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Northern Ethiopia Tour

Overview

This immersive 7-day journey through Northern Ethiopia invites you to experience the perfect blend of iconic landmarks and hidden cultural treasures. From the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains, this tour offers unparalleled access to some of Ethiopia's most awe-inspiring sites. Along the way, you'll connect with local communities, discover remote villages, and engage in authentic experiences—such as a boat ride on Lake Tana and a visit to the Blue Nile Falls. Designed for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion, this journey offers moments that go beyond typical tourist attractions, providing you with a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant people.

Ready to experience the real Ethiopia?

Love this itinerary but want to tweak it? All our tours are fully customisable — whether you want to change the activities, pace or number of days, we’ll tailor it to you. Just let us know what you need!

Experiences Include:​

🌊 Blue Nile Falls
🚤 Boat trip on Lake Tana
🥾 Simien mountain trek
🐒 See bleeding heart monkeys

🏰 Ancient Castles of Gondar

🔥 11 Rock-hewn churches in Lalibela
🏘️ Visit local villages

🗓️ Tour Length: 7 Days Standard (Flexible: 3–10 days)

🎯 Tailored Experience – Customise it to match your pace and interests

🌍 Wonders: Discover 5 unique places

🏡 Accommodation: Choose between lodges or local guesthouses

✈️ Available From: July 2025

Itinerary

Not your typical tour company:

Ready to book your adventure?

Pricing

Your tour is customized around you so pricing varies depending on: group size, season, activites and your choice of luxury lodges and premium 4x4, or authentic guesthouses and standard vehicles.

To give you an idea: a 7-night private tour for two people, staying in high-end lodges, typically costs around £2,700.

We’ll tailor everything to your style and budget — so you get the best possible experience at the best possible price.
👉 Contact us now for a personalized quote.

What’s Included ✔️

✔️ Exclusive Activities: Enjoy a range of exclusive cultural experiences, including visits to historic and religious sites, and immersive activities with local communities. All entrance fees to museums, heritage sites, and attractions are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience throughout your tour.
✔️ Accommodation: High-end lodges or authentic local guesthouses
✔️ All Meals & Drinks: All 21 meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included
✔️ Expert Local Guides: You’ll be accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide, as well as local guides who are experts in the site we are visiting 

✔️ Private Transport: Comfortable AC 4x4 or budget-friendly vehicle option
✔️ Internal Flights: Your internal Ethiopian flights
✔️ Carbon Offsetting: Travel responsibly — your trip emissions are offset
✔️ Community Charitable Support: 10% portion of your payment directly supports local communities
✔️ LifeStraw Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and safe throughout your trip

✔️ Tree Planting: We plant a tree for every traveler to support reforestation and carbon offsetting efforts

✔️ Photographic Opportunities: Guidance on the best spots and respectful photography practices

✔️ 24/7 In Country Support: Personal assistance from Fiona, a British travel expert based in Ethiopia

✔️ Pre-Trip Travel Advice: Packing lists, safety tips, and cultural etiquette guidance. Ask any additional questions on email or phone call. 

What’s Not Included ❌

❌ International flights to/from Ethiopia
❌ Travel insurance (recommended)
❌ Alcoholic beverages
❌ Personal purchases like souvenirs
❌ Optional extra services (e.g., massages at lodges)


Ready to experience the real Ethiopia?
👉 Click here to start planning your adventure.

Ready to book your adventure?

Optional Extensions or Substitutions for Your Tour

Each of these options offers a distinct experience and can be easily integrated into your 7-day Northern Ethiopia tour. Depending on your interests, you can swap out a day from the main itinerary for one of these exciting adventures or extend your tour to include it. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient history, venture into unique landscapes, or engage in thrilling wildlife encounters. Below are 4 examples of extensions but you can see all 17 options here. Just let us know which experience appeals to you, and we’ll customize your itinerary accordingly!

Tours

1. Danakil Depression (2-3 Days) - Feel like you're on another planet

For those seeking an extreme and awe-inspiring adventure, a trip to the Danakil Depression is a must. Located in one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth, this surreal landscape is home to volcanoes, salt flats, geysers, and acid lakes. You will experience the otherworldly beauty of Erta Ale, an active volcano with a molten lava lake, and the colorful sulfur springs of Dallol, where vibrant yellow and red mineral deposits create a Martian-like terrain. This trip provides a glimpse into one of the planet’s most unique ecosystems, and you’ll also meet the Afar people, who have lived in this harsh environment for centuries. Note: This option requires a more adventurous spirit due to the remote and rugged nature of the region. We can explain more over an email or phone call!

Looking out of the famous Daniel Korkor church in the Tigray region

2. Gheralta Mountains (2-3 Days) - Incredible churches in the cliffside

 For those interested in history, culture, and dramatic landscapes, the Gheralta Mountains offer a fascinating and less-traveled experience. Located in the Tigray region, these rugged peaks are home to ancient rock-hewn churches, many of which are still active places of worship. You can take scenic hikes through valleys and cliffs to visit these remote monasteries, some of which date back to the 4th century. The area’s unique landscapes, with steep escarpments and striking natural beauty, create an unforgettable atmosphere. Hiking to these cliffside churches offers both a spiritual and physical journey, providing a deeper connection to Ethiopia’s early Christian heritage.

View of Northern stelae field in Axum, Ethiopia

3. Axum (2-3 Days) - Explore Ancient Tombs

 For those seeking to explore the roots of Ethiopia’s ancient civilizations, a visit to Axum is highly recommended. As the former capital of the Aksumite Empire, Axum is home to towering obelisks, royal tombs, and the legendary Ark of the Covenant, believed by some to be housed in the St. Mary of Zion Church. This historical site offers an incredible journey into Ethiopia’s past, with ancient ruins that speak to the power and influence of one of Africa’s oldest kingdoms. The site’s historical importance is complemented by the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding area, making Axum a truly enlightening experience for history enthusiasts.

A night with hyenas in Harar, Ethiopia

4. Harar – Feed Hyenas (1-2 Days)

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, spend a day in Harar, one of the most culturally rich cities in Ethiopia. Harar is known for its ancient walls, colorful markets, and vibrant Islamic heritage. However, what sets it apart is the opportunity to feed wild hyenas. In the evening, venture into the countryside where local hyena-feeding rituals have been practiced for generations. Guided by the “hyena man,” you will have the chance to feed the hyenas by hand, witnessing this fascinating tradition up close. This experience offers a rare chance to connect with both the wildlife and people of Harar, combining adventure with cultural immersion in a safe and respectful manner.

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