North Ethiopia Round Trip Tours From Addis Ababa
Overview
Northern Ethiopia
The northern Ethiopia is also Known as the Historical Circuit, there are over two millennia’s worth of ancient treasures scattered about, from giant obelisks and hidden tombs at Aksum to a collection of castles in and around Gonder, to unique churches in Lalibela, Tigray, Lake Tana and many other places. Not to be outdone by human mastery, Mother Nature really let her creative juices flow here. The Danakil Depression, an esteemed destination among adventure travellers, features a permanent lava lake and a bright-yellow sulphuric plain, while the Simien Mountains wrinkle the land with canyons and peaks with a beauty you’ll struggle to find anywhere else in Africa.
The northern Ethiopia is also Known as the Historical Circuit, there are over two millennia’s worth of ancient treasures scattered about, from giant obelisks and hidden tombs at Aksum to a collection of castles in and around Gonder, to unique churches in Lalibela, Tigray, Lake Tana and many other places. Not to be outdone by human mastery, Mother Nature really let her creative juices flow here. The Danakil Depression, an esteemed destination among adventure travellers, features a permanent lava lake and a bright-yellow sulphuric plain, while the Simien Mountains wrinkle the land with canyons and peaks with a beauty you’ll struggle to find anywhere else in Africa.
Inclusions
- 7 nights accommodation
- 9x Breakfast
- Accommodation included: 8 nights
- Entry/Admission - Simien Mountains National Park
- Entry/Admission - Yemrehana Krestos Church
What to expect
Itinerary
Day 1: Addis Ababa TO Bahir Dar
Stop At: Bahir Dar, Bahir Dar, Amhara Region
Day 01: Drive Addis – Bahir Dar (560 kms 9 – 10 hrs drive)
After an early breakfast you will drive to Bahir Dar passing through the Blue Nile gorge.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Naky Hotel
Day 2: Bahir Dar
Stop At: Bahir Dar, Bahir Dar, Amhara Region
Day 02: Sightseeing Bahir Dar
After having your breakfast you will take a boat cruise on Lake Tana to visit the 14th century Monastery of Ura Kidane Mihret which is the most famous of the Zege peninsula monasteries. Afternoon, you will drive to the village of Tis Isat to see the Blue Nile falls. (Note that the volume of the water could be minimal because of the construction of the new dam.)
Duration: 5 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Naky Hotel
Day 3: Gondar
Stop At: Gonder, Gonder, Amhara Region
Day 03: Drive Bahir Dar – Gondar (180 kms 3 – 4 hrs drive) (The Camelot of Africa)
After having your breakfast, you will begin your journey to Gondar. The Royal Capital of Ethiopia, Gondar was founded in 1636 by Emperor Fassiladas. In the afternoon you will visit the city of Gondar with the drive to the Castles and Churches built by Emperor Fassiladas and his descendants. Proceed to the fascinating Debre Birhan Selassie (The Enlightening of Trinity) with Wonderful murals art, Qusquam Church.
Duration: 7 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Plaza Hotel
Day 4: Gondar To Simien MNP
Stop At: Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Day 04: Drive Gondar - Sanqaber
This day you will have an excursion to Sanqaber a segment of the Semen MountainObserve the magnificent scenery.
Day 05: Excursion to Cheneck
Today you will have an excursion to Cheneck where you may encounter with the endemic of Gelada baboon and Walia Ibex.
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Plaza Hotel
Day 5: Gondar To Lalibela
Pass By: Lalibela, Lalibela, Amhara Region
Day 5: Drive Gondar – Lalibela
After an early breakfast, start the journey to the town of Lalibela via Gondar observing the beautiful landscape.
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Lal Hotel
Day 6: Lalibela
Pass By: Lalibela, Lalibela, Amhara Region
Eighth wonder of world Heritage’ Lalibela is famous for its underground rock-hewn cathedrals. In the afternoon you will visit top attractions of Lalibela that will simply stagger you. These churches include Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Meskal, Bete Denaghel, Bete Golgotha, Bete Mikael, and Bete Giorgis. Overnight in Lalibela.
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Lal Hotel
Day 7: Lalibela Day Trip To Yemrhane Kirstos
Stop At: Yemrehana Krestos Church, Lalibela Ethiopia
Morning you will take an excursion to visit Yimrehane Kirstos, located in a mountain ridge, in the peak of Abuna Yosep. This exquisite church, a masterpiece of Axumite wood and stone construction and renewed for its interior decoration. The walls are subdivided vertically with recessions and projections. In the afternoon you will visit the remaining churches: Bete Gabriel, Bete Marqorios, Bete Emmanuel, and Bete Aba Libanos. Overnight in Lalibela.
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Lal Hotel
Day 8: Lalibela To Kombolcha
Stop At: Kombolcha, Kombolcha, Amhara Region
Drive Lalibela – Kombolcha
Today you will drive to Kombolch visiting en route the monastery of Nakuto Leab built by the nephew of Lalibela. Overnight in Kombolcha.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Sunny Side Hotel
Day 9: Kombolcha To Addis Ababa Then Departure
Stop At: Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa
Drive Kombolcha – Addis – Departure
After having your breakfast you will begin your journey driving back to Addis. In the evening attend a folkloric dinner where you will have a chance to taste several national dishes and watch dances of the various ethnic groups of Ethiopia. The traditional coffee ceremony will also be served. Later you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
•
No accommodation included on this day.
Day 1: Addis Ababa TO Bahir Dar
Stop At: Bahir Dar, Bahir Dar, Amhara Region
Day 01: Drive Addis – Bahir Dar (560 kms 9 – 10 hrs drive)
After an early breakfast you will drive to Bahir Dar passing through the Blue Nile gorge.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Naky Hotel
Day 2: Bahir Dar
Stop At: Bahir Dar, Bahir Dar, Amhara Region
Day 02: Sightseeing Bahir Dar
After having your breakfast you will take a boat cruise on Lake Tana to visit the 14th century Monastery of Ura Kidane Mihret which is the most famous of the Zege peninsula monasteries. Afternoon, you will drive to the village of Tis Isat to see the Blue Nile falls. (Note that the volume of the water could be minimal because of the construction of the new dam.)
Duration: 5 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Naky Hotel
Day 3: Gondar
Stop At: Gonder, Gonder, Amhara Region
Day 03: Drive Bahir Dar – Gondar (180 kms 3 – 4 hrs drive) (The Camelot of Africa)
After having your breakfast, you will begin your journey to Gondar. The Royal Capital of Ethiopia, Gondar was founded in 1636 by Emperor Fassiladas. In the afternoon you will visit the city of Gondar with the drive to the Castles and Churches built by Emperor Fassiladas and his descendants. Proceed to the fascinating Debre Birhan Selassie (The Enlightening of Trinity) with Wonderful murals art, Qusquam Church.
Duration: 7 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Plaza Hotel
Day 4: Gondar To Simien MNP
Stop At: Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Day 04: Drive Gondar - Sanqaber
This day you will have an excursion to Sanqaber a segment of the Semen MountainObserve the magnificent scenery.
Day 05: Excursion to Cheneck
Today you will have an excursion to Cheneck where you may encounter with the endemic of Gelada baboon and Walia Ibex.
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Plaza Hotel
Day 5: Gondar To Lalibela
Pass By: Lalibela, Lalibela, Amhara Region
Day 5: Drive Gondar – Lalibela
After an early breakfast, start the journey to the town of Lalibela via Gondar observing the beautiful landscape.
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Lal Hotel
Day 6: Lalibela
Pass By: Lalibela, Lalibela, Amhara Region
Eighth wonder of world Heritage’ Lalibela is famous for its underground rock-hewn cathedrals. In the afternoon you will visit top attractions of Lalibela that will simply stagger you. These churches include Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Meskal, Bete Denaghel, Bete Golgotha, Bete Mikael, and Bete Giorgis. Overnight in Lalibela.
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Lal Hotel
Day 7: Lalibela Day Trip To Yemrhane Kirstos
Stop At: Yemrehana Krestos Church, Lalibela Ethiopia
Morning you will take an excursion to visit Yimrehane Kirstos, located in a mountain ridge, in the peak of Abuna Yosep. This exquisite church, a masterpiece of Axumite wood and stone construction and renewed for its interior decoration. The walls are subdivided vertically with recessions and projections. In the afternoon you will visit the remaining churches: Bete Gabriel, Bete Marqorios, Bete Emmanuel, and Bete Aba Libanos. Overnight in Lalibela.
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Overnight Lal Hotel
Day 8: Lalibela To Kombolcha
Stop At: Kombolcha, Kombolcha, Amhara Region
Drive Lalibela – Kombolcha
Today you will drive to Kombolch visiting en route the monastery of Nakuto Leab built by the nephew of Lalibela. Overnight in Kombolcha.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
•
Accommodation included: Sunny Side Hotel
Day 9: Kombolcha To Addis Ababa Then Departure
Stop At: Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa
Drive Kombolcha – Addis – Departure
After having your breakfast you will begin your journey driving back to Addis. In the evening attend a folkloric dinner where you will have a chance to taste several national dishes and watch dances of the various ethnic groups of Ethiopia. The traditional coffee ceremony will also be served. Later you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
•
No accommodation included on this day.
Additional information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Dress code is formal
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Infant seats available
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Ticket delivery
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
Giray D
July 2022
I would like to thank Aman, Yihun, Neway and other local tours guides for that great north ethiopia trip. I will never forget magnificent Blue Nile falls, the biggest Lake Tana, the well-preserved royal compounds in Gondar, simien mountains national park with a unique wildlife and breath-taking ...
I would like to thank Aman, Yihun, Neway and other local tours guides for that great north ethiopia trip. I will never forget magnificent Blue Nile falls, the biggest Lake Tana, the well-preserved royal compounds in Gondar, simien mountains national park with a unique wildlife and breath-taking views on a landscape and the UNESCO World Heritage ancient rock hewn churches of Lalibela.27alh
January 2020
Amaan organised every detail of our trip to the highest standard - great car, driver and guides. There was also room for flexibility and they accommodated all of our last minute changes with ease. Thumbs up to our driver Daniel who always ensured the most amazing cultural experiences and our safe...
Amaan organised every detail of our trip to the highest standard - great car, driver and guides. There was also room for flexibility and they accommodated all of our last minute changes with ease. Thumbs up to our driver Daniel who always ensured the most amazing cultural experiences and our safety. Trustworthy and reliable, we highly recommend a road trip in Ethiopia with Aman.fionasT6458SG
January 2020
A fantastic and unforgettable experience! I never thought it was possible to see so much authentic culture of Ethiopia as a tourist. Our tour guides Yoseph and Noah were always thrilled to show us the most beautiful parts of the country, constantly surprised us with local specialties and always m...
A fantastic and unforgettable experience! I never thought it was possible to see so much authentic culture of Ethiopia as a tourist. Our tour guides Yoseph and Noah were always thrilled to show us the most beautiful parts of the country, constantly surprised us with local specialties and always made sure that we are informed about everything. Especially Yoseph has an unbelievable knowledge about every aspect of the country, you can ask him everything. It was possible to stop along the road any time to see something we were interested in, and we only stayed in the best accommondations available. I really enjoyed the whole trip and hope to be back to Ethiopia soon!bertholds644
January 2020
IT was a very nice and peaceful Trip with Aman Äthiopien Tours ! Out driver and Guide Noah and Josef were very Well prepared and gave good explanations ! They made our Trip unforgetable ! If you visit äthiopia then you shall do this with Noah and Josef !
IT was a very nice and peaceful Trip with Aman Äthiopien Tours ! Out driver and Guide Noah and Josef were very Well prepared and gave good explanations ! They made our Trip unforgetable ! If you visit äthiopia then you shall do this with Noah and Josef !67mgbgt
January 2020
We are experienced travelers and usually don't use tour services, but given there were many things we wanted to try and accomplish, we thought this the best way. We did our research, and used the latest Brandt guide (which is a must for 1st timers) as a constant resource. We had a very good sen...
We are experienced travelers and usually don't use tour services, but given there were many things we wanted to try and accomplish, we thought this the best way. We did our research, and used the latest Brandt guide (which is a must for 1st timers) as a constant resource. We had a very good sense of what we wanted to do/see and the route (East to West vs. common West to East). We had a rough sense of the accommodations as well. We initially only wanted Aman for transportation but eventually decided to utilise him a bit more. Our trip included Addis, Lalibela, Axum, Gondar, Simien Mtn., Bahir Dar. Aman was very good in working with us to included what we wanted and customising based on our needs/wants. In each city he effectively has partnerships with tour operators (who in turn have relationships with hotels and restaurants) which on the upside helps in scheduling and locking down things (for example in Bahir Dar we wanted 2 nights a an upscale lakeside resort, and on our own had been told it was booked - but Aman's local partner was able to get us the reservation), on the downside you run the risk of an uneven experience (disinterested tour guides etc.) However, we had no issues with the majority of important things like being picked up on time (driver's were often early), being greeted and treated well, and all things being as expected. Aman himself was exceptional at making sure that in real time logistics were running smoothly. We always got a text about the next steps, who was coming to get us, confirming times and even asking about how the trips itself was going. He was very much on top of our every move. We even had an experience where one of the restaurants was not quite working out, and he quickly got both the local agent and the restaurant manager involved within a short time to straighten it all out. Nothing came off with a hitch. From flights, to local transport, to hotel accommodations, to payment (all were prepaid through Aman), so needless to say all done smoothly! All in all we had a very good experience and would recommend you look into a discussion with Aman about his tours! BTW our favorite tour guide was Brook who gave us an awesome Addis Tour especially in the Merkato! If you want a super fun romp through the Merkato...none better!Shruti N
January 2023
About this team: Aman and his team strive to provide the best they can. We saw lovely sights of active volcanoes, stayed outdoors, very unique 12th century churches ( that have been visited by both Bill Gates and George Bush). We got to taste healthy which food everywhere which is very healthy d...
About this team: Aman and his team strive to provide the best they can. We saw lovely sights of active volcanoes, stayed outdoors, very unique 12th century churches ( that have been visited by both Bill Gates and George Bush). We got to taste healthy which food everywhere which is very healthy despite awesome taste. We had a sick baby with us but the team went above and beyond to get her to the doctors and pharmacy which I truly appreciate. Both Yihun and Sisai did great! More than anything, I totally appreciated Aman's customer oriented mind set. The tour was a memorable one at the very least! About Ethiopia : look, please go in with an open mind. Many parts of the country are untouched by modern societies and precisely is the charm (this does come with us own issues but more about that later). You can visit ancient tribes and see how they live etc. (Tip: take extra old clothes to donate if you can. It goes a long way for them). As a part of the tour you choose, you might be traveling distant lands for hours on a daily basis. Prepare to go in with an open mind to truly experience the wonder of that. Issues ( prepare accordingly for a fabulous trip): Ethiopia has mostly bad roads outside of the main towns it's really dusty in some parts of the country so carry sun glasses, sun screen, and a hat). Carry swimsuits to bathe in salt and fresh water as well. You might be hours away from a doctor so if you have kids, or for yourself, carry basic meds. If you are used to glamping with fancy bathrooms, talk to the host before the trip starts so you can plan accordingly. Very few clean bathrooms along the way to some of the remote places. Limited food options with clean places to eat in the remote areas. None of these are restrictions to traveling but if you are a kind of person who is very focused on material comfortable, aggressive planning is needed to visit these untouched parts of the world!