Catch a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, located near the stunning Blue Nile River. Upon arrival, visit the Blue Nile Falls, a magnificent sight known as “Tis Issat” or “The Smoking Water,” where the river cascades dramatically over a cliff. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat trip across Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia, spanning over 3,600 square kilometers. As you sail, visit Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery, a 14th-century treasure, and Azwa Mariam Monastery, another historical gem, both located on picturesque islands in the lake.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar, the former 17th-century capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, you’ll begin your historical journey with a visit to the Imperial Castle Compound, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at the architecture of the royal palaces that once housed Ethiopia’s kings. Next, explore the Bath of Emperor Fasiladas, a grand pool still used during the Timkat festival. Visit the Quskuam Mariam Church, a 17th-century masterpiece, and the residence of Empress Mintwab, where the regal history of Ethiopia unfolds. Don’t miss the iconic Debre Birhan Selassie Church, renowned for its stunning wall and ceiling paintings depicting biblical scenes and angels.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Gondar to Debark, the gateway town to the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Debark, continue your journey for another 36 km to reach the heart of the park. As you explore, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs that define this stunning landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for the Gelada Baboon, an endemic species unique to Ethiopia, often seen grazing in the grassy highlands. These fascinating primates, with their distinctive red chest patches, are a true highlight of the region. In the evening, relax at Simien Lodge, located amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this remote area.

After breakfast, take a morning flight from Gondar to Lalibela, a historic town renowned for its incredible 12th-century rock-hewn churches, built during the reign of King Lalibela. Upon arrival, begin your exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, visit the first group of churches carved directly into the rock, an architectural marvel. These churches, including Bet Medhane Alem (the largest), Bet Maryam, and Bet Masqal, are a testament to Ethiopia’s rich religious and architectural heritage. As you explore, you’ll be awestruck by the craftsmanship and the spiritual atmosphere that permeates the site.

Start your day with a mule-back ride to the Asheton Mariam Monastery, perched high on a hilltop. This 13th-century semi-monolithic church offers not only spiritual significance but also spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, providing an unforgettable experience and a stunning perspective of the area. In the afternoon, continue your journey through Lalibela’s rock-hewn wonders by visiting the second and third groups of churches. These include significant sites such as Bet Giyorgis, known for its unique cross-shaped design, and other incredible churches that further reveal the ingenuity and devotion behind the creation of this extraordinary place. After a day of exploration, return to Maribela Hotel to relax and reflect on the historical and spiritual journey.

After breakfast, take a morning flight from Lalibela back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, embark on a half-day city tour to explore the highlights of Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. Begin with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, where you can view ancient artifacts, including the famous fossil “Lucy.” Next, head to Merkato, the largest open-air market in Africa, for a truly immersive experience of local life, offering a vast array of goods from spices to textiles. In the afternoon, drive up Mt. Entoto, reaching an altitude of 3,200 meters, for a panoramic view of Addis Ababa, where you can capture stunning views of the city sprawled below. To end your memorable trip, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s best traditional restaurants. Experience the richness of Ethiopian culture through folkloric dances and a variety of local dishes. After dinner, you’ll be transferred to the hotel

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the airport for an early flight to Semera. From Semera, we will drive 80 km to Dodom, the base of Erta Ale volcano. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, traveling along one of the most challenging roads in the world. As we pass through landscapes of solidified lava, rocks, sand, and the occasional palm-lined oasis, we will also pass through small villages in the desert before reaching Dodom. After dinner, we will embark on a 3-hour trek to Erta Ale. Camels will transport our camping equipment, food, and water to the rim of the volcano, where we will spend the night marveling at the spectacular sight of the boiling lava lake.

After breakfast, drive to Afdera, visiting the Afar people along the way. Afdera is renowned for its famous salt mines, and we will take a walk to observe the local people engaged in their daily activities. Lake Afdera, a highly saline body of water covering around 100 square kilometers, is fed by abundant thermal springs. Located 103 meters below sea level, Afdera is one of the five lowest places on Earth.

After breakfast, continue your journey to Awash National Park. If you’re not too tired, you can take an evening trip to the Hyena Park. As dusk falls, the spectacle of the hyenas of Fentale begins—more than 200 hyenas emerge from their caves, filling the night with their eerie yelps. Located 27 km from the lodge, the sight of over 50 hyenas coming out of their dens is a truly unique experience. The sound of their cries will accompany you as you walk back to your vehicle. It’s also fascinating to witness warthogs emerging from the same dens alongside the hyenas.

The park’s name comes from one of the longest river in Ethiopia: the Awash. This park is the oldest and most developed wildlife reserve in Ethiopia. It is even easy to access. Awash National Park occupies about 830 square kilometres (320 miles) of dry savannah in the middle of the Rift Valley. This hot, arid terrain climbs up to 1000 meters (600 feet) above sea level, with the exception of the peak of Fentale volcano, which reaches 2007 meters (1200 feet). Temperatures in the park are hot and can reach as high as 420 C (1070 F) Nights are cooler, with temperatures between 100 C & 220 C (500 C & 720 F). Rain mainly falls between February and April, and June to August, and averages 619 mm (24 inches). Enjoy a game drive in park to visit mammals and birds.

Enjoy your final game drive in Awash National Park before beginning the drive back to Addis Ababa. Once in Addis, you’ll have time for souvenir shopping and exploring the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the best traditional restaurants, where you can taste a variety of Ethiopian cuisines and enjoy a vibrant folkloric dance performance.