As I reflect on my trip to Addis Ababa, Gondor and Lalibela, Ethiopia, I cannot help but to be humbled with extreme gratitude. I am grateful to Arada Tours for... read more
The Northern Ethiopia Historic Tour is our most popular package in Ethiopia. Immerse yourself in 1500 years of history jammed into 8 days. Explore the source of the famous Nile River and Lake Tana. Enjoy breath taking views of Africa’s Camelot….the castles of Gondar! Take a leap back in time and view the world renowned UNESCO World Heritage Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela and Ancient City of Axum.
Enjoy 8 days of adventure as you travel throughout Northern Ethiopia on your tour. Dine and taste the different foods that are local to each area of the north. Explore the beautiful Simien Mountains National Park during a day of light trekking. The tour will be more than just a vacation. It will be an adventure suited for all ages!
Day 1: Addis to Axum
Begin your tour with an early morning flight on Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa to the ancient Ethiopia Aksumite capitol of Axum. Your guided tour will place you in the shoes of a ancient Ethiopian as you spend a full day touring the historical sites of Axum. Observe the stone obelisks as they tower into the sky! Sneak a peek at the chapel that is said to house the Ark of the Covenant. Dinner and sleep overnight in Axum.
Day 2: Axum to Simiens
Following breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive through the Tigray region of Northern Ethiopia from Axum to Debarke. After stopping to handle park fees, pickup supplies, etc., we will begin the initial hike. 3-4 hours of trekking with beautiful views on both sides of the ridge. Simien Mountains National Park Gelada Baboons can be seen grazing! Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Debarke.
Day 3: Simiens to Gondar
After a short drive from Debarke, enjoy a full day touring the attractions of Gondar. We recommend the fish goulash at the the lunch time restaurant, Master Chef’s! Relax with a beer or coffee and watch the gorgeous sunset at our favorite vantage point in the city.
Day 4: Gondar to Bahir Dar
Continue southward to Bahir Dar. The 4 hour drive will take you through rural villages, providing a wonderful insight into the culture of the Amhara people. Following hotel check-in, explore the sites of Bahir Dar. At night, enjoy the best cultural dance show in all of Ethiopia!
Day 5: Bahir Dar
Enjoy an early morning breakfast before beginning the journey to the Blue Nile Gorge. Begin the short trek to the Blue Nile Falls at the historic Portuguese bridge. Proceed along the lush trail before arriving at the spectacular Blue Nile Waterfall. Following Lunch, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Tana. While travelling via a medium sized power boat be sure to soak in all the animal wild life including various birds, monkeys, and even hippos. Visit isolated monasteries such as Kibran Gabriel. They will open your eyes to the colorful culture of 14th century Ethiopia. A dramatic sunset view on Lake Tana brings the boating adventure to an end. Proceed to the hotel and dinner.
Day 6: Bahir Dar to Lalibela
After a short early morning domestic flight totaling an hour, arrive in the beautiful city of Lalibela, Ethiopia. Following the hotel transfer and check-in, proceed to a mid-day lunch exploring the famous Ethiopian culinary scene. In Lalibela, guest will enjoy a delicious traditional Ethiopian meal at one of the best local spots in town. Lalibela is well known for its unique preserved and still active rock hewn churches. This tour starts the adventure by visiting the northwestern cluster of churches. This cluster consist of Biete Golgotha Mikael, Biete Mariam, Biete Denagel, Biete Maskal and Biete Medhani Alem. Be amazed with a detailed focused local tour guide explaining the complexity of architecture, history, and overall existence of the structures. Dinner will follow an action packed day!
Day 7: Lalibela
Enjoy an early morning breakfast. Followed by a journey in a 4×4 vehicle to the historic sites of Yemrehanna Kristos and Na’akuto La’ab monastery. Following the journey back to Lalibela, relax with a delicious lunch and a sip of Ethiopian coffee. Continuing sightseeing Lalibela with your expert local guide. Guests will visit the southeastern cluster of rock hewn churches. This cluster consists of Biete Lehem, Biete Gabreil Rafael, Biete Abba Libanos, Biete Amanuel, and Biete Qeddis Mercoreus. The final church of Biete Ghiorgis which is located west of the southern group will also be explored. St. George is well known for its top view resembling a cross. Journey back to the hotel to prepare for a dinner at one of Ethiopia’s most picturesque restaurants.
Day 8 Lalibela to Addis
Coffee connoisseur or elegant tea consumer, wake up to a beautiful cup to energize the day. Breakfast will feature delicious courses as a farewell to Lalibela. Scenic views during a transfer from the hotel to the airport will bring a close to the adventure. Returning to Addis Ababa on a quick flight totaling one hour will leave plenty of time in the day for more adventure.
Muley was so flexible and nice! He organized the whole trip at the very last 24 hour before arriving! He showed us the best parts of the northern countryside of Ethiopia and the nice and non touristic parts of Addis.