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Wenyeji na waendeshaji waliothibitishwa Maeneo na uzoefu wa Afrika wa kiwango cha juu Weka nafasi sasa au omba safari maalum
8-Day North Ethiopia Historic and Nature Tour

Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

8-Day North Ethiopia Historic and Nature Tour

5.0 / 5 · 24 reviews Offered by Discover Simien Tour 8-Day

Overview

Experience Ethiopia's highlights in a captivating journey. Discover the surreal Danakil Depression, explore the ancient rock-hewn churches of Tigray, trek the breathtaking Simien Mountains, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Gondar. A perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage awaits!

Plan snapshot

Quick Facts

Tour details

Duration

8-Day

Route

Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa

Via Danakil Depression, Gheralta (Mountain Range), Simien Mountains NP

Country & park

Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park

Style

Shared safari

Group size

1-12 travelers

Starts

Any day if available

Activities

nature hikes/walks

Accommodation

Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included - Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included

Meals

All Meals Included

Pickup

Airport transfer included

Booking

Request quote

Currency

USD

Solo travelers

Can join this group tour

8-Day North Ethiopia Historic and Nature Tour
Simien Mountains National Park visual context for this itinerary.

Rates

Rates Per Person

USD

Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026 $2,750 USD $2,530 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027 $1,650 USD $1,430 USD

Before booking

Important To Know

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.
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
Request a Quote

Route

Tour route map
country Ethiopia
Start Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 1-3 Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 4 Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 5-6 Simien Mountains NP
Day 7-8 Lalibela (Town)
End Addis Ababa (Day 8)

Tour Features

Budget tour

This budget tour includes camping and hotels.

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.

Suitable for all ages

This tour is suitable for children of all ages.

Activities & Transportation

Activities: nature hikes/walks
Getting around: 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

Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included

Day 1-2

Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included

Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included

Day 3

Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included

Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Yared Zema International Hotel

Day 4

Yared Zema International Hotel

Mid-range hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Yared Zema International HotelYared Zema International Hotel
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

Day 5

Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Goha Hotel

Day 6

Goha Hotel

Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Goha Hotel
Maribela Hotel

Day 7

Maribela Hotel

Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Maribela HotelMaribela HotelMaribela Hotel

Day 8

End of tour

No accommodation

(No accommodation)

All Meals 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.

Addis Ababa to Dallol via Afdera

Day 1

Addis Ababa to Dallol via Afdera

After breakfast, we will depart for Dallol. Our first stop will be at Ragad (Asebo) to observe traditional salt mining practices. You will witness local artisans expertly extracting salt and loading it onto camels. Continuing to Dallol, immerse yourself in stunning volcanic landscapes, vibrant salt formations, and the remarkable Lake Assal. Engage with the Afar people and observe camel caravans. We will then drive to Hamed Ela for an overnight stay at Hamadella. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Hamad Ela to Erta Ale

Day 2

Hamad Ela to Erta Ale

Your adventure continues with a drive to Erta Ale, known as the "smoky mountain." This shield volcano features the world’s only permanent lava lake. Departing at 9:00 AM, we will navigate one of the roughest roads over an 80 km route, taking approximately six hours. Enjoy breathtaking views of solidified lava and unique rock formations. Upon reaching Dodom, the base camp for Erta Ale, you will have dinner around 17:00. After a brief rest, we will trek to the summit at 20:00 to camp on the volcano's rim, witnessing the mesmerizing spectacle of bubbling lava throughout the night. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Erta Ale to Afdera, then drive to hawzen

Day 3

Erta Ale to Afdera, then drive to hawzen

Awake early to witness a stunning sunrise over the main pit crater. After breakfast, we will descend from Erta Ale, aiming to return to Dodom by approximately 10:30. If time permits, we will visit Lake Giulietti (or Lake Afrera), where you can observe the Afar people harvesting salt. We will then drive to hawzen for an overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Hawzen – Gheralta – Axum

Day 4

Hawzen – Gheralta – Axum

We will begin with an early morning drive from Mekele to Gheralta, followed by a trek to Abune Yemata. This challenging hike offers breathtaking scenery and requires some climbing. We will also visit the Mariam Korkor and Daniel Koror churches before proceeding to Axum for an overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Yared Zema International Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Axum to Simien Mountains National Park

Day 5

Axum to Simien Mountains National Park

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tekeze Valley to Simien Mountains National Park. After registering at the park head office in Debark, you will set off on a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, located at 3,250 meters above sea level. Overnight at Sankaber Camp. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Sankaber to Gondar

Day 6

Sankaber to Gondar

We will depart early for the Jinbar waterfall and then take an easy trek to the Geech Abyss, known for its stunning views. This area is also a great spot for viewing the endemic Gelada Baboon and we can do game drive. After our exploration, we will drive to Gondar for an overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Fly to Lalibela from Gondar

Day 7

Fly to Lalibela from Gondar

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lalibela. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and take you to explore the rock-hewn churches, including the cross-shaped St. George church. Lalibela is home to 11 remarkable churches, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Overnight in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Maribela Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Back to Addis Ababa

Day 8

Back to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, we will visit more rock-hewn churches in Lalibela before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals 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

Excluded

International flights (From/to home)

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

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

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
Discover Simien Tour
Discover Simien Tour logo

Offered by

Discover Simien Tour

5.0 operator rating 24 reviews

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

Reviews

5.00 average

Overall

5.0/5

Communication

5.0/5

Accuracy

5.0/5

Value

5.0/5

Safety clarity

5.0/5

Cultural value

5.0/5
Verified

Breathtaking views

Sensational. Breathtaking views. The staff is one of the highlights of the tour.

Raphael · Brazil

Verified

Absolutely knowledgeable

Fantastic day with an absolutely knowledgeable guide - Gondar is full of magic!

Janoa · Hungary

Verified

Excellent & Unforgettable

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.

Photo by Daniela and Sina
Photo by Daniela and Sina
Photo by Daniela and Sina
Photo by Daniela and Sina

Daniela and Sina · Switzerland

Verified

Passionate, kind, well-organized team that made our Danakil Tour safe & absolutely unforgettable!

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

Tour FAQs

8 answers

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 of all ages. Children under 2 are free.

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?

Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included - Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals 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

Booking terms

Disclaimer

This tour is offered by Discover Simien Tour, 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.

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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