Duration
16-Day
Accra, Ethiopia
16-Day Ethiopian Festivals Tour
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable cultural safari with East Africa Tour Operator and immerse yourself in the vibrant, ancient, and spiritually charged festivals of Ethiopia. This is more than a tour; it's a front-row seat to living history and profound faith. Our carefully curated itineraries are designed to take you beyond the scenery and into the heart of Ethiopian tradition. With expert local guides, and comfortable accommodations, we ensure you don't just see Ethiopia you feel its rhythm.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Lalibela (Town), Awasa (City), Arba Minch (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia
Style
Mid-range shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
On request
Minimum age
7 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan, bus, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle, hiking/walking & air transfer
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
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 10, 2027
$4,950 USD
$4,730 USD
Click a Rate to Request a Quote USD
- USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
This tour is not available to groups larger than 22 people.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 7 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
Lalibela (Town)
Day 4
Awasa (City)
Day 5
Arba Minch (City)
Day 6
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 7
Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village)
Day 8
Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 9
Konso (Cultural Village)
Day 10
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 11
Axum (City)
Day 12
Debark (Town)
Day 13-14
Gondar (City)
Day 15-16
Bahir Dar (City)
End
Addis Ababa (Day 16)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and tented camps.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 22 people per vehicle.
Scheduled departures
This tour starts on fixed start dates only.
Cannot be customized
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Suitable for single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
7
Minimum age of 7 years
The minimum age for this tour is 7 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: minivan, bus, boat, normal 4x4 vehicle, hiking/walking & 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 Premier Dynasty Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Triple-E Hotel and Spa
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
Triple-E Hotel and Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Lewi Resort Hawassa
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Mora Heights Hotel Budget hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included +7 Photos +6 Photos
Budget hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included +4 Photos +3 Photos
Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Eco Omo Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Kanta Lodge Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
Triple-E Hotel and Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Sabean International Hotel Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Simien Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13-14
Goha Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 15
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 16
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
Arrive at Addis Ababa bole International Airport, Meet Your guide, and transfer to the hotel
Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, meet your guide, and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, take a city tour to acclimatize to the high altitude. Including taking a walk through some parts of the city, and taste Ethiopian Food. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included 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 Drinks not included
Day 2
Flight to Lalibela for Gena Festival Eve, take an early flight to the holy city of Lalibela
Take an early flight to the holy city of Lalibela. Spend the day exploring the first group of incredible rock-hewn churches before experiencing the magical Christmas Eve ceremony. Walk through Ethiopian handmade rock-hewn Churches, and feel the history. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Triple-E Hotel and Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Genna Festival in Lalibela
Immerse yourself in the main day of the Ethiopian Christmas celebration. Experience the unforgettable spectacle of tens of thousands of pilgrims, chanting priests, and vibrant processions. Communicate with the lovely communities around and experience the culture. 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
Return to Addis and Drive to Hawassa
Fly back to the capital and begin your journey south to the Rift Valley lakes, stopping for birdwatching and scenic views along the way. On your way at Ziway watch birds and feel the fresh air around with amazing lakes. Take a walk through the city and experience the culture of the city. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Awasa (City) Stay: Triple-E Hotel and Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Drive to Arbamich and Visit Dorze
Continue deeper into the south, visiting the skilled weavers of the Dorze tribe, known for their unique elephant-shaped huts and rich cultural traditions. In addition, taste various area-based foods, and experience the culture. Visit the lakes in Arba Minch and crocodiles. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Arba Minch (City) Stay: Lewi Resort Hawassa Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Lake Chamo and Drive to Turmi
Embark on a thrilling boat safari across Lake Chamo, where you'll come face-to-face with the aquatic 'giants' monstrous Nile crocodiles and sprawling pods of hippos. Afterwards, we journey through the rugged, sun-baked landscape of the Omo Valley, arriving in Turmi. This remote settlement is the vibrant heart of Hamer country, where you'll immerse yourself in the ancient traditions and vibrant culture of one of Ethiopia's most iconic tribes. Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Mora Heights Hotel Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Karo and Hammer Tribal Encouters
Spend a day in profound cultural immersion within the Omo Valley. Witness the intricate body art and symbolic chalk paintings of the renowned Karo people. Then, engage with the visually striking Hamer tribe, known for their ornate clay hair buns and copper coils, gaining a deep, personal insight into their ancient and resilient way of life. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) Stay: Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Journey to Jinka and the Mursi Tribe
Journey to the vibrant, highland town of Jinka, the gateway to Mago National Park. From here, venture into a traditional Mursi village for a truly unforgettable encounter. This community is renowned for the unique and striking lip plates worn by its women, a powerful symbol of cultural identity and beauty that offers a profound glimpse into one of the world's most distinctive tribal traditions. Mid-range lodge located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Eco Omo Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 9
Konso Cultural Landscape
Journey to the remarkable Konso village, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover a stunning landscape of ancient, intricate agricultural terracing that has sustained this community for generations. Delve into their unique social structure and witness the fascinating 'waka' statues, enigmatic wooden figures that stand as guardians over ancestral graves, revealing a deep and complex cultural history. Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Konso (Cultural Village) Stay: Kanta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 10
Retun to Addis Ababa
Enjoy a leisurely morning to reflect on the profound cultural experiences of your journey. After a relaxed breakfast, we begin our scenic drive back to Arba Minch. From there, you will catch your scheduled flight to the bustling capital, Addis Ababa, where you will transfer to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, preparing for your onward travels or international departure. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Triple-E Hotel and Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Fly to Ancient City of Axum
Take a flight north to the legendary city of Axum, the once-beating heart of a powerful ancient empire. Here, you will stand in awe before the city's iconic skyline of towering, intricately carved stelae monumental obelisks that testify to a forgotten engineering prowess. Then, step into profound history at the Chapel of the Tablet, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, the holiest site in all of Ethiopian Christianity. 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 12
Scenic Drive to Debark
Embark on a long but incredibly rewarding drive through the dramatic landscapes of the Ethiopian highlands. The journey itself is a spectacle, with winding roads offering breathtaking vistas of deep gorges, rugged plateaus, and traditional villages. We arrive in the afternoon at the gateway town to the Simien Mountains, where you can feel the anticipation build for tomorrow's immersion into one of Africa's most stunning and unique alpine wonderlands. Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Debark (Town) Stay: Simien Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Simien Mountains Trek and Drive to Gondar
Embark on an unforgettable hike through the otherworldly landscapes of the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO site often called 'the Roof of Africa.' Traverse jagged peaks and deep valleys, keeping watch for troops of charismatic Gelada baboons and the elusive Walia ibex. After your high-altitude adventure, we descend to the royal city of Gondar, famed for its majestic, castle-lined fortress compound that echoes a bygone era of emperors. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Gondar Castles and Timket Festival Eve
Step back in time exploring Gondar's Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO site often called 'Africa's Camelot,' with its stunning collection of 17th-century castles and palaces. As dusk falls, the city transforms. Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the Timket Festival's eve, joining vibrant processions of chanting priests, devoted pilgrims, and dazzling ceremonial robes, a truly unforgettable prelude to Epiphany. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Goha Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Timket Festival Main Ceremony and Drive to Bahirdar
Wake before dawn to witness the profound and energetic Timket baptism ceremony at Fasiladas' Bath. Join the jubilant crowds as thousands are blessed in the holy water amidst a spectacle of prayer, song, and celebration. After this spiritual climax, we journey through the scenic Ethiopian countryside to the serene lakeside city of Bahir Dar, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Tana. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 16
Blue Nile Falls, Lake Tana and Departure
Conclude your epic journey with a visit to the thunderous Blue Nile Falls, known as 'Tis Issat' the Smoking Water. Feel its mighty spray and admire the rainbows dancing in its mist. Then, find tranquility on a peaceful boat trip across Lake Tana, seeking out its ancient island monasteries. Finally, fly back to Addis Ababa for a memorable farewell dinner, perfectly reflecting on your adventures before your international departure. All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Bahir Dar (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals included 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)
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)
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
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
East Africa Tour Operator
4.7 operator rating
6 reviews
East Africa Tour Operator was established in 2011 as a premier Ethiopian tour operator based in Addis Ababa. In addition to providing tours of Ethiopia's many wondrous sites, including specialized Lalibela tours, Axum tours, and Gondar tours, we provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the country's rich cultures by facilitating meaningful connections with local communities across Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2011)
Member Of
Ethiopian Tour Operator Association & Ethiopian Tourist Guide Professional Association
Tour Types
Small & medium group tours (Budget & mid-range)
Destinations
Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5The Best Guide I’ve Ever Had – Beki Is Exceptional!
I travelled to Ethiopia in 2020 and still consider Beki the best guide I’ve ever had. I’ve visited more than 50 countries and been on countless tours, but no one has matched his warmth, professionalism, and deep passion for sharing his country. He has an incredible knowledge of Ethiopia’s history and culture, as well as the local insights that make every experience unique. A highlight of my journey was visiting Lalibela during Easter. Thanks to Beki’s organisation, connections, and understanding of the local traditions, it was far more than a sightseeing stop. It became a powerful and moving experience that I’ll never forget. Beki went above and beyond every single day. He anticipated our needs, handled every detail effortlessly, and brought genuine energy and joy to every moment. His storytelling brought Ethiopia’s ancient sites to life, and his kindness made the trip truly special. Even years later, I still compare every tour to my experience with Beki. If you have the chance to explore Ethiopia with him, take it. You will be in the very best hands.
Blake · Australia
An excellent organisation that I can recommend 100%!
My travel companion and I gave Beki the outline of what we wanted to see and do and he came up with a great plan very quickly. In fact, not only did we visit everywhere we suggested, but Beki showed us some amazing places we hadn’t even heard of and that made the trip even more memorable. Beki is the perfect guide, totally trustworthy, very knowledgeable, has fluent English and worked extremely hard to ensure that we were completely safe and happy. Without Beki as our guide, this would have been a good trip - but in Beki’s hands it was a GREAT trip, probably the best I’ve ever been on. Thank you Beki - we are looking forward to next time!
Paul Gilmore · United Kingdom
Beki is amazing guide , super clear with the plan and expectations !
We booked one week for my father and Beki arranged everything from the tribes of homovalie and all surrounding to the mountains area of the highest pick of Ethiopia (Ras Deshen) he planned everything very carefully and safely , always responsible and always on time , he is great guy!
Karo · Denmark
Excellent experiemnce!
Beki picked me up right on time, safely drove me to an historical area of Addis, showed me around along with another part of the city while also explaining much about the history and culture, taking me to a great museum and more. I highly recommend Beki Kibret as a great guide and he speaks good English as well. very polite and profession as well as fair and reasonable in cost. Anyone who choses to use Beki as their guide is assured to have a great experience!
James · 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 7 years and older.
Can the itinerary be customized?
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
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
How does the quote request work?
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
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by East Africa Tour Operator, 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.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of East Africa Tour Operator.
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