Duration
12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Explore Ethiopia's rich heritage and landscapes--from Addis Ababa's vibrant culture to Bahir Dar's Lake Tana and Blue Nile Falls, Gondar's royal castles, the dramatic Simien Mountains, and the ancient city of Axum, once capital of the Aksumite Empire. Discover centuries-old monasteries, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking natural wonders on this unforgettable journey through Ethiopia's historical north.
Plan snapshot
Duration
12-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Bahir Dar (City), Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
10 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals
Meals at Own Expense; Breakfast Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This mid-range tour includes camping and hotels.
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.
The minimum age for this tour is 10 years.
Day 1
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals at Own Expense
Day 2
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 3
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Mid-range hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Mid-range hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9-11
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be met by Enat Ethiopia Tours and transferred to your hotel. Founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II, the city sits at 2,438 meters, making it the third-highest capital in the world, with a pleasant year-round climate averaging 25°C. Begin exploring with a visit to the National Museum, home to the famous 3.5-million-year-old fossil "Lucy." Continue to the Ethnographic Museum and Holy Trinity Cathedral, the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals at own expense Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Air Transfer to the north to Bahir Dar, the scenic capital of the Amhara region, located on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. In the morning, enjoy a boat trip to the Zeghie Peninsula to visit Ura Kidane Mihret Church, known for its vivid religious murals and ancient Ge’ez manuscripts. In the afternoon, travel to the Tississat Falls ("Water that Smokes"), a dramatic cascade on the Blue Nile River. Overnight: Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
This morning we drive for the 3-31/2 hour (185km) north to Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia. Gondar has now become one of Ethiopia’s largest and most impressive cities, with its walled Royal Enclosure. Gondar’s most famous monuments are its exceptionally well preserved 17th century castles. The largest and best is that of King Fasiledas. It is a stone-built construction with round turrets and wooden balconies. The king also built a remarkable bath a mile or so outside of town known as the ‘Pavilion of Delight’. The Bathhouse of Fasil at which thousands of Ethiopians celebrate Timkat festival every January. This whole complex of buildings is unique in Ethiopia and unlike anything found elsewhere in Africa. This afternoon we’ll also make a visit to the Debre Birhan Selassie church (Light of Trinity) with its sensational angelic ceiling and mural. Overnight: Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
After breakfast, drive to Debark, gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park. Ascend into the highlands for stunning views of dramatic escarpments and deep valleys. Enjoy an optional 1.5-hour walk in the Sankaber area, with opportunities to spot Gelada baboons, Lammergeyer vultures, klipspringers, and bushbuck. The breathtaking scenery reaches elevations up to 3,250m. Overnight: Simien Camping/Lodge. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
After breakfast, embark on a full-day drive to Axum, passing through the dramatic Simien lowlands and the Tekeze River gorge. Though long, the journey offers breathtaking scenery and excellent photo opportunities along rugged mountain roads. Arrive in Axum, the ancient capital of a once-powerful empire, and enjoy time to relax after hotel check-in. Overnight: Axum. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Explore Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire—once a dominant power in global trade and the cradle of Ethiopian Christianity. Visit the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, and see the ruins of the original 4th-century church. Discover the monolithic stelae, including the tallest still standing at over 21 meters, and the tombs, inscriptions, and archaeological museum that reveal Axum’s royal past. Also visit the legendary Palace of the Queen of Sheba. Overnight: Axum. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Depart Axum and drive east to Yeha, Ethiopia’s oldest settlement, home to a 3,000-year-old temple of the moon god Ilmuqah, later converted into a church. Admire its ancient stonework and ibex carvings. Continue to Adwa, a historic town where Ethiopia famously defeated Italian forces in 1896, symbolizing African independence. In the afternoon, travel onward to Adigrat and the Gheralta region. Overnight: Hawzien. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Explore the remote Tigray region to visit remarkable rock-cut churches, including Abuna Yemata Guh, perched atop a cliff and dating back before the 4th century. Discover the sandstone Church of Chirkos in Wukro, known for its cruciform pillars and vaulted ceiling. In the afternoon, soak in the serene Tigray landscapes before driving to the town of Mekele. Overnight: Mekele. Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Enjoy a full-day drive south through breathtaking landscapes, traveling between western mountains and the open plains near Woldiya. Arrive at the remarkable archaeological and religious site of Lalibela, famed for its rock-hewn churches. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Explore the renowned rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, often called Ethiopia’s ‘New Jerusalem,’ built around 800 years ago by King Lalibela. These 11 remarkable monolithic churches are carved from granite, each showcasing unique architectural styles and exquisite craftsmanship. The most iconic, Bet Giorgis, is shaped like a Greek cross and is exceptionally well preserved—widely regarded as one of the wonders of the world. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Visit the exquisite Yimrhane Kristos Church, a masterpiece of Axumite wood and stone craftsmanship, famed for its beautifully decorated wooden coffered ceiling featuring hexagons and medallions with figurative and geometric motifs. Afterward, return to Lalibela town and explore more rock-hewn churches including Bete Gabriel & Rafael, Merkorous, Emanuel, and Abba Libanos. Notably, Bete Emanuel stands out for its intricate Axumite architectural details like wall indentations, monkey heads, and false windows. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Fly back to Addis Ababa this morning. Begin your city tour with panoramic views from Entoto Mountain, the original capital, surrounded by eucalyptus forests. Descend to the city via Shiro Meda, the largest market for traditional clothing. In the evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner featuring cultural songs, dances, and traditional cuisine. Afterwards, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure. End of Tour. Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
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)
Drinking water (On all days)
Sleeping bag
Bath towels
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)
Offered by
Enat Ethiopia Tours and Travel Agency is a privately-owned Ethiopian company dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and historical treasures of Ethiopia. Founded in 2018, our agency may be relatively young, but it is built on decades of experience in the local tourism industry. Our deep-rooted knowledge, personal connections across the country, and passion for authentic travel make us one of the most trusted and insightful tour operators in Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom 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
5.0/5Our family of 10 traveling from both the U.S. and the U.K. booked a 10-day tour with Enat Tours, and we honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From the moment Ashu greeted us at the airport with his warm smile, we felt completely at ease. He was so friendly, easy to talk to, and right away we knew we were in good hands. Ashu is an absolutely incredible tour guide, professional, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about what he does. The way he explained the history and culture of Ethiopia was fascinating; sometimes it felt like we were watching a live documentary. His storytelling was so brilliant, especially when we got to Lalibela. I personally felt transported, completely immersed in the beauty and history of those rock-hewn churches. We explored so many amazing places: Addis Ababa, Blue Nile Falls, Lake Tana, Gondar, the Simien Mountains, and of course, Lalibela. Each destination was special in its own way, and Ashu made every moment unforgettable. He took care of every little detail, made sure we were always comfortable, and kept a smile on his face the entire time. What made this trip even more meaningful is that this was the first time our entire family had traveled together. That could’ve easily been overwhelming, but Ashu handled it all with so much grace and patience. He truly understood us, and it felt like he was part of the family by the end of the trip. Ethiopia is a beautiful country, and this tour opened our eyes and hearts in ways we’ll never forget. But what made it truly special was Ashu, his kindness, his knowledge, his energy, and that constant, genuine smile. Thank you, Ashu, for making our time in Ethiopia so memorable. You’re one of a kind, and we’re so grateful for everything you did for us!
Emily · United States
I have had a great experience with Enat Ethiopia Tours. The company was easy to get in communication with and let me know everything I needed to bring as well helped me book additional flights while in Ethiopia. With spectacular scenic views on my tours to The Churches of labella, Danakil Depression incorporated with knowledgeable warm and friendly tour guides my tours were a great experience. I will definitely use this Enat Ethiopia Tours when planning tour in Ethiopia and I would recommend to anyone doing so.
Jay Lyons · Canada
You can see why Enat is the best on trip adviser. He is such a great personality, and his explanations are easy to understand, and entertaining. TBH, I thought the tours were a bit expensive before going, but afterwards I thought the tours are underpriced. Would love to go again.
Jeremy · Japan
We had a tour with Ashu. He was educated, knowledgeable, with great English. He was able to navigate us through the city keeping us safe. He just loves his county. His passion, positivity and just pure kindness was beautiful. Highly recommend this tour guide if you ever get the chance.
Michelle · Canada
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 who are 10 years and older.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Meals at Own Expense. Meals: Meals at Own Expense
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 Enat 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 Enat Ethiopia tours.
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