Duration
10-Day
Accra, Ethiopia
10-Day Northern Ethiopia Tour
Overview
Ethiopia has a character unlike any you'll find on the planet. The only African Nation to have avoided European colonialism, it retains a strong cultural identity that can be felt everywhere you go. The amazing people, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife are just some of the things that make Ethiopia so magnificent. Ethiopia is a country rich in history, diverse in culture, with breathtaking views and awesome geology.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa (Day 1-2) to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lalibela (Town), Addis Ababa (City), Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Country & park
Ethiopia
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
5 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Best Western Premier Dynasty Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
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
$3,630 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$3,960 USD
$3,850 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 5 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 1-2)
Day 3
Lalibela (Town)
Day 4
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 5
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 6
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 7-8
Hawzen (Town)
Day 9
Axum (City)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 10)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range 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.
5
Minimum age of 5 years
The minimum age for this tour is 5 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & 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 1-2
Best Western Premier Dynasty Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Sora Lodge Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Best Western Premier Dynasty Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
End of tour
(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.
Day 1
Arrival In Ethiopia
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours will welcome all clients arriving at the airport, regardless of arrival time. For morning flights, you may begin sightseeing after check-in; for later arrivals, the tour begins the following day. Welcome to Abyssinia, the land of origins. You will be whisked off in a modern air-conditioned vehicle to your 4-star accommodation in the heart of Addis Ababa. You’ll enjoy sumptuous meal before retiring for some much-needed rest. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Best Western Premier Dynasty Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Addis Ababa City Tours
After breakfast, you’ll visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to visit the long age history of Ethiopia and the oldest human ancestor, Lucy. Set within Haile Selassie’s former palace, Addis Ababa University’s main campus is the Enthralling Ethnological Museum. It’s easily one of the finest museums in Africa. Before lunch, you'll drive to Holy Trinity Cathedral Church which has a unique architectural style. Immediately after a relaxed lunch, you'll drive up to the Entoto Mountains, the best location to observe the panoramic view of the capital. It is also a historical place where Menelik II resided and built his palace. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Best Western Premier Dynasty Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Addis Ababa- Lalibela
You'll fly to Lalibela on Ethiopian Airlines from Addis to Lalibela and have lunch at the hotel. You'll tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in the afternoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This group of ten monolithic and semi-monolithic structures was carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 900 years ago. This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings. On this day, you will see the first group of churches called Bete Medehanialem, Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Denagil, and Debre Sina we Golegotha and the third group which is only St’ George. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Sora Lodge Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Lalibela- Addis Ababa
After breakfast, check out and drive to visit the second group churches of lalibela which includes 4 churches. Bete Gabriel and Rufael, Bete Merkorious, Bete Emanuel and Bete Aba Libanos. After visiting the second group churches, we will drive to the Airport for your flight to Addis. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Best Western Premier Dynasty Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Addis Ababa- Semera- Ert- Ale
Total driving distance 300kms/6-7hrs Total walking distance 1:30 hours. You will wake up early morning to catch your flight to Semera town of the Afar regional capital, pick from the Airport with experienced drivers and excellent 4WD with AC along a team of experience expert guides, an excellent Cooke teams local guide and road leader from the Tourism authorities, all camping gear ready to depart with you, and drive to the Ert-ale active volcano. You reach our camping ground at the top of the Caldera. Walk 1 hour until the summit Crater Lake is currently at its active cycle. Enjoy the wonder happening right in front of you and walk back to the camping ground. We leave for the volcano around 5:30 P.m. late in the afternoon, and walk back after visiting around 8:00PM. Overnight open-air camping on flat ground with a suitable mattress, pillow, clean bed sheets, and a quiet environment. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Ert- Ale- Dallol
Total driving distance 300kms/6-7hrs Total walking distance 1:30 hours. Wake up early morning round 5AM to see the sun rise and return to the camp for breakfast and drive to Lake Afdera (a salt lake that is located in the heart of Danakil Depressions and then later you have to swim around this lake we will be driving to Hamedela town of Dallol. Visit the Sunset at Lake Assale late in the afternoon. Overnight open-air camping with clean beds, Mattresses, pillows, clean bed sheets, and a lot of water for hydration. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Dallol- Hawzen
Total driving distance 350kms/8-9hrs Total walking distance 2:30 hours. Wake up early morning and drive to Lake Assale to see sun rise then drive to the lunar landscape of the Dallol geothermal site for an amazing wonder seen nowhere else on the planet. A chemical reaction happening right in front of you lives face to face with row nature. You will revise your knowledge of colors from that moment on. After this, we drive to the salt and mud-formed mountain cave right underneath the Dallol crater, another 10-minute drive and a completely different world. We will have a picnic breakfast in nearby the cave with wonder. After this visit, we drive to the vast salt plains, Lake Karum, swim in the saltwater pool in that scorching sun, and finally visit the salt miners before leaving back to Hamedela. From Hamedela you will drive to Hawzen. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Visit Gheralta Cluster Churches
Total driving distance 150kms/3-4hrs Total walking distance 8 -9 hours two ways to see all the churches. Begin the day by visiting the Maryam Korkor Church, a cross-shaped architectural marvel. Known for its cruciform pillars, arches, and vibrant frescoes, this church also offers a scenic one-hour hike with panoramic views of the surrounding Gheralta landscape. From Maryam Korkor, it is just a short walk to Daniel Korkor Church. This seldom-visited site, perched on a dramatic precipice, offers breathtaking views and intricate paintings. Later, visit the iconic Abuna Yemata Guh Church, carved into a high cliff. This monolithic church, dedicated to Abuna Yemata, one of the Nine Saints, features 5th-century dome and wall paintings. Although the climb to the church is challenging, the stunning artistry and incredible views make it a rewarding experience. Mid-range lodge located in Tigray All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Gheralta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Tigray Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Hawzen- Axum
After breakfast drive to Axum, on the way visit the Yeha Temple. Yeha temple is the oldest standing structure in Ethiopia, the Temple of Yeha, is located in Yeha. This is a tower built in the Sabaean style, and dated through comparison with ancient structures in South Arabia to around 700 BC. Although no radiocarbon dating testing has been performed on samples from site, this date for the Great Tower is supported by local inscriptions. David Phillipson attributes its "excellent preservation" to two factors, "the care with which its original builders ensured a level foundation, firmly placed on the uneven bedrock; and to its rededication -- perhaps as early as the sixth century AD -- for use as a Christian church. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Axum City Tour and Fly to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, explore Axum, a city with over 2,500 years of history and the heart of Ethiopia’s ancient civilization. Visit St. Mary’s Church and the Sanctuary Chapel, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Tour the famous Stele Park, featuring towering obelisks that serve as reminders of Axum’s rich past. With a visit to the Axum Museum, which showcases a wealth of historical artifacts. Finally, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. In the evening farewell party dinner with cultural dinner and traditional special buffet and local drinks to experience Ethiopia’s cultural meals and drinks. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) 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)
Drinking water (On all days)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Sleeping bag
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
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
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
4.9 operator rating
35 reviews
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours is one of the leading tour operators in Ethiopia, providing comprehensive services with variety of tours that highlight the country’s indigenous cultures, fascinating history, and natural wonders. Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours organizes custom tours for groups of any size and pre-set itineraries that individuals may join also. We are also specialized in organizing package and tailor made tours to Axum, Lalibela, Gondar Castles, Bahir Dar & Lake Tana, Tigray rock-hewn
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)
Member Of
ETOA & Lalibela & Surrounding Guide association
Tour Types
Customizable private tours and fixed group tours
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Go the extra mile!
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours was a wonderful tour operator during my time in Lalibela. The guide, Ermiyas, was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. His love and passion for the town and especially the churches shines through. When some activities did not work out as planned, EET went out of their way to find alternative options for me. Great experience for a solo traveller!
Tamryn · South Africa
Professional, ambitious and energetic
Choosing a tour operator is a risky business. You pay thousands of dollars in advance and you will experience the service only afterwards. I can guarantee on my behalf, that doing business with Extraordinary Ethiopia tours and Mareg is absolutely a safe business from the first step of communication until the very end of the journey. After having followed an itinerary of 15 nights and 16 days in Ethiopia I am more than grateful to Maereg and his team, that I had a truly great, a sort of a once-in-a-lifetime tour. Everything worked perfectly. There wasn't any issue, that I felt sorry of. To be honest: I fell in love with Ethiopia. I had s solo safari to Bale mountains, Omo Valley tribes, Gondar and Lalibela. All the arrangements were better than expected: In Addis Abeba I was welcomed by the efficient "liaison officer" Habtu. In my safari journey driver BK was just brilliant, Toyota Landcruiser wonderful, accommodation exceeding all the expectations, meals great and Maereg kept on following all my moves daily. I felt that I was in safe hands all the time. Ethiopia is an amazing country. Ethiopians are incredibly kind and nice. I wish I could have stayed longer. But decided already to return. I can warmly recommend Maereg and his mates to any type of traveller. His team is professional, energetic and ambitious and do not leave even the slightest detail unchecked. They do want to introduce and show their country to you, and they do it with love!❤️
Eeva · Finland
Ethiopia trip was seamless, enriching, and unforgettable thanks to Maereg’s expert planning and care
My 10‑day journey through Ethiopia was nothing short of extraordinary, and I owe so much of that experience to my tour planner, Maerag. The itinerary he prepared was thoughtful, seamless, and incredibly rich I t was a perfect balance of history, culture, and unforgettable encounters. From the moment I arrived in Addis Ababa, everything was organized with care. Gondar was another highlight. Walking through the castles and learning about their connection to the Egyptian empress felt like stepping into a living story. My guide’s knowledge brought every stone and corridor to life. Celebrating Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Lalibela at Saint Mary’s Church was a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience. The atmosphere, the devotion, and the beauty of the rock‑hewn churches were unforgettable, and I’m grateful for how smoothly everything was arranged. The Omo Valley was where the trip became truly immersive. Meeting tribes who walk on stilts, seeing intricate body‑painting traditions, dancing with community members, and witnessing a bull‑jumping ceremony were moments I will carry with me forever. These experiences were only possible because of my guide’s deep connections and respect for the communities we visited. On my 2 last days, I explored the city, visiting the cultural centre, and learning at the Addis Ababa University Ethnographic Museum gave me a strong foundation for understanding Ethiopia’s depth and diversity. Throughout the entire trip, flying from city to city, navigating different regions, and engaging with so many cultures. I felt supported, informed, and inspired. My guide’s professionalism, warmth, and expertise elevated every moment. I wholeheartedly recommend Maereg and some of his team to anyone considering a tour of Ethiopia. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll be in excellent hands, and you’ll experience Ethiopia in a way that is authentic, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.
Karen St Clare · United Kingdom
Knowledgeable and professional tour guide and incredibly beautiful UNESCO site
Highly recommend this tour. Our guide, Maereg, and driver, Gashaw, were incredibly professional. The tour was very informative and Lalibela is incredibly beautiful. A must visit!
Rita J · United States
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 5 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 Premier Dynasty Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – 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
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Extraordinary 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.
Keep comparing
Similar Tours
Awash National Park
Ethiopia · 7-Day
Safaris & Nature
4.9
7-Day Ethiopian Wildlife Tour
Awash National Park, Ethiopia · 7-Day · Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
Duration7-Day
From$3,080 to $3,630 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$3,080 to $3,630 pp (USD)
Bale Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 13-Day
Safaris & Nature
4.9
13-Day Best Ethiopian Natural and Cultural Tour
Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 13-Day · Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
Duration13-Day
From$4,180 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$4,180 pp (USD)
Bale Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 3-Day
Safaris & Nature
4.9
3-Day Bale Mountain National Park Trekking
Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 3-Day · Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours
Duration3-Day
From$825 to $880 pp (USD)
ModeQuote
Custom quote route
Verified provider
Cultural notes
From
$825 to $880 pp (USD)