8-day Bahir Dar, Gondar, Simien Mountains & Lalibela Tour 8 days

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Upon arrival, you will begin a city tour of Addis Ababa to explore Ethiopia’s cultural and historical highlights. Visits include the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Ethnological Museum in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. You will also explore Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, before overnight at the hotel. Overnight stay at Capital Hotel and Spa.

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar

You will fly to Bahir Dar, a beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. In the afternoon, you will visit the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, also known as Tis Isat. After the excursion, you will return to Bahir Dar for dinner and an overnight stay at the Jacaranda Hotel.

Day 3: Bahir Dar – Gondar

Today you will travel to Gondar, the historic 17th-century capital of Ethiopia. In the afternoon, you will explore the Royal Enclosure with its medieval castles and visit the famous Debre Berhan Selassie Church. The church is well known for its ceiling decorated with painted angel faces. Overnight stay at Haile resort.

Day 4: Sankaber – Gich (Simien Mountains)

You will start trekking along the northern escarpment of the Simien Mountains with breathtaking views of valleys and cliffs. After lunch near the Jinbar River waterfall, you will continue walking through farmland toward the village of Gich. In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony and watch the sunset before camping overnight.

Day 5: Gich – Chennek

The trek continues through the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains, passing fields of giant lobelia plants. From the viewpoint at Imet-Gogo, you will enjoy stunning panoramic views over the valleys and cliffs. After lunch, you will descend toward Chennek campsite, where you may spot the rare Walia Ibex. Overnight stay Camping

Day 6: Return to Gondar

After enjoying the mountain scenery, you will drive back to Gondar, a journey of about four and a half hours. If time allows, you may revisit some of Gondar’s historic sites and castles. The evening will be spent relaxing at your hotel. Overnight stay at Haile resort.

Day 7: Gondar – Lalibela

Today you will fly to Lalibela, Ethiopia’s most famous religious destination. In the afternoon, you will explore the extraordinary rock-hewn churches carved directly into the ground. Your guide will explain the history and spiritual significance of these remarkable monuments. Overnight stay at Mountain View Hotel.

Day 8: Lalibela – Addis Ababa

After breakfast, you will visit the eastern group of Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches. These churches are smaller but beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and underground passages. Later, you will fly back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of the tour.