Duration
9-Day
Accra, Ethiopia
9-Day Northern Ethiopia & Danakil Depression Adventures
Overview
Experience the best of Ethiopia's northern historical route and the spectacular Danakil Depression in one unforgettable journey. This 10-day guided tour takes you from ancient rock-hewn churches & royal castles to colorful volcanic landscapes & lava lakesPerfect for history lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers seeking both cultural immersion and raw natural beauty, this itinerary blends UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hidden highland churches, & surreal desert phenomena in one epic trip.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression), Gheralta (Mountain Range), Axum (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
17 years
Activities
game drives
Accommodation
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis - 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
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$3,850 USD
$3,740 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 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
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 4-5
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 6
Axum (City)
Day 7
Gondar (City)
Day 8
Lalibela (Town)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 9)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
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 solo travelers
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
17
Minimum age of 17 years
The minimum age for this tour is 17 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives
Game drives: normal 4x4 vehicle & minivan
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
Day 1
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-3
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – Breakfast Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4-5
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Haile Resort Gondar
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Lalibela Lodge Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range lodge in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Meals at Own Expense
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 Exploring Addis Ababa
Your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you will start exploring Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. The tour begins with a visit to the National Museum, home to Ethiopia’s oldest resident, “Lucy.” Close to the museum is the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important churches in Addis Ababa and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. In the afternoon, you will visit Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, where you can experience the lively local trade and shop for souvenirs. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) 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) Drinks not included
Day 2
Fly to Mekele & Drive to Erta Ale Volcano
Early in the morning, you will take a flight from Addis Ababa to Mekele, landing around 8:15 AM. Upon arrival, you will join the existing group and begin your drive to Erta Ale, a shield volcano known as the “smoky mountain” in the Afar language. Erta Ale is home to one of the world’s only permanent lava lakes, which has been active for over a century. The drive to the base of the volcano takes around six hours, passing through a dramatic landscape of solidified lava, rocky plains, and desert oases. Upon reaching Askoma, the base camp of Erta Ale, dinner will be served in the early evening. After a short break, you will begin your trek to the summit of Erta Ale at 8:00 PM. Camels will transport camping materials and food to the rim of the volcano, where you will spend the night. The sight of the boiling lava lake under the night sky is a breathtaking experience. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 3
Erta Ale – Hamed Ela
After a morning trek back down from the volcano, the journey continues deeper into the Danakil Depression, one of the most extreme landscapes on Earth. This region is known for its surreal, colorful sulfur springs and vast salt flats. You will pass through Berhale, a small town where camel caravans stop before continuing their journey to the northern highlands. Along the way, you will see countless caravans transporting blocks of salt, known as “white gold,” from the salt mines of the Danakil. Upon arrival at Hamed Ela, a remote village with around 500 residents, you will have time to rest before heading out to Dallol to witness the stunning sunset over the alien-like landscape. The evening will be spent camping under the stars in this extraordinary desert environment. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 4
Dallol – Gheralta (Hawzien)
In the morning, you will drive to Ragad, also known as Asebo, where local miners extract salt from the ground. Here, you will witness the traditional method of cutting salt into rectangular blocks and loading them onto camels for transport. From there, you will continue to Dallol, one of the lowest points on Earth at 116 meters below sea level. This area is famous for its vibrant landscapes created by volcanic activity, including acidic hot springs, colorful salt formations, and bubbling sulfur pools. After exploring Dallol and Lake Assal, you will drive back to Hamed Ela before continuing towards Hawzien, in the Gheralta region. The journey will take you from the harsh desert landscapes of the Danakil to the mountainous terrain of Tigray game drive. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 5
Gheralta Rock-Hewn Churches
Today, you will explore the famous rock-hewn churches of the Gheralta region, known for their breathtaking locations and centuries-old religious significance. You will start the day by hiking to Abuna Yemata Guh, a church carved into the side of a sheer cliff. The climb to the church is steep and involves scaling rock faces using handholds and footholds carved into the stone. Upon reaching the church, you will be rewarded with stunning views over the surrounding landscape and the beautifully preserved frescoes inside. In the afternoon, if time allows, you can also visit the churches of Maryam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, which require a more moderate hike but offer equally spectacular views. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Gheralta Mountains (Mountain Range) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 6
Gheralta – Axum
After breakfast, you will drive for about two and a half hours to reach Axum, one of Ethiopia’s most important historical sites. Axum was the capital of the ancient Axumite Empire, one of Africa’s great civilizations. Here, you will visit the famous obelisks, which date back to the 4th century and are believed to be tomb markers of Axumite kings. You will also explore the Church of St. Mary of Zion, which, according to Ethiopian tradition, is the final resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 7
Fly from Axum to Gondar
After breakfast, you will take a flight from Axum to Gondar, the 17th-century capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, you will visit the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses six medieval castles built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors. Next, you will visit Fasilides’s Pool, which is still used for the annual Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations. The tour also includes a visit to Ras Gimb Palace Museum and the famous Debre Birhan Selassie Church, known for its intricate murals and angelic ceiling paintings. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Haile Resort Gondar Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 8
Gondar – Lalibela & Visit the Churches
Early in the morning, you will take a flight from Gondar to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s most famous religious site. After arriving, you will begin exploring the incredible rock-hewn churches, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” You will visit the Northwestern Cluster, which includes Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Mikael, and Bet Golgotha (entry to the latter is restricted for women). These monolithic churches, carved directly into the rock, are a testament to the architectural and spiritual legacy of Ethiopia’s past. Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Lalibela Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 9
Fly Back to Addis Ababa & Departure
In the morning, you will take a flight back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your departure time, you can enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where you can enjoy local cuisine and cultural music and dance performances. After dinner, you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight home, marking the end of your unforgettable Ethiopian adventure. 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. 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)
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)
Drinks
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
Ethio Backpacker Tours
4.6 operator rating
42 reviews
Ethio Backpacker Tours has established by young tourism professionals Gashaw Takele (CEO) who have excellent occurrence over decades.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
10-20 employees (Founded in 2010)
Member Of
ASTA & ITAT
Tour Types
Small & medium group tours (Budget & mid-range)
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Just WOW!!!!!!
We booked a four days activity to visit Addis Ababa and the Danakil Depression with Ethio Backpacker Tours, and it was an exceptional experience. The trip was impeccably organized, and the team was amazing. I loved every aspect of the service and highly recommend them for anyone looking to explore these incredible destinations.
Maria · Spain
Lovely Short trip!
I was able to get a spare time for few days in Ethiopia since I came for business, but thanks to my friend's recommendation I contact with Ethio Backpacker Tours and they provided an excellent city tour in Addis Ababa. I visit the important places such as national museum, entoto park and big market merkato. Thanks for the excellent hospitalities!
Yuli · China
Extraordinary!
I recently completed a week journey through Ethiopia with Ethio Backpacker Tours, and it was truly unforgettable. The first three days in the Danakil Depression showcased the extreme beauty of one of the hottest places on Earth. From there, we spent three days exploring the Omo Valley, experiencing the vibrant culture of its diverse tribes and finally a city tour of Addis Ababa. Thank you Gashaw for such an extraordinary adventure!
Ruzan · Belgium
Everything organized perfectly!
My trip to Ethiopia was unforgettable, thanks to Ethio Backpacker Tours! With only six days off for my holiday, I was eager to explore this beautiful country that had long been on my bucket list. Gashaw organized everything perfectly, helping me prioritize what to see in such a short time. One of the most incredible experiences was witnessing the active volcano at Erta Ale. Seeing the lava exploding in the lava lake was beyond anything I had ever imagined. The raw power of nature was awe-inspiring, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to witness it.
Bahir · Turkey
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?
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 Ethio Backpacker 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.
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