15 Days Ethiopian Adventure

Morning drive to Simien Mountains National Park (135 km), designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1969. UNESCO described the mountains as “one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes on the Ethiopian plateau.” The park is full of breathtaking landscapes and abundant flora and fauna. Over 10,000 of the rare & endemic Gelada baboons live in the park and can be observed at a close distance. We will have an easy hike (approx. 3 h) from Sankaber (3.260 m) to Geech. We pass picturesque scenery, as well as Ethiopia’s highest waterfall Jinbar, also called “gateway to hell.” Then we drive back to lodge for overnight.

Overnight: nearby lodge

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our drive to Gondar, a city renowned as the “Camelot of Africa”, located in the northern region of Ethiopia. As we arrive, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the famous castles, grand palaces constructed by former rulers for themselves and their families. These architectural marvels showcase the rich history and regal heritage of the town. Additionally, we’ll visit the bath of King Basilides, which serves as the annual host for the Timkat festival, a vibrant celebration of the baptism of Jesus Christ. The day concludes with a visit to the Church of Debre Berhane Selassie, renowned for its stunning ceiling paintings. The angelic faces depicted in the artwork have become iconic symbols of Ethiopian artistry.

Overnight: one of the best hotels

After breakfast drive to Lalibela, passing through the dramatic landscapes of the Ethiopian Highlands. The highlight of the day will be the ascent from Weldyia to Mount Abuna Yosef, a prominent mountain in the Ethiopian Highlands. Lalibela is the most famous of all of the Ethiopian historical sites. This rural area world renowned for its churches carved from within the Earth from living rock (aka ‘Rock-Hewn’), earning its nick-name as “New Jerusalem”. These towering edifices seem to be superhuman in scale, workmanship, and concept.

Overnight: nearby hotel

Start your day with a drive across the Afar desert to Hammed Ela, a remote town situated near Ethiopia’s famous salt flat, and deeper into the Danakil Depression. You’ll encounter camel caravans and local salt miners, offering an insight into the traditional livelihoods sustained by this harsh environment. In the evening, witness a spectacular sunset, as the sun reflects off the shimmering salt surfaces, creating an otherworldly experience that will leave you in awe.

Overnight: Camping in Hammed Ela

Today, head out for an exciting exploration of Dallol, one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth. With vibrant hues of yellow, green, and red created by the unique sulfur and mineral deposits, Dallol is a photographer’s dream and an adventurer’s paradise. After exploring Dallol, continue your journey to Erta Ale, an active volcano known for its active lava lake. Walk to the summit in the evening and marvel at the molten lava, a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Witness the power of nature as the glowing lava creates a mesmerizing display under the stars.

Overnight: Camping

After a fulfilling breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to Lake Langano, one of the picturesque lakes. Along the way we will visit the historical Tiya Stele, dating back to the XIII century, and make stop at the Lake Ziway to observe its diverse aquatic birdlife. We reach our destination, Lake Langano, where we will spend the night at the tranquil Hare Langano Lodge.

Overnight: Hare Langano Lodge

After a nourishing breakfast, our day begins with a boat ride on Chamo Lake, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe the magnificent giant crocodiles and an array of water birds in their natural habitat. Following this exhilarating experience, we’ll continue our journey to Turmi, a charming small town situated in the heart of the Omo Valley. Turmi serves as a gateway to the fascinating indigenous tribes of the region. As we venture deeper into the Omo Valley, we’ll visit the village of the renowned Hammer tribe, known for their exceptional pottery craftsmanship and distinct hairstyles. The Hammer women, adorned in vibrant, beaded goat skins, elaborate necklaces, and adorned with metal bangles, exemplify the rich cultural heritage of the tribe.

Overnight: one of the best hotels / lodges

In the morning, we’ll embark on a journey to Omorate, traveling along an asphalt road for approximately 75 kilometers. Omorate is situated on the banks of the Omo River, near the Kenya border. Upon arrival, we’ll cross the river using a local boat and proceed to one of the villages of the Dassanech tribe. The Dassanech people are semi-nomadic, residing along the shores of the Omo River. You’ll be captivated by their unique and ornate hair buns, as well as their agricultural and fishing practices. After this enriching experience, we’ll return to Turmi for a delicious lunch. Following our meal, we’ll drive to the  Jinka Tribe, located on the Omo River’s shoreline. The Karo people are renowned for their mastery of body and face painting, which they engage in daily.

Overnight: Lodge/Hotel

Early in the morning, we’ll embark on a thrilling drive through Mago National Park to visit one of the villages of the Mursi Tribe. The Mursi people are perhaps the most well-known tribe in the region, recognized for the women’s practice of extending their lower lips using clay discs and the men’s participation in stick fighting rituals known as Donga. The Mursi are one of the last remaining tribes in Africa where it is customary for women to wear these large pottery or wooden discs or plates.

After this fascinating encounter, we’ll return to Jinka and transfer to Jinka Bako Airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa. We’ll arrive in Addis Ababa in the afternoon. In the evening, we’ll come together for a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where we’ll be delighted by captivating performances from dancers and musicians representing various ethnic groups of the country. Finally, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your international departure or any other place you need.