10-day Danakil Depression, Tigray Churches & Omo Valley Tour 10 days

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa – City Tour

You will arrive at Bole International Airport and meet your local guide. The day begins with visits to the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the lively Merkato market. In the afternoon, you will drive to Entoto Hills for panoramic views of the city before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay at Capital Hotel and Spa.

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Semera – Hamed Ela

You will fly from Addis Ababa to Semera and begin the journey toward the Danakil Depression. On the way, you will stop at Lake Afdera to enjoy the scenery and possibly take a swim. In the evening, you will arrive at Hamed Ela and watch the sunset over the vast salt flats of Lake Asale. Overnight stay Camping

Day 3: Dallol – Salt Caravans – Erta Ale Volcano

After breakfast, you will visit the colourful geothermal landscapes of Dallol, one of the hottest places on Earth. You will also see traditional Afar salt miners and camel caravans transporting salt across the desert. Later, you will drive to Erta Ale and hike to the crater at night to witness the glowing lava lake. Overnight stay Camping

Day 4: Afdera – Mekele via Tigray Churches

Following breakfast, you will travel toward the Tigray region. Along the way, you will visit ancient rock churches such as Abune Yemata and the monastery of Debre Mariam Korkor. After the visit, you will continue to Hawzien for an overnight stay at Hawzien Hotel.

Day 5: Mekele – Addis Ababa

You will take a morning flight back to Addis Ababa. The afternoon is free for relaxing or exploring parts of the city at your own pace. In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with cultural music and dance. Overnight stay at Capital Hotel and spa.

Day 6: Addis Ababa – Jinka – Turmi

You will fly from Addis Ababa to Jinka and drive toward Turmi. Along the way, you will visit local communities, including the Banna and Hamer tribes. The Hamer people are known for their unique hairstyles, body decorations, and traditional customs. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge.

Day 7: Turmi – Karo Village

Today you will visit the Karo tribe, famous for their elaborate body painting and cultural traditions. You will also meet the Nyangatom people who live along the banks of the Omo River. Later, you will return to Turmi and continue the journey back toward Jinka. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge.

Day 8: Jinka – Mursi – Dassanech

Early in the morning, you will visit the Mursi tribe, known for the distinctive lip plates worn by women. Afterwards, you will travel to Omorate to meet the Dassanech people who live near the Omo River. You will cross the river by local canoe and learn about their daily life and culture. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge.

Day 9: Jinka – Arba Minch

You will drive to Arba Minch while enjoying the scenic landscapes of southern Ethiopia. On the way, you will visit Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its terraced agriculture and wooden grave markers called waka. In the afternoon, you will visit Dorze village, famous for its beehive-shaped houses and weaving traditions. Overnight stay at Wubete hotel.