Duration
11-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
11-Day Northern Ethiopia Churches, Mountains & Volcanoes
Overview
Experience the essence of Northern Ethiopia through sacred rock churches, breathtaking mountain scenery, and one of the world's most extreme volcanic regions. From Lalibela and Axum to the Simien Mountains and Erta Ale, this tour offers a powerful mix of culture, nature, and adventure.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lalibela (Town), 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
walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Hill Top Lodge Lalibela - Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
Meals
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
$3,300 USD
$2,860 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 1-2
Lalibela (Town)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4-5
Simien Mountains NP
Day 6
Axum (City)
Day 7
Hawzen (Town)
Day 8-10
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 11)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget 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.
18
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Getting around: 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 1-2
Hill Top Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Gondar Hills Resort
Mid-range resort 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
Ras Dejen Hotel Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Brana Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8-9
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
End of tour
(No accommodation)
All Meals 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
Flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela & Rock-Hewn Churches Tour
Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and receive a warm welcome before connecting to your domestic flight to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual heart. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy time to relax after the journey. Lalibela sits high in the mountains and offers a calm, sacred atmosphere that sets the tone for the days ahead. In the afternoon, begin exploring the first group of Lalibela’s world-famous rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved entirely from solid volcanic rock in the 12th century. Visit Bete Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic church in the world, along with Bete Mariam, Bete Meskel, and Bete Denagel. These active places of worship offer a powerful introduction to Ethiopia’s living religious traditions and ancient history. Accommodation: Hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Lalibela Full-Day Rock-Hewn Churches & Cultural Exploration
After breakfast, continue your in-depth exploration of Lalibela with visits to the second group of rock-hewn churches, an extraordinary network of sanctuaries linked by tunnels, trenches, and symbolic pathways representing ancient Jerusalem. Highlights include Bete Gabriel-Rufael with its fortress-like design, Bete Abba Libanos uniquely carved and partially detached from the rock, the architecturally refined Bete Amanuel, and Bete Mercurios, known for its historic religious significance. In the afternoon, walk to the iconic Bete Giyorgis (St. George’s Church), the most famous church in Lalibela, carved in the shape of a perfect cross and set apart from the others. Conclude the day with an optional cultural walk through the village, offering insight into daily life and local traditions before returning to your hotel. Accommodation: Hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Hill Top Lodge Lalibela Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Flight from Lalibela to Gondar & Imperial City Tour
After breakfast, transfer to Lalibela airport for your morning flight to Gondar, once the imperial capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, begin a guided city tour of Gondar, often referred to as the “Camelot of Africa,” a city renowned for its royal history and well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit the UNESCO-listed Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), home to impressive stone castles built by Ethiopian emperors in the 17th century. Continue to Fasilides’ Bath, famously used during the colorful Timket (Epiphany) celebrations, and conclude at Debre Berhan Selassie Church, admired for its remarkable ceiling of painted angel faces. An optional evening visit to a cultural music house is available for those interested. Accommodation: Hotel in Gondar. Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Gondar Hills Resort Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Gondar to Simien Mountains with Scenic Trek at Sankaber
After breakfast, depart Gondar and drive north to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Here, park formalities are completed and you meet the local scout and trekking team. Continue by vehicle to the park viewpoint, where dramatic escarpments and sweeping highland views introduce you to one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain landscapes. Begin a scenic trek around the Sankaber area, walking along the edge of deep valleys and rugged cliffs. The route offers excellent chances to observe large troops of endemic Gelada monkeys, soaring birds of prey, and unique highland flora. The afternoon walk is unhurried and designed to help you acclimatize while enjoying the raw beauty of the Simien Mountains. Accommodation: Camping at Sankaber (Simien Mountains National Park). Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Trekking in Simien Mountains from Sankaber to Jinbar Waterfall and Chenek
After an early breakfast, continue your trek in the Simien Mountains toward the spectacular Jinbar Waterfall, where water plunges dramatically into a deep canyon. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and the unique highland scenery. This is also an excellent opportunity to spot endemic wildlife, including Gelada monkeys and the rare Walia ibex. After the trek, drive to Chenek, one of the highest accessible points in the park. Take short hikes around 3,900 meters or drive to viewpoints at 4,200 meters for breathtaking vistas. In the afternoon, return to Debark by vehicle and relax after a day filled with adventure and nature. Accommodation: Hotel in Debark. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Ras Dejen Hotel Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Debark to Axum with Scenic Drive Across the Simien Mountains and Axum Sightseeing
After breakfast, enjoy one of northern Ethiopia’s most scenic drives as you travel from Debark to Axum, crossing the lowland areas of the Simien Mountains. Along the way, marvel at towering peaks, deep valleys, rural villages, and changing ecosystems, experiencing the dramatic landscapes that make this region so unique. Arrive in Axum in the afternoon and begin your sightseeing tour of this ancient city. Visit the Axum Stelae Park to see the giant granite obelisks of the Axumite civilization, explore the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace, and visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Accommodation: Hotel in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Brana Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Axum to Hawzen with Tigray Rock-Hewn Churches Exploration
After breakfast, continue your exploration of Axum if needed, then drive to the Hawzen and Geralta region, famous for its spectacular rock-hewn churches perched atop sandstone cliffs. This area combines history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, offering a unique glimpse into Ethiopia’s Christian heritage. The highlight of the day is visiting Abune Yemata Guh Church, accessed by a short but adventurous climb. Here, you can admire incredible ancient wall paintings dating back over 1,000 years while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, relax and unwind in Hawzen. Accommodation: Vision Hotel, Hawzen. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Hawzen to Danakil Depression with Mekele Stop and Lake Asale Sunset
After breakfast, drive for about two hours to Mekele, where you can stop for tea, coffee, and any additional supplies for the journey ahead. From Mekele, continue by 4x4 vehicles toward the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth, traveling through Berhale to reach Hamed Ela. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Lake Asale salt flats, where the Afar people continue traditional salt harvesting. Enjoy the magical reflections of the sunset over the vast salt plains, accompanied by Ethiopian wine, before settling in for an unforgettable night camping under the stars at Hamed Ela. Accommodation: Camping at Hamed Ela. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Dallol and Erta Ale Volcano Adventure
Wake up early to witness the sunrise over Lake Asale, followed by breakfast in the desert. Continue your journey to Dallol, one of the most colorful and otherworldly landscapes on Earth. Explore its surreal terrain, including vibrant sulfur springs, acidic pools in yellow, green, and orange hues, salt formations, and bubbling gas vents, capturing the true extremity of the Danakil Depression. In the afternoon, drive toward Erta Ale Volcano and trek to the crater rim to witness the rare permanent lava lake, an unforgettable natural spectacle. Spend the night camping near the volcano, surrounded by the raw power and dramatic landscapes of this extraordinary region. Accommodation: Camping at Erta Ale. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Erta Ale to Semera or Mekele with Flight to Addis Ababa
Start the day with an optional early morning visit to Erta Ale’s crater to see the glowing lava at sunrise. After breakfast, drive through the striking landscapes of the Danakil Depression via Lake Afdera, with a chance to swim in the salty lake and enjoy the unique desert scenery. Continue by road to Semera or Mekele to catch your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax after an intense journey through Ethiopia’s most extreme and unforgettable landscapes. Accommodation: Hotel in Addis Ababa. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Full-Day Addis Ababa City Tour and Farewell Dinner
Spend your final day exploring Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, Addis Ababa. Begin with a visit to the National Museum to see Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old fossil that offers a glimpse into the origins of humankind. Continue to Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, and Unity Park, a modern heritage and palace complex. Take time to shop for souvenirs and sample Ethiopia’s famous coffee along the way. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with live music and cultural dances, celebrating the end of an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s history, culture, mountains, and volcanic landscapes. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
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
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
Ethio Wildlife Tours
5.0 operator rating
7 reviews
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
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5The nicest tour experience
I 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
Organized and personalized
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
Our guide was fantastic — super knowledgeable, easygoing, and clearly respected by the communities.
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
Organized and responsive
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
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?
Hill Top Lodge Lalibela - Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals 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 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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