Duration
12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
12-Day Historic Routes of Northern Ethiopia
Overview
Journey through Ethiopia's legendary north on this 12-day adventure, tracing empires, faith, and culture. Explore Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, Axum's ancient stelae, Gondar's castles, and Lake Tana's island monasteries. Witness the Blue Nile Falls, trek in the Simien Mountains, and visit Yeha, Ethiopia's oldest temple. With expert guides, rich traditions, and dramatic landscapes, this tour is perfect for history lovers and culture seekers alike.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City) (Day 10-12)
Via Axum (City), Lalibela (Town), Gondar (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Mid-range shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
17 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Bonanza Addis Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; Meals at Own Expense
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
n/a* USD
$3,542 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
n/a* USD
$3,542 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
This tour is not available to single travelers.
This group tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
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 17 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 2-3
Axum (City)
Day 4-5
Lalibela (Town)
Day 6
Gondar (City)
Day 7
Lake Tana
Day 8-9
Simien Mountains NP
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 10-12)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and resorts.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 15 people per vehicle.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Cannot be customized
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Not for single travelers
Single travelers cannot join this group tour and it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
17
Minimum age of 17 years
The minimum age for this tour is 17 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: minivan, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Book your own international flights when using this operator
A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Bonanza Addis Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-3
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4-5
Maribela Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Gondar Hills Resort
Mid-range resort in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8-9
Simien Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10-11
Bonanza Addis Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Meals at Own Expense
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa
Arrive at Bole International Airport and meet your guide for transfer to your hotel. After rest, take a guided city exploration: visit the National Museum to see “Lucy” and other ancient hominid fossils, the Ethnographic Museum with its cultural treasures, and St. George Cathedral, symbol of Ethiopia’s Orthodox faith. Finish at Entoto Hills for sweeping views over the city and insight into the capital’s origins. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Bonanza Addis Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Yeha & Axum
Fly north to Axum, heart of the ancient Aksumite Empire. En route, stop at Yeha, Ethiopia’s oldest standing monument (8th century BC), where massive stone blocks form the ruins of a pre-Christian temple. On arrival in Axum, explore the legendary Stelae Park with its towering granite obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s ruined palace, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Axum & Surroundings
Continue your exploration of Axum, once one of the great civilizations of the ancient world. Visit King Ezana’s stone inscription, written in Sabaean, Ge’ez, and Greek, and royal tombs that showcase Aksumite engineering. The archaeological museum displays centuries of artifacts. In the afternoon, enjoy an optional trip to Mai Shum, a sacred bathing reservoir, or explore nearby villages for cultural encounters with Tigrayan traditions. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Fly to Lalibela; Rock-Hewn
Morning flight to Lalibela, the “New Jerusalem.” After lunch, begin exploring the northern cluster of 12th–13th century rock-hewn churches carved directly into the volcanic tuff. Highlights include the vast Bet Medhane Alem, the atmospheric Bet Maryam, and the iconic, cross-shaped Bet Giyorgis, Ethiopia’s most photographed church. Experience sunset views over the rugged highlands. Overnight in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Maribela Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Lalibela Full Day
Spend a full day delving into Lalibela’s second cluster of rock-hewn churches, linked by underground tunnels and passageways. Discover Bet Gabriel-Rufael, Bet Amanuel, and Bet Abba Libanos. Optional excursions include a mule trek to the hilltop Asheton Maryam Church or a drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a stunning cave church predating Lalibela. Gain insight into the living traditions of Ethiopian Christianity. Overnight in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Maribela Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Lalibela – Gondar
Fly (or drive if preferred) to Gondar, the “Camelot of Africa.” In the afternoon, visit Fasil Ghebbi, the Royal Enclosure, where 17th-century castles reveal Gondar’s imperial grandeur. Continue to Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its painted ceiling of winged angels. This masterpiece of Ethiopian religious art is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the country. Overnight in Gondar. Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Gondar Hills Resort Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Gondar & Lake Tana
Travel to Bahir Dar, gateway to Lake Tana. Enjoy a boat trip across the lake, the source of the Blue Nile, to visit ancient island monasteries such as Ura Kidane Mehret, decorated with vibrant frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Monks share stories of faith and heritage. Learn how Lake Tana has been a spiritual center for centuries. Overnight at a lakeside lodge in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lake Tana Stay: Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Blue Nile Falls To Simien Mountains
In the morning, walk to the Blue Nile Falls, known locally as “Tis Issat” or “the smoking water.” During the rainy season, the thundering cascade is spectacular. In the afternoon, drive north toward the Simien Mountains, ascending into a landscape of high plateaus and deep valleys. Overnight in a lodge or eco-camp near the park’s edge. Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Simien Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Simien Mountains National Park
Spend the day exploring the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Light to moderate hiking takes you through dramatic escarpments and Afro-alpine meadows. Spot endemic wildlife, including Gelada baboons grazing on the cliffs, and, if lucky, the rare Walia ibex. The scenery, with jagged peaks and plunging gorges, is among Africa’s most awe-inspiring. Overnight in the Simien area. Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Simien Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Return to Addis via Historic Sites
Descend from the highlands and return to Addis Ababa by flight or road, with optional stops at historic monasteries, bustling local markets, or traditional villages along the way. The journey highlights Ethiopia’s contrasts, from remote mountain landscapes to the modern energy of the capital. Evening free for rest or cultural dining experience. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Bonanza Addis Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Adadi Mariam & Entoto / Optional Adwa Extension
In the morning, drive south to visit Adadi Mariam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church still in use today. Return via Entoto Hills to explore Entoto Raguel Church with its historic paintings and panoramic views. For interested groups, an optional extension can be made to the new Adwa 00KM Museum, commemorating Ethiopia’s decisive victory over colonial forces. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Bonanza Addis Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Departure
Spend your final morning at leisure with last-minute shopping or optional visits to Unity Park and Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. After a farewell Ethiopian coffee ceremony, transfer to Bole International Airport for your flight home, concluding your unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s historic north. Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
Included
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All flights during the tour
All Taxes/VAT
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Roundtrip airport transfer
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
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 can be arranged for an extra cost
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Experience Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
10 reviews
Experience Ethiopia Tours is well experienced travel and tour operator to Ethiopia’s cultural, historical, natural and wildlife attractions is a private fully Ethiopian owned and run by young, flexible, energetic, articulate tourism expertise and highly skilled and qualified personnel who knows and love Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2016)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
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 17 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?
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Bonanza Addis Hotel - 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 can be arranged for an extra cost
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Experience Ethiopia Tours, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
This group tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
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 Experience Ethiopia Tours.
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