Duration
11-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Join us for an 11-day trip through Northern Ethiopia. Discover ancient rock-hewn churches, beautiful landscapes, and lively cultures. Visit the historic sites of Lalibela, enjoy the stunning views of the Simien Mountains, and learn about the rich history of Axum and Gondar. This adventure combines history, nature, and real local experiences for an unforgettable journey.
Plan snapshot
Duration
11-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Lalibela (Town) (Day 9-10)
Via Blue Nile Falls, 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
2 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This budget tour includes camping and hotels.
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 30 people per vehicle.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
The minimum age for this tour is 2 years.
Day 1
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3-4
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9-10
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
(No accommodation)
All Meals Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Fly from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar in the morning. Embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, exploring the historic monasteries located on its shores and islands, such as Urakidanemirt, Azwa Mariam, and Entos. You can also see hippos and many bird species, as well as the stunning Blue Nile Falls. Overnight in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, taking in the rural villages along the way, which provide insight into the Amhara culture and traditional agricultural practices. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Enclosure and other historical sites. Overnight in Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Travel from Gondar to Sankaber, approximately 136 km away. You will stop in Debark town to get the permit, scout, cook, and other supplies. Stop at the park head office in Debark to register and meet your trekking team. Enjoy a 3-4 hour trek around the Sankaber campsite, situated at 3,250 meters. Overnight camping at Sankaber. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Today is an early morning (8 AM) departure to the Jinbar waterfall. From here, you will go for an easy trek to the Geech Abyss, where you will see a large waterfall where the Jinbar River plunges into the abyss. This area is also a great place for viewing the endemic Gelada baboon, also known as the bleeding heart baboon due to the red patch of skin. Afterward, drive to Aynamed and walk for 2 hours to Chennek campsite. Stay overnight at Chennek camp. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Chennek to Axum: After breakfast, walk around Chennek along the edge of the scarpments. You might see Walia ibex, Ethiopian wolves, and Gelada baboons. Then, drive back to Debark and start your journey. After lunch in Adarky, continue your drive through the Tekeze Valley to Axum, the heart of the ancient Axumite Empire. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Dedicate this day to exploring Axum’s historical sites, including the famous obelisks, the Queen of Sheba’s Bath, King Bazen’s tomb, and the Queen of Sheba’s Palace. Also, visit St. Mary of Zion Church, a significant site in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
After breakfast, drive to the ruins of Yeha, believed to be the capital of ancient Ethiopian civilization and home to some of the oldest structures in the country. Explore the impressive temple complex and learn about its historical significance. Next, visit Debre Damo Monastery, a remarkable site perched on a cliff, accessible only to men who must climb a 15-meter rope to enter. This ancient monastery, known for its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere, offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich religious heritage. After a day of exploration, unwind and enjoy the stunning views at Gheralta Lodge in Hawzien, where you’ll spend the night. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Explore the less-visited rock-hewn churches of Tigray, known for their stunning architecture and unique locations carved into cliffs. These ancient churches, such as Abreha we Atsbeha and Maryam Korkor, offer a peaceful atmosphere and fascinating history, often surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. After your exploration, drive to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray, where you can enjoy local cuisine and experience the city’s vibrant culture. From Mekelle, Spend the night in Mekelle, reflecting on your incredible journey through Ethiopia’s rich history and stunning scenery. Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Take a morning flight to Lalibela. Spend the day visiting the remarkable rock-hewn churches, starting with the Northwestern Cluster (including Bet Medhane Alem and Bet Maryam). After lunch, continue to the Southeastern Cluster (including Bet Gabriel-Rufael). Overnight in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Hike up to the Asheton Mariam Monastery, located on a scenic hill that offers breathtaking views of Lalibela and the surrounding landscape. This monastery, dating back to the 13th century, is a peaceful place where you can admire ancient manuscripts and beautiful frescoes. Afterward, visit Yimrehane Kirstos Church, known for its unique architectural style that blends local traditions with rock-hewn techniques. This church, built into a cave, features stunning stonework and intricate carvings. As you explore, learn about its historical significance and the legends associated with it. Both sites provide a deep insight into Ethiopia’s rich Christian heritage and the remarkable artistry of its ancient churches. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Lalibela to Addis Ababa Depending on the day, attend early morning church services if it coincides with a Saints Day. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Tour step
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
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
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
Offered by
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
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Sensational. Breathtaking views. The staff is one of the highlights of the tour.
Raphael · Brazil
Fantastic day with an absolutely knowledgeable guide - Gondar is full of magic!
Janoa · Hungary
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.
Daniela and Sina · Switzerland
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
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 2 years and older. Children under 3 are free.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +6 Photos +5 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals Included
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators () Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Operator policy
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.
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.
Keep comparing
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 12-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 12-Day · Discover Simien Tour
From
$3,300 pp (USD)
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 4-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 4-Day · Discover Simien Tour
From
$1,430 pp (USD)
Simien Mountains National Park
Ethiopia · 16-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia · 16-Day · Discover Simien Tour
From
$3,135 pp (USD)