Duration
12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Discover the cultural and natural wonders of Ethiopia on this unforgettable tour. You'll begin in Gondar, exploring its historic castles and vibrant festivals. You'll trek through the Simien Mountains, hiking to breathtaking waterfalls and marveling at Lalibela's extraordinary rock-hewn churches. You'll experience the landscapes of the Danakil Depression, with its salt flats and active volcanoes. You'll conclude your journey in the Omo Valley, visiting indigenous tribes and enjoying the views.
Plan snapshot
Duration
12-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP, Lalibela (Town)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Activities
game drives & boat trip
Accommodation
Goha Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals 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 and won't 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.
This tour is suitable for children of all ages.
Day 1
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Mid-range hotel in Semera (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Budget hotel in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
(No accommodation)
All Meals Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
After breakfast, you'll fly to Gondar, the former Royal Capital of Ethiopia, founded in 1636 by Emperor Fasilidas. Upon arrival, you'll visit the Royal Enclosure, including Fasilidas’ Castle, and the beautifully decorated Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famed for its ceiling of painted angels. You'll spend the day exploring Gondar’s rich history and local culture. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
You'll depart from Gondar and drive to Sankaber Camp (3,250m) in Simien Mountains National Park. You'll stop at the Debark park office for registration and to meet your trekking team. You'll enjoy a 3–4 hour trek along the escarpment, soaking in dramatic views and spotting wildlife like gelada baboons during a game drive. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
You'll hike to the breathtaking Jinbar Waterfall, which plunges 500 meters into the gorge below. The trail provides sweeping views and opportunities to spot endemic flora and fauna. After enjoying a packed lunch near the falls, you'll meet your vehicle for the drive back to Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
You'll fly to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual epicenter. Spend the day exploring the remarkable rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll visit all eleven medieval churches, including the iconic St. George’s Church, carved in a cross shape into solid volcanic rock. You'll wander through interconnected tunnels and passageways, uncovering centuries of religious history. Your overnight stay will be in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
You'll depart Lalibela for a scenic full-day drive to Semera, crossing vast highland plateaus, winding roads, and traditional villages. You'll take in Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes and rural life along the route, arriving in Semera by evening to rest before your Danakil adventure. Overnight stay: Semera. Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
You'll start your Danakil Depression adventure by driving to Ragad (Asebo) to observe traditional salt mining. You'll witness Afar workers cutting salt blocks and loading them onto camel caravans. You'll continue to Dallol, one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth, to see colorful volcanic formations, sulphur springs, and Lake Assal. In the afternoon, you'll drive to Hamed Ela. Overnight stay: Hamed Ela. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
You'll depart for Erta Ale, one of the world’s few permanent lava lakes. The route to Dodom camp at the volcano’s base is rough and remote, crossing solidified lava fields and desert terrain. In the evening, you will begin your trek to the summit of Erta Ale, where you'll observe the glowing lava crater and sleep near the rim under the stars. Overnight stay: Camping. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Before sunrise, you'll take in the dramatic views of the Erta Ale crater, including the main pit and southern collapse structures. After descending to Dodom, you'll drive back toward Semera, stopping en route to visit Lake Giulietti (Lake Afrera) if conditions permit. You'll observe salt flats and Afar salt production. You'll arrive in Semera and take an evening flight or drive back to Addis Ababa. Overnight stay: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Upon arriving in Arba Minch, you will embark on a scenic drive to the enchanting Dorze village, perched high in the Gughe Mountains. Here, you will experience the rich traditions of the Dorze people, known for their unique weaving and distinctive beehive-shaped houses. You'll enjoy an immersive cultural experience as you interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. You'll relax and unwind in the evening, preparing for the adventures that lie ahead. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
After a hearty breakfast, you'll enjoy a picturesque boat trip on Lake Chamo, where you’ll have the chance to witness the famous crocodile market. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos lounging in the water and various bird species soaring overhead. Later, you'll visit the UNESCO-listed Konso village, renowned for its impressive terracing and rich coffee culture. Afterward, you'll journey to the Bana village, home to semi-nomadic pastoralists known for their striking clay-capped hairstyles. Finally, you'll proceed to Turmi, the vibrant area of the Hamer tribes, where you’ll immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
After breakfast, you'll set off for an excursion to Omorate, where you will visit the Dassanech people, often referred to as the "people of the Delta," who inhabit the northern shore of Lake Turkana. You'll engage with the community, learning about their unique lifestyle and traditions. After your visit, you'll return to Turmi for a delightful lunch before driving to Jinka. In Jinka, you'll experience the vibrant culture of the Ari people, the largest group in the Lower Omo Valley. The women here are known for wearing skirts made from the Enset plant and are skilled in pottery, showcasing their artistic talents. Budget hotel located in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
You'll take an exciting excursion to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi village, renowned for its unique cultural practices, including the stretching of lower lips and ear lobes among women. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about their fascinating customs and artistry. After enjoying a delicious lunch back in Jinka, you'll board a flight to Addis Ababa. In the capital, savor a folkloric dinner featuring a variety of national dishes, vibrant ethnic dances, and a traditional coffee ceremony. This enriching experience will culminate in your. All meals 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)
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Sleeping bag
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 Simien Tour is one of the premier tour companies in Ethiopia, founded by a dynamic team of young and energetic tourism professionals. Led by Sahlie Beza, a seasoned tour guide with years of experience, our company is dedicated to providing exceptional travel experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)
Tour Types
Luxury tours that, when possible, use accommodations owned and operated by them
Destinations
Djibouti, Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Sensational. Breathtaking views. The staff is one of the highlights of the tour.
Raphael · Brazil
Fantastic day with an absolutely knowledgeable guide - Gondar is full of magic!
Janoa · Hungary
We just completed a 12 day Ultimative Ethiopian Wildlife Adventure with Discover Simien Tour and it was truly unforgettable from start to finish. From the very first day, our guide Sahile impressed us with his broad and deep knowledge, calm professionalism and genuine passion for Ethiopia. He made everything feel safe, easygoing, and yet so enriching – whether explaining the geology of the Simien mountains, pointing out gelada monkeys, or helping us understand local customs. Our driver Daniel, was equally fantastic; punctual, skilled, and navigating challenging terrain with ease, which even made long drives feel part of the adventure. The scenery across the trip was breath taking, whereas Simien mountains was the absolute highlight with its dramatic cliffs and astonishing flora and fauna. We stayed in a mix of comfortable lodges and hotels and the logistics were handled smoothly; transport, park fees, food and guides – everything as promised. Culturally, we visited traditional communities, explored the spiritual side of Ethiopian heritage, and felt welcomed everywhere. Sahile skilfully bridged us into these moments, making them feel authentic. In short; 5 stars for the excellent guides, the authentic cultural immersion, the stunning landscapes and the very professional and warm service. We felt like we did not just visited Ethiopia but also experienced it.
Daniela and Sina · Switzerland
I don’t even know where to start… Our 3-day trip to the Danakil Depression with Discover Simien Mountains was an absolutely unforgettable experience – not only because of the surreal landscapes but also thanks to the incredible people we got to meet and travel with. We chose a private tour, and during our journey, we were joined by Bahran (guide), Addis (driver), and Habtu (cook) – each of them was such a kind, warm, and genuine person. If you’re planning a trip to Danakil or any other part of Ethiopia with Discover Simien Mountains, I truly recommend asking for Addis – he’s an amazing person and an excellent driver. Our guide (Bahran) explained everything clearly and with great passion. We learned so much about Dallol, the salt lakes, and the volcanoes. The food was another highlight! Habtu somehow managed to cook fresh, tasty meals right in the middle of the desert. We always had enough water and soft drinks, and even got to enjoy some Ethiopian beer or wine while watching the sunset on the salt lake an unforgettable experience. We also really appreciated the small but thoughtful details, like the portable shower provided during the tour – in such hot conditions, it was a true blessing! What made this trip even more special was the planning: while most operators follow a similar route, the Discover Simien Mountains team made sure we could arrive early to the main sights and enjoy them in peace before other groups arrived. That sense of privacy and exclusivity was priceless. We cannot recommend Discover Simien Mountains highly enough – if you’re planning a trip to Danakil or any other region in Ethiopia, this is the team you want to travel with. We felt safe, well taken care of, and genuinely welcomed throughout the journey. We left with the most beautiful memories the kind that stay with you long after the trip ends. It’s hard to put it all into words… you simply have to experience it yourself!
Monika · Poland
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 accepts children of all ages. Children under 2 are free.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Goha Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Gondar (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 Discover Simien Tour, 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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