Welcome to the beauty of Ethiopia’s Historic Route! The magnificent cultures and landscapes are indicative of an extraordinary past that has left its mark on the land, the people, and their monuments. In this fascinating land, the past comes alive in the form of strange and beautiful monuments and ruins, built centuries ago in what used to be one of the greatest kingdoms of the world. Moreover, it is a past that began as the cradle of mankind.
Discover the world of the ancient Ethiopians/Africans as you visit the unmatched sites of the Historic Route of Ethiopia North and East — Axum, Lalibela, Gondar, the island monasteries of Lake Tana, the palace of the Queen of Sheba, and the last resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. Cruise along Lake Tana, visit the source of the Great Blue Nile River, explore the walled city of Harar, trek along the spectacular Simien Mountains "the chess pieces of gods", see the Gelada "Bleeding Heart" Baboon, and much more.
Itinerary
Day 1: Addis Ababa
Arrive in Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, we will take a city tour of Addis Ababa that includes the National Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Mercato.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 2: Addis Ababa, Axum
In the morning, we fly to Axum. For the rest of the day, we vist the ancient city of Axum.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 3: Axum, Yeha
After breakfast, we drive out of town to the pre-Christian temple of Yeha. In the afternoon, we will walk around to explore the ancient city of Axun and interact with the local people.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 4: Axum, Lalibela
Today we fly to Lalibela and visit the first group of rock-hewn churches.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 5: Asheten Mariam, Lalibela
In the morning, we take a mule ride and walk to the top of Asheten Mariam Monastery. In the afternoon, we visit the second group of rock-hewn churches in the town.
Overnight: Lodge
Day 6: Lalibela, Gondar
After breakfast, we transfer to Lalibela airport for the flight to Gondar. For the rest of the day, we tour the imperial compound of Gondar and Debre Berhan Selassie Church.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 7: Excursion to Simien Mountains, Gondar
Today we have a full-day excursion to the amazing Simien Mountains National Park.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 8: Gondar, Bahirdar
In the morning, we drive to Bahirdar through the beautiful countryside scenery of Fogera and Gojam to arrive at Bahirdar around lunchtime. In the afternoon, you will take a boat cruise on Lake Tana.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 9: Blue Nile Falls, Bahirdar
After breakfast, we drive 35 km to visit the majestic Blue Nile Falls. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 10: Bahirdar, Addis Ababa
In the morning, we walk around the city. In the afternoon, we will fly back to Addis Ababa.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 11: Addis Ababa, Diredawa, Harar
In the morning, we fly to Diredawa and continue driving to Harar. For the rest of the day, we will visit the ancient city.
Day 12: Harar
In the morning, we visit the colorful open-air African markets and walk around the ancient city. After lunch, we visit the Hadere villages.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 13: Harar, Addis Ababa
After breakfast, we will drive to Diredawa for the flight to Addis Ababa. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner party with a live traditional music show. At the end of the farewell dinner, transfer to Addis Ababa airport for the flight back. End of tour.
