Ethiopia’s Historic North & Omo Valley – 14 Days
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 14-day journey through Ethiopia, a land rich in ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the bustling capital of Addis Ababa to the serene shores of Lake Tana, the castles of Gondar, the mystical rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, and the ancient obelisks of Axum. Journey south into the heart of the Omo Valley, where you’ll encounter some of Africa’s most fascinating and diverse tribal communities. From the highland monasteries to the colorful weekly markets, and from dramatic Rift Valley vistas to remote villages, this tour offers a deep and authentic experience of Ethiopia’s historical wonders and cultural richness.
Tour Highlights
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Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, Gondar’s Royal Enclosure, Tiya stelae field, and the Konso cultural landscape.
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Cruise across Lake Tana to visit ancient island monasteries.
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Visit the ancient city of Axum, home to stelae fields and historical relics.
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Encounter unique cultures in the Omo Valley: Mursi, Hamer, Karo, Ari, Benna, and Dassanech tribes.
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Enjoy nature at its best with a boat trip on Lake Chamo, spotting crocodiles and hippos.
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Marvel at archaeological sites like Melka Kunture and Adadi Mariam.
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Relax by Lake Langano, safe for swimming and perfect for downtime.
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Experience traditional music and dance at a farewell Ethiopian dinner.
Day 1: Arrival – Addis Ababa
Arrive in Addis Ababa. For morning arrivals, enjoy an optional visit to the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and history. If time permits, explore the Mercato—Africa’s largest open-air market—and visit Trinity Cathedral, the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar
Fly to Bahir Dar via Ethiopian Airlines. Visit the bustling local marketplace, then enjoy a scenic boat trip on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and explore the historic island monasteries.
Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar
Day 3: Bahir Dar – Gondar
Drive through scenic countryside to Gondar. Visit the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with five impressive 17th-century castles. Also tour Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its ceiling of angelic faces and religious murals.
Overnight: Hotel in Gondar
Day 4: Gondar – Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela, famed for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These monolithic masterpieces were carved into the mountainside over 800 years ago and include the world’s largest monolithic church, Bet Medhane Alem.
Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela
Day 5: Lalibela Excursion
Choose one of two morning excursions:
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Option A: Hike (or mule ride) to Mount Asheton to visit a 13th-century monastery and enjoy panoramic views.
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Option B: Drive to Yemrehanna Kristos, a pre-Lalibela-era church built in a cave.
In the afternoon, continue exploring Lalibela’s iconic churches.
Overnight: Hotel in Lalibela
Day 6: Lalibela – Axum
Fly to Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Empire. Explore the stelae fields, some over 2,000 years old, and visit the Archaeological Museum, royal tombs, and other significant sites.
Overnight: Hotel in Axum
Day 7: Axum – Addis Ababa – Lake Langano
Fly to Addis Ababa, then drive south into the Great Rift Valley to Lake Langano. Check in at a lakeside lodge and relax. The lake is safe for swimming.
Overnight: Lodge at Lake Langano
Day 8: Lake Langano – Arba Minch
Drive to Arba Minch, stopping at:
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Melka Kunture (prehistoric archaeological site)
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Adadi Mariam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church
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Tiya, a UNESCO-listed field of mysterious stelae
Later, visit a Dorze village in the Guge Mountains, known for its towering bamboo homes and weaving traditions.
Overnight: Hotel in Arba Minch
Day 9: Arba Minch – Jinka
Take a morning boat trip on Lake Chamo to view hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. Drive to Jinka, visiting villages of the Gamo and Derashe people along the way. Stop at Key Afar Market (Thursdays only) to interact with Ari and Benna tribes.
Overnight: Lodge in Jinka
Day 10: Mago National Park – Mursi Tribe
Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka.
Overnight Lodge – Jinka
Day 11: Jinka – Turmi
Drive to Turmi, home of the Hamer people, known for intricate hairstyles, scarification, and the bull-jumping ceremony. En route, visit Benna and Ari villages.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Day 12: Murele Excursion – Karo and Dassanech Tribes
Visit Murele to meet the Karo people, experts in elaborate body painting. Also visit a Dassanech village, located near the Omo River. Return to Turmi.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Day 12: Murele Excursion – Karo and Dassanech Tribes
Visit Murele to meet the Karo people, experts in elaborate body painting. Also visit a Dassanech village, located near the Omo River. Return to Turmi.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Day 13: Turmi – Konso
Drive to Konso, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore terraced landscapes and fortified hilltop villages. The Konso are skilled farmers and known for their wagas—wooden grave markers.
Overnight: Lodge in Konso
Day 14: Konso – Arba Minch – Addis Ababa – Departure
Drive to Arba Minch for your return flight to Addis Ababa. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant with live music and cultural dances. Transfer to the airport for your late-night international departure.
Includes:
- Airport transfers and road transport by private car
- Full board, including mineral water.
- Full camping equipment including tents, mattresses and sleeping bags for camping and trekking.
- Recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.
- Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
- All government taxes for the services included in the tour price
Excludes:
- Additional food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Souvenirs
