Duration
14-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
14-Day Northern Ethiopia Mountains, Desert & Heritage
Overview
Embark on a 14-day Northern Ethiopia Journey exploring majestic mountains, vast deserts, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Discover the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the ancient stelae of Axum, and the royal castles of Gondar. Trek through the dramatic Simien Mountains and descend into the surreal landscapes of the Danakil Depression. This adventure blends history, culture, and nature, offering a complete experience of Ethiopia's northern wonders and timeless heritage.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lalibela (Town), Axum (City), Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
17 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$4,620 USD
$3,080 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$4,620 USD
$3,080 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 2-4
Lalibela (Town)
Day 5
Axum (City)
Day 6
Gheralta (Mountain Range)
Day 7
Mekele (City)
Day 8-9
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 10
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 11
Gondar (City)
Day 12-13
Simien Mountains NP
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 14)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges. Guests must assist with camp chores.
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
Getting around: minivan, 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
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-4
Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Gheralta Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Tigray – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7
Planet Hotel
Budget hotel in Mekele (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8-9
Ahmed Ela Camp Budget bush camp in Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Budget bush camp in Danakil Depression (Highlight) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11
Gondar Hills Resort
Mid-range resort in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12-13
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 14
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
Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. After airport pickup, transfer to your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum, home to Lucy’s fossil, and the Ethnological Museum, highlighting Ethiopia’s diverse cultures. Visit Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner featuring injera, doro wat, and local spices. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Addis Ababa to Lalibela
Fly from Addis Ababa to Lalibela, renowned for its rock-hewn churches. After hotel check-in, visit Asheten Maryam Church to admire its intricate carvings and learn about its religious significance. Explore nearby highlands and enjoy panoramic views, preparing for a full day of spiritual and architectural wonders. Overnight in Lalibela. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Lalibela Northern Cluster Churches
Spend the day exploring Lalibela’s Northern Cluster, including Bete Medhane Alem, the largest monolithic church in the world, Bete Maryam, and Bete Golgotha Mikael. Walk through tunnels and stairways connecting the churches, learning about their history, architecture, and religious practices. Capture the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site and its centuries-old spiritual significance. Overnight in Lalibela. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Lalibela Eastern Cluster Churches & Local Life
Continue with the Eastern Cluster, visiting Bete Amanuel, Bete Qeddus Mercoreus, and Bete Giyorgis (St. George). Participate in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony with locals and explore nearby villages, observing daily life, farming, and handicrafts. Learn about traditional food preparation and community culture. Overnight in Lalibela. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Top Twelve Hotel Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Lalibela to Axum
Fly from Lalibela to Axum, the ancient Axumite capital. Explore the Northern Stelae Field, ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s Palace, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Visit tombs of Axumite kings and the archaeological museum showcasing coins, inscriptions, and ancient artifacts. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Axum (City) Stay: Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Axum to Gheralta & Tigray Churches
Drive from Axum to the Gheralta Mountains. Visit Abuna Yemata Guh, perched on a cliff with impressive frescoes, and Mariam Korkor Church, reached via a scenic hike. Explore ancient rock-hewn churches and enjoy panoramic views of the Tigray highlands, learning about the architectural skill and religious devotion of these communities. Overnight in 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 7
Gheralta to Mekelle & Danakil Preparation
Drive to Mekelle, stopping at historic churches along the way. Explore the city briefly, gathering supplies and preparing for your Danakil Depression adventure. Learn about the desert’s extreme geology and local Afar culture, which you will experience in the coming days. Overnight in Mekelle. Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Mekele (City) Stay: Planet Hotel Budget hotel located in Mekele (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Mekele to Dallol Drive from Mekele to Dallol
Early in the morning, you depart from Mekele and drive toward the Danakil Depression, passing through Berahile and the dramatic desert landscapes of northern Afar. As the road descends below sea level, the scenery changes into vast salt plains, lava fields, and volcanic terrain. On arrival in the Dallol area, you explore one of the world’s most extraordinary geothermal sites, famous for its colorful sulfur springs, mineral deposits, salt pillars, and surreal formations shaped by volcanic activity. You then continue to the salt lake, where you walk across the endless white salt flats and observe traditional salt extraction by Afar people. In the late afternoon, enjoy a stunning sunset over the salt lake as the sky’s colors reflect on the salt surface. After sunset, drive to Hamedela, a traditional Afar campsite. Dinner is served, and you spend the night in simple huts or open-air camping under the stars, experiencing the extreme yet fascinating environment of the Danakil Depression. 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 9
Denakil & dalol colorful place Salt Lake Sunset
After an early breakfast at Hamedela, the journey continues deeper into the Danakil Depression. You drive across vast salt flats and volcanic desert toward the colorful Dallol area, one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. Here you explore vivid yellow, green, and white mineral formations, bubbling sulfur pools, and unique salt structures created by intense geothermal activity. The striking colors and alien scenery make Dallol a highlight of the Danakil experience. After time for exploration and photography, you continue through the harsh Afar desert toward Erta Ale, passing remote lava fields and dramatic volcanic scenery that highlight the isolation of the region. In the late afternoon, you arrive near Erta Ale and prepare for the ascent. In the evening, you hike to the rim of Erta Ale, one of the world’s few continuously active volcanoes, and witness the glowing lava lake. Dinner and overnight are at the Erta Ale campsite in simple open-air shelters under the stars. 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 10
Erta Ale to Semera Addis Ababa
Early in the morning, before the heat intensifies, you take a final walk around the Erta Ale volcano area. This daylight visit reveals solidified lava flows, volcanic craters, and wide desert views stretching across the Danakil Depression. The calm morning atmosphere offers a different perspective from the night visit and is ideal for photography and quiet exploration. After breakfast at the campsite, you descend from Erta Ale and begin the long drive across the Afar desert toward Semera. The journey passes through remote and rugged terrain, providing a final look at the dramatic landscapes of the Danakil region and insight into the resilient lifestyle of the Afar people in this extreme environment. Upon arrival in Semera, you are transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Addis Ababa. After landing, you are met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Fly Adiss Ababa to Gonder
Pick up from Gondar Airport and begin a guided tour of Gondar the former imperial capital of Ethiopia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site The tour starts at Fasil Ghebbi the royal enclosure where you explore impressive seventeenth century castles and palaces The main highlight is Fasils Castle famous for its massive stone walls towers and unique architecture blending Ethiopian Portuguese and Indian influences Your guide explains the history of Emperor Fasilides and Gondars role as a political and cultural center Next visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church renowned for its well preserved wall paintings and iconic ceiling of winged angels Learn about its religious significance and how it survived past destruction In the afternoon visit the Fasilides Bath a historic bathing complex still used during the Timkat festival Enjoy a short city drive to experience local life In the evening return to Gondar Hills Hotel with panoramic views or enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with music and dance. 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 12
Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park
In the morning, drive from Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park, passing through highland villages and dramatic mountain scenery. After entering the park and completing formalities, you begin your first hike through the beautiful landscapes of the Simien Mountains. The walk takes you along scenic trails with wide views over deep valleys and escarpments. During the hike, there are good chances to see endemic wildlife, especially Gelada baboons, which live in large groups on the grasslands, as well as other bird species unique to the area. You also enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that make this park one of the most spectacular in Africa. In the late afternoon, you arrive at Sankaber Campsite, where your staff sets up the tents. Dinner is served at the campsite, and you spend the night in tents surrounded by the quiet and fresh mountain air. Overnight at Sankaber campsite. 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 13
Sankaber – Waterfalls – Imet Gogo – Chenek
After breakfast at the campsite, you start trekking from Sankaber toward Imet Gogo, following one of the most scenic routes in the park. The trail passes through high-altitude landscapes, open grasslands, and dramatic cliff edges. Along the way, you visit a beautiful waterfall, adding to the natural highlights of the day. As you continue walking, you reach Imet Gogo, one of the most famous viewpoints in the Simien Mountains. From here, you enjoy spectacular views over endless valleys, sharp escarpments, and distant mountain peaks. This viewpoint is considered one of the best photo spots in the park. After enjoying the views, the trek continues toward Chenek Campsite. Upon arrival, tents are set up and you have time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Dinner is served at the campsite, and you spend the night in tents in the heart of the national park. Overnight at Chenek campsite. 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 14
Chenek – Simien Mountains – Gondar – Addis Ababa
In the morning, after breakfast, you take a short walk around the Chenek campsite, which is one of the best areas in the park to spot wildlife. You may see endemic antelopes such as the Walia ibex, as well as Gelada baboons and other mountain wildlife in their natural habitat. Later, your vehicle picks you up from the campsite, and you drive back toward Gondar, enjoying final views of the Simien Mountains along the way. Upon arrival in Gondar, you are transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Addis Ababa, marking the end of the trip. 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
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
Omo Valley Experience Tours
5.0 operator rating
12 reviews
Omo Valley Experience Tours is a leader in providing travellers with authentic Ethiopian adventures. With high-end 4x4 vehicles, fluent English, and extensive
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2016)
Tour Types
Budget camping tours where clients assist with camp chores
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Knowledgeable, flexible, very experienced and a terrific conduit for relating to the local people
Robel was the most generous and knowledgeable person for this trip. Most of all he helped us access local knowledge and humor in a very relaxed way and gave many insights into the cultures and religion and history of this amazing awesome inspiring country. He was more than ready to try unplanned drives. An excellent driver and very caring and very well organized.
Robert Logie · Australia
A wonderful guide who goes above and beyond to make the journey enjoyable, safe, and memorable
My two female friends and I, spent an absolutely incredible month traveling around Ethiopia, and having Robel with us for the entire journey made all the difference. He shared his beautiful country with such passion, warmth, and deep knowledge that every single day felt exciting, meaningful, and special. Robel was consistently professional, reliable, and genuinely caring, and we always felt completely safe, comfortable, and wonderfully looked after. His kindness, fantastic sense of humor, and remarkable attention to detail truly elevated our experience and made the trip unforgettable. We honestly couldn’t have imagined a better tour guide, and I would recommend Robel with the highest enthusiasm to anyone looking for an amazing, authentic, and memorable travel experience.
Vasiliki · United Kingdom
Amazing
We went to fish market and l had a wonderful time. Robel was very attentive and made sure l was comfortable being around the animal's and that l felt safe first, he made feel as though l was his number one priority which is quite rare, having traveled all over the world. He is definitely one of a kind. Thank you again Robel and l wish that everyone that comes on your tours will have similar experiences. Love Kehindi &Taiwo ❤️ 💙
Kehindi · Jamaica
Great experience, professional attitude
Omo Valley Experience Tours company with Robel leading, fulfilled our dream above expectation, to visit the ethiopian south tribes. 10 days vip service, covered 10 tribes, 4 amazing ceremonies and several national parks on the way to Addis Ababa. Robel was flexible enough and patient to listen to our needs and to full fill all our wishes in this trip in pleasant way. Full tour days, good hotels & meals, new private jeep with nice driver named Denis and good local tour guides. Couldn’t ask better.
Niza · Israel
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?
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel - 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 Omo Valley Experience 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.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Omo Valley Experience Tours.
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