Duration
18-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
18-Day Ultimate Northern & Southern Ethiopia Adventure
Overview
Grand Ethiopia Adventure: A journey through Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Gondar, Simien Mountains, Lalibela rock-hewn churches, Danakil Depression, Erta Ale volcano, Gheralta Mountains, and the cultural Omo Valley tribes including Mursi, Hamar, Karo, and Dassanech, ending with Rift Valley lakes and Arba Minch. A perfect blend of history, nature, wildlife, volcanoes, and authentic tribal cultures across northern and southern Ethiopia.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Bahir Dar (City), Gondar (City), Simien Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
6 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Triple-E Hotel and Spa - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; 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
$7,000 USD
$6,800 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$7,500 USD
$7,000 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$7,800 USD
$7,550 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 6 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
Bahir Dar (City)
Day 3
Gondar (City)
Day 4-6
Simien Mountains NP
Day 7
Gondar (City)
Day 8
Lalibela (Town)
Day 9
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 10
Danakil Depression (Highlight)
Day 11
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)
Day 12
Hawzen (Town)
Day 13
Addis Ababa (City)
Day 14-15
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 16
Konso (Cultural Village)
Day 17
Arba Minch (City)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 18)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't 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.
6
Minimum age of 6 years
The minimum age for this tour is 6 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & boat trip
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
Triple-E Hotel and Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2
Jacaranda Hotel Bahir Dar Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Bahir Dar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 3
AG Hotel Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4-6
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
AG Hotel Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Mid-range hotel in Gondar (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 8
Mountain View Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Triple-E Hotel and Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
Budget camping Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
Danakil Depression (Highlight) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Budget camping Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Vision Hotel Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Hawzen (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 13
Triple-E Hotel and Spa
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 14
Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included +11 Photos +10 Photos
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 15
Turmi Lodge Budget lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Budget lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 16
Kanta Lodge Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – Breakfast Included
Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 17
Wubete Hotel Budget hotel in Arba Minch (City) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Arba Minch (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 18
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
Addis Ababa City Tour
Arrive in Addis Ababa and begin exploring Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city. Visit the National Museum to see the famous fossil remains of Lucy and learn about Ethiopia’s ancient history. Continue the bustling Mercato market for cultural experiences. End the day with traditional Ethiopian cuisine, coffee ceremony, and cultural music performances. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not 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: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Fly from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar on the shores of Lake Tana. Enjoy a relaxing boat excursion to the ancient island monasteries decorated with beautiful religious murals. Observe traditional papyrus boats and peaceful lakeside villages around Lake Tana. In the evening, enjoy the scenic atmosphere along the lakeside promenade. Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not 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: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Fly from Bahir Dar to Gondar
Fly to Gondar, the historic royal capital of Ethiopia. Visit the magnificent Fasil Ghebbi castle complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive medieval architecture. Explore Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its angel-painted ceiling and colorful frescoes. Spend the evening enjoying the historical ambiance and local hospitality of Gondar. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Drive Gondar to Sankaber
Drive from Gondar into the spectacular Simien Mountains National Park toward Sankaber camp. Enjoy breathtaking views of deep valleys, dramatic escarpments, and high mountain plateaus along the route. Spot Gelada baboons grazing peacefully on the cliffs and grasslands of the park. Arrive at Sankaber and enjoy sunset scenery surrounded by the beautiful Simien Mountains. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Drive Sankaber to Gich
Continue through the stunning landscapes of the Simien Mountains from Sankaber to Gich. Hike along scenic trails with panoramic views over rugged cliffs and endless valleys. Observe endemic wildlife including Gelada baboons, Ethiopian wolves, and numerous bird species. Reach Gich camp and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere beneath clear Ethiopian skies. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Drive Gich to Chennek
Travel deeper into the Simien Mountains National Park toward Chennek, one of the park’s most scenic regions. Pass dramatic mountain ridges and spectacular viewpoints overlooking vast landscapes. Search for the rare Walia ibex, an endemic species found only in the Simien Mountains. Arrive in Chennek and enjoy unforgettable sunset views over the rugged highlands. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Chennek to Gondar
Drive back from Chennek to Gondar through breathtaking mountain scenery and traditional villages. Stop along the route for photography and final views of the Simien escarpments. Observe local rural life and terraced farming in the northern Ethiopian highlands. Arrive in Gondar for relaxation and overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Fly Gondar to Lalibela
Take a domestic flight to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s spiritual center famous for its rock-hewn churches. Explore the first group of ancient churches carved directly into volcanic rock during the 12th century. Walk through underground tunnels, sacred passageways, and hidden courtyards connecting the churches. Enjoy the spiritual atmosphere and incredible architectural achievements of medieval Ethiopia. Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lalibela (Town) Stay: Mountain View Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Fly Lalibela to Addis Ababa
Visit the remaining churches of Lalibela including the iconic Church of St. George before departure. Learn about Ethiopian Orthodox traditions and witness local religious ceremonies if available. Fly back to Addis Ababa in the afternoon for rest and preparation for the Danakil expedition. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel 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: Triple-E Hotel and Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Fly Addis Ababa to Semera
Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera, gateway to the Danakil Depression. Begin driving through one of the hottest and most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Observe endless lava fields, salt flats, and desert scenery unique to the Afar region. Meet local Afar communities and prepare for the upcoming volcanic adventure. 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 11
Dallol, Salt Caravans & Erta Ale Volcano
Visit the extraordinary colorful hydrothermal fields of Dallol with its surreal mineral formations. Observe traditional camel salt caravans transporting blocks of salt across the desert just as they have for centuries. Continue toward the famous Erta Ale volcano, known for its active lava lake. Hike to the crater rim at sunset and witness the glowing volcanic activity beneath the night sky. 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 12
Drive to Mekelle & Visit Abune Yemata Guh
Drive from the Danakil Depression to Mekelle through dramatic changing landscapes. Continue toward Hawzen and climb to the spectacular cliffside church of Abune Yemata Guh. Experience breathtaking panoramic views and ancient rock-hewn church paintings hidden high in the mountains. Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Hawzen (Town) Stay: Vision Hotel Budget hotel located in Hawzen (Town) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Gheralta Mountains & Fly Back to Addis Ababa
Explore the beautiful Gheralta Mountains and visit the famous churches of Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor. Continue to the remarkable church of Abraha We Atsibha known for its ancient architecture and religious art. Enjoy spectacular mountain scenery and learn about the deep Christian heritage of Tigray. Return to Mekelle and fly back to 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: Triple-E Hotel and Spa Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Fly Addis Ababa to Jinka & Visit Hamar and Mursi Villages
Fly south to Jinka in the culturally rich Omo Valley region. Visit the famous Mursi tribe known for their lip plates, body painting, and unique traditions. Continue to Hamar villages to experience traditional dances, hairstyles, and community life. Learn about the diverse cultures and ancient lifestyles preserved in southern Ethiopia. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Visit Karo and Dassanech Tribes
Travel through the Omo Valley to visit the Karo people living along the banks of the Omo River. Observe their beautiful body painting traditions and artistic cultural expressions. Continue to visit the Dassanech tribe near the border region and learn about their pastoral way of life. Return to Turmi for overnight stay. Budget lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Turmi Lodge Budget lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 16
Drive from Turmi to Konso via Key Afer
Drive from Turmi toward Konso through scenic southern landscapes. Visit the colorful Key Afer market where different tribal groups gather for trade and social interaction. Meet the Bena people and observe their traditional clothing, jewelry, and cultural customs. Arrive in Konso and explore its fascinating terraced villages and stone-walled settlements. Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Konso (Cultural Village) Stay: Kanta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 17
Drive to Arba Minch & Visit Dorze Village
Drive from Konso to Arba Minch through beautiful Rift Valley scenery. Visit the Dorze village in the highlands above Arba Minch and discover their unique bamboo houses. Learn about Dorze weaving traditions and traditional Enset-based food preparation. Enjoy panoramic views overlooking Lakes Abaya and Chamo before returning to Arba Minch. Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Arba Minch (City) Stay: Wubete Hotel Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 18
Lake Chamo Excursion & Return to Addis Ababa
Take a morning boat excursion on Lake Chamo famous for its crocodiles, hippos, and abundant birdlife. Cruise along the lake while enjoying spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Return to Arba Minch and fly back to Addis Ababa in the afternoon. Celebrate your unforgettable Ethiopian journey with a farewell cultural dinner. 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
Nigat Ethiopia Tours
4.8 operator rating
Nigat Ethiopia Tours offers immersive travel that goes beyond simple sightseeing, focusing on culture, history, and authentic local experiences. Travelers explore highlights like Lalibela, Simien Mountains National Park, Omo Valley, and Danakil Depression. Their professional, responsible, and trustworthy guides ensure safety, comfort, and deep understanding, always prioritizing customer satisfaction beyond profit while creating meaningful, respectful, and unforgettable journeys across Ethiopia
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
10-20 employees (Founded in 2015)
Member Of
ETOA, ETGPA, ATOA & STT
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
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 6 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?
Triple-E Hotel and Spa - 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 Nigat 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.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Nigat Ethiopia Tours.
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