Duration
17-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
17-Day Ethiopia Cultural & Adventure Expedition
Overview
Experience Ethiopia's most iconic cultural and natural treasures on this unforgettable journey. Celebrate the vibrant Timkat Festival in Gondar, trek the dramatic escarpments of the Simien Mountains, explore the cliffside rock churches of Tigray, and witness the surreal landscapes of the Danakil Depression. Blending history, spirituality, adventure, and living traditions, this expedition reveals Ethiopia at its most extraordinary.
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
Shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Harbe Hotel - Lalibela - Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast 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
$2,558 USD
$2,448 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,558 USD
$2,448 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$2,558 USD
$2,448 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 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
Lalibela (Town)
Day 2-3
Gondar (City)
Day 4-6
Simien Mountains NP
Day 7-9
Axum (City)
Day 10-13
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 14
Mekele (City)
Day 15
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 16
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 17)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges. Guests must assist with camp chores.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 30 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.
Suitable for single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
18
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: minivan, 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
Harbe Hotel - Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-3
Gondar Hills Resort
Mid-range resort in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
Simien Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Mid-range camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7-9
Brana Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10-13
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 14
Libanos Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 15-16
Ahmed Ela Camp Budget bush camp in Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Budget bush camp in Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 17
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast 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 – Flight to Lalibela
Arrive in Addis Ababa and connect on a short flight to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual heart. After check-in at Alif Paradise Hotel, set out to explore the first cluster of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches (UNESCO). These remarkable 12th–13th century monolithic structures, often described as the “New Jerusalem,” reveal incredible craftsmanship and devotion. Walk through interconnected tunnels, sunken courtyards, and chapels that still host daily rituals. 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: Harbe Hotel - Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Lalibela - Gondar (Timkat Festival Eve)
Take a morning flight to Gondar, the 17th-century royal capital of Ethiopia, where the atmosphere is charged with anticipation for the Timkat Festival. Witness Ketera, the eve of Epiphany, as priests and thousands of pilgrims parade the sacred Tabots (Ark replicas) from churches to rivers or pools, accompanied by rhythmic chants, drumming, and dancing. This colorful ritual marks the beginning of one of Ethiopia’s grandest religious celebrations. 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 3
Gondar – Timkat Festival
Spend the day immersed in the vibrant Timkat Festival, celebrating the baptism of Christ. At dawn, join crowds at Fasilides’ Bath, where priests bless the waters and pilgrims plunge in symbolic renewal. The atmosphere is filled with sacred chants, ululations, and colorful ceremonial umbrellas. In the afternoon, visit Gondar’s Royal Enclosure (UNESCO), a fortress-city with castles that recall Ethiopia’s imperial past. Return to Haile Resort in Gondar for a restful evening. 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 4
Gondar - Simien Mountains (Sankaber Camp)
Drive to Debark, gateway to the UNESCO-listed Simien Mountains National Park, a highland wonderland of jagged peaks and deep valleys. Begin with a 1–2 hour warm-up trek to Sankaber Camp (3,250m), where sweeping escarpment views await. Along the way, encounter herds of Gelada baboons, the world’s only grass-eating primates, known for their scarlet chest patch. Tonight, camp under the starlit skies of one of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes. 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 5
Trek Sankaber - Geech Camp (3600m)
Embark on a 5–6 hour trek to Geech Camp, passing through highland plateaus dotted with giant lobelia and everlasting flowers. The highlight is Jinbar Waterfall, where the Jinbar River plunges 500m into a vast canyon, creating breathtaking views. Keep an eye out for raptors soaring overhead, including the mighty lammergeyer (bearded vulture). Arrive at Geech Camp, surrounded by open grasslands and perfect for stargazing. Overnight in tents at 3,600m. Inside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Trek Geech - Chennek Camp (3600m)
Today’s trek (7–8 hrs) is one of the most rewarding in the Simien Mountains. Traverse dramatic escarpments, alpine meadows, and rugged cliffs. Spot endemic wildlife such as Walia ibex, found only here, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the rare Ethiopian wolf. The trail rewards you with sweeping views of the Imet Gogo promontory and endless vistas of jagged highlands. Arrive at Chennek Camp, a prime site for wildlife viewing. Overnight camping. Inside Simien Mountains NP Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Mid-range camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Trek Buhait Pass - Drive to Axum
Climb towards Buhait Pass (4,200m), one of the park’s highest vantage points, with panoramic views across the Simiens. Descend to Debark and continue the scenic drive north to Axum, once the seat of the great Aksumite Empire. This UNESCO city is renowned for its obelisks, ancient palaces, and deep biblical connections. Settle into your hotel and prepare to step back into one of Ethiopia’s most legendary civilizations. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Brana Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Axum - Yeha - Debre Damo - Siheta
Tour Axum’s treasures, including the UNESCO-listed obelisks, Queen of Sheba’s Palace ruins, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, said to house the Ark of the Covenant. See the Ezana Stone, Ethiopia’s “Rosetta Stone.” Drive to Yeha to admire its 7th–8th century BC temple, the country’s oldest standing structure. For the adventurous, attempt the rope climb to Debre Damo Monastery. Continue on foot to Siheta, a remote village with community lodging. Overnight guesthouse. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Brana Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Trek Siheta - Guahgot
Enjoy a 5-hour trek across the rugged Tigrayan highlands, dotted with hidden rock churches carved into sandstone cliffs. Stop to visit Giorgis Debri, dedicated to St. George, and Eyesus Guahgot, an atmospheric rock-hewn church with ancient frescoes and unique architecture. Trekking through traditional farmlands offers a glimpse into local rural life and hospitality. Arrive in Guahgot village for an overnight stay in a community guesthouse. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Brana Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Trek Guahgot - Shimbreiti
Continue trekking for around 5 hours, crossing landscapes of rolling hills and sandstone ridges. Visit Mariam Buzuhan Rock Church, known for its secluded location and historical tunnels said to have been used for protection in times of war. This journey combines both natural beauty and cultural heritage. End the day at Shimbreiti, where you will be hosted by welcoming locals in a simple but authentic guesthouse experience. Overnight stay. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Rock-Hewn Churches of Tigray
After a short trek, meet your vehicle and head deeper into the Gheralta region, famous for its cliffside churches. Begin with Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, reached via a steep 2-hour hike offering wide valley views. In the afternoon, conquer Abune Yemata Guh, dubbed the “world’s most dramatic church,” perched on a sheer rock face accessed by scrambling and climbing. The spiritual setting and artwork make it unforgettable. Overnight guesthouse or tents. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Villages & Churches of Tigray
Hike around 3 hours to Abune Gebremicael Church, known for its impressive interior and religious significance. Trek across Nahiso Terara, enjoying panoramic views and interaction with villagers tending fields and herding livestock. This day emphasizes both the spiritual side of Tigray’s rock-hewn heritage and the daily rhythms of rural community life. Evening spent in local guesthouses or tents under the stars. Overnight stay in Tigray. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Rock Churches of Gheralta
Venture to some of Tigray’s most remarkable but less-visited churches, including Maryam Papaseit, Debre Tsion Abune Abraham, and Yohannes Maquidi. Each requires at least 2 hours of trekking, rewarding you with architectural wonders, ancient murals, and dramatic cliffside settings. These sacred sites reflect centuries of devotion and artistry. Overnight accommodation is in simple guesthouses or camping, offering an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Gheralta. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Wukro & Surroundings - Mekele
Travel towards Mekele, stopping at important religious and cultural landmarks. Visit the famed Abraha Atsbeha Church, Cherkos Churches, Wukro Museum, and Michael Amba Rock Church, all showcasing the depth of Ethiopia’s Christian heritage. This blend of history and culture provides a fitting conclusion to your Tigray explorations. Arrive in Mekele in the evening and settle into a comfortable hotel for a well-earned rest. Overnight in Mekele. Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Libanos Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Mekele - Erta Ale Volcano
Begin your descent into the Afar Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. Drive across stark desert landscapes to Dodoma base camp. In the evening, hike 3 hours to the summit of Erta Ale Volcano, one of the world’s few permanent lava lakes. Witness glowing lava bubbling inside the crater—a surreal and unforgettable natural spectacle. Camp overnight near the rim, under the stars and beside the fiery earth. Budget bush camp located in Danakil Depression (Highlight) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Ahmed Ela Camp Budget bush camp located in Danakil Depression (Highlight) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 16
Erta Ale - Hamed Ela
Rise at dawn to witness the fiery glow of Erta Ale at sunrise, then descend back to base. Drive across endless salt pans and volcanic landscapes into the heart of the Danakil Depression. Arrive in Hamed Ela, a traditional Afar settlement. Here, life is shaped by extreme heat and salt mining traditions that have endured for centuries. Experience the resilience of Afar culture. Overnight camp in Hamed Ela. Budget bush camp located in Danakil Depression (Highlight) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Ahmed Ela Camp Budget bush camp located in Danakil Depression (Highlight) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 17
Dallol Depression - Mekele - Addis Ababa
Explore the extraordinary Dallol Depression, one of the most otherworldly landscapes on Earth. Walk among acid springs, sulfur chimneys, and vibrant mineral formations that resemble an alien world. Visit salt flats where camel caravans still transport blocks of salt as they have for centuries. Return to Mekele, then fly back to Addis Ababa in the evening, where your unforgettable 17-day cultural and adventure journey through Ethiopia concludes. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner 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)
Drinking water (On all days)
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
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
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 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?
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Harbe Hotel - Lalibela - Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – 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 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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