Ethiopia: 17-Day Tour of Gondar, Simien Mountains, and More
ID: GYG629269-1047979
Category:
Country: Ethiopia
Duration:
17 days
Description
Explore Ethiopia's diverse landscapes, cultures, and historical sites on a 17-day tour. Visit Gondar, the Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, the Omo Valley, Lalibela, and the Danakil Depression.
Here's a 17-day itinerary for an Ethiopia tour covering Gondar, Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, Omo Valley, Lalibela, Gondar, and the Danakil Depression:
**Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa**
- Arrive in Addis Ababa, transfer to hotel.
- Explore the city's landmarks and cultural sites.
**Day 2: Addis Ababa to Gondar**
- Fly to Gondar, known for its medieval castles.
- Visit Gondar's historical sites, including the Royal Enclosure.
**Day 3-5: Simien Mountains National Park**
- Drive to the Simien Mountains National Park.
- Trek through stunning landscapes, spot wildlife like Gelada baboons and Walia ibex.
- Camp overnight in the mountains, experiencing the unique beauty of the area.
**Day 6-7: Bale Mountains National Park**
- Drive to Bale Mountains National Park.
- Explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including Afro-alpine moorlands and Harenna Forest.
- Spot endemic wildlife like the Ethiopian wolf and Mountain Nyala.
- Overnight camping or lodge accommodation in the park.
**Day 8-10: Omo Valley**
- Drive to the Omo Valley, known for its diverse ethnic groups and traditional cultures.
- Visit villages of the Hamar, Mursi, and Karo tribes, experiencing their unique customs and ceremonies.
- Explore local markets and interact with residents.
- Overnight stays in traditional accommodations or campsites.
**Day 11-13: Lalibela**
- Fly to Lalibela, home to the famous rock-hewn churches.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at the ancient churches carved into the mountains.
- Visit nearby monasteries and cultural sites.
- Overnight stays in Lalibela's guesthouses or hotels.
**Day 14-15: Gondar**
- Fly back to Gondar.
- Explore any sites missed during the first visit, or take optional excursions.
- Overnight stays in Gondar.
**Day 16-17: Danakil Depression**
- Drive to the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth.
- Visit sulfur lakes, salt flats, and active volcanic craters.
- Experience the unique landscapes and geological formations of the region.
- Overnight camping in the Danakil Depression.
- Return to Addis Ababa for departure on the final day.
This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Ethiopia's diverse landscapes, cultures, and historical sites, providing an unforgettable travel experience through some of the country's most iconic destinations.
Highlights
- Discover the rich history of Gondar, known for its medieval castles
- Explore the Simien Mountains National Park and its stunning landscapes
- Spot wildlife like Gelada baboons and Walia ibex in the Simien Mountains
- Visit the Omo Valley and interact with the local Hamar, Mursi, and Karo tribes
- Explore the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
From your hotels or directly from your hotels around bole
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.