Duration
16-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
16-Day Ethiopia Grand Discovery – Culture & Heritage
Overview
Experience Ethiopia's ultimate journey combining history, culture, nature, and adventure. Explore Addis Ababa, trek in the Simien Mountains, and visit Gondar, Bahir Dar, and Lalibela's rock-hewn churches. Venture into the Danakil Depression with its volcanoes, salt lakes, and colorful landscapes, then continue south to discover the diverse cultures of the Omo Valley. A truly immersive expedition through Ethiopia's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Simien Mountains NP, Gondar (City), Blue Nile Falls
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Breakfast & Lunch Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$5,500 USD
$3,850 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$5,500 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 is unavailable for children.
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
Simien Mountains NP
Day 4
Gondar (City)
Day 5
Blue Nile Falls (Highlight)
Day 6-7
Lalibela (Town)
Day 8
Semera (Town)
Day 9-10
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 11
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 12
Lake Chamo
Day 13
Konso (Cultural Village)
Day 14
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 15
Omorate (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 16
Mago NP
End
Addis Ababa (Day 16)
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.
18
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & boat trip
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
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-5
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
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Tabor Hotel Lalibela
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Kuriftu Afar Semera Resort
Mid-range hotel in Semera (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9-10
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Haile Resort Arba Minch
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13-14
Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included +11 Photos +10 Photos
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 15
Nasa Hotel Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Lunch 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 & City Tour
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After some rest, begin exploring Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. Visit the National Museum (home to the famous Lucy fossil), the Ethnographic Museum, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Stroll through Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, and discover the modern Unity Park. Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with cultural flavors before returning to your hotel. Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
From Addis Ababa to Gondar Arrival & Scenic Trek into the Simien Mountains
After breakfast, take a flight from Addis Ababa to Gondar, where our guide and driver will meet you. Drive to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park, and obtain your park entry permits. If time allows, visit the local market before heading to the park. Begin your trek to Sankaber Camp (3,250m), enjoying spectacular escarpments, unique plant species, and wildlife such as Gelada baboons, klipspringer, and bushbuck. Overnight: Camping at Sankaber. 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
Day 3
Trek to Jinbar Waterfall & Gondar City Tour
After breakfast at Sankaber Camp, continue your trek to Jinbar Waterfall (about 2 hours). Walk along the escarpment and enjoy stunning views of the valley, passing through giant heather, Abyssinian rose, and Erica arborea trees. Spot wildlife such as Gelada baboons, klipspringer, bushbuck, and possibly leopards. After enjoying the waterfalls and surrounding scenery, have lunch and drive back to Gondar. Explore the city’s historic treasures, including Fasil Ghebbi Castle (UNESCO World Heritage) and Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its famous painted ceiling. Overnight: Hotel in Gondar. 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
Day 4
Gondar City Tour & Drive to Bahir Dar
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before continuing your Gondar city tour, visiting its historic palaces, churches, and baths. Highlights include exploring more of Fasil Ghebbi, and appreciating the rich architecture and history of the former imperial capital. In the afternoon, drive to Bahir Dar, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake. Take in the scenic landscapes along the way and settle into your hotel for dinner and relaxation. Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Explore Bahir Dar – Lake Tana & Blue Nile Falls
After breakfast, take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit its historic monasteries, some dating back to the 14th century. Admire the island churches and their ancient treasures while enjoying the serene lake scenery. In the afternoon, visit the Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat), one of Ethiopia’s most spectacular natural wonders. Capture stunning views of the cascading waters and surrounding landscapes before returning to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay. Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Blue Nile Falls (Highlight) Stay: Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Drive to Lalibela & Visit Rock-Hewn Churches
After breakfast, drive from Bahir Dar to Lalibela, enjoying scenic Ethiopian landscapes along the way, including vast farmlands and local villages. Stop at the unique village of Awramba to observe the distinctive lifestyle of its community. Upon arrival in Lalibela, begin exploring its UNESCO World Heritage rock-hewn churches, marveling at the architectural wonders carved directly into the rock. Spend the afternoon discovering the town’s historic sites and immerse yourself in its spiritual atmosphere. Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Full Day Exploration of Lalibela's Rock-HewnChurches
Dedicate the day to fully exploring Lalibela, famous for its extraordinary rock-cut churches dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Visit the massive Bete Medhane Alem, the cross-shaped Bete Giyorgis, and other interconnected churches featuring carved bas-reliefs and colorful frescoes. In the afternoon, trek a few kilometers uphill to Asheten Mariam Church for panoramic views. This day offers an immersive experience of Ethiopia’s rich religious heritage and architectural marvels. Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Tabor Hotel Lalibela Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Drive to Semera–Gateway to the Danakil Depression
Start early with breakfast before embarking on an 8-hour drive to Semera, passing through Weldiya and Chifra. Along the way, enjoy Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes and gain insights into the cultures of the Amhara and Afar people. Semera, warmer than previous destinations, serves as the gateway to the Danakil Depression. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation, have dinner, and prepare for the upcoming desert adventure in one of the world’s most unique landscapes. Overnight: Hotel in Semera. Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Semera (Town) Stay: Kuriftu Afar Semera Resort Mid-range hotel located in Semera (Town) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
From Semera to Hamed Ela – Entering the Danakil Depression
After breakfast, drive from Semera into the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most unique landscapes on Earth. Stop at Afdera village for lunch and witness local salt mining traditions. Continue to Hamed Ela, passing volcanic formations, colorful salt mountains, and desert landscapes. Explore Lake Giulietti (Lake Afrera), where you can admire the vast salt flats, enjoy the surreal scenery, and witness Afar communities at work. End the day at the camp with dinner under the stars. Overnight: Camp at Hamed Ela. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Hamed Ela – Dallol & Erta Ale Volcano Adventure
Begin the day early with an exploration of the sulfur springs, salt mountains, and hot springs around Hamed Ela. Observe local salt miners at work and marvel at the colorful Dallol landscape and Lake Assal. Afterward, drive to Erta Ale, a shield volcano with one of the world’s only permanent lava lakes. Trek to the volcano cone to witness the dramatic lava activity, then return to the camp for dinner under the starry desert sky. Overnight: Camping near Erta Ale. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Danakil Depression (Highlight) Stay: Budget camping Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Erta Ale Sunrise & Return to Semera – Flight to Addis Ababa
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over Erta Ale’s northern pit crater, then take a short walk to explore the southern and central pits. After descending, enjoy your final desert breakfast and pack up camp. Drive back to Semera and board a flight to Addis Ababa, arriving in the late afternoon. This marks the end of your Danakil adventure and a smooth transition back to the capital city. Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
Fly to Arba Minch – Lake Chamo & Dorze Village
Take an early morning flight from Addis Ababa to Arba Minch. Upon arrival, enjoy breakfast before driving to the Forty Springs area and visiting the Crocodile Market. Embark on a boat trip on Lake Chamo, spotting hippos, Nile crocodiles, and various bird species. After lunch at a local resort, visit the Dorze Village to see their distinctive beehive-shaped huts and learn about traditional weaving practices. Return to Arba Minch for dinner and overnight stay. Overnight: Hotel in Arba Minch. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lake Chamo Stay: Haile Resort Arba Minch Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
From Arba Minch to Konso Village – Turmi
After breakfast, drive to Konso Village, stopping for lunch along the way. Explore one of Konso’s UNESCO World Heritage villages, known for its stone and wooden generation poles marking new generations and traditional culture. After the visit, continue to Turmi for your overnight stay. Overnight: Hotel or Lodge in Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Konso (Cultural Village) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
Kara Village & Turmi Activities
After breakfast, visit Kara Village to observe the unique culture and traditional body and face painting of the Kara people. Return to Turmi for lunch. In the afternoon, if available, witness the bull-jumping ceremony, a rite of passage for Hamer boys, or alternatively, visit a Hamer village. Conclude the day with a colorful evening of local Evan Gady dance. Overnight: Hotel or Lodge in Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 15
From Dassanech Villages to Jinka Museum
Drive to Omorate and cross the Omo River by local boat to visit the Dassanech community. Return to Turmi for lunch, then proceed to Dimeka to explore the weekly market with the Hamer, Beena, and Kara people. If the bull-jumping ceremony did not occur earlier, there’s a higher chance of witnessing it here. Continue to Jinka and visit the Jinka Museum if time allows. Overnight: Hotel or Lodge in Jinka. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Omorate (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Nasa Hotel Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 16
Mursi Village & Return to Addis Ababa
Early morning drive to Mursi village, observing the unique customs of this Omo Valley community, including lip plates and body painting. Return to Jinka for lunch before departing for Addis Ababa, arriving in the afternoon. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some shopping or a farewell dinner at a top local restaurant before preparing for your midnight international departure. End of Tour. Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Mago National Park Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
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
Offered by
Ethio Wildlife Tours
5.0 operator rating
7 reviews
Discover Ethiopia's wonders with us! Ethio Wildlife Tours: is a private Tour & Travel company, Established in Ethiopia,we offer unforgettable wildlife,cultural & historical tours. Our experienced teams specializes in creating unique experiences,showcasing the breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of Ethiopia.We are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism,ensuring minimal impact on the environment and local communities. Let us show you the true essence of Ethiopia 🇪🇹
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5The nicest tour experience
I don’t usually like booking tours because of many bad experiences, however, at the time Ethiopia demanded it. I was so lucky to find Melashu’s company. It’s the most transparent, respectful, informative and well managed tour. I did the northern Ethiopian route (volcano, Danakil depression etc) and they managed to make me feel comfortable in a difficult weather environment and very safe in an area of conflict. It’s incredible to have such yummy food in the middle of nowhere! Thank you,
Yirka · Sweden
Organized and personalized
Great tour through an amazing landscape. Tour was perfectly organized, no complaints. Somewhere my shoes got lost but when I came back in Addes they were waiting for me in the hotel. Their service goes beyond. Thanks for that
Martijn · Netherlands
Our guide was fantastic — super knowledgeable, easygoing, and clearly respected by the communities.
Just got back from a 4-day tour with Ethio Wildlife and it honestly blew me away. We visited several different tribes in Omo valley and each day was completely unique and eye-opening. The whole trip felt very genuine and respectful, not staged or touristy at all. Accommodations were simple but clean and comfortable, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. If you’re looking for something meaningful and way off the beaten path, I’d 100% recommend this experience. I came back with a full heart and a totally new perspective.
Elena Neal · United Kingdom
Organized and responsive
I contacted several tour operators in May 2025 hoping to join a group tour of the Simien mountains but since it is a slow tourist season there were none available. Ethio Wildlife were able to organize a private tour for me at a reasonable cost. They handled everything. The guide/driver/chef/scout were incredibly nice people and it was a pleasure to spend 3 days with them in the park. The guide in particular was very knowledgeable and accommodating.
Nick · 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 is unavailable for children.
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?
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel - Luxury 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 Ethio Wildlife 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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