Duration
16-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
16-Day Timeless Treasures of Northern Ethiopia Journey
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the ancient lands and stunning landscapes of Ethiopia. This tour blends history, culture, and adventure -- from the island monasteries of Lake Tana and the castles of Gondar to the Simien Mountains, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the dramatic landscapes of Tigray, and the surreal beauty of the Danakil Depression. Experience centuries of history, spectacular highlands, and some of the most extraordinary geological wonders on Earth.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
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 shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
7 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; All Meals Included
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
$3,080 USD
$2,090 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$3,080 USD
$2,090 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$3,080 USD
$2,090 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 7 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
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 4-5
Gondar (City)
Day 6
Simien Mountains NP
Day 7
Axum (City)
Day 8-10
Tigray
Day 11
Hamad Ela (Village)
Day 12
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 13
Semera (Town)
Day 14-15
Lalibela (Town)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 16)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour includes camping and lodges.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 3 people per vehicle.
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 single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
7
Minimum age of 7 years
The minimum age for this tour is 7 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks
Getting around: open-sided 4x4 vehicle, boat, hiking/walking & 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
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-3
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 4-5
AG Hotel Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Limalimo Lodge
Mid-range lodge just outside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Yared Zema International Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8-9
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Homeland Hotel Mekelle
Mid-range hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11
Budget camping Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
Hamad Ela (Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast & Lunch Included
Breakfast & Lunch Included
Day 14-15
Maribela Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 16
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Dinner 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
Arrival in Addis Ababa
Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, where you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short city orientation tour, visiting key landmarks such as Meskel Square or Mount Entoto. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Best Western Plus Pearl Addis Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Fly to Bahir Dar and City Tour
After breakfast, take a morning fly to Bahir Dar, a charming city located on the southern shore of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. Enjoy a relaxing city tour featuring the Bezawit Hill viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the Blue Nile River. Visit the local market and stroll along the palm-lined avenues. Overnight: Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Blue Nile Falls and Lake Tana Monasteries
Begin the day with an excursion to Tiss Issat Village to visit the famous Blue Nile Falls, known locally as Tis Abay or the Smoke of Fire. Take a short hike to enjoy the majestic cascades and surrounding rural landscapes. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Tana to explore its historic island monasteries, including Ura Kidane Mihret and Azwa Maryam, famous for their ancient manuscripts and vibrant frescoes. Overnight: Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Drive to Gondar via Awramba Community
Depart Bahir Dar and drive to Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia. En route, visit the Awramba community, known for its progressive social practices, gender equality, and cooperative lifestyle. Continue through the scenic highlands to Gondar and check into your hotel. Overnight: Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Explore the Historical Treasures of Gondar
Spend the day discovering the medieval city of Gondar, often called the “Camelot of Africa.” Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors. Continue to Debre Berhan Selassie Church, admired for its exquisite ceiling paintings of angels, and visit Fasilides’ Bath, used during the annual Epiphany celebrations. Overnight: Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Excursion to Simien Mountains National Park
Take a full-day trip to the Simien Mountains National Park, one of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at breathtaking escarpments and high plateaus while spotting endemic wildlife such as the Gelada baboon, Walia ibex, and Ethiopian wolf. Enjoy light trekking and panoramic views before returning to Gondar in the evening. Overnight: Gondar. Mid-range lodge located just outside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Limalimo Lodge Mid-range lodge located just outside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
– Fly to Axum and Discover Ancient Wonders
Fly from Gondar to Axum, the ancient capital of the Axumite Kingdom and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Africa. Visit the Stelae Park, home to towering granite obelisks, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Explore the Queen of Sheba’s Palace and other archaeological remains that tell the story of Ethiopia’s early civilization. Overnight: Axum. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Yared Zema International Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Drive to Tigray and Explore Abune Yemata Guh
Depart Axum and travel through the rugged landscapes of Tigray, home to some of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary rock-hewn churches. Hike to Abune Yemata Guh, dramatically carved into a sandstone cliff and renowned for its ancient frescoes and panoramic views. This challenging yet rewarding climb offers a deeply spiritual and unforgettable experience overnight Gerhalta Lodge. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Tigray Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Explore Maryam Korkor and Daniel Korkor Churches
Spend the day exploring additional Tigrayan rock-hewn churches, including Maryam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, both known for their spectacular mountain-top locations and sacred art. These churches provide stunning views of the surrounding Gheralta Mountains and insight into the region’s early Christian heritage. Overnight: Gerhalta Lodge. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Tigray Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Visit Debre Damo Monastery and the Battlefields of Adwa; Drive to Mekelle
Drive to the Debre Damo Monastery, one of Ethiopia’s oldest religious centers, accessible only by climbing a rope up a sheer cliff—a truly unique adventure for those who wish to attempt it. Continue to the Battlefields of Adwa, where Ethiopian forces achieved a historic victory over the Italian army in 1896, a symbol of African independence. Arrive in Mekelle for overnight. Overnight: Mekelle. Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Tigray Stay: Homeland Hotel Mekelle Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Drive from Mekelle to Hamed Ela
Travel northeast through stark yet fascinating desert terrain to Hamed Ela, a gateway to the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most geologically active places on Earth. Pass by Afar villages and experience the beginning of Ethiopia’s extraordinary lowlands. Overnight: Hamed Ela. All meals included Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hamad Ela (Village) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Explore Dallol and Drive to Erta Ale
After breakfast, visit Dallol, an otherworldly landscape of colorful sulfur springs, salt formations, and steaming geothermal fields — among the lowest points on the African continent. Continue your adventure by driving to Erta Ale Volcano, one of the few continuously active lava lakes in the world. Hike up to the crater at sunset to witness the mesmerizing glow of molten lava. Overnight: Erta Ale camping. All meals included Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
– Erta Ale to Lake Afdera, Then Drive to Semera and Fly to Addis Ababa
After a sunrise view over Erta Ale, descend and drive to Lake Afdera, where you can relax by the salt lake and enjoy its natural hot springs. Continue to Semera, the capital of the Afar region, and take a fly to back to Addis Ababa. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Semera (Town) Stay: Best Western Plus Pearl Addis Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Fly to Lalibela and Visit the First Cluster of Churches
Fly to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s greatest spiritual centers and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the afternoon exploring the first group of rock-hewn churches, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, and Bete Golgotha, masterpieces of medieval engineering and devotion. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (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 & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Visit Yemrehanna Kristos and the Second Cluster of Churches
Take a morning excursion to Yemrehanna Kristos Church, a beautifully preserved cave church built before the time of King Lalibela. Return to the town to visit the second cluster of churches, including the stunning Bete Giyorgis (St. George’s Church), carved in the shape of a cross and often regarded as Ethiopia’s most iconic monument. Overnight: Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water & spirits/liquor (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 & spirits/liquor (Other drinks not included)
Day 16
Fly Back to Addis Ababa and Departure
Fly back to Addis Ababa and enjoy some leisure time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with music and dance performances before transferring to the airport for your international departure. Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch 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)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
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
Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel
4.8 operator rating
27 reviews
Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel, established in 2019 by Abrham Fentaw, is more than just a travel company—it is a gateway to discovering the heart and soul of Ethiopia. Recognized as one of the nation’s most trusted tour operators, Vowland specializes in creating unforgettable experiences for travelers from across the globe.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)
Member Of
ABATA & ETPA
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
5.0/5Fabulous and enthusiastic
Abraham has great knowledge about his country and imparts it with great insight. Thoroughly enjoyed two tours with him.
Lisa · Australia
Abraham is an excellent guide
Abraham has great knowledge and is enthusiastic about his country. He is an excellent guide who loves telling you about the history and events in Ethiopia. I would highly recommend him to anyone going to Ethiopia
Lisa · Australia
21 days tour, Vowland Ethiopia tour are incredible and felts in memory!
Our journey began Simien Mountains in northern part of Ethiopia provided breathtaking hiking opportunities, with stunning vistas and encounters with endemic wildlife like the Gelada baboons. Our knowledgeable guide Abrham led us through the rugged terrain, making every step worthwhile. Next we travel to visit Lalibela Rock hewn churches , where the awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches left us speechless. The spiritual ambiance and the stories shared by our guide Abrham deepened our appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site. Finally we ventured into the Danakil Depression a true adventure! The otherworldly landscapes, vibrant colors, and the thrill of witnessing bubbling lava at Erta Ale were unforgettable. Camping under the stars in such a remote area was a highlight of our trip. We returned from an incredible tour of the Omo Valley in southern part of Ethiopia , and we can't recommend it enough! Our guide Abrham was knowledgeable and passionate about the diverse cultures of the various tribes we visited, including the , Chamo lakes ,Kara Villages Hamar , Mursi , Dassanech Tribeand others. The landscapes were breathtaking, from lush valleys to stunning river views. The highlight was definitely the traditional ceremonies we were fortunate enough to witness. The warmth and hospitality of the local people made this trip unforgettable. If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, Southern Ethiopia is a must-visit! Finally, we explored the Bale Mountains, where tranquility reigns supreme. The chance to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf amidst pristine nature was a dream come true. The combination of comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine made for a perfect end to our adventure. And we highly recommend Vowland Ethiopia Tour!!
Flipess · Belgium
Very nice and interesting tour.
It was a very nice trip. Wonderful landscape, an interesting monastery and very delicious food. Thank you for everything!
Florian · Germany
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 7 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?
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - 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 Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel, 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.
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 Vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel.
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