10 Days from$2200 p/p in USD- DeparturesYear Round
Destinations
Ethiopia,
Tour Type
Guided, Large Group, Small Group
Safari Standard
Luxury
Tour Overview
On this 10-Day Ethiopia Christmas and Epiphany Holiday Tour experience the spiritual and vibrant essence of Ethiopia on this 10-day journey, centered around Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) and Epiphany (Timket). Travel through ancient cities, sacred rock-hewn churches, and royal capitals while witnessing timeless religious ceremonies and colorful festival processions. From the historic heart of Lalibela to the grand Timket celebrations in Gondar, and the serene beauty of Wenchi Crater Lake, this itinerary offers a unique blend of faith, culture, history, and nature – making for an unforgettable celebration of Ethiopia’s living heritage.
General Information
- Safari types:Cultural Safari, Guided Safari
- You will visit:Addis Ababa, Gondar, Lalibela
- Activities:Walking Safari, Sightseeing Tour, Village Visit, UNESCO Site
- Getting around:Domestic Flight, 4x4 Vehicle
- Start/end:Start in Addis Ababa, end in Addis Ababa
- Minimum age:2
Overview
The tour highlights Ethiopia’s rich cultural, historical, and natural regions. The journey starts in Addis Ababa and then flies to Lalibela in the north for the Christmas celebrations. From there, it continues to Gondar for the Timket (Epiphany) festivals, before returning to the central highlands for a scenic drive to Wenchi Crater Lake.
Experience the Sacred Festivals of Ethiopia
Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) in Lalibela and Epiphany (Timket) in Gondar. Witness ancient rituals, enchanting chanting, and colorful processions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Discover the remarkable rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the majestic royal castles of Gondar. These sites showcase Ethiopia’s extraordinary history, stunning architecture, and enduring spiritual traditions.
Relax in Nature at Wenchi Crater Lake
Unwind in the scenic highlands of Wenchi, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the crater lake. Engage in gentle hikes, take boat trips, and revel in the peaceful natural surroundings after your vibrant festival experiences.
Optional Excursions
- Traditional Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: Engage in a cultural coffee experience and discover Ethiopia’s most important social tradition.
- Horse Riding at Wenchi Crater Lake Explore the scenic landscape of the crater on horseback with local guides.
- Boat Excursion on Wenchi Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride across the Crater Lake while taking in views of volcanic cliffs and highland scenery.
- Monastery Visit at Wenchi: Tour the historic island monastery and learn about its spiritual and cultural significance.
- Cultural Shopping: Browse local markets and artisan shops for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs..
Notes
- Festival dates are determined by the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar and may vary slightly each year.
- Participation in religious ceremonies requires modest attire, including covered shoulders and knees.
- Some celebrations involve extended periods of standing and walking, especially during Christmas Eve and Timket events.
- Domestic flight schedules may change, and the itinerary might be adjusted accordingly without compromising the overall experience.
- Weather conditions can vary between destinations, so wearing layered clothing is recommended.
- Photography is permitted in most areas; however, it is important to request permission during religious ceremonies.
Price Per Person – USD
One person from USD 2,470
Two person from USD 2,200
Three person from USD 1,900
Four person from USD 1,600
Five person from USD 1,200
Six person from USD 970
Seven person from USD 670
What's Included
- Accommodation with breakfast
- All domestic flights
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Hotel transfers
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Four-wheel-drive vehicle with fuel
- Unlimited bottled water
- Farewell dinner
- All ceremony permits and entrance fees
- All church entrance fees
- Government tax (15%)
What's Excluded
- International flights
- Lunch and dinner (except the farewell dinner)
- Personal expenses (laundry, shopping, tips)
Disclaimer
- This itinerary is owned and delivered by ‘Vowland Ethiopia Tour‘
- All prices are ‘From’ and may vary at the time of booking
- Display price is usually based on two people sharing
- ‘Vowland Ethiopia Tour‘ reserves the right to change the content and price of the itinerary
- All itineraries and services are subject to availability
Day by Day Overview
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel. If you arrive in the morning, you will enjoy a city tour of Addis Ababa. If you arrive at night, the city tour will be arranged for the following day. You will visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous fossil “Lucy.” After that, you will explore Mount Entoto and the Palace of Emperor Menelik II. Later, visit Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, to experience daily local life.
Overnight: Check Inn Hotel, Addis Ababa
In the morning, you will take a flight to Lalibela based on the airline schedule. Upon arrival, you will transfer to your hotel and drop off your luggage. Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony before starting your exploration of the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved from solid rock over 800 years ago. Visit the northwestern cluster of churches, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Maryam, Bete Meskel, Bete Danaghel, Bete Mikael, and Bete Golgotha.
Overnight: Hilltop Lodge, Lalibela
Visit the famous Bete Giyorgis Church, which is carved in the shape of a perfect cross. After lunch and some rest in preparation for the evening celebrations, make your way back to Bete Giyorgis at 6 pm to secure a good viewing spot. Experience the Ethiopian Christmas Eve ceremonies with chanting, prayers, and spiritual rituals, staying until around 3 am.
Overnight: Hilltop Lodge, Lalibela
Attend the early morning Christmas Mass in Lalibela churches. After breakfast and some rest at the hotel, you will fly back to Addis Ababa.
Overnight: Check Inn Hotel, Addis Ababa
Take a morning flight to Gondar, the former royal capital founded in 1636 by Emperor Fasilides. Visit the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), Fasilides Bath, and Debre Birhan Selassie Church, known for its stunning angel ceiling paintings.
Overnight: Goha Hotel, Gondar
Enjoy a morning city tour of Gondar. In the afternoon, attend Ketera, the eve of Timket. Witness the procession of Tabots (replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) carried by priests to the water sources. Enjoy the chanting and dancing of crowds dressed in traditional white clothing, alongside priests in colorful robes. The ceremonies continue throughout the night.
Overnight: Goha Hotel, Gondar
Participate in the early morning Timket ceremonies, including morning prayers and Divine Liturgy. Witness the blessing and sprinkling of holy water at Fasilides Bath, commemorating the baptism of Christ. In the afternoon, the Tabots are returned to their churches in joyful processions accompanied by singing and dancing.
Overnight: Goha Hotel, Gondar
In the morning, return to Addis Ababa by flight. Meet your guide and drive approximately four hours to Wenchi Crater Lake, enjoying scenic landscapes along the way. Relax upon arrival.
Overnight: Wenchi Eco Lodge
Enjoy a leisurely morning at the lodge with breakfast. Explore Wenchi Crater Lake, which includes options for horse riding, boat excursions, monastery visits, and nature walks.
Overnight: Wenchi Eco Lodge
Take a short morning hike around Wenchi. Drive back to Addis Ababa and, in the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner. Transfer to the airport for your international departure.
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