The trip begins with a flight to Bahir Dar, where travelers visit Lake Tana and its historic monasteries. They explore the Blue Nile Falls, cross the Portuguese Bridge, and take a boat trip to the Zeghie Peninsula.
The next day, they drive to Gondar, a UNESCO site known for its castles and the Timkat Festival site.
On the third day, they visit Simien Mountains National Park, home to Gelada baboons and endemic birds. The journey continues to Lalibela, famous for its rock-hewn churches.
After exploring these churches, travelers return to Addis Ababa by flight.
Day 1: Flight to Bahir Dar
This morning, we start our safari with a flight to Bahir Dar, a city located on the shores of Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. The lake is known for its 37 islands, several of which were home to monasteries between the 14th and 19th centuries.
The area has a Mediterranean-like climate, and the streets are lined with palm trees, making the town even more attractive. It is also the administrative capital of the Amhara region.
We will drive for about one hour to Tissisat, where we will take a morning walk, admire the Blue Nile Falls, and meet local people. We will cross the Portuguese Bridge, which was built in the 17th century over the Nile. After that, we will take a small boat to cross to the other side of the Nile and then return to our vehicle.
In the afternoon, we will take a boat trip on Lake Tana to the Zeghie Peninsula, where we will walk to two old 14th-century monasteries: Ura Kidane Mehret and Azwa Mariam. These monasteries provide insight into ancient Orthodox architecture.
Day 2: Drive to Gondar (Camelot of Africa)
Today, we head to Gondar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive will be about 185 km, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the Amhara region. This area is also the gateway to the Simien Mountains.
Gondar was the capital for many Ethiopian emperors between the 17th and 18th centuries, which is why the city has many castles. We will take time to visit some of these castles.
After lunch, we will visit the site where the Timkat Festival is held every year. This is one of the most important religious events in Ethiopia, celebrating the baptism of Jesus Christ.
Day 3: Day Trip to Simien Mountains National Park
After breakfast, we will drive to the Simien Mountains, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive from Gondar offers beautiful scenery.
The Simien Mountains are home to the rare Gelada baboons and endemic Ethiopian birds such as the Thick-billed Raven and Wattled Ibis. The Afro-montane forest, grasslands, and woodlands are among the attractions here.
In the afternoon, we will return to Gondar for the night.
Day 4: Drive to Lalibela (Eight Wonders of the World)
After breakfast, we will drive to Lalibela, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive will take us through the scenic landscapes of northern Ethiopia.
Lalibela is often called the “New Jerusalem” because of its many rock-hewn churches, which are considered one of the Eight Wonders of the World. The churches are known for their unique architecture, carved directly from the rock.
Day 5: Visit Lalibela Churches, Then Flight to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, we will explore the famous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. The northwestern cluster of churches includes: Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Mikael and Bet Golgotha.
We will then transfer to the airport for our flight back to Addis Ababa.
