalibela was an absolute amazing trip so rich with culture and history thanks to our fabulous tour guide Muluye. He gave us a lot of intriguing information and he knew all the best spots for pictures. He also invited us to his humble home for a coffee cermony. Ansolutely amazing weekend trip and a must visit in Ethiopia
Hala Khaled · United Arab Emirates
Wonderful visit to Lalibela
Omg it was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life . Lalibela was an amazing spiritual trip. Our tour guide Muluye was absolutely fantastic. He gave us the best information and tour ever . Highly recommend it . The coffee ceremony was also wonderful
Lama Khaled · United Arab Emirates
[email protected]
The accommodation, the food, the sites visited in Lalibela, all ok The guide very frindly and hepful
Jose · Brazil
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 who are 12 years and older. Children under 15 receive a discount.
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?
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Lunch & Dinner Included. Meals: Lunch & 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 Zagol 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.
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