Duration
21-Day
Chebera-Churchura National Park, Ethiopia
Experience Ethiopia's ultimate adventure, combining wildlife, landscapes, and heritage. You'll spot rare species like the Ethiopian wolf, Gelada baboon, and Walia ibex across national parks and highlands. You'll explore Rift Valley lakes, the fiery Danakil Depression, and trek the Simien Mountains. Discover timeless wonders from Lalibela's Rock-Hewn Churches to Gondar's castles and Lake Tana's monasteries. A perfect blend of safaris, trekking, and culture.
Plan snapshot
Duration
21-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Chebera-Churchura NP, Arba Minch (City), Lake Chamo
Country & park
Ethiopia / Chebera-Churchura National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
walking safaris (with an armed guide), nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Breakfast & Lunch Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will 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
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2-3
Inside Chebera-Churchura NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-5
Mid-range resort in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Inside Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Mid-range resort at Lake Langano – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
Mid-range lodge just outside Awash NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Mid-range hotel in Semera (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 15
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16-18
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 19
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 20
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 21
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Lunch Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Your journey begins as you arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After a short rest, enjoy a guided introduction to Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city. You'll visit the National Museum, home to the famous 3.2-million-year-old fossil “Lucy,” along with other remarkable archaeological and artistic treasures. You'll drive up to Mount Entoto for breathtaking views of the city and a refreshing walk through the ancient eucalyptus forest, rich in birdlife and history. You'll stroll through the bustling Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market (time permitting), to experience the colorful daily life of Addis Ababa. In the evening, you'll relax at your hotel and prepare for the adventure ahead. Overnight stay: Hotel in Addis Ababa. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
After breakfast, you'll take a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Jimma. On arrival, you'll continue by road (about 100 km, partly unpaved) to reach Chebera Churchura National Park, one of Ethiopia’s hidden gems. Depending on your arrival time, you'll enjoy an introductory walk inside the park. This lush forested area is home to elephants, buffalo, hippos, warthogs, and diverse birdlife. Your first wildlife encounters here set the tone for the days ahead. Overnight stay: Camping inside Chebera Churchura National Park. Inside Chebera-Churchura NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
You'll spend a full day exploring the rich ecosystems of Chebera Churchura National Park. You'll begin the morning with a game drive or guided walk, spotting elephants, buffalo, hippos, warthogs, and a wide variety of forest birds. After a mid-day break, you'll continue wildlife observation in the afternoon, exploring the park’s rivers, wetlands, and dense forests. Capture photographs of the lush landscapes and rare species, and enjoy the tranquil sounds of Ethiopia’s wilderness. Overnight stay: Camping inside Chebera Churchura National Park. Inside Chebera-Churchura NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
You'll begin the day with an early morning wildlife walk in Chebera Churchura National Park to enjoy the peaceful forest and observe any animals active at dawn. Afterward, you'll set out on a scenic drive to Arbaminch, the gateway to Nech Sar National Park (approximately 220 km). Along the way, you'll admire the Rift Valley landscapes, passing rolling hills, farmland, and small villages. Upon arrival in Arbaminch, you'll check into your hotel and relax, preparing for the next day’s explorations. Overnight stay: Hotel in Arbaminch. Mid-range resort located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
You'll begin your day with a morning boat trip on Lake Chamo, where you can see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of water birds in their natural habitat. You'll enjoy the serene lake scenery as you glide across the water. In the afternoon, you'll take a walk through the Forty Springs forest, home to bushbuck, baboons, vervet, and colobus monkeys. For those interested, there is an optional visit to the Crocodile Ranch for close-up wildlife observation. You'll return to your hotel in Arbaminch for a relaxing evening. Overnight: Hotel in Arbaminch. Mid-range resort located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
After breakfast, you'll drive north through the Rift Valley toward Hawassa, enjoying the region’s stunning landscapes along the way. You'll stop at Dorze Village to observe traditional weaving techniques and local craftsmanship. You'll continue to Hawassa, where you can take a leisurely lakeside stroll along the shores of Lake Hawassa. Optional activities include a boat trip to spot hippos and aquatic birds in their natural environment, providing a peaceful and immersive wildlife experience. Overnight stay: Hotel in Hawassa. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
After breakfast, you'll enjoy a scenic 4-hour drive from Hawassa to Bale Mountains National Park, passing through rolling highlands and picturesque villages. Upon arrival in Dinsho, the heart of the park, spend the afternoon on wildlife spotting walks across the grasslands. Look for mountain nyala, warthogs, and Menelik’s bushbuck while taking in the breathtaking highland scenery. The fresh mountain air and dramatic landscapes set the stage for the park’s more challenging adventures ahead. Overnight stay: Camping at Dinsho. Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
You'll spend a full day exploring the diverse landscapes of Bale Mountains National Park. You'll begin at the Sanetti Plateau, where you may spot the rare Ethiopian wolf and the unique giant mole rat among the high-altitude grasslands. In the afternoon, you'll explore the Harenna Forest, a lush evergreen forest filled with endemic birds, colobus monkeys, and scenic waterfalls. You'll enjoy guided walks along forest trails, capturing photographs of both wildlife and the dramatic mountain scenery. Overnight stay: Camping in Bale Mountains National Park. Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
You'll start the morning with a final activity in Bale Mountains, enjoying a short wildlife walk or photography session. Afterwards, drive toward Lake Langano, passing through the scenic Ethiopian highlands. En route, you'll explore Abijatta-Shalla National Park, known for its flamingos, ostriches, and gazelles. You'll take in the park’s dramatic landscapes and abundant birdlife before arriving at Lake Langano, where you can relax at your resort and enjoy the lakeside views. Overnight stay: Resort at Lake Langano. Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
After breakfast, you'll drive approximately 5 hours from Lake Langano to Awash National Park, crossing diverse landscapes from the Rift Valley highlands to arid savannah. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a game drive to spot beisa oryx, greater kudu, Soemmerring’s gazelle, baboons, and a rich variety of bird species. Don’t miss the Awash River Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by dramatic cliffs and abundant wildlife. Overnight stay: Lodge in or near Awash National Park. Mid-range lodge located just outside Awash NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
You'll start the day with an early morning safari in Ali Dege Reserve, home to gazelles, oryx, jackals, caracals, and, occasionally, rare zebra sightings. You will enjoy the striking desert landscapes while observing wildlife in its natural habitat. After the safari, you'll continue the drive to Semera, passing through the unique landscapes of Ethiopia’s northeastern lowlands. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and relax for the evening. Overnight stay: Hotel in Semera. Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
After breakfast, you'll drive from Semera into the otherworldly landscapes of the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most unique regions on Earth. You'll explore the salt flats, colorful sulfur springs, and vast desert scenery, witnessing the striking geological formations and surreal landscapes that make this region extraordinary. Take time to photograph the vibrant colors and unusual terrain. Overnight stay: Camping in Hamed Ela. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
Today, you'll drive and hike from Hamed Ela to the Erta Ale volcano, one of the few continuously active lava lakes in the world. You'll witness the mesmerizing glow of molten lava at the crater rim and experience the raw power of this volcanic landscape. The hike provides dramatic views of the surrounding desert and salt plains, making it an unforgettable adventure. Overnight stay: Camping under the stars at Erta Ale. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
After an early breakfast and farewell to the Erta Ale volcano, you'll drive back to Semera. From Semera, take a domestic flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in the capital, we'll transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time to rest or explore nearby attractions at leisure. This marks the conclusion of your extraordinary desert adventure, preparing you for the next phase of your journey through Ethiopia. Overnight stay: Hotel in Addis Ababa. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 15
After breakfast, you'll take a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, the gateway to Ethiopia’s stunning northern landscapes. You'll enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tana, visiting its historic island monasteries and admiring the ancient frescoes and serene surroundings. You'll continue to the Blue Nile Falls, a spectacular cascade known locally as “Tis Issat” or “The Smoking Water,” and enjoy the surrounding lush scenery. You'll observe a variety of bird species along the lake and river, adding to the wildlife highlights of your journey. Overnight stay: Hotel in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 16
After breakfast, you'll drive from Bahir Dar to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Upon entering the park, you'll begin a short trek of approximately 3 hours to Sankaber Camp (3,250 m). Along the way, you'll observe Gelada baboons, klipspringers, and raptors, while taking in the dramatic highland scenery. The trail offers stunning views of deep valleys, jagged cliffs, and unique rock formations. Overnight stay: Camping at Sankaber. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 17
Today, you'll enjoy a full day of trekking in Simien Mountains National Park. You'll hike for approximately 5–6 hours, passing scenic viewpoints and Jinbar Waterfall. Along the way, you'll observe large Gelada baboon groups, ibex, and endemic birds, while immersing yourself in the park’s dramatic landscapes. The trail winds through highland meadows, rocky cliffs, and deep valleys, offering incredible photographic opportunities. You'll reach Gich Camp in the late afternoon and relax amid the highland scenery. Overnight stay: Camping at Gich Camp. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 18
You will continue your trek through the breathtaking Simien Mountains, moving from Gich Camp to Chenek Camp (3,620 m). You'll hike via scenic viewpoints such as Imet Gogo and Enatye, with opportunities to spot Walia ibex, lammergeiers, and Gelada baboons. The route showcases dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and panoramic highland vistas, making it one of Ethiopia’s most memorable trekking experiences. Overnight stay: Camping at Chenek Camp. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 19
After breakfast, you'll begin the morning trek toward Mount Bwahit, enjoying the final vistas of the Simien Mountains. Later, you'll drive to Gondar, a historic city known for its royal architecture. Spend the afternoon on a city tour, visiting the Royal Castles of Fasilides and Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its beautifully preserved ceiling murals. Overnight stay: Hotel in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 20
After breakfast, you'll take a morning flight from Gondar to Lalibela, home to Ethiopia’s world-renowned Rock-Hewn Churches. You'll spend the day exploring the first cluster of churches, marveling at the incredible rock-cut architecture and centuries-old religious carvings. You'll learn about their historical and spiritual significance while wandering through Lalibela’s unique stone labyrinths. Overnight stay: Hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 21
You'll begin the day with a visit to the second cluster of Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn Churches, exploring more of these architectural masterpieces and capturing final photographs of this UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, you'll take a flight back to Addis Ababa. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the capital before being transferred to Bole International Airport for your international departure, concluding your unforgettable 21-day Ethiopia adventure. End of tour. Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not 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)
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
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
Offered by
Discover Ethiopia's wonders with us! Ethio Wildlife Tours: is a private Tour & Travel company, Established in Ethiopia,we offer unforgettable wildlife,cultural & historical tours. Our experienced teams specializes in creating unique experiences,showcasing the breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of Ethiopia.We are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism,ensuring minimal impact on the environment and local communities. Let us show you the true essence of Ethiopia 🇪🇹
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5I don’t usually like booking tours because of many bad experiences, however, at the time Ethiopia demanded it. I was so lucky to find Melashu’s company. It’s the most transparent, respectful, informative and well managed tour. I did the northern Ethiopian route (volcano, Danakil depression etc) and they managed to make me feel comfortable in a difficult weather environment and very safe in an area of conflict. It’s incredible to have such yummy food in the middle of nowhere! Thank you,
Yirka · Sweden
Great tour through an amazing landscape. Tour was perfectly organized, no complaints. Somewhere my shoes got lost but when I came back in Addes they were waiting for me in the hotel. Their service goes beyond. Thanks for that
Martijn · Netherlands
Just got back from a 4-day tour with Ethio Wildlife and it honestly blew me away. We visited several different tribes in Omo valley and each day was completely unique and eye-opening. The whole trip felt very genuine and respectful, not staged or touristy at all. Accommodations were simple but clean and comfortable, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. If you’re looking for something meaningful and way off the beaten path, I’d 100% recommend this experience. I came back with a full heart and a totally new perspective.
Elena Neal · United Kingdom
I contacted several tour operators in May 2025 hoping to join a group tour of the Simien mountains but since it is a slow tourist season there were none available. Ethio Wildlife were able to organize a private tour for me at a reasonable cost. They handled everything. The guide/driver/chef/scout were incredibly nice people and it was a pleasure to spend 3 days with them in the park. The guide in particular was very knowledgeable and accommodating.
Nick · United States
Practical answers
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.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury 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 Ethio Wildlife 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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