Duration
9-Day
Accra, Ethiopia
9-Day Danakil Depression-Tigray Churches & Lalibela
Overview
Experience Ethiopia's most breathtaking wonders on this 9-day adventure. Explore Addis Ababa's cultural highlights, journey through the Danakil Depression's surreal landscapes, witness Erta Ale's lava lake, and discover the ancient rock-hewn churches of Tigray and Lalibela. Enjoy guided tours, scenic drives, local culture, and unforgettable natural beauty from start to finish.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Hamad Ela (Village), Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression), Mekele (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
5 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Capital Hotel & Spa - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
n/a* USD
$2,860 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
n/a* USD
$2,860 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
n/a* USD
$3,300 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
This tour is not available to solo travelers or groups larger than 25 people.
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 5 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
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 2
Hamad Ela (Village)
Day 3
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 4
Mekele (City)
Day 5
Hawzen (Town)
Day 6
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 7-8
Lalibela (Town)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 9)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
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.
Not for solo travelers
Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.
5
Minimum age of 5 years
The minimum age for this tour is 5 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Capital Hotel & Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2
Budget camping Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Planet Hotel
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Mado Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7-8
Hill Top Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
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
Addis Ababa City Tour
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, our staff welcomes you and arranges a smooth hotel transfer. After resting, begin a guided city tour featuring the National Museum, Ethnographic Museum, Menelik II Palace, Holy Trinity Cathedral, bustling Merkato, and Unity Park. Enjoy lunch and dinner at top restaurants before returning to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in the capital. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Capital Hotel & Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Fly to Semera & Enter the Danakil Depression
Fly from Addis to Semera and begin your overland journey into the dramatic Danakil Depression. Drive toward Afdera for lunch and a visit to its salt lake and Afar village. Continue toward Hamed Ela, passing smoky mountains and desert terrain. At camp, relax, enjoy a stunning sunset, swim in the floating salt lake, and savor a freshly prepared dinner. Sleep outdoors on traditional wooden beds under the desert sky. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hamad Ela (Village) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Dallol Sulfur Springs & Drive to Erta Ale
Start the day exploring Dallol’s multicolored sulfur springs, salt canyons, and hot brine pools at the lowest point in Africa. Observe local salt miners carving blocks in this surreal landscape. Return to camp for breakfast, then continue driving through volcanic plains toward the base of Erta Ale. Prepare for the evening trek and enjoy dinner before ascending to the crater to witness the world-famous lava lake. Overnight camping near the rim. 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 4
Erta Ale Sunrise, Drive to Mekele
Wake early to experience sunrise over Erta Ale’s northern pit crater, illuminating the lava formations in the caldera. Descend the volcano and begin the drive through the vast desert, passing Afar villages and rugged lava fields. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the way before continuing to Mekele, the capital of Tigray. Check in at your hotel, unwind, and enjoy dinner. Overnight in Mekele, preparing for the historic Tigray mountain region. 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 5
Mekele to Hawzen & Visit Abuna Yemata Guh
Depart Mekele in the morning and drive toward Hawzen, known for its dramatic rock formations and ancient cliff churches. After lunch, hike to the incredible Abune Yemata Guh, often called the “Church in the Sky.” Climb through narrow rock paths and sandstone cliffs to reach this 5th-century church with vibrant frescoes and breathtaking views. Descend safely, return to Hawzen for dinner, and overnight at your lodge. 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)
Day 6
Hawzen to Mekele & Flight to Addis Ababa
Enjoy breakfast in Hawzen before driving back to Mekele, passing through the scenic Gheralta Mountains. Depending on time, stop for short village visits or viewpoints. Arrive in Mekele for lunch, then transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening, optional spa visit, or cultural dinner. Overnight in Addis to prepare for your Lalibela journey. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Mado Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Fly from Addis to Lalibela & Afternoon Visit
Fly to Lalibela in the morning and transfer to your hotel, enjoying scenic mountain views along the way. After lunch, start exploring the first cluster of UNESCO rock-hewn churches, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, and Bete Meskel. Learn about their spiritual and historical significance from your expert guide. Enjoy dinner overlooking the Lalibela highlands and spend the night in this sacred mountain town. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Explore Lalibela and second group with st george
Continue your Lalibela exploration with the second group of rock-cut churches, including the iconic Bete Amanuel, Bete Abba Libanos, and the monolithic Bete Gabriel-Rufael. Afterward, visit the world-famous Bete Giyorgis, carved in the shape of a perfect cross. Explore local markets or enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony in the afternoon. Relax at your hotel in the evening with dinner and mountain views. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Flight Back to Addis Ababa & International Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Lalibela Airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy last-minute shopping, visit a handicraft center, or relax at a café. In the evening, experience a farewell cultural dinner with traditional music and dance. Finally, transfer to Bole International Airport for your international departure, marking the end of your unforgettable 9-day Ethiopian adventure. 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
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
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
On the Go Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
33 reviews
At On The Go Ethiopia Tours, we specialize in immersive Addis Ababa city tours and unforgettable multi-day adventures across Ethiopia’s stunning historical, cultural, and natural landscapes. Whether you have just a few hours or several days, our tours are led by experienced, licensed local guides passionate about sharing the rich heritage of Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2015)
Member Of
ETOA, ETGPA & ATOA
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Very friendly and kind
It was my first visit to Ethiopia. Very impressive to see around the historical area in Ethiopia. Additionally, a guide and a driver were friendly and I really enjoyed entire tour with them.
Masa · United States
Kena is great tour guide.
We enjoyed a wonderful tour of the National Museum, Entoto, and a walking tour of Mercato. We also enjoyed the palace of Menelik II, very peaceful, and we had a delicious lunch on the way back to town. We also went to Shiromeda market for the best Ethiopian fabrics. Kena explained a lot of the culture and history as well. Great day seeing the sights.
Jim Friedericks · United States
Friendly
Reta is a tour guide that is going to help you in everything you want. He has an spectacular spirit and is goimg to.help you with any concern you have about your trip.
Ignacio Bielma · Mexico
Amazing
Great experience going to Merkato with Kenaw. He is very responsible and knows area and local merchants so can give you great advice where and what to buy for local prices.
Mislav · Croatia
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 5 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?
Capital Hotel & Spa - 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 On the Go 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 On the Go Ethiopia Tours.
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